BRAMPTON, ON (December 11, 2019): A sports coach, an event planner and an organization run by and for persons with disabilities are the latest award winners at the City of Brampton’s 2nd annual Accessibility Awards.
The nominations were evaluated based on their contributions to Brampton’s community, in areas such as championing accessibility initiatives, promoting accessibility awareness, providing accessible customer service, accommodating persons with disabilities to help them participate in the community and providing equal employment opportunities.
Award recipients are shining examples of how Bramptonians are empowering people with disabilities and were acknowledged at a reception on December 10:
Community Member Award: Ken Hall, Coach – Cruisers Sports for the Physically Disabled
Ken is a volunteer para ice hockey and track and field coach for Cruisers Sports for the Physically Disabled. He is a strong advocate for persons with disabilities and has devoted countless years to the promotion of accessible sport for all people. His passion and dedication to the Cruisers and accessible sport in Brampton is unmatched.
Business Award: Andrea Zackary, founder of DEF Events and Beyond
Andrea is an event planner who focuses on bridging the gap between the hearing and deaf or hard of hearing communities by bringing them together in a social atmosphere where they learn to communicate with each other. Her motto is “Deaf can” and as an agent of change, she continues to break down barriers, educate, motivate and inspire others.
Community Group Award: Canadian South Asians Supporting Individual Living
Canadian South Asians Supporting Individual Living’s mission is to support South Asians with disabilities to achieve their life goals and live life independently and with dignity. The organization promotes accessibility awareness, the rights of persons with disabilities and builds support networks for individuals and their families.
Quotes:
“The award recipients have taken real action on their commitment to support independent living. They have empowered people with disabilities to live with confidence and dignity, showing that they are active, engaged and valued members of the community. Here at the City, we are focused on improving our services and programs to make them more accessible and support the Mosaic of our city.”
- Mayor Patrick Brown
“As the Council representative on the Accessibility Advisory Committee, I am often humbled to hear about several types of accessibility challenges. Working together with the community, we will continue to raise more awareness of those who are championing accessibility and inclusion in their daily lives and at their workplace, and strive to make Brampton more accessible for people of all ages and abilities.”
- Regional Councillor Pat Fortini, Accessibility Advisory Committee Council Member
As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to 650,000 people and 70,000 businesses. People are at the heart of everything we do. We are energized by our diverse communities, we attract investment, and we are embarking on a journey to lead technological and environmental innovation. We partner for progress to build a healthy city that is safe, sustainable and successful. Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca.
