Author: admin_bmedia@able2

For many people with disabilities, genuine connections are hard to come by. Often, their relationships are the ones with people paid to be with them. ABLE2’s Matching Program matches people with disabilities or “Friends” with volunteer “Allies” based on shared interests, so that they can foster meaningful and intentional friendships based on mutual trust and support. Yves and Erin’s Match is just one of the many Matches that have gained a strong bond through the Matching Program. 

Yves and Erin have been matched since 2014. They share a lot in common, and love getting out into the community on weekends. In the winter, you can find them cheering on the local hockey teams, wandering the malls for exercise, searching thrift stores, or having a coffee and donut at the local Tim Horton’s. However, they love summer the best because they get to enjoy long walks, exploring all the community events, baseball games and boat rides. And Yves will tell you that his favourite activity every year is after the ABLE2 Annual Picnic, when he and Erin pack up and go on a short road trip and spend the night in a hotel. They watch movies at night, sleep in and enjoy breakfast in bed. Yves talks about this trip all year long. 

When asked about their Match, Erin says

“Despite having some of the challenges related to his visual and developmental disability, Yves has such an amazing outlook on life. Nothing gets in his way of wanting to get out and his enjoyment of sporting events or concerts. His laugh and sense of humour are contagious, and he has taught me so much – to enjoy life’s little pleasures and to not let fears or challenges get in the way.  He has very much become a part of my family; he is always welcome for Sunday lunches and Christmas Eve dinners. He has had such a positive impact on my life, and I look forward to many more years of friendship with Yves.”

We asked the staff at his group home about his match with Erin and his main caregiver, Darlene, said

“They are really connected. You don’t see this type of connection very often. Erin is a very special person in Yves’ life. He lights up around her. This relationship definitely works, and we are very keen to support it in any way we can.” 

Yves and Erin’s friendship is proof of the powerful impact that intentional friendships can have, not just on the lives of people with disabilities, but on the volunteers as well. 10 years later, their bond is stronger than ever. Their story is just one of the thousands of stories that ABLE2 has been proud to be a part of over the last 5 decades. 

We invite you to support ABLE2 and join us in empowering lives for 50 more years, so that more individuals like Yves can develop meaningful friendships and build lives of meaning and joy. 

My name is Jessica Franklin, and I have worked with ABLE2 for over three years in various administrative roles. As a person with a lifelong disability, I was thrilled when I heard about the opportunity to work with a nonprofit that supports people with disabilities and their family members. 

My employment journey started with my ODSP worker who connected me to Performance Plus Rehabilitative Care Inc. (PPRC). They provided career coaching that focused on my abilities and taught me how to leverage my skills. PPRC helped me identify roles and potential job opportunities, leading me to apply for a position with Reach Canada, a legal referral service for people with disabilities. I volunteered and completed various contracts with Reach Canada for over six years, learning a lot and enjoying the experience of supporting the community and working alongside dedicated staff and volunteers.

When Reach Canada became a program under ABLE2, I heard about a new opportunity, a full-time administrative position. Although I had never worked full-time and was concerned about keeping up, I was impressed with the flexibility and support that ABLE2 offered. The organization made it possible for me to be a full-time employee by making sure I had adaptive technology and equipment to work from home or the office. This flexibility means less reliance on public transportation and more focus on work-life balance.

While I anticipate new challenges with my abilities and disabilities, I’m confident that with ABLE2’s support, I can continue my career path for many years to come.

Helen and Mireille were matched in March 2016, and like many Matches they started out a little unsure if it would work. Helen says, “It can be challenging and daunting at first, and it can take time to develop a routine and find your “groove” together”. However, she goes on to say that from her experience “there is no question that it is worth it, for the pleasure it can bring, and the positive impact it can make on each other’s lives”.

The pair gets together regularly. They love visiting the Greenbelt for nature walks and picnics. They enjoy having coffee together, playing cards, going to movies and getting out in the community. Some of their bigger outings have been to the National Art Gallery, MosiaCanada, and local events such as the Greek Festival and the Great Glebe Garage sale.

