National AccessAbility Awareness Week takes place every year in the first week of June. It is a time we promote accessibility and inclusion, develop awareness of how each person or business can contribute to making improvements and take time to celebrate the contributions by people in our community.
When we build a community that is inclusive and accessible, we enrich the lives of every community member.
Building an inclusive and accessible community incorporates municipal trails, parks, programs, resources and services, employment opportunities, transit services, public amenities and welcoming neighbourhoods. Every person of this community contributes and makes a difference for all. Check our amazing videos and resources below and be sure to check out tons more at Home Sweet Home.
Meet community neighbours
Steve Foglia, Chairperson of the Newmarket Accessibility Advisory Committee for 10 years, Artist
Andrew Mitchell, Magician who performs at special events including NAAW, children's parties, summer camps, and is employed at Zehrs
Eric Froese, Loves Sports, medal winner in multiple Special Olympics sports, Recipient of Ken Carson Achievement Award, employed at Vince's, attendee of The Base Program
Nancy Clarke, Customer Service Manager, Wheelchair Dance Sport Athlete.
Naeem Bacchus, MC for Social Dance program and Special events, Inclusion program staff Town of Newmarket
Taylor McKinnon, Singer and songwriter, previously entertainer at NAAW celebrations, Motivational speaker. Check out Taylor’s tribute to Jimmie Rogers – Waiting for a Train on his Youtube channel.
Things to consider
Cole – its okay to be different: Ted Talk
"Ian" a short video about playground inclusion.
Rockville, Maryland, Dec. 6, 2018 – All kids want to play. Kids with disabilities are no different. "Ian" is a short, animated film inspired by the real-life Ian, a boy with a disability determined to get to the playground despite his playmates bullying him. This film sets out to show that children with disabilities can and should be included.
Anything is possible….with your help…..
Sue Austin, Underwater Wheelchair dance
Sue Austin, Wheelchair deep sea diving
13 year old changed impossible to I'm Possible. RagaRap – Hip hop musician: TedX Talk
Check out these resources:
Check out Home Sweet Home
