Mayor Bevilacqua congratulates winners of Accessibility Champion Awards
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Inclusivity a top
priority in all Vaughan city-building initiatives
Mayor Maurizio
Bevilacqua issued a statement following a ceremony at Vaughan City Hall to
celebrate three winners of the inaugural Accessibility Champion Awards:
“Tonight,
we honoured three members of our community whose ongoing efforts exemplify what
it means to be an accessibility champion.
“Through
Vaughan’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), we are working to ensure
access for residents and visitors with disabilities.
“This committee
supports the City’s work in identifying and removing barriers toward an
inclusive city. Everyone
has the right to access any service, program or location they choose,
regardless of ability.
“The AAC
selected the following recipients for the Accessibility Champion Awards:
- Nickie Saladino – An educational assistant at Blessed Trinity Elementary School, Nickie works with children with a variety of disabilities.
- Reena – A non-profit organization established in 1973 by parents of children with developmental disabilities as an alternative to institutions, Reena promotes independence, personal growth and inclusion.
- Vaughan Mills Mall – As a fully accessible
building, the mall has several accessibility features, including family
restrooms, as well as wheelchairs and scooters.
“At the City of Vaughan, we remain committed to working with our valued partners to build upon our foundation for a barrier-free community.
“We
recently marked National Accessibility Week – an important reminder that the
City of Vaughan is deeply committed to advancing the values upon which this
event was created.
“Earlier
this year, Vaughan was the recipient of the David C. Onley Award for Leadership
in Accessibility. This
award is named after Ontario's 28th Lieutenant Governor and recognizes
accessibility champions who raise awareness about the benefits of inclusion and
foster positive change in their communities.
“I am
honoured to work with individuals who are passionate about accessibility and
can help us achieve our goal to leave no one behind.
“We are
a city of choice and we are building complete communities that are accessible,
healthy and economically strong and sustainable.
“My
vision for Vaughan has always been to create a community with a higher purpose
– a purpose-driven city – and I am proud of the progress we have made.
“Throughout
the year, I encourage everyone to do their part to help make our city even more
accessible and inclusive.”
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