Advocacy Group Boosted Rhode Island Accessibility
Founded in 2019, RAMP works to improve public access for the 28 percent of Rhode Islanders living with a disability.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Special Needs
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Following her own spinal stroke in 2014, Tina Guenette established the nonprofit RAMP in 2019 to bridge gaps in community accessibility. The organization works to ensure that individuals using mobility aids can participate fully in public life across the state.
Why it matters
By facilitating mobility aid access and navigating tax incentives for business owners, the group addresses the physical barriers that exclude a significant portion of the population from local community events.
Approximately 28 percent of Rhode Islanders identify as having a disability according to state data. While the group successfully lent 71 wheelchairs during PVD Fest, the long-term impact on overall state infrastructure remains under active evaluation.
The players
Tina Guenette
The founder of RAMP who began advocacy work following her own spinal stroke.
RAMP
A nonprofit organization that inspects business locations and advocates for disability inclusion in Rhode Island.
The details
RAMP operates by conducting site inspections of local businesses and recommending specific architectural modifications to improve entry and maneuverability. The organization also partners with providers in Warwick and Coventry to refurbish and distribute mobility aids, ensuring these devices are available during large public gatherings. These initiatives complement state-level financial supports, such as $5,000 workability grants and $15,000 in annual tax breaks for facility upgrades.
Timeline
Tina Guenette suffered a spinal stroke in 2014.
The nonprofit RAMP was formally established in 2019.
Legislation regarding accessible parking passed the House in March 2026.
Health Landscape
Local advocacy groups like RAMP play a critical role in bridging gaps between federal mandates and the actual physical accessibility of community spaces. These efforts extend the baseline protections set by the Americans with Disabilities Act to address specific environmental barriers.
Residents managing mobility limitations can utilize state-sponsored grants and tax breaks by discussing facility modifications with their local business owners. It is also worth monitoring the progress of pending legislative bills regarding accessible parking spaces with your state representative.
The takeaway
Advocacy for accessible infrastructure is essential for maintaining community health and social engagement for residents with disabilities. If you or a family member face barriers to local public spaces, contact your town council to inquire about available accessibility grants or local support programs.
Further reading
Learn more about local support and resources at Special Needs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Boston Globe.
Live Poll
Should local businesses be required to upgrade their facilities for full accessibility?
