Disabilities expo and craft fair set for Aug. 24 at Palmer fairgrounds

Artist entrepreneurs with disabilities will sell their work Monday, Aug. 24, at the Embracing AK Disabilities Expo in Palmer. Families will also be able to meet disability service agencies gathered in one room.

The Governor's Council on Disabilities and Special Education has scheduled the event for 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Alaska State Fairgrounds Events Building, reached through the Purple Gate. The fairgrounds sit at 2075 Glenn Hwy. The Alaska State Fair runs Aug. 21 through Sept. 7.

The expo pairs the Shining Abilities Craft Fair with booths from agencies, community organizations and family support services. The council said the events hall is newly built and includes accessible family restrooms with full-size changing areas.

The fair's event listing describes more than sales tables. "In addition to the Shining Abilities Craft Fair, this expo features resource information booths, a calm-down sensory area, sensory activities," the listing states.

The council is a federally mandated body based in Anchorage that advocates for inclusive services and oversight in education, employment, health and community life. Alaska News previously covered the council's promotion of the Anchorage Disability Pride Celebration in July.

The council can be reached at its toll-free line, 1-888-269-8990.