Category: Blog Post

June marks PRIDE month, a time to celebrate identity, visibility, and the fundamental right for everyone to live openly, fully, and freely. But beyond the colourful celebrations and hard-earned milestones, lies a quieter, more complex truth: for many, PRIDE is not just a celebration— it’s a daily act of resistance and survival.

That is the reality for many of the 2SLBGTQ+ individuals living with disabilities. According to a 2022 report by Statistics Canada, there are over 700,000 Canadians over the age of 15 who identify as 2SLBGTQ+ and live with one or more disabilities. These individuals sit at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities and barriers, which are not merely additive, but rather amplified by stigma, systemic gaps, and a lack of adequate support. Imagine living in a world that not only questions your capabilities but also invalidates your identity. 

People with disabilities have long navigated systems that were not designed with their needs in mind. Add to that the realities of 2SLBGTQ+ identities, where homophobia, transphobia, and erasure persist— the risk of isolation, harassment, and violence increases exponentially. Research shows that this population is more likely to experience mental health challenges, be denied equitable access to services, and face victimization because of their identities. 

And yet, despite the obstacles, these individuals are not broken; far from it. They are self-aware, resilient, and often more in tune with what they need. Because they’ve had to fight for it. Their lived experience as 2SLBGTQ+ with disabilities equips them with a unique kind of wisdom and strength. And that makes them not only survivors, but leaders in the movement for inclusion.

Still, as DEI efforts face growing scrutiny, we must remain vigilant. A troubling narrative is taking hold; one that suggests equity threatens merit, or that inclusion is optional. We cannot afford to move backward. Not now. Not ever. Inclusion is not a trend. It is respecting the fundamental rights of everyone, including 2SLBGTQ+ individuals with disabilities. It is foundational to a just and equitable community. 

At ABLE2, we are proud to stand by the 2SLBGTQ+ community, especially those living with disabilities. We work to provide them with tools, resources, and tailored support to live with dignity, autonomy, and confidence. Through our Reach Legal Referral Services, we connect individuals to over 200 volunteer legal professionals who help them challenge discrimination and assert their rights, whether in employment, healthcare, housing or education. ABLE2’s mission is to empower people to advocate for themselves, and live fuller, safer, and more meaningful lives. 

As we celebrate PRIDE month, I challenge us all to go beyond rainbow logos and standard written policies. To be true allies, we must listen and amplify the voices of those whose identities are too often pushed to the margins. Learn and lead with intention. Because inclusion must never be optional, nor performative. It must be woven into how we govern, support, and show up for one another. 

To fellow allies, what are you doing today to ensure that those at the margins are not only seen, but also heard, included, and celebrated? 

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

ABLE2: Support for People with Disabilities acknowledges the complex and challenging environment in which the newly elected federal government is operating. We recognize the need for thoughtful and efficient governance in times of economic and social uncertainty. However, we are deeply concerned by the decision to eliminate dedicated ministerial roles for diversity, inclusion, and persons with disabilities from the federal cabinet.

For the 27% of Canadians living with disabilities, the absence of a dedicated cabinet voice sends a message of deprioritizing critical issues that affect millions of Canadians. For decades, people with disabilities have advocated to be seen, heard, and meaningfully included in the decisions that affect their lives. In this moment of change, it’s more important than ever to reaffirm that inclusion matters, and that their voices continue to have a place at every decision-making table.

Inclusion is foundational to a healthy democracy and a strong economy. Canadians with disabilities contribute meaningfully to every sector and deserve to see their needs and rights reflected in the highest levels of decision-making. As the disability community has long asserted: Nothing about us without us.

We urge Prime Minister Carney and the federal government to reaffirm their commitment to inclusion—not only through policies, but through visible leadership and dedicated accountability. We call on this government to ensure that the rights, experiences, and contributions of people with disabilities are meaningfully represented and prioritized across all departments and levels of government.

Canada cannot afford to lose momentum on equity and inclusion. Progress must move forward—not backward.

At ABLE2, we remain committed to building communities where every person is seen as able, important, and valued. We call on our government to do the same for Canada.

Imagine navigating a world where every door is closed to you—not because you lack the ability, but because the world was not designed with you in mind. I recently came across an ad by a French electric company that powerfully illustrated this reality. It flipped the script, showing a world where people without disabilities faced barriers at every turn. While the video poignantly highlights the physical obstacles, its deeper message speaks to something more profound: the daily exclusion and isolation that people with disabilities continue to experience in spaces and systems built without them.   

As we mark National Accessibility Week on May 25 to 31, it is a timely reminder that accessibility is more than just ramps, automatic doors, or designated parking spots. While those physical accommodations are essential, true accessibility and inclusion mean creating environments— physical, digital, and social, that allow full participation for everyone. And to achieve that, we must address the biggest, and often invisible, barriers – stigma and attitudinal bias.

Too often, people with disabilities are met with assumptions about what they can or cannot do or made to feel like they are a burden for requesting accommodations. This is ableism, a form of discrimination rooted in the belief that people with disabilities are inferior or need to be ‘fixed. (The Canadian Encyclopedia, 2023) In my experience, it remains one of the most significant barriers to true inclusion, precisely because it so often goes unnoticed and unchallenged. It does not come from a place of malice, but it is pervasive— and it shows up everywhere.

