admin_bmedia@able2, Author at ABLE2

PRIDE in Every Shade: Honouring the Intersection of Disability and 2SLGBTQ+

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

Friendships That Last

Peter with his Match, John, at the ABLE2 Holiday Dinner and Dance in 2012

I’ve been volunteering with ABLE2 since 2007, and the experience has had a real impact on my life. What initially drew me to ABLE2 was its mission—to connect vulnerable and isolated individuals in our community with volunteers who can be their friends and allies. That simple but powerful idea continues to inspire me.

My first match was with John, who at the time had no close family and was living in a group home. We became close friends. John lived with disabilities, and while I could support him at times, the real value was simply in spending time together—sharing stories, laughs, and everyday experiences. Our friendship lasted until his passing in 2019, and I still think of him often.

Since then, I’ve been matched with Dennis, and more recently with Larry in 2022. Each friendship is unique, and each one has added something special to my life. These aren’t just volunteer roles—they are real, enduring relationships rooted in trust and mutual respect.

In addition to volunteering, I also served on the board of ABLE2 for six years. That experience gave me a close-up view of the organization’s inner workings. I saw first-hand the dedication of the staff and the strength of the leadership team. Their commitment to the people they serve is evident, and their approach is thoughtful and effective.

As a long-time donor, I give with confidence because I’ve seen the impact up close. The funds are used wisely and make a tangible difference in the lives of people who need connection and support.

Being part of ABLE2—as a volunteer, a donor, and a board member—has been a significant part of my life. It’s shown me how powerful a simple human connection can be, and how small acts of friendship can change lives.

Maryse and Grace: A Friendship That Grew into Family

When Maryse signed up to become a volunteer Ally more than a decade ago, she never imagined that what began as an act of giving back, would evolve into something more. After retiring due to illness, Maryse was eager to reconnect with her community. Volunteering had always been part of her life, but the opportunity she found through ABLE2’s Matching Program turned out to be something more than volunteering—it became a gateway to family.

Grace had just moved to Ottawa from Toronto. With few social connections, she found herself struggling with loneliness in an unfamiliar city. A social worker referred her to ABLE2’s Matching Program in the hopes that she might find friendship and a stronger sense of belonging. When she met Maryse, that hope became a reality. “Maryse helped me get to my appointments, run errands, and just be out in the community,” Grace says. “She made everything better. She made me feel like I wasn’t alone.”

In the beginning, the two met weekly to pick up groceries, visit garden centres, and grab meals at Swiss Chalet. Grace, an avid gardener, shared her love of plants while finding joy in their regular outings. “We used to see each other more back then,” Maryse says. “But now, because of mobility issues, we still make time for a video call almost every day.”

Over the years, Maryse’s husband Ron naturally became part of Grace’s circle of support. They’ve stepped in during emergencies, attended family milestones together, and have been a helping hand. Grace’s son Ernest, who also participates in ABLE2 programs, is now part of what Maryse lovingly calls “our little Ottawa family.” She adds, “We don’t have close relatives here, so Grace and Ernest became ours.”

And that love goes both ways. They celebrate birthdays and holidays, share laughs, and even attend occasional parties. “They’ve been there through everything,” Grace says. “Maryse was there when I was in the hospital, or just when I needed someone to talk to. Maryse makes my day.”

Maryse, Grace, and Ernest at ABLE2’s Holiday Dinner & Dance

When asked how volunteering has impacted her life, Maryse says, “It’s more than volunteering. It’s enriching. It’s fun. It’s nourishing. You gain so much more than you give.” Her words echo the core truth of ABLE2’s Matching Program: while volunteers sign up to give their time and support, they often walk away with something even greater—a deeper sense of connection, purpose, and joy.

Twelve years after their first meeting, Maryse and Grace are no longer just a Match—they’re family. They’ve woven their lives together through the small, beautiful rituals of friendship: from holiday dinners to inside jokes (including the infamous day a seagull stole a hot dog right off of Ernest’s hand!). These moments, though seemingly ordinary, are what give life meaning—and they are exactly what the Matching Program was designed to make possible.

