Dadvocating: Making Small Changes, One Diaper Change at a Time

In 2024, I'm still amazed by the number of public restrooms that lack changing tables.

If you're reading this, you or someone you know likely has a public changing table horror story. Mine happened on our son’s second birthday at a family-friendly spot in Columbus. As family and friends arrived, I was in the parking lot, battling a blowout in the trunk of my Ford Escape. It was a breezy, rainy October afternoon, and despite the kid-friendly amenities, there were no changing tables.

That day, I vowed to Dadvocate through The Dadass Podcast and this blog. Partnering with Columbus City Council in 2023, we installed over 130 changing tables in local businesses, nonprofits and organizations. This was a significant step forward, ensuring easier access for all to clean, safe changing stations throughout Columbus.

Now, we're partnering with Council again. From now through August 26, Columbus City Council is reintroducing the Diaper Changing Station Accessibility Grant. This initiative connects local businesses, nonprofits and community groups with free baby changing stations for their restrooms.

Please, share this link with your favorite places in Columbus who could use a changing table. Encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity. This is a prime example of how public-private partnerships can make our city more welcoming and inclusive.

With a six-month-old, we’re constantly deciding where to shop or eat based on facilities like changing tables. It might seem minor, but it's a significant barrier for supporting some of our smallest businesses in the community.

This is an incredible opportunity, thanks to Council, and it could have a profound impact. All it takes is spreading the word and making small changes, one diaper change at a time.

-Matt Lofy, The Dadass