Category: Blog Post

International Women’s Day has always been about both celebration and action— honouring the achievements of women while acknowledging the inequities that still exist. The United Nation’s theme this year, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” is a call to value the full participation of all women and girls, challenge discrimination and exclusion, and to empower the next generation as catalysts for change. It is also a powerful reminder that inclusion cannot be selective. If we are not advocating for all women— including women with disabilities – then we are leaving too many behind.

While we have made great strides toward gender equity in Canada, the reality remains that women continue to face systemic barriers in workplaces, leadership, and economic security. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024, Canada ranks 25th globally in gender wage disparity. Statistics Canada reports reveal a 12% gender wage gap among paid workers aged 20 to 54 years. For women with disabilities, the barriers extend far beyond wage gaps. 

Women with disabilities are also pushing against deeply rooted systemic ableism that limits access to employment, leadership, and financial independence. Statistics show that 2.1 million Canadian women with disabilities experience limitations in daily activities due to barriers in accessibility, discrimination, and a lack of accommodations. 

The result? Too many women with disabilities are placed in roles that do not reflect their skills and potential, subjected to lower wages, and in some cases, denied job interviews outright due to their disability. And even in workplaces that claim to prioritize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), hiring practices still exclude rather than empower. 

We need to challenge this head-on. In my previous blog entry, I talked about DEI in workplaces and how it is not about checking boxes or hiring based on identity alone; it is about ensuring that all qualified individuals have fair access to opportunities. That means removing systemic hiring barriers, expanding recruitment efforts, and ensuring that accommodations are available so that women with disabilities are not just considered, but valued. 

The intersectionality of gender and disability presents an even more complex landscape. According to the United Nations, women with disabilities are two to three times more likely to experience violence and significantly underrepresented in decision-making roles. They also face limited access to education, healthcare and social services. (BMC Women’s Health, 2021)

And when these challenges intersect with race, Indigenous identity, LGBTQ+ status, or socioeconomic background, the layers of discrimination multiply, creating even steeper barriers to success. 

Yet, despite these challenges, women with disabilities continue to lead, break barriers, and drive change. Rabia Khedr, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal Awardee and National Director of Disability Without Poverty, a racialized minority and living with a disability, she has dedicated her life’s advocacy to ensure the voices of Canadians with disabilities are heard. Senator Chantal Petitclerc, Canada’s Chief Accessibility Officer Stephanie Cadieux, and Canadian Disability Hall of Famer Tracy Schmitt are just few of the thousands of women with disabilities excelling in their fields and shaping a more inclusive Canada. 

When women with disabilities are given equal access to employment, leadership, and decision-making roles, they don’t just succeed— they transform their communities and industries. 

But it’s not enough to talk about inclusion— we must actively create it. It is our collective responsibility to call out discriminatory hiring practices and workplace policies that limit opportunities for women with disabilities, advocate for accessibility as a standard, not a special request, and to amplify the voices and achievements of women with disabilities— so that ALL women and girls have rights, equality, and empowerment. 

At ABLE2, we are committed to putting these principles into action. We operate in a hybrid work model to allow our team including women-identifying staff and volunteers the flexibility to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our office is designed with adaptive furniture and accessible facilities, as well as accommodations during the hiring process, so that everyone has the means to participate and contribute to our mission and vision. 

Disability is not a limitation. Barriers are. In celebrating International Women’s Day, it’s time we stop asking women with disabilities to adjust to a system that wasn’t built for them—and start rebuilding that system to work for everyone.

True inclusion starts with action. How is your workplace or community ensuring that women with disabilities are not just included, but fully empowered? What changes do you believe rare still needed? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

If you have heard the phrases Para-skiing athlete, climbed the Himalayas, and World Cup Sailor strung together, then you probably already know the powerhouse of a woman that is Tracy Schmitt. Tracy is a world-renowned motivational speaker, a best-selling author, Corporate Consultant, and a decorated athlete. She was inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame in 2019, and was honoured with the Empowered Woman of the Year Award by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) in 2023. She is an unstoppable force who knows no limits, and with her long list of accomplishments, there certainly isn’t a mountain high enough for Tracy!