ABLE2’s Matching Program has been building friendships like this for over 50 years—helping people with disabilities and volunteers find the meaningful social connections that everyone deserves. But the need is greater than ever. Today, over 140 people are still waiting to be matched.

When you support ABLE2—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply sharing our story—you help create more connections like Grace and Maryse’s. You help transform loneliness into laughter, and isolation into inclusion. You help build a community where everyone belongs.

Be part of the story. Support ABLE2 today.

Position Statement on the Reduced Cabinet Roles on Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities

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.

National AccessAbility Week Is a Call to Act, Not Just Reflect — How Will You Lead?

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

Better Together: How Mark and Daniel Changed Each Other’s Lives

When Daniel signed up to volunteer with ABLE2’s Matching Program, he wasn’t sure what he was getting himself into. He thought it was a meaningful way to spend free time, but admits it was initially to impress a girl he was seeing. While the relationship didn’t flourish, he found something else that would later change his life. “I went into it kind of blind,” Daniel admits. “But then I spoke with the social worker, and she sold me on the idea of being someone’s friend for life.” Daniel felt like it was a big commitment, but once he met Mark, “It just clicked.”

Mark, who has had previous volunteer Allies, felt the connection instantly. “It was a match made in heaven,” he says with a smile. “As soon as I saw him, I just knew; this one’s special.” Their connection was immediate and genuine, the kind of chemistry that doesn’t need much explanation. Since being matched in 2023, the two have built a bond that continues to enrich both their lives—not just in shared laughs, but in the kind of steady presence that only real friendship offers.

Mark and Daniel at Evening in the Maritimes – May 1, 2024

Their weekly routine is getting coffee at Tim Horton’s, but occasionally, they also enjoy going for walks along the canal, swimming, and bowling— where Mark proudly dominates! They’ve made a habit of turning ordinary outings into memorable moments. One outing that stuck with Daniel was their visit to the Canadian War Museum, where Mark surprised him with an impromptu history lesson. And while not every outing is a shared passion—like the time Daniel brought Mark to a baseball game (“Mark isn’t a baseball guy,” Daniel jokes)—they both agree that differences don’t diminish the experience. “We found a million other things that we both love, and we have fun and enjoy each other’s company nevertheless,” says Daniel.

Mark and Daniel, with another Match Russ and Vaughn, and Mark’s best friend Josh

Their circle has even grown to include others more recently. They’ve gone on outings with other matches, and even with Mark’s best friend, Josh, tagging along too. “I’m very proud of that,” Mark shares. “Because most people, when they say they’re a match, it’s just the two of them. But Daniel sees how much Josh means to me, so he comes along with us once in a while. And I love that it makes Josh feel like he’s got somebody too.” This is one of the quiet but powerful ripple effects of a match— how one match can grow into a broader social circle of belonging and trust.

Another profound effect of their match is how Mark has influenced Daniel’s perspective. Mark, who has written a book on his life experiences, started a business and advocated for people with disabilities in the community— leads by example in every part of his life. Last Christmas, he brought Daniel to volunteer at the Parkdale Food Centre, where they spent the holiday spreading cheer to others in need. That moment left a lasting impression on Daniel. “I see Mark wanting to give his time to others who need it more than he does,” he reflects. “And that makes me very happy. I love it when people do that. There should be more people like Mark.”

When asked how their friendship has impacted their lives, Mark shares, “I don’t feel lonely,” Mark says. “I feel like I have another brother. He’s always there when I need him.” Daniel feels just as grateful. “We have a lot in common, and he’s incredibly easygoing. It’s been fun ever since, and most days I walk away feeling pretty good.”

Daniel, a tech professional by trade, has found himself transformed by the experience. “It’s given me a whole new perspective. You don’t realize how people with disabilities are treated until you’re side by side with someone navigating it every day,” he says. “Mark is so motivated, so full of energy—it’s contagious. It makes you want to be better, do more.” And Mark, always quick to reflect gratitude, adds: “He’s made me a better man. And I wish everyone had a match like Daniel.”

