Frequently Asked Questions
How have your plans changed in response to COVID-19?
We also raised $3,225 for our Covid-19 Relief Fund created to support music lovers with disabilities and the musicians and event workers who strive to make live music accessible.
I love what you guys do and want to be a part of it! How can I join your team?
We have numerous opportunities for volunteering! While we love folks who come with experience at live entertainment events and/or working with the disabled community, anyone can join our team regardless of prior experience. What we need most of all are passionate folks who have a desire to help others. If you want to volunteer at live events, please sign up here. Are you interested in volunteering at a first-year festival? Volunteer at Inclusion Festival here. Or, if you are interested in helping us on the backend with administration work at our non-profit, please send us an email at amy@accessiblefestivals.org.
What are the benefits of attending a live music event?
An extensive review of peer-reviewed research journals conducted by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) concludes that music is universally appealing and helps promote social, emotional, and cognitive skills across many different disability categories. Music is widely accepted as an evidence-based therapy known to reduce stress, enhance memory, improve communication, strengthen sensory-processing, and motor skills. Additionally, there is strong potential for communities with diverse needs and backgrounds to bond through shared musical experiences
I am event producer and I want to make my event more accessible. Can you assist me with this?
Yes! Work with us to provide your community with an inclusive in-person or virtual experience that is accessible to all abilities and learn more about meeting the needs of ALL of your consumers. Send us an email about your project plans to discover how we can support your accessibility needs.
I want to donate towards your cause! Is my donation tax-deductible?
Absolutely! We have 501c3 status from the IRS and will issue you a receipt for your donation. You can donate here. Thank you!
I have a really cool idea that is right up your alley of helping the disabled community. Can you help me develop it?
You may very well be a candidate for a fiscal sponsorship with our organization. We are always interested in helping passionate people develop projects that fall under our organizational mission. As a fiscally sponsored project, you can accept tax-deductible donations with our 501c3 status and we can provide a whole assortment of resources and advisement. Contact us at amy@accessiblefestivals.org for more information.
I am disabled and am going to my first music festival. Do you have any suggestions?
Yes! From our founder, Austin Whitney: “My biggest recommendation is to focus on self-reliance. Bring everything you may possibly need to enjoy the event. Bring extra supplies. Invest in a good head lamp. Sanitary wipes are helpful, as well as a good pair of gloves. Read the festival’s ADA information page – I encourage you to reach out to the festival with any questions you have. Bring clothes for heat, cold, and rain. If you’re in a wheelchair, consider some off-road tires. Go to the festival with a positive attitude and prepare to have an amazing time!”