Disability Health Futures
Initiative
Empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives
Welcome to the DHF Initiative
Through research, community engagement, and storytelling, we seek to reimagine what it means to live with disability - recognizing that people with disabilities can, should, and already do live full and meaningful lives.
We explore how our policies, systems of care, communities, and individual relationships can better enable health, well-being, and thriving.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where societies, policies and systems of care are designed where all people - whether currently disabled or not – can imagine a healthy, hopeful and meaningful future for themselves and their loved ones.
OUR VALUES
Interdisciplinary By Design
Research grounded in reality requires perspectives from medicine, public health, policy, sociology, design, economics, engineering, and the humanities. We believe better questions, and better solutions, emerge when disciplines work together.
Research With, Not On.
We collaborate with people, communities, advocates, and organizations as partners, ensuring research is relevant, respectful, and actionable.
Health Extends Beyond Healthcare
Health is shaped by our policies, communities, environments, relationships, and systems, not just medical care. We seek solutions that address these broader determinants.
Disability is Part of the Human Experience
Disability is not an exception - it is a natural part of life. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life.
Lived Experience is Expertise
People with disabilities are experts in their own lives. Their experiences, perspectives, and leadership are integral in shape our work.
From Understanding to Action
Knowledge matters when it improves lives. We strive to translate research into changes in policy, healthcare, and communities.
EMPOWERING CHANGE
We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, fostering a sense of agency and enabling them to advocate for themselves and others. Our research and community engagement initiatives ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the tools and resources necessary to thrive in their communities. By promoting awareness and understanding, we cultivate a culture of inclusion that benefits everyone, creating more supportive environments for all. We believe in the importance of community and connection, providing platforms for individuals with disabilities to share their experiences and build supportive networks.
120
Individuals Reached
20
Community Projects
15
Publications