Mireille loves that from time to time she and Helen jump in a car and go off exploring together. Helen too enjoys their adventures. She also commented that she appreciates Mireille’s sense of humour, creativity and her passion to try new things and explore new areas of the city.

We asked them both about the impact the match has had on them. Helen replied, 

“Getting to know Mireille, and spending time together, has brought so much joy to my life! She reminds me to appreciate the simple pleasures in life – whether it is feeding the birds, having a picnic outside, or enjoying an art exhibit. She is a remarkable person, and I feel lucky to have come to know her through ABLE2.” 

And Mireille commented “I am thankful for being matched; my Ally and I share common interests. It has made my life brighter.”

It’s the small acts of kindness, shared moments between friends, and meaningful time spent that hold the most profound significance, especially for individuals with disabilities. The friendship between Helen and Mireille is a beautiful testament to this truth. Simply showing up and being present can make the biggest difference in someone’s life. 

When you first meet Cody, his smile and positive disposition make it clear that he’s surrounded by a lot of love and care in his life. He has a loving and supportive family and a wonderful community at the Journey Home, the group home where he currently resides. But like many individuals with unique challenges, Cody has his hurdles to overcome. Going to work, staying consistent with self-care routines, and keeping his life organized have been all too overwhelming for him. 

Then came Lilian, Cody’s Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW) from ABLE2, who has been an essential part of Cody’s support system. ABLE2’s APSW Investment Program, in partnership with Developmental Service Ontario – Eastern Region and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) offers support to adults with developmental disabilities who would like to move to a home of their own. This was one of Cody’s goals when he and his family approached ABLE2 in March of 2023. 

Though moving out of the group home remains one of his long-term goals, Lilian has been supporting Cody in building the foundation to make that transition one day. He has an awareness of what is needed of him when he is ready to take that step, and that includes being consistent with his routines, doing well at his job, and being in good standing at his group home. Together, they have worked on planning for his future, as well as his personal goal of hitting the gym regularly to maintain an active and healthier lifestyle. 

Cody shares, “[Lilian] is helping me keep organized, helping me stay on time with my schedule, and helping me lose weight when I’m going to the gym.” His hard work and determination have already led to incredible changes in Cody’s confidence, attitude, and overall demeanor. 

Lilian says that she has seen Cody’s remarkable growth in the past year. “I’ve seen Cody become more appreciative of the people who support and care for him, more considerate of his housemates at the group home and has been working hard to do well at work. He’s also much more open and willing to go out and participate in social activities in the community, and more proactive about having a better quality of life,” Lilian shares. 

Chantal, a supervisor at Journey House, also attests to Cody’s transformation through the APSW program. “Lilian has been tremendously helpful in establishing goals and following up, to ensure that they are being worked towards. She has gone above and beyond to search for different resources in the community to best support the various needs her client has. She encourages and motivates Cody to be the best person they can be. All in all, we’re grateful for everything she has done for us,” says Chantal. 

One of the most important aspects of Cody’s journey has been learning what it will take to live independently one day. Lilian continues to provide him with resources like budgeting skills and understanding everyday expenses— skills that will empower him to take that next step when he’s ready. 

Cody knows that he’s not alone on this journey. With the continued support of ABLE2 and his growing confidence, Cody is thriving. His smile is a little brighter and his zest for living life is stronger. 

Cody’s journey is just one of the many stories that ABLE2 has been a part of for the last 50 years. Thanks to the generosity and kindness of our partners and donors, we can continue to provide direct-impact programs and services, so that more individuals like Cody can reach their goals, improve their overall health, and build lives of meaning and joy. 

When you donate to ABLE2, you are not just supporting our programs and services— you are making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with disabilities in our community. We invite you to join us in empowering lives for 50 more years. 

Show your support today.

By Rick Burns, ABLE2 Board Member

On an unseasonably warm morning in September, members of ABLE2’s Board of Directors gathered at the Stittsville Public Library for a welcome and orientation for new members and to discuss our collective roles and responsibilities for the coming year. 