Becoming lim(b)itless

Born a four-way amputee, Tracy faced a world quick to impose limitations. Doctors advised to put her up for adoption, but her parents chose a different path. 

Tracy vividly remembers her first day of kindergarten when the principal turned her away, claiming the 1970s school was not equipped to meet the needs of children with disabilities. Her mother, calm and kind, just simply asked “How come?” Hearing the concerns, she counter offered; “Can we just try for a week?” Before dropping off, she looked Tracy in her eye and said, “Tracy… it’s important that everybody is included, including you. Nobody left behind.” At five years old, Tracy didn’t fully grasp the significance of those words, but they would become her guiding principle, shaping her into the unstoppable woman she is today.

By recess, the principal couldn’t find Tracy on the playground and assumed she was struggling with her shoelaces or the restroom. The reality? Tracy was busy tying the shoelaces of all 30 of her classmates because none of them knew how. Tracy stayed in that school, and that day’s lesson would profoundly impact her life and career. “When the principal said no, it was because he didn’t know,” Tracy reflects. “Each and every single one of us is a valuable contributor… a person with visible or invisible disability, everyone.”

Don’t Take ‘NO’ For an Answer

Even as a decorated athlete, scaling the Himalayas, and sailing a 110-foot ship against able-bodied men, Tracy still encounters moments of ignorance that highlight how society often underestimates people with disabilities. On her usual morning drive-thru tea run, as she drove up to the window to pay and grab her order, the staff exclaimed, “Oh no,” seemingly in disbelief that a lady without hands or legs was driving a vehicle and ordering tea. This interaction struck a chord for Tracy, who admits “That was the first time I truly felt like a four-way amputee.” 

“Reframe,” Tracy advises when faced with moments like this. “Take a moment, take a deep breath, look them in the eye, and declare yourself.” With a smile, she told the drive-thru staff “Hi, I’m Tracy! It’s okay. I can take that.” Moments like these, she says, stem from assumptions, not malice. “When people say “no”, it’s because they don’t know,” Tracy emphasizes. Her TEDx talk “NO to KNOW: How to Change Your Outlook on Ability” challenges these narratives and encourages its audience to shift focus to possibilities. 

An Advocate, Educator, and Leader

Her strong mindset in reframing challenges into opportunities has propelled her to remarkable heights. Her love for storytelling and making connections has led her to teach children in other countries like Mexico, Jamaica, and Uganda. Passionate about creating conversations on disarming limiting beliefs and focusing on abilities, Tracy quickly gained an engaging audience. This eventually led her to a calling in motivational speaking across the world. Today, Tracy is a most sought-after international speaker and has shared the stage with notable figures like Dr. Phil, John Travolta, Mel Gibson, Mark Wahlberg, and more. Named as the #1 Female Transformational Leader by leadership guru John Maxwell, she remains a vocal advocate for everyone everywhere.

“It’s not about being inspiring for existing,” Tracy says, “it’s about what we are able to build together when we focus on taking action.” Beyond speaking engagements, Tracy is also an international best-selling author, with her book “Unstoppable You: Exceed Uncertainties, Embrace Possibilities, Earn Independence (Cracking the Lim[b]itless Secret).”

Embracing Possibilities, Living Without Limits

As Tracy talks about overcoming obstacles, she shares her philosophy: “When we don’t know how, lean into fear. Then get started. We didn’t know how I would ski, but even then, I believed I could do it. I embraced the possibility, even when I didn’t know how at first,” she says. 