Ableism can notoriously influence the very systems we move through every day. It can influence hiring practices when candidates with disabilities are overlooked because of assumptions about their capabilities. It is embedded in policies that treat accessibility as an optional add-on feature rather than a basic right. It dictates the design of public spaces that still fail to accommodate diverse needs, and it colours everyday interactions when people are spoken over, ignored, or pitied. When left unchallenged, these biases create environments where people with disabilities are systematically excluded— not because of inability, but because the systems and spaces were not built for them in the first place. This is what happens when people with disabilities are not at the decision-making table. And when exclusion becomes embedded in our systems and culture, we do not just deny opportunities to those individuals— we rob our communities of their valuable insights, talents, and contributions.

Creating inclusive communities is a collective responsibility, and leadership at every level has a crucial role to play. Leaders must champion inclusion by moving beyond statements and into strategy.  This means ensuring people with disabilities are actively involved in shaping decisions that impact their lives. It is about moving beyond compliance and continuously asking: Who might be left out of this space, conversation, or opportunity, and how can we change that?

At ABLE2, we have long believed that it is not enough to talk about inclusion— we must actively create it. And we have taken this to heart. We have redefined how we deliver programs by adapting to the ever-evolving needs of the people we support and continuously improving our services to address the barriers they face. 

When hiring staff, we look for the best person and provide any requested accommodation and the physical environment is designed to be accessible to all.

Our Matching Program, which pairs people with disabilities with volunteers, does not just foster friendship— it shifts perspectives. Our volunteer Allies gain an ingrained understanding of the everyday realities their Friends experience, breaking down assumptions and building authentic community connections. 

Through our Reach Legal Referral Services, we connect individuals with disabilities to a roster of 200+ volunteer legal professionals, actively dismantling the systemic barriers and helping people assert their rights in challenging discrimination and stigma. 

Many of our events involve people with disabilities in the planning process and we incorporate several accommodations into them too, such as quiet areas, personal support attendants, accessibility teams and live closed captioning. 

At the leadership level, we are proud to have people with disabilities serving on our Board of Directors, ensuring their lived experiences shape our strategy, challenge our assumptions, and keeps us accountable to the communities we serve. That is how real, lasting inclusion is built.

During National AccessAbility Week, and in every moment that calls for reflection— let us take an honest look at our own assumptions and behaviours. Challenge ableist language in your conversations. Revisit your hiring practices, physical and digital spaces, outreach efforts and continue to ask yourselves: Who might be left out and how can we change that? And if you are in a leadership role, lead with inclusion at the forefront. Make sure people with disabilities are not just consulted but meaningfully involved at the decision-making table, helping shape the spaces, policies, and communities they live in.

So, as we envision a world where accessibility is a given, not an afterthought, I will leave you with this question: What role will you play in making that vision a reality? 

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

Fifty years ago, ABLE2, formerly known as Citizen Advocacy Ottawa, was founded on a simple yet powerful idea: community is built by people who care. Inspired by a movement in the U.S. that saw volunteers supporting individuals transitioning from institutions to independent living, our founder, David Hall, mobilized a network of community members who believed in inclusion, belonging, and the power of human connection. Today, ABLE2 continues to thrive because of the dedication of volunteers who believe everyone deserves to live lives of meaning and joy.

At the heart of this mission is ABLE2’s Matching Program, which fosters one-on-one friendships between volunteers, or “Allies,” and people with disabilities, or “Friends.” Over the years, we have seen the transformative change these intentional friendships have— people with disabilities expanding their social connections, gaining confidence, increasing their self-esteem, improving their overall mental and physical health, and a better appreciation of life. Over time, these matches become more than just volunteer-service user relationships; they become life-long friends and sometimes consider each other as family. When people with disabilities have someone who chooses to stand by them— not because they are paid to do so, but because they want to— it enables them to feel included, feel less isolated and live a life that means something to them.

And the impact doesn’t stop there. Empowered by these social connections, many of our Friends become advocates and volunteers themselves. Mark, for example, has been involved with ABLE2 for years and now spends his time volunteering at a food bank and supporting ABLE2’s events. His story is one of resilience and generosity, and while we celebrate his determination, we also recognize the role that community support has played in helping him realize his potential. This is the power of volunteerism— it’s a gift that keeps on giving. Each act of kindness sparks another, creating a chain reaction of generosity and inspiring others to pay it forward. Volunteers don’t just create ripples of change— they make waves. 

The impact of volunteerism at ABLE2 extends far beyond one-on-one friendships. It weaves through every part of our organization, strengthening our mission in ways big and small. When Reach Canada merged with ABLE2 in 2023, we expanded our capacity to support people with disabilities in accessing justice. Today, we work with more than 200 volunteer lawyers, paralegals, and mediators who provide free legal consultations, empowering individuals with disabilities to assert their rights, challenge inequities, and seek the justice they deserve. Volunteers also play a crucial role in our events, providing accessibility assistance so that every attendee can fully participate without barriers. Behind the scenes, a dedicated committee of volunteers works tirelessly to make our biggest fundraising event, Evening in the Maritimes, a success. And the backbone of the organization, our Board of Directors, who provide steadfast leadership, guiding ABLE2’s growth and strengthening our ability to serve even more people. 

Making a difference doesn’t require a formal title. Every act of generosity— whether offering a helping hand, advocating for others, or simply showing up for someone in need— has a profound impact. As Heather French Henry, a former Miss America and veterans advocate, once said, “Volunteering is at the very core of being human. No one has made it through life without someone’s help.” 

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we take this moment to express our deepest gratitude to the compassionate and kind individuals who volunteer. You are the heart of our community, and the driving force behind a stronger, more inclusive world. 

Happy National Volunteer Week!

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here

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.