To open the session, we were welcomed by the recently appointed Chair of the Board, Adrian Raghunandan. As both a long-term volunteer ally and board member, Adrian has extensive experience with the organization and has shown over the years how committed he is to its mission– so in other words – great choice! 

We then proceeded to roundtable introductions. It was great to see both new and familiar faces around the table. One thing that struck me as we introduced ourselves was that the driving force for so many of us getting involved with ABLE2 was a direct connection with someone who has a disability.  

We then heard from Heather Lacey, the Executive Director of ABLE2, about plans and priorities for the coming year, as well as an overview of the duties and expectations of board members. Thony Jean-Baptiste, a long-time employee and now Director of Programs, then provided an overview of all of the services offered by ABLE2. I am always struck by ABLE2’s range of programming, from its flagship Matching Program, the Fetal Alcohol Resource Program, the Funding Brokerage program, the Reach Legal Referral Services – the organization has come a long way since its humble beginnings some 50 years ago. 

We then received a “Finance 101” tutorial from ABLE2’s Treasurer (and professional finance guy) – Nick Korpikoski.  A key duty of board members is financial oversight, so while we do not all need degrees in accounting or finance, it is important that we all have a basic, common understanding of things like cash flows, balance sheets, assets, liabilities, and more. 

We then went on to perhaps the most important part of the meeting – fundraising. Led by a fundraising strategist, Margaret Miller, Board members were challenged to think of various ways they could support these efforts with view to ensuring ABLE2 remains strong and viable, now and in the years to come. During this discussion, it struck me that many of these ideas and recommendations for the Board could apply equally to all supporters ABLE2.  

I heard once that delegation is the key to empowering those around you. With that in mind, here are some basic ideas on how you, dear reader, can help: 

1. Give. Life-long donors are the lifeblood of community-based organizations – ABLE2 simply cannot operate with the generosity of others. For those of you lucky enough to live with financial security, even a small monthly donation can make such a difference. And if you do not have extra money laying around, of course – fully understandable – but keep ABLE2 in mind should your financial situation improve.  

2. Donate time. We know that life has been financially difficult for so many, especially in the last few years. But for those of you with more time than money, there are so many non-financial ways you could contribute to ABLE’s mission. If you have read any stories or testimonials or stories from ABLE2’s current crew of volunteers, you will learn quickly that you can get as much out of these experiences as the people you are helping.

3. Ambassador. So, you have no extra money and no time? No problem! You can be a champion and advocate of ABLE2’s mission in your everyday life. What does this mean in practice? Get to know the programs and services that ABLE2 offers and take advantage of any opportunity to promote its mission in your personal and/or professional networks. Amplify social media messages and be ready to tell your friends and family about what a great organization it is.  Be a “friend raiser” – point people in the direction if ABLE2 if they are looking to make a real difference in their community. And of course, if you have any uber-wealthy friends or family – be sure to tell them what a great cause this is (and then ever-so casually direct them to Donate | ABLE2)

And there it is. 

If you have managed to read this far, you are obviously committed and believe in ABLE2’s mission, so consider yourself a new recruit – congratulations! We thank you in advance for your efforts. 

By Rick Burns, ABLE2 Board Member

Four years ago, Michael and his family hit rock bottom.  

Michael had been previously diagnosed with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). His parents always felt this wasn’t the full story but since Michael was adopted, there were many unknowns about his prenatal background. A mental health crisis in early 2020 left Michael and his family feeling isolated with nowhere to turn.  

Through a friend, the family was referred to ABLE2’s Fetal Alcohol Resource Program (FARP) and immediately felt embraced, supported and heard. The team worked with the whole family, introducing them to other ABLE2 programs and external community resources. 

Michael, who felt lonely and isolated, joined the virtual youth group, and found a community of other youth with, or with suspected, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The teens developed friendships and supported one another with the help of caring and experienced facilitators.  His family was also supported. His parents attended the FASD Caregiver Support Group where they found others who “got them and their situation”. 

