Welcome to the Web site for the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD). I feel extremely privileged to have been appointed by Mayor Bloomberg on October 15, 2002. It is an exciting and unique period in the City's history. With the City's large population of people with disabilities being as diverse as it has ever been, we are working to improve access to City services and the opportunities available to people with disabilities. As a person with a disability myself, I know first-hand the obvious challenges to achieving and sustaining a decent quality of life.

MOPD works hand-in-hand with other City agencies to assure that the voice of the disabled community is represented and that City programs and policies address the needs of people with disabilities. We have developed a number of informative brochures and directories that detail programs, services, activities, and other resources that are accessible to people with disabilities. Additionally, we work with organizations on specific issues affecting people with disabilities, and arrange activities and events that aim to bring about dialog that leads to meaningful outcomes.

New York could not be the capital of the world without the diversity found here, which is a tremendous part of our City's appeal and framework. By bringing communities together, we can share common goals and strive toward positive results for all New Yorkers. People with disabilities are contributors to our City's civic, economic, and cultural life. MOPD recognizes these contributions and seeks to ensure that people with disabilities continue to thrive and feel welcome at all times in all settings. I hope you have an enjoyable and informative visit to our site.

Matthew Sapolin
Commissioner