Last weekend I watched Minnesota State Fair visitors with physical challenges traverse the fairgrounds with relative ease thanks to wide doorways and ramped sidewalks. I am aware that Minnesota is known for its many health care facilities and its research into health care issues. We are often sighted prominently in those “healthiest places to live lists”. It is not always clear in the list criteria whether this also means a healthy environment for those with disabilities. The following funder wants to honor those places making the effort to be more ‘user-friendly’ to all of their inhabitants.

This week’s pick: The National Organization on Disability (NOD) is asking mayors and city officials to nominate their city for the efforts they make in adopting best practices and concepts in disability programs, services and initiatives. To enter the 2007 Accessible America awards competition use the official application and have it signed by either the mayor or chief elected official of your town. The application should detail how your city or town “provides opportunities for citizens with disabilities to participate fully in community life.” Entries should be postmarked by October 31, 2007 and the winning town will receive a cash prize of $25,000.

Bonus pick: As an avid gardener who currently lives in an apartment and sighs whenever spring comes and there is no dirt to play in I couldn’t help but highlight this opportunity. The National Gardening Association (NGA) Healthy Sprouts Award supports schools and organizations who will be planting a garden in 2008. There must be at least 15 gardeners between the ages of 3 and 18 participating. Twenty awards will be given out and they include gift certificates, seeds and nutrition education information. The application deadline is October 15, 2007. See their web site for more information.