Author: admin_bmedia@able2

“What can’t Mark do?” is something you often hear from those who know him. With an energy both infectious and inspiring, Mark’s achievements have defied expectations. From writing a book and starting a business to volunteering and advocating in the community, Mark has spent his life pursuing his passions and making an impact. “I want to make something of my own to be the person I want to be,” he says, with characteristic determination. 

When he first walked through the doors of ABLE2 in 2015, formerly Citizen Advocacy, he immediately knew he found something special. “Wow, I’m home for life. This organization feels like family,” he said— a declaration that would mark the beginning of his transformative journey. He signed up for ABLE2’s Matching Program, which pairs individuals with disabilities with volunteers to build long-term friendships. Mark has had four matches over the years, and he shares that his Allies have helped broaden his experiences, gain new skills, increase his self-confidence, and have a more positive outlook in life. When asked why he feels the need for a volunteer Ally since he’s already accomplishing so much on his own, his answer is simple:

“Because of loneliness. My current Ally is Daniel, and I feel like he’s my brother. I would be lost without him. He’s the best thing that’s ever happened in my life; it’s all I could ever ask for.” 

Mark with his Ally Daniel at ABLE2’s biggest fundraising event Evening in the Maritimes in May 2024.

Over the years, he’s done everything from volunteering at ABLE2’s events, running 2k and 5k marathons at the Ottawa Race Weekend in support of ABLE2, and enthusiastically contributing to fundraising efforts. He is also an active member of the Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) which provides insights to the Board, representing the best interests of people with disabilities. Mark has always been eager to give back to the community through an organization that he believes in. “If it was not for ABLE2, I wouldn’t be where I am today. ABLE2 has made a difference in my life,” shares Mark.

His affinity for disability advocacy in the community is equally inspiring. As someone who knows the challenges of navigating a world that isn’t always inclusive, Mark often takes the time to speak up for those who need it. “If your establishment isn’t accessible to people with walkers, wheelchairs and service animals, then you’re not making the best decision for your business,” he says, reflecting on his efforts to advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in the community.

Mark showing off his kitchen masterpiece at the Parkdale Food Centre.

Mark’s personal milestones are a testament to his lifelong love of learning and continuous growth. With support from ABLE2, Mark returned to school and, in his 50s, proudly completed Adult High School education at St. Nick’s. Since then, he has written a book chronicling his life experiences and the lessons he’s learned, launched ‘Canteen Brothers’, a small business with his best friend Josh, and developed a passion for baking through volunteer work at the Parkdale Food Centre. His ambitions continue— Mark’s next goal is to learn graphic design and animation to help boost his business. Mark also finds joy working at a long-term care facility, where he assists with outings, games, and social activities for the residents. 

Mark volunteering at the ABLE2 Annual Picnic in 2024, with fellow volunteer & best friend Josh

Reflecting on his journey, Mark reflects on a time when people would ask him “What are you going to do with your life?” Now, with a big smile on his face, Mark proudly says, “What can I not do with my life?” Living by his own philosophy, he says, “Don’t let your disability get to you; think about what you can do.”

Mark’s story is a testament to what can be achieved through community support and empowerment. Being empowered has enabled him not only to reach remarkable personal milestones, but also to give back, becoming an active, engaged member of the community. And his story is just one among the many inspiring stories ABLE2 has had the privilege to be a part of.

Over the last fifty years, we have seen firsthand how our programs and services have helped thousands of people with disabilities gain confidence, achieve independence, experience personal growth, and engage as active members of the community. This work is made possible by the compassion and generosity of our supporters like you.

Your support for ABLE2, whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, ensures that stories like Mark’s continue. Your contribution helps more people with disabilities receive the resources and connections they need to thrive, develop meaningful friendships, and feel a sense of belonging to a community where everyone is seen as able, important and valued. 

Together, we can continue to empower people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy. 

Bernie and his wife Janet are long-time supporters of ABLE2. They believe in community involvement and know from first-hand experience how important this is for people with disabilities. 

Their son, Alan, has a developmental disability, and they have worked throughout his life to support him in building a secure life of meaning and joy. Both have also been involved in the lives of others with disabilities. Janet was a volunteer Ally with the Matching Program, and she and Bernie were part of a network of support for another individual with a disability, to provide a safe and secure future.

It is also important to both Bernie and Janet that they contribute financially to local organizations that foster community involvement. ABLE2 is one of the charities they support. They believe in our work and know how important it is to those with disabilities and their families. 

For many years they have been generous monthly donors. More recently, they have gifted stocks to ABLE2. Bernie says, “It makes sense financially. There are significant tax savings for us if we donate this way. We are relieved of capital gains tax, and we get a charitable tax receipt too. This makes it affordable for us.”

