Disabilities Awareness Week, taking place this week, presents an opportunity for students to place themselves in the shoes of those who have disabilities.

Disabilities Awareness Week (DAW) works to raise awareness of the different attitudes people hold towards those who have disabilities and break down barriers that prevent personal relationships with people who have disabilities.

Various programs across campus are sponsoring the multiple events taking place this week which are free and open to the public.

The Center for Social Concern, Learning Enhancement and Academic Development (LEAD) and UD President Diversity Grand Fund have all joined together to conduct this annual event.

Andy Blankemeyer, student worker at the Center for Social Concern, believes awareness is crucial for progress because 'when more and more start to understand, we can grow and form a more unified world and campus.'

Through personal experiences Blankemeyer has observed society does not see disabled people as they view able people and this drove him to becoming co-coordinator of DAW.

'Through DAW, I hope to help the UD community raise awareness and to show people that the disabled function in this world just like most,' he said.

The service organization Best Buddies hosted the kickoff event Sunday March 26, a free concert featuring two of UD's bands. Best Buddies is a club that emphasizes partnership and friendship with people with disabilities.

A 'We Care Art Fair' will occur in Torch Lounge on Monday, March 27 from 6 to 8 p.m., displaying artwork that changes disabilities into possibilities through art.

On Tuesday, March 28, a panel discussion regarding disability issues on campus will take place in Art Street Studio C at 7 p.m. A member of the National Speakers Association, Marcus Engel, will be the representative speaker of Disabilities Awareness Week.

Engel was blinded his freshman year of college and has since learned to live and speak out about his experience adapting to his disability. His presentation will take place in Sears Recital Hall on Wednesday, March 29, at 7 p.m.

Best Buddies and another service club on campus, Circle of Friends, are having a game night with pizza. On Thursday, March 30, visit the McGinnis Center to learn more about these service organizations and have some fun.

Finally there is a service project on Friday, March 31 at Huber Heights Athletic Foundation in which participants will interact with many individuals with disabilities.

'If you want to learn or you want to get involved, DAW is a perfect opportunity,' Blankemeyer said.