Two months later applications are openThe City of Kingston and the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee (MAAC) will celebrate the winners of this year’s Celebrate Accessibility Awards.

The City of Kingston, along with MAAC, invites community members and award winners to a ceremony on Tuesday, December 3, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the Donald Gordon Hotel and Conference Center, 421 Union Street .

According to a press release, the City, in collaboration with MAAC, launched the Celebrating Accessibility Awards in 2011 to recognize individuals, groups and organizations that are making significant contributions to improving access for all. in Kingston. The awards ceremony takes place annually and celebrates the winners in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3. This day, celebrated since 1992, raises awareness of disability issues and promotes the well-being of people with disabilities.

In the release, the City announced that keynote speaker Elliot Moritz, a speaker dedicated to education and awareness for the queer and disabled community, will share his experiences facing the medical system and the world as a queer and trans person non-binary with multiple disabilities.

The event is free and all are welcome to attend, the city said, noting that an ASL interpreter will be available. Anyone requiring an accommodation is asked to contact Derek Ochej, Deputy City Clerk, at (email protected) or 613-546-4291 ext. 1252.

“The individuals, businesses and organizations we are honoring this year remind us that accessibility is a shared responsibility – one that strengthens our community and enriches everyone’s lives,” said Mayor Bryan Paterson. “By turning ideas into actions, the beneficiaries’ efforts have brought about real change. »

In the press release, the City shared the following details about the winners:

Community organization

Volunteers working on the inclusive gaming projectI have spent many months researching, designing and advocating for an inclusive playground in Kingston. Inclusive playgrounds welcome children and adults of all abilities to play together, creating a fun and supportive environment.

“They brought attention to the notion of inclusion and accessibility in recreation and brought a community together in the process,” said nominator Stacy Watson.

Community member

Rachel Doornekamp leads the inclusive gaming projectdevoting countless hours to making it progress.

Thanks to Doornekamp’s work, nominators Kate Joslin and advisor Brandon Tozzo shared that what started as an idea has grown into a significant movement, raising $200,000 over the past year to promote accessible gaming for all. .

Business

Purely mobile hygiene

Ashleigh Peck launched Purely mobile hygiene providing dental hygiene services directly to people in their homes and retirement communities. With the goal of making healthcare more accessible, Purely Mobile Hygiene works with all insurance companies, including government-funded programs, so people can worry less about costs.

“Ashleigh strives to enable these individuals to receive the dental hygiene care they need,” said nominator Tracey Kelly.

4Cats Art Studio

The west end 4Cats Art Studio staff have worked hard to ensure that children with disabilities can participate in art and creativity.

Nominator Kate Joslin highlighted how the studio strives to include her child, who uses a wheelchair full-time and needs more help to complete certain tasks: “For three years now, she has been able to attend weekly art sessions and day camps without any problems. worry.”

Learn more about rewards here.