Nov 24, 2014 2 min read

Kathleen Kleinmann has been a “trailblazer” in her role as CEO of Tri-County Patriots for Independent Living, a title she held since the Washington nonprofit organization’s inception in 1990.

Through her leadership, TRIPIL has advocated for equal opportunities and employment rights for people with disabilities. Last week, Kleinmann’s efforts were recognized when she received a Trailblazer Award from the United Way of Allegheny County during a “From Rights to Action” forum. The award recognizes disability rights leaders who have spurred positive change locally, statewide and throughout the nation.

Kleinmann said she was honored by the award and felt she was in good company with others who have advocated for similar causes. She said the forum, held at the Rodef Shalom Congregation in Shadyside, focused on employment opportunities for people with disabilities – an issue that TRIPIL has remained devoted to.

“Getting people fully involved in their communities is our basic mantra and our mission, and to have the same opportunities as other people have,” Kleinmann said.

In addition, TRIPIL focuses its advocacy on transportation, housing and economic opportunities because there is a “severe shortage” of accessible housing for people with disabilities, Kleinmann said. TRIPIL and Accessible Dreams, a nonprofit real estate developer, are working to build an apartment complex in Jefferson, Greene County.

TRIPIL’s Washington location also has an Internet cafe with personalized computer interfaces, keyboards and equipment that cater to each individual’s abilities. The organization also is in the process of transitioning into a new building on West Maiden Street, which it will be moved into within 18 months.

“We’re hoping to show people the ways to creating solutions,” she said.

The Pittsburgh forum featured 21 and Able, a United Way initiative that aims to help youth with disabilities prepare for work, living independently and remaining active in their communities.