Tracy’s vision is clear: a world where everyone is empowered to embrace possibility, earn independence, and create solutions that work for them. Her journey serves as a testament to the value of inclusivity and the transformative power of believing in oneself. 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize Tracy Schmitt as a powerful example of what’s possible when women are empowered to lead, innovate and break barriers. Her achievements highlight the incredible heights women can reach when given the tools and opportunities to succeed. Tracy’s story is more than just overcoming limitations— it’s about embracing potential, driving change, and shaping a world where nobody is left behind. As Tracy puts it, “When I live a life of no excuses, I get to live a life of no limits.”

To learn more about Tracy or to get in touch with her for speaking engagements, visit https://unstoppabletracy.com/meet-tracy/

In recent years, the concepts of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become essential pillars in shaping how organizations and communities create fair and welcoming spaces for everyone. These initiatives are not about exclusion or preferential treatment— it is about dismantling systemic barriers, expanding access to opportunities, and ensuring that every individual, regardless of race, gender, disability, or background has equal opportunities to participate and thrive.

Yet, recent developments in the US reveal a troubling backlash against these efforts. Despite significant strides to make programs and services accessible and inclusive to all, the current administration issued an executive order to end DEI programs. They argue that these initiatives lead to divisiveness and wasteful spending and undermine merit-based hiring practices. 

How can policies designed to make workplaces more welcoming and accessible be accused of creating discrimination? How does ensuring a diverse and inclusive applicant pool stand in the way of hiring the best person for the job? If anything, DEI ensures that the best candidate is not overlooked simply because they were never given access to the opportunity in the first place. This shift marks a stark contrast to efforts advancing equity and supporting underserved and unrepresented communities. 

DEI is about expanding, not excluding 

One of the biggest misconceptions about DEI in hiring is that it prioritizes identity over qualifications. When practiced correctly, DEI is about expanding the reach of job opportunities, not restricting them. For instance, instead of simply hiring from the same networks or universities where opportunities have historically favoured certain groups, inclusive hiring means ensuring job postings reach a broader audience, including underrepresented communities. It means making the hiring process accessible— offering accommodations such as screen readers, flexible interview formats, or alternative application methods for people with disabilities. 

True DEI is not about checking a box; it is about removing the barriers so that everyone has a fair shot at success.

A long fight for inclusion

February is also Black History Month, a time to reflect on the resilience and contributions of Black communities and the long fight for racial equality. While progress has been made, history reminds us that inclusion is never guaranteed. The same can be said for disability rights—people with disabilities are still fighting for accessible workplaces, equal hiring practices, and representation in leadership roles.

At ABLE2, we know firsthand that inclusion does not happen by accident—it happens by design. That is why our Board includes a representative with a disability, ensuring that lived experience informs the decisions that impact the community we serve. When diverse voices are part of decision making, we move beyond performative inclusion and toward real, lasting change.

Why we must push forward

The backlash against DEI is a reminder that progress can be fragile. When programs are scaled back or dismissed as unnecessary, we risk undoing years of hard work. For people with disabilities, this could mean fewer opportunities to access meaningful employment, reduced funding for accessibility initiatives, and limited representation in decision-making spaces.

Inclusion is not just about hiring—it is about belonging. When workplaces and communities commit to diversity, equity, and inclusion, they foster environments where everyone can contribute and thrive. The fight for justice—whether racial, gender, or disability-related—is ongoing, and we cannot afford to step back now.

Today, on World Day of Social Justice, it is vital to reflect on what these developments mean for the broader fight for inclusion— are we doing enough to create a society where everyone can participate and contribute? Are we actively removing barriers, or are we allowing old systems of exclusion to persist? 

As leaders, advocates, and members of the community, we all have a role to play in advancing inclusion. Here is what you can do:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the barriers that marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, face in accessing opportunities.
• Advocate: Use your voice to champion policies and initiatives that promote equity and inclusion in your workplace, school, or community. Speak up against unjust practices that create barriers and exclude others. 
• Engage: Foster safe spaces where people from all backgrounds can share their perspectives and experiences.