These seemingly simple moments—grabbing coffee, laughing over shared (or not-so-shared) interests, and making new friends—add up to something much bigger: a friendship built on trust and support, that makes the experience meaningful for both. “Mark is an incredibly inspiring guy,” Daniel says. “And I’m finding myself looking forward to introducing him to my girlfriend, my family. I thought this would be an isolated part of my life, but now after spending time with him, I want Mark to meet people I care about and for them to see what a wonderful person Mark is.”

Mark and Daniel’s friendship is just one of the thousands fostered through ABLE2’s Matching Program— a program that has been changing lives for 50 years. These intentional friendships reduce loneliness and isolation, build confidence and self-esteem, and improve mental health and overall well-being. These matches don’t just change two lives— the impact ripples outward into families, communities, and society at large.

Today, there are still over 140 people with disabilities waiting to be matched with an Ally through ABLE2. People like Mark, who just need someone to walk alongside them. People like Daniel, who discover as much as they give.

Your support makes these life-changing friendships possible. Whether by donating, volunteering, or supporting our fundraising events, you are helping build a community where everyone can thrive and live a life filled with meaning and joy.

Support ABLE2 and help create the next story like this one.

Celebrating Volunteers: Making Waves of Change in Our Communities

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

A Lifeline Through Friendship: Colleen and Sheena

Sheena had spent years grappling with mental health issues, constantly feeling the crippling isolation and loneliness. “I used to be in the hospital every few months. It’s not always obvious, but people with mental illness do need support,” she reflects. In 2010, Sheena was referred to ABLE2’s Matching Program to expand her social connections in the community. “I’m lucky that ABLE2 acknowledged my mental illness as a disability and was there for me from the beginning. Since being matched with Colleen, I’ve only been hospitalized twice in 15 years.” Having a friend in Colleen— someone who listens, laughs, and shows up— has been life-changing for Sheena.

“Colleen and I, we’re tight. She’s like a big sister. It’s nice to have this support,” Sheena shares. “And she doesn’t judge me, that’s the big one. I have multiple diagnoses, and she never says, ‘Why did you do this to yourself, Sheena?’ She doesn’t judge at all.” Colleen has been a steady anchor in moments of uncertainty and a lifeline when she needed it most.

Colleen, a Special Education teacher at the time, had been looking for meaningful opportunities to give back to the community— especially as retirement approached. She learned about ABLE2’s Matching Program through a colleague who had been a long-time volunteer, and seeing how this one-on-one intentional match had a direct impact on the person with a disability, Colleen knew she wanted to be involved. Colleen and Sheena were eventually matched, and 15 years later their friendship is going stronger and deeper than ever.

At first, Colleen saw the match as a one-way relationship where she would be supporting Sheena. What she didn’t anticipate was how deeply the relationship would enrich her own life. “It just made me realize that after so many years, I haven’t really thought about Sheena’s diagnosis anymore. She’s my friend, she’s my Sheena,” Colleen says with a smile.

“And I can easily say that I’ve gotten just as much out of it as Sheena has. I’ve gone through some big life changes. I lost my mom last year, and Sheena was very supportive through those times. Sheena is one of the stronger persons I know, and she inspires me every day.”

Over the years, they’ve shared countless moments together. They’ve gone hiking in Gatineau, attended ABLE2’s events such as the Annual Picnic and the Holiday Dinner and Dance, and even found a shared love for Aquafit classes. Their bond has even extended into a larger circle of friendship, often joining other matches for social outings. Sheena shares, “I’ve been able to go out in the community and do social things with other friends.”

“I didn’t have that before; I didn’t have anybody. Now it’s better. I’m not struggling anymore. I just wanted to be happy, and now, I am.”

Sheena and Colleen with another match, Maggie and Madeleine at ABLE2’s Holiday Dinner and Dance

When asked why people should consider volunteering with ABLE2, Colleen shares, “It’s an experience that has a lasting impact on your life. Don’t be intimidated about the level of commitment, because you and your match will end up working it out for yourselves. It’s not an onerous thing to incorporate in your life. Before long, it becomes something you want to do.”