Susan, Michael’s mother, summed up her family’s experience, 

“I don’t know what we would have done without the ABLE2 team. Our family moved from a very isolating time to feeling we belong to a caring community. I don’t know how we would have managed through the pandemic without this support. It was our lifeline.”

The whole family strongly felt that they wanted to help others in the community by financially supporting ABLE2. The impact of the support the family received is continuing. Michael is taking steps forward in his transition to adulthood, his parents continue to receive invaluable support and connections. 

Michael’s and his family’s transformative journey navigating FASD demonstrates the remarkable impact of wrap-around support that FARP offers. As we observe FASD Awareness Month this September, their story is a reminder of the vital role we all play in fostering understanding and support for individuals with FASD like Michael. When you support ABLE2, you ensure that more families like Michael’s receive the wrap-around support that they need, so that they can thrive and build lives of meaning and joy.  

*Names have been changed for privacy.

In 1985, when Arne saw an ad in the paper calling for volunteers to be a friend to an individual with disabilities in the community, he said to himself “I can do that.” ABLE2, then known as Citizen Advocacy of Ottawa, matched him with Norman, a person with a disability who shared similar interests with him. Who knew that that journey would last nearly four decades, showcasing the profound impact one dedicated volunteer can have on another’s life? Arne, now ABLE2’s longest-serving volunteer, has not only been a steadfast advocate and Ally to his Friend Norm but also a friend he can rely on and stand with through life’s challenges.

Their friendship started with a simple offer: “You can call me anytime you need to talk,” Arne told Norman. It was an open invitation that laid the foundation for a bond built on trust and understanding. Through the years, Arne offered much more than friendship; he opened the door for Norm to engage in the community, create connections and relationships, and embrace life beyond the confines of his home.

On one of their more memorable outings, Arne suggested a two-person kayak trip, hoping it would be a therapeutic escape for Norman. As they drove towards the park, Norman began to feel uneasy about the trip. Unsure of how to handle the situation, Arne stopped the car on a bridge and gently eased his concerns. The day turned into a beautiful experience of paddling, swimming, and sharing a meal on an island.

This outing was just one of many ways Arne helped Norman navigate his emotions. Whether it was a walk by the river, listening to meditation tapes, or simply enjoying a meal together, Arne was always there, providing Norman with the support he needed. Norman even had a room at Arne’s place, a safe space where he could retreat whenever life became overwhelming.

Despite the challenges, especially through the pandemic, Arne was steadfast in his commitment to his friend. He continued to check in on him, reminding him of the importance of staying active and engaged. Arne’s reflection on their relationship reveals a deep appreciation for the inspiration that Norman is to him and a profound appreciation of their bond. “Norman is a fantastic person. He did volunteer work too. When I met him, he wanted to do a couple of things… He wanted to leave his parents’ place, he wanted to find a place of his own, he wanted to work… And he achieved most of it. Norman is the kindest person you can imagine.”

When asked why he continues to be a volunteer Ally with ABLE2, Arne says:

“It’s very easy. [Volunteers] don’t have to change their life. They can continue living the way they do. They don’t have to work in a miracle, either. They just need to be a friend. And that’s something we all need, and most of us can be friends.”

Last April 20, 2024, Arne was awarded at the Volunteer Appreciation Event “Impacting Lives Together” for being the longest-serving volunteer of ABLE2.

Arne’s story is proof of the transformative power of compassion through volunteerism. Volunteers like Arne empower people with disabilities to develop meaningful connections, have opportunities to engage and be active members of the community, and ultimately lead fulfilling lives. Through his commitment to his Friend, Norman, we continue to witness the incredible difference one person can make in another’s life simply by being a consistent and caring friend. Arne embodies the essence of ABLE2’s mission of empowering people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.

As ABLE2 celebrates its 50th anniversary, we are inspired by Arne’s compassion, empathy, and commitment. Many more individuals like Norman are waiting for their Allies. By becoming a volunteer, you, too, can make a significant difference in someone’s life, just as Arne has done for Norman. In a world that often moves too fast, sometimes, all it takes to change a life is to be there, to listen, and to care.