DEI is not just an initiative—it is a commitment to fairness and justice. We must push forward, ensuring that no one is left behind. Inclusion should be the standard, not the exception.

Let us keep the conversation going. What are your thoughts on the state of DEI today? How do we ensure that progress continues for all communities, including people with disabilities? I would love to hear your insights in the comments.

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

Embark on an unforgettable adventure while making a difference in the community— discover how your next cruise can empower people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.

Expedition Experience is a premier travel company specializing in unforgettable voyages to some of the world’s most captivating destinations. With a commitment to providing unparalleled cruising experiences, they offer a diverse range of trips that cater to every traveller’s dream, from the scenic coastlines of Nova Scotia to the vibrant cultures of the Mediterranean/Adriatic, the breathtaking landscapes of Azores, and the allure of the Caribbean. Known for their exceptional service and attention to detail, Expedition Experience ensures that every journey is not only a luxurious escape but also an opportunity to explore, discover, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Expedition Experience has the perfect voyage for you.

This year, Expedition Experience has partnered with ABLE2 for our biggest fundraising event Evening in the Maritimes (EiTM) as a Live Auction Partner. They have offered a certificate for two (2) people for an 11-day/10-night East Coast Cruise aboard the Klara Sailing Ship (a value of over $12,000 CAD/person!) for the EiTM Live Auction. This generous support showcases their commitment to giving back to the community, and ABLE2 is excited to have Expedition Experience on board this year’s EiTM! 

But that’s not all! Did you know that booking a voyage through Expedition Experience can benefit ABLE2? For every trip booked until April 2025, ABLE2 receives a generous $250 donation. You can feel great knowing your next adventure supports a worthy cause.

Check out their digital brochure including schedule and prices for 2025 voyages here.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a difference. Book your voyage now using the code ABLE25 and embark on a journey that benefits both you and the community.

For more information about the exceptional cruising experiences offered by Expedition Experience, visit www.expeditionexperience.com or email: travel@expeditionexperience.com

Sail away with purpose and support ABLE2 today!

In every community, you will find grassroots charities and nonprofits working quietly and tirelessly, making life better for those who need it most. One such organization serving the Ottawa region is ABLE2: Support for People with Disabilities, which I am proud to lead. While we do not have the brand recognition or operational budgets of larger foundations, we have the heart that drives change in ways that are personal and deeply meaningful.

In 1974, David Hall was asked by two individuals to assist them to move out of the institution and live more independently. Through a network of committed volunteers and dedicated advocates, these individuals achieved a level of independence that inspired the birth of Citizen Advocacy of Ottawa-Carleton, now known as ABLE2. 

However, many grassroots charities like ours often operate on limited resources. Just the same as larger foundations, we aim for excellence, but excellence requires resources— staff, training, and tools to deliver the quality support that people rely on. And while passion fuels our purpose, it is unfortunately not enough to fund services, even when demand is at an all-time high.

The reality is stark: in 2023, nearly half (46.1%) of nonprofits in Canada reported increased demand for their services. At ABLE2, we feel this deeply. Our Matching Program, for example, has over 140 people waiting for Allies—volunteers who provide friendship and reduce social isolation for people with disabilities. While the demand for our services grows, the financial and human resources needed to meet this demand remain stretched thin.

The COVID-19 pandemic added layers of complexity to our current situation. Some supporters had to step back, whether due to career changes, shifting priorities, or the sheer toll of the past few years. Additionally, there is increased competition for funding, as many other charities face similar challenges. Last year, we made some difficult decisions such as reducing staff and closing programs, to ensure that we could continue delivering services of high quality and excellence and to sustain our vital work into the future. Despite these challenges, we remain steadfast in our mission. We may not serve millions, but the lives we touch, we touch profoundly.

