Open Doors Organization (ODO), a 501c(3) non-profit organization based in beautiful Lincoln Park in downtown Chicago, was founded in 2000 for the purpose of creating a society in which persons with disabilities have the same consumer opportunities as non-disabled persons. ODO strives to teach businesses how to succeed in the disability market while at the same time empowering people with disabilities.

In America today, marketing toward people with disabilities is hindered by myths and misconceptions. Through comprehensive research, training, and guidance in marketing strategies and ADA compliance, ODO gives large corporations and small businesses the tools they need to reach and serve the disability market.

Furthermore, ODO is committed to assisting in job placement, educational seminars and diversity programs that improve the quality of life for the individual with a disability while opening doors to businesses and society. Through social action, research and media outreach, ODO is raising awareness and helping to bring about a more inclusive society.

Programs

Corporate

Working primarily within the travel and tourism industries, Open Doors Organization (ODO) partners with major associations, convention and tourism bureaus, and corporations to help them better understand and serve their customers with disabilities. Services include focus group research, management and employee training, individualized marketing strategies, creation of training and marketing videos, guidance in ADA compliance, the organization of workshops and symposia and much more. ODO's nationwide studies on disability travel also give corporations the reliable statistics they need to make investment decisions and improve their services and facilities.

Community

Easy Access Chicago, available in print as well as online, is an example of the work which Open Doors Organization undertakes to serve the disability community, locally and nationally. Consumer education is a key component of ODO's mission, with task members regularly writing informative articles about travel for publications such as SciLife and Able News. ODO also contributes travel articles to Disaboom, the new website serving the community.

Youth

Because people with disabilities continue to face attitudinal barriers on a daily basis, raising awareness among the general public, particularly youth, is an important part of ODO’s work. ODO provides awareness training for members and leaders of the Chicago Girl Scouts, school teachers and social workers, as well as staff and administrators of Chicago’s Children’s Museum. The program goals are to increase the knowledge of young people about disability issues, help them recognize and change stigmatizing attitudes, and enhance their skills in making friends with disabled peers.

Media

Since its first market study, Open Doors Organization has successfully reached out to the media to raise awareness of the issues facing consumers with disabilities. ODO is now a recognized resource for journalists and TV reporters and receives frequent coverage in major publications such as the NY Times, Chicago Tribune, LA Times and Wall Street Journal. Staff members are often called upon to contribute articles to major trade publications such as Meeting News, Hotel Interactive and Pulse. Speaking at trade shows and conventions across the country and world has also given ODO the opportunity to reach large numbers of people and influence many organizations.