On August 31, the Chicago Park District held a press conference at North Beach on Lake Michigan. This event was part of President Obama's America's Great Outdoors Initiative, where the goal is to help Americans reconnect to the "great outdoors" and all that it has to offer. Besides having people utilizing the parks, lakes, and beaches, part of the initiative is showing Americans the importance of our natural resources. In running a successful initiative, leaders understand the importance of access - Access to the Great Outdoors for All.

Part of the event highlighted North Beach's accessibility and inclusivity for people with disabilities. The idea is to show that anyone can enjoy the outdoors, it doesn't matter what your level of function or ability. The event that took place in Chicago will show other local areas in other states the need to make the outdoors accessible for all Americans.

To learn more about President Obama's America's Great Outdoors Initiative, go to http://americasgreatoutdoors.gov/. You can also submit your ideas and suggestions on how to make our outdoors even better.

To view the press coverage, go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfcqjVCYNx4

Send your questions and comments to Jenny Carlton, NCHPAD News Editor, at jcarlto1@uic.edu.