We know our work is vital. For over 50 years we have been part of countless stories: from families finding tools and resources tailored to their needs, to individuals developing life-long meaningful friendships, increasing financial capacity, gaining growth and independence, and accessing justice and asserting their rights. Take Mark, for instance, who has been involved with ABLE2 for almost 10 years. Mark has gained the self-confidence that led him to writing a book, starting a business, and even volunteering and advocating in the community. Haneen and Sara, sisters, who not only improved their English and pursued education but also found a meaningful friendship with their Ally, Nicole. These are the kinds of transformations that fuel our mission and remind us why this work matters.

Our history is full of these stories—each one a testament to the power of human connection and community support.

What you can do to be a part of building an inclusive community

We’re a small team of 20+, but our strength lies in our community of passionate and dedicated staff, donors, volunteers and advocates who believe in what we do. You too can have a hand in building a stronger, healthier and more inclusive community by being involved with ABLE2 in several ways:

Corporate Support: Business-owners and corporate leaders can be involved by making corporate gifts or sponsorships, like supporting our flagship fundraiser, Evening in the Maritimes. It’s an excellent way to align your company’s values with community impact.

Volunteer: Becoming an Ally means building a friendship with someone with a disability. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, attending community events, or just being present, you’ll make a meaningful difference.

Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us sustain and grow programs that change lives. Consider monthly giving, donating stocks, or including ABLE2 in your will.

At ABLE2, we believe in building a world where everyone is seen as able, important, and valued. It’s because of supporters like you that help us continue to create lasting change, whether it’s through your time, resources, or simply sharing our mission.

Thank you for believing in the power of community, compassion, and inclusion.

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

ABLE2 Executive Director Heather Lacey with Sequence Marketing Principal John Bishop

In the world of non-profit work, partnerships often serve as the fuel for progress. For ABLE2, one of its most vital partnerships has been with Sequence Marketing (formerly B Media Shop), an Ottawa-based marketing firm led by agency principals John Bishop and Veronique Soucy. For almost 20 years, the agency has built a reputation for its creative and people-focused approach, supporting clients across sectors with a commitment to storytelling and brand excellence. 

Over the years, Sequence Marketing has become more than just a service provider—they are a trusted collaborator and committed supporter in helping ABLE2 amplify its mission, connect with communities, and ensure its messaging and reach are effective and impactful. For John, the partnership is more than just a professional endeavour– it’s a social responsibility rooted in shared values. “We champion ABLE2’s cause as part of our business practices. When we have conversations with potential clients, we encourage them to support a charity such as ABLE2, as part of their marketing strategy,” he says. 

Jack, Senior Account Manager, shares “Disability is something that affects us all— whether we know someone living with a disability, or at some point ourselves, live with a disability. It’s eye-opening to work with ABLE2, and through our skills and expertise, help open others’ eyes to the messaging of the brand. Sequence wanted to work with a great organization where there’s room to grow and expand.”

Rebranding an Organization, Redefining a Mission

In 2020, ABLE2 faced a pivotal moment in its history. Known for decades as Citizen Advocacy of Ottawa-Carleton, the organization recognized the need for a brand that better reflected its evolving mission and broader scope of work. Sequence Marketing played a crucial role in this transformation, leading the charge on the rebranding process.

Working closely with ABLE2’s leadership, Sequence developed a new identity that encapsulated the organization’s core mission: fostering inclusion and independence for people with disabilities. The result was a modern, impactful brand that resonated with stakeholders and highlighted ABLE2’s commitment to empowering individuals to live full, meaningful lives. The transition wasn’t just about changing a name or a logo; it was about reshaping perceptions and ensuring the organization’s future.

Jack recalls the excitement of the rebranding process: “It was a big moment for our agency. We brainstormed together to ensure the new brand truly represented what ABLE2 stands for. Seeing how the brand has grown stronger over time is incredibly rewarding.” 

