In this episode on the We’re Not Stumped podcast, I’m honored to have Elysia Everett, founder and CEO of Friendly Like Me.
Friendly Like Me is an innovative app dedicated to finding and reviewing accessible places. Its mission is to enhance accessibility in public spaces and make it easier for everyone to discover accessible locations, ensuring more people can participate in various activities without hindrance.
Access to accurate accessibility information is vital for full participation in society. Unfortunately, such information is often scarce, subjective, and difficult to find. This lack of reliable data frequently prevents individuals from engaging in activities they would otherwise enjoy, including visiting size-friendly and accessible businesses across the United States. Friendly Like Me is committed to changing this, benefiting everyone.
Through collaboration with reviewers, advocates, and business owners, Friendly Like Me strives to create more welcoming and accessible places. The platform facilitates interaction between people and businesses about specific accommodations needed to attract customers who prioritize accessibility. It’s worth noting that US adults with disabilities, including many individuals of higher weights, represent the third-largest market segment in the country. According to the American Institute for Research, the discretionary income for working-age persons with disabilities is $21 billion.
Businesses can claim their listings on Friendly Like Me to inform patrons about their amenities and any limitations. Transparency is key—it’s very friendly to let people know in advance if they cannot accommodate them. Friendly Like Me’s reviews focus on the presence or absence of specific accommodations, reducing the subjectivity often found in star-based review systems.
Links:
Friendly Like Me Website: https://www.friendlylikeme.com/
#accessible #accessibleliving #accessibleeducation #accessibility #accessibilityawareness
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