Accessibility Statement

Ignite Dreams Youth Development Foundation

Disclaimer:
Ignite Dreams Youth Development Foundation (“the Foundation,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to ensuring that all our programs, services, digital platforms, and physical spaces are inclusive, accessible, and equitable for all individuals, regardless of ability, age, gender, or background. This Accessibility Statement outlines our commitment, practices, and ongoing efforts to meet international accessibility standards and donor expectations, while providing equal access to youth empowerment, educational, and community development initiatives.

Commitment to Accessibility

Ignite Dreams Youth Development Foundation recognizes that accessibility is a fundamental human right and a critical component of inclusive youth development. Our mission is to empower underserved youth, particularly in African communities, through technology, education, leadership, innovation, and sustainable development. We strive to remove barriers that may prevent individuals from fully participating in our programs, events, digital platforms, or donor initiatives.

This commitment aligns with:

United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA compliance
Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018
International donor requirements for inclusion and equitable access

Scope

This Accessibility Statement applies to:

Our physical program locations, including training hubs, innovation spaces, workshops, and community events
Our website and online platforms, including registration forms, program portals, newsletters, and social media
Printed materials and publications, such as program brochures, annual reports, and educational content
Digital communications, including emails, video content, and promotional materials

We aim to ensure that all users, donors, participants, and partners can access information, engage with content, and participate fully in our initiatives.

Website and Digital Accessibility

Ignite Dreams Youth Development Foundation has designed its website to improve accessibility for users with disabilities. Key measures include:

Text Alternatives: All images, infographics, and multimedia content include descriptive alt-text for screen readers
Keyboard Navigation: Our website supports keyboard-only navigation for users unable to operate a mouse
Readable Content: Text is presented in clear fonts, high contrast, and scalable sizes to improve readability
Structured Layout: Headings, lists, and tables are properly formatted for assistive technologies
Captions and Transcripts: Video content includes captions, and audio content is supplemented with transcripts
Error Identification: Form errors are clearly highlighted with actionable instructions
Browser Compatibility: Our website is tested across multiple browsers and assistive technologies
Continuous Improvement: We regularly audit and update our website to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards

Despite our best efforts, some areas of our website may not yet be fully accessible. Users experiencing difficulties can contact us for assistance.

Physical Accessibility

IDYDF is committed to ensuring that participants with disabilities can access our physical spaces safely and comfortably:

Training hubs and event venues are equipped with ramps, handrails, and accessible restrooms where possible
Program materials are available in alternative formats, including large print or digital formats, upon request
Event staff and volunteers receive training on assisting participants with diverse abilities
Emergency procedures and safety measures are inclusive and consider participants with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments

We recognize that accessibility needs may vary by location, and we actively work with local partners to identify and mitigate barriers.

Program Accessibility

All programs are designed to be inclusive, equitable, and respectful of diversity, including gender, ability, and socio-economic status
Participants requiring accommodations (such as assistive devices, sign language interpreters, or alternative learning formats) are encouraged to notify the Foundation in advance
Materials are provided in multiple formats where possible, including digital, audio, and visual aids
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on ability, identity, or background

Accessibility in Communication

IDYDF ensures that all communication channels are accessible:

Emails and newsletters use accessible templates compatible with screen readers
Social media posts include descriptive captions and alt-text for visual content
Telephone support and email communication are available to address inquiries from persons with disabilities
We encourage feedback from users to continuously improve accessibility

Donor and Partner Compliance

As part of our commitment to international best practices and donor compliance:

We ensure that all funded programs and projects meet accessibility requirements specified by donors, including the UN, World Bank, and corporate foundations
Accessibility is incorporated into project design, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting
Staff and volunteers are trained to uphold inclusion and accessibility principles in all funded initiatives
We report on accessibility achievements, challenges, and planned improvements in annual reports and donor updates

Feedback and Requests for Accommodation

The Foundation values feedback and seeks to address accessibility concerns promptly. Users can:

Request alternative formats of materials or assistance for participation in programs or events
Report website accessibility issues or barriers encountered in any Foundation initiative
Submit suggestions for improvements to enhance inclusion and accessibility

We aim to respond to all accessibility inquiries within 7 business days.

Continuous Improvement

Ignite Dreams Youth Development Foundation is committed to continuous improvement of accessibility:

Conducting regular accessibility audits of digital platforms and physical spaces
Updating training materials and programs to meet inclusive best practices
Engaging with participants, donors, and partners to identify gaps and innovative solutions
Integrating accessibility into organizational policies, staff development, and program planning

Governing Law

This Accessibility Statement is governed by the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, applicable international accessibility standards, and donor requirements.