News and Events

Beyond Barriers is proud to recognize Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), observed each year on the third Thursday in May, as a reminder that digital access is essential to full participation in modern life. 

Leadership is often defined not during easy seasons, but in moments of uncertainty, loss, and change. For Erica Rivera, resilience has become a defining characteristic of her six years as Executive Director of Beyond Barriers and her 19-year commitment to the organization overall.  Headquartered in Hutchinson with offices in Dodge City and Pratt, Beyond Barriers provides employment services, independent living resources, vision services, advocacy, and education. All services

Beyond Barriers served 770 individuals in 60 Kansas counties in 2025, responding to 3,744 requests for assistance.

As the year comes to a close, Beyond Barriers is inviting community members to make a year-end contribution to help individuals with disabilities and aging Kansans achieve greater independence across the 60 counties it serves. In 2025 alone, Beyond Barriers empowered 770 consumers—45 more than in 2024—to overcome obstacles and live fuller, more self-sufficient lives. Thanks to donor support, clients were able to achieve greater independence. Here are a few examples (names of

Nearly 100 high school students from the Pratt area participated in this year’s Disability Mentoring Day (DMD), hosted by Beyond Barriers and the SCKSEC on October 29. The event connected high school students with disabilities to local businesses for hands-on career exploration and mentorship.

​Nearly 80 students from schools across Reno County participated in this year’s Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) in Hutchinson, hosted by Beyond Barriers on October 15. The event connected high school students with disabilities to local businesses for hands-on career exploration and mentorship.

56 high school students from the Dodge City area participated in this year’s Disability Mentoring Day (DMD), hosted by Beyond Barriers on October 15. The event connected high school students with disabilities to local businesses for hands-on career exploration and mentorship.