Advocates like Bernie and Janet are making a profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, through their gift of stocks. Their support furthers our mission of providing direct-impact programs and services so that more people with disabilities can foster meaningful friendships, gain independence, and be active members of our community. We invite you to join supporters like Bernie and Janet in empowering lives for 50 more years.

Names have been changed for privacy.

Fifteen years ago, Patricia was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to stay involved in the social services field. A former colleague connected her to ABLE2’s Matching Program, where she would meet Sophia. Little did they know that this match would profoundly impact both their lives and that they would become a part of each other’s families.

As Sophia began to go on regular outings with Patricia, she also started spending more time with Patricia’s children. They enjoy watching Disney movies, having dinners at Swiss Chalet, and outings together.

“I have grown to love Patricia’s children like my own siblings, and I am grateful to be a part of a bigger family outside of my group home,” says Sophia.

In the same way, Patricia advocates for Sophia’s needs in her group home and has been recognized as one of Sophia’s caregivers. It’s remarkable to see how their friendship evolved into a bond as strong and devoted as that of family members.

It’s often assumed that volunteers are the ones giving – sharing their time and making a difference in the lives of people and the causes they support, but as we have witnessed with ABLE2’s Matching Program, our volunteer Allies gain as much, if not more, from their experience. Patricia believes that stepping out of our own little worlds and expanding who we’re sharing our lives with is a good thing.

She adds “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.”

What’s remarkable about Patricia’s journey with ABLE2 is that when she decided to return to the workforce in 2023, she knew she wanted to work with the organization. “I had a feeling it would be a good place to join, and I was right. It’s been a good place to work and a good opportunity to help more people in the community and help them change their lives as well.” Patricia has been instrumental in ABLE2’s Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW) Investment program, as well as supporting our events and planning committees. 

To this day, Sophia and Patricia continue to share many milestones and meaningful moments together, not just as a Match, but as family.

“I am glad that Patricia and I met through ABLE2’s Matching Program because I have been able to enjoy going out into the community, experience new things, and meet a lot of people. I know I can rely on Patricia for support, and I know she will always be there for me,” shares Sophia.

Patricia and Sophia at Evening in the Maritimes in 2022

Patricia and Sophia’s story is just one of the many that have been formed through ABLE2’s Matching Program. The intentional friendships created enable individuals with disabilities to develop connections based on mutual trust and support, engage in social activities, and live much more fulfilling lives.

Making friends does not come easy for most people with disabilities. When you support ABLE2, you help foster these meaningful relationships and combat social isolation and loneliness among people with disabilities. Learn more about what you can do to empower more individuals like Sophia to build lives of meaning and joy.

For many people with disabilities, forming friendships can be a challenge. ABLE2’s Matching Program pairs a volunteer or “Ally” with a person with a disability or “Friend” based on shared interests. This allows them to develop a meaningful and intentional friendship that are built on mutual trust, support and understanding. Noor and Parissa’s friendship is a perfect example of how impactful these connections can be. 

Noor was 14 years old when her social worker at the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre recommended that the family investigate finding a volunteer Ally through ABLE2. Their goal was to help Noor, who lives with Dandy-Walker Syndrome, increase her independence, improve her social connections and help her explore new things.

In 2015, Noor was introduced to Parissa who was looking for a volunteer role that would allow her to give back to the community. 

Noor and Parissa immediately hit it off and have been getting together approximately once a week. They both love to be active, and this has been the focus of their outings. Some of things they enjoy doing together are going to the gym, swimming and walking Noor’s dog. Noor really enjoys the time she spends with Parissa and Parissa feels her life has been enriched by their friendship. The benefits of this match don’t stop there as Noor’s family are so happy to have Parissa in their life and to see Noor flourishing.

Through the Matching Program, individuals like Noor are not only developing meaningful connections, but also gaining opportunities to engage and socialize within their community. The intentional friendships have a ripple effect, positively impacting not only the lives of the Friends but also their families and their Allies. 

Noor and Parissa’s story is only one of the many Matches that ABLE2 has fostered for the past 50 years. This life-changing work is made possible thanks to the generosity of our partners, donors and supporters. We invite you to join us in continuing this legacy by donating to empower lives for 50 more years. 

Neena and Debby’s story began 19 years ago when they met through ABLE2’s Matching Program. Neena was looking for an opportunity to create intentional relationships with long-term impacts and she certainly found this in her relationship with Debby.

Neena, who has served on ABLE2’s Board, took her commitment to the next level by becoming an Ally with the Matching Program. When asked what motivated her to volunteer, she says

“I’ve always believed in giving back into the community… I was looking for something that was a little more long-term, something that was more one-on-one. When I joined [ABLE2], I got to meet Debbie, and we hit it