The City of Sarnia is currently on the lookout for nominations for its 12th annual Accessibility Awards, aiming to exceed last year’s modest participation of nearly 20 submissions. Human Resources Manager Tammy Broer revealed that nominations are open until November 12 at 4 p.m. What sets this year apart is the reduction of categories to five, a move envisioned to increase inclusivity and participation by addressing past issues related to overly specific categories. These adjustments intend to broaden the scope of recognition to include both large and small businesses, individuals, and social service organizations involved in creating opportunities for an accessible community. The prestigious Kevin Schenk Legacy Award is also on the line, set to honor someone who has significantly inspired change.
The Accessibility Awards are a lot more than just a form of recognition; they serve as a celebration of those contributing towards building a more inclusive environment in Sarnia. Broer emphasized the dedication and hard work of the accessibility committee in framing the award categories in a way that would cover various dimensions of accessibility, ranging from more physically accessible spaces to the incorporation of innovative practices. Coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the award ceremony will be held on December 3. This timing underscores its significance, as the city aims to formally recognize and honor those who have made substantial efforts in improving accessibility for people with disabilities within the community. Further details and nomination criteria can be found on the city’s official website.
The changes in the award categories aim to spotlight the myriad efforts within the community directed at achieving greater accessibility. It is a vital endeavor to celebrate and commend the devotion of businesses and individuals striving to make Sarnia more inclusive. With the awards ceremony just around the corner, anticipation is mounting as the community eagerly waits to see who will be recognized for their exemplary contributions. This year’s event promises to shine a spotlight on the often unsung heroes who make a tangible difference in the lives of people with disabilities.