Sequence Marketing team at Evening in the Maritimes in 2023

Elevating Fundraising Efforts

One of the cornerstones of Sequence Marketing’s partnership with ABLE2 is its role in the annual fundraising gala, Evening in the Maritimes (EiTM). As ABLE2’s largest fundraising event, EiTM is a high-stakes endeavour that demands precision, creativity, and a deep understanding of the organization’s audience.

Sequence Marketing takes the lead on developing the event’s visual identity, creating everything from collateral materials to digital marketing assets that drive engagement and ticket sales. Their ability to merge compelling design with strategic messaging has been instrumental in elevating the event’s profile, making it a must-attend occasion for the Ottawa community.

“It’s such a great event on so many fronts. It is great to see through the event the tremendous work that ABLE2 does day in and day out for the people that benefit from their support. As a business owner in the Ottawa community, it makes me feel good helping out ABLE2. It is my mantra that as a responsible corporate citizen of the Ottawa community we have an obligation to give back,” shares John. 

A Digital Lifeline

Beyond branding and events, Sequence Marketing supports ABLE2’s day-to-day communications through website management and social media. In an age where digital channels are the primary means of connecting with the public, their work in expanding ABLE2’s reach is invaluable. The Sequence team ensures that ABLE2’s online presence is not only visually appealing but also accessible and engaging, providing a seamless experience for users of all abilities.

From maintaining the website to elevating social media campaigns, Sequence helps ABLE2 amplify its voice in a crowded digital landscape. Their efforts have strengthened the organization’s connection with donors, volunteers, and the community at large, ensuring that ABLE2’s mission remains front and centre.

Empowering Lives Together

Finally, John imparts, “We are truly honoured to partner with ABLE2 and to contribute to their important work. At Sequence Marketing, we believe in the power of community and inclusivity, and our collaboration with ABLE2 allows us to make a real, positive impact. This partnership represents our shared values of support, empowerment, and a commitment to making a difference. We’re proud to stand alongside ABLE2 and continue fostering a more accessible and supportive world for all.”

As ABLE2 continues to grow and adapt to the needs of the disability community, its partnership with Sequence Marketing remains a vital part of its success. This partnership thrives because of our shared values and vision of an empowered and inclusive community. Together, we’ve not only reshaped our brand but also strengthened the ties between ABLE2 and the community we serve. This proves that with the right partnership, we can drive much more meaningful change and positive impact in the community. ABLE2 is deeply grateful for the commitment and generosity of Sequence Marketing in everything we do. 

As we approach the end of the year—our 50th anniversary milestone year—I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey ABLE2 has taken to empower individuals with disabilities in our community. Since 1974, we have seen thousands of lives changed through our work of breaking down barriers and building lives of meaning and joy. But this work does not happen in isolation—it is a community effort of our compassionate staff, volunteers, generous donors, and loyal supporters.

With the generosity of supporters like you, we have seen firsthand how our programs and services have supported people with disabilities in overcoming these challenges. One story that I am fond of sharing is Michael’s, who has overcome agoraphobia, or fear of public and crowded spaces, with the help of his volunteer Ally Mike from the Matching Program. Early this year, he experienced a breakthrough—he attended his first Ottawa Senators game, something he never thought possible. 

Another story from our APSW Program is of Cody, who is gaining independence, confidence, and improving his overall physical and mental health. Similarly, FARP has been a lifeline for families like the Moisans, who received crucial support and resources to better care for their child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). You will find more stories of the impact of our work together on our website. 

As we reflect on the past 50 years, I am proud of these incredible transformations. But our work is far from over. Despite the financial challenges this year, the importance of our mission has never been clearer. Individuals with disabilities still face complex and often invisible barriers, from accessing justice to finding safe, affordable housing, to simply connecting with others and building meaningful friendships. We need to continue building a future where everyone—regardless of ability—can thrive, live fulfilling lives, and contribute as active members of the community. This holiday season, I invite you to consider how you can be a part of that future. 

