Durham Region presents 2018 Accessibility Awards
Whitby, Ontario – On September 24, The Regional Municipality of Durham’s Accessibility Advisory Committee held its annual Joint Forum, where the Accessibility Awards were presented at Regional Headquarters in Whitby. The awards honour individuals, services and/or businesses that have improved accessibility and shown leadership in breaking down barriers in their community.
“The Region of Durham is committed to creating a caring and fully inclusive community where people of all ages and abilities enjoy the same opportunities as they live, work, play, visit and invest in our region,” said Garry Cubitt, Chief Administrative Officer. “We are pleased to recognize individuals and local businesses, whose efforts have helped to break down barriers and provide citizens with access to meaningful involvement and full participation in their community.”
Citizens, businesses and/or services are nominated by the advisory committee within their local area municipality, for their efforts in identifying, removing and preventing barriers for individuals living with a disability.
Olivia Rennie, who was nominated by the Town of Ajax, was recognized for her work in accessibility and engagement within the Ajax community and beyond. Olivia partnered with the Town of Ajax as a Youth Accessibility Leader to outline accessibility improvement projects. An active member of both her school and community, Olivia has collaborated with the University of Toronto’s Accessibility Services and has worked with faculty to develop a new Disability Studies program.
The Beaverton Legion Branch 135, was nominated by the Township of Brock, for going above and beyond in their efforts to become a barrier-free environment. With the help of grants, the Legion was able to install barrier-free doors at their entrance, as well as for their washroom facilities.
Swiss Chalet, Bowmanville, was nominated by the Municipality of Clarington, for their willingness and commitment to support persons with disabilities by hiring and providing meaningful work for them.
Marko Ivancicevic, was nominated by the Oshawa Accessibility Advisory Committee. Marko was instrumental in the creation of a medical marijuana working group committee. The committee researched and provided education to Council about the medicinal benefits of cannabis for people with disabilities and the legislated changes as it related to the municipality.
Tara Sneath, was nominated by the Township of Scugog for her work as an accessibility champion on behalf of the Practical Learning Program at Port Perry High School. Tara was instrumental in creating an awareness of the diverse employment and social needs of individuals with disabilities, and the diversity of accessibility needs in the larger community.
Uxbridge Physiotherapy, was nominated by the Township of Uxbridge, for their energy and commitment to accessibility. The clinic moved to an accessible location to better serve their patients with mobility and accessibility challenges. Jodi Bussiere and her team continually exemplify accessibility leadership, not just through access to their building, but with their commitment to accessible customer service.
JointAction Physiotherapy & Wellness Centre, was nominated by the Town of Whitby, for their Home Care Physiotherapy program. The program provides physiotherapy services to clients in Whitby, Brooklin, Oshawa and Courtice who have difficulty leaving their home due to mobility issues.
Visit durham.ca/accessibility to learn more about the ways in which Durham is creating and addressing the needs of our growing and diverse community.
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