Sheena echoes that sentiment. “The Matching Program has been life-changing and fantastic. I hope it continues so that other people get opportunities like this.”

Why Support Matters

Over 140 people with disabilities are waiting an average 1.5 to 2 years to be matched with a volunteer Ally through ABLE2’s Matching Program. Like Sheena, these individuals are looking for meaningful friendships—connections that provide support, companionship, and someone to share life’s journey with.

By supporting ABLE2—whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for us in the community—you are helping to create friendships that serve as a lifeline that improves mental health, reduces loneliness and social isolation, and empowers individuals with disabilities to thrive. Be the reason someone feels seen, valued, and supported.

Learn more about how you can get involved with ABLE2 here.

How Patricia Empowers People with Disabilities to Gain Independence and Growth

Patricia with her Matching Program Friend of 15 years, Sophia

For Patricia, her involvement with ABLE2 has been more than just a job— it’s a mission to advocate for inclusion and remove everyday barriers that many people with disabilities face. As a Planning Facilitator with ABLE2’s Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW) Investment program, she spends her days supporting individuals in navigating the complex housing system, finding resources to develop essential life skills, and working towards a plan for their independence. Most importantly, Patricia helps them believe in their own ability to shape their futures.

The APSW Investment Program, in partnership with Developmental Services Ontario – Eastern Region (DSO-ER) and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) offers support for adults with developmental disabilities who would like to move to a home of their own. The process of finding and moving into a home is an overwhelming process and can be difficult to know where or how to start. APSW Planning Facilitators like Patricia work with individuals to identify their goals, develop a plan and work through any barriers they may encounter. For aging caregivers, planning for their loved ones’ futures through the APSW Investment Program ensures adults with disabilities aren’t left without support when their families can no longer provide it.

Her role is both urgent and deeply personal. Patricia has witnessed firsthand how affordable housing shortages and funding limitations leave many people with disabilities stuck in unsafe or unsuitable conditions, often holding onto hope while on the waitlist for almost a decade. However discouraging the systemic barriers may be, Patricia continues to advocate for her clients’ needs, while working on the necessary skills and confidence to take that step when they are ready. She supports them in developing financial literacy skills such as budgeting and keeping track of expenses, cooking, taking public transport, and even obtaining employment.

“The most rewarding part of my work is seeing that confidence grow,” Patricia shares. “When someone finally moves into their own apartment and shows it off with pride, that’s when I know we’ve made a real impact.”

Patricia knows the need far outweighs the available resources. Still, she remains committed to helping each person she works with take meaningful steps toward independence, no matter how long the process takes.

A Committed Advocate for People with Disabilities

Patricia’s involvement with ABLE2 began long before she joined the APSW team. She was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to stay involved in the social services field. In 2002, she first learned about the organization through a colleague in the social work field and was drawn to the idea of developing a one-on-one connection with a person with a disability. She then signed up to become a volunteer Ally with the Matching Program, where she met her Friend, Sophia. A friendship turned family— now 17 years strong— became a defining part of Patricia’s journey.

“Having Sophia in my life has given me more meaning and helped me feel more of a part of our community, and just feel more connected to everyone around us,” says Patricia, and adds that stepping out of our own little worlds and expanding who we’re sharing our lives with is a good thing.

When Patricia decided to return to the workforce, she knew she wanted to work with ABLE2. “I had a feeling it would be a good place to join, and I was right. It’s been a great place to work and an excellent opportunity to help more people in the community and support them to change their lives as well,” she shares.

Apart from her work with the APSW team, Patricia has also been instrumental in ABLE2’s events as part of the planning committees.

Why Your Support Matters

Patricia’s work—and the work of the APSW program—is possible because of the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and community supporters. Housing shortages, funding gaps, and a lack of accessible resources mean that far too many people with disabilities remain stuck in situations that limit their potential.

With your continued support, ABLE2 can empower more individuals to take control of their futures, gain independence, and build lives of meaning and joy—just as Patricia has helped so many do.

Join us in supporting programs like APSW and ensuring that every person with a disability can build lives of meaning and joy.

The Overlooked Reality of Women with Disabilities

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