Your contribution is more than a gift; it is a powerful message of your commitment to inclusivity in our communities. Your generosity builds meaningful connections through our Matching Program, ensures justice through the Reach Legal Referral Services, supports families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) through the Fetal Alcohol Resource Program, increases financial stability through our Funding Brokerage services, and facilitates independence and growth by helping individuals find accessible and affordable housing through the Adult Protective Services Worker Investment program. 

By donating, volunteering, or advocating for ABLE2, you help reduce the barriers, enabling people with disabilities to live fulfilling lives and participate as active members of the community.

As we look ahead to the next 50 years, your gift will ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the support they need to live their lives to the fullest. Let us continue to build a more inclusive Ottawa, where every person is seen as able, important, and valued. 

Show your support today. So, together, we can continue building lives of meaning and joy for the next 50 years.

Thank you for your generosity and commitment. Happy Holidays!

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

Loneliness is often dismissed as a temporary state with simple remedies such as going out with friends, learning a new hobby, or finding a community that shares the same interests. But for people with disabilities, loneliness and social isolation can be profound, pervasive, and far more challenging to overcome. While other pressing concerns related to living with a disability overshadow the issues, loneliness and social isolation can contribute to declining mental and physical health. Research shows that loneliness has the same harmful impacts on the body as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death. Moreover, it can impair the immune system, increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and lead to depression and other psychological disorders. 

At ABLE2, we see the harsh reality of loneliness in the disability community every day. Many of the individuals we serve face unique barriers to building social connections— whether due to mobility challenges, communication difficulties, or lack of accessible social opportunities. Often, their interactions are limited, leaving them yearning for much more engaging social connections with people who choose to be there for them. 

Findings from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on adult life, reveal that close relationships are crucial for happiness and health, more so than wealth or fame. Strong social connections can delay both mental and physical decline and are better predictors of long, happy lives than social class, IQ, or even genes. For people with disabilities, programs like ABLE2’s Matching Program have been a cornerstone of fostering meaningful and intentional friendships for people with disabilities in Ottawa for the last five decades. 

The program pairs individuals with disabilities, known as “Friends”, with volunteers or “Allies” according to location and shared interests. These volunteers offer companionship, emotional support, and opportunities for social engagement, all by choice. ABLE2, formerly known as Citizen Advocacy of Ottawa, was established with this core program to support people with disabilities transitioning from institutions to community living. For the last 50 years, we have seen the profound impact of these connections. As matches develop relationships based on mutual trust and support, people with disabilities feel less lonely and isolated, improving their overall mental and physical health. 

Michael’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of these connections. Living with agoraphobia, or fear of open or crowded spaces, Michael shares that for many months, he would often only see a handful of people. But earlier this year, he experienced a breakthrough—he went to his first Ottawa Senators game, an event with 17,000 screaming fans and loud noises. But he wasn’t alone. He was with his volunteer Ally Mike, who has been his steadfast support in helping him gain confidence and comfort in being in the community. 

For Arne and Norman, ABLE2’s longest Match of over 40 years, their bond has grown stronger with time; for Patricia and Sophia, who have shared 15 years of companionship and now consider each other as family. 

Each of these stories demonstrates how a simple friendship can transform lives, and the value of emotional and social support that is willingly offered by a friend— by someone who wants to be there for you. 

When you reflect on your own network of relationships, it’s clear how important these connections are in navigating life’s ups and downs— whether it’s moving to a new city, making big life decisions, or coping with trauma or loss. Now imagine how challenging building these connections is for someone with a disability. Loneliness and social isolation aren’t just experienced by the few; they are becoming an epidemic, and we all can play a role in combating it. 

At ABLE2, we are incredibly proud of our dedicated and compassionate volunteers, donors and supporters who have joined us in reducing loneliness and social isolation for people with disabilities. If volunteering is not possible for you right now, consider making a donation to ABLE2 so that we can continue this vital work. I invite you to join ABLE2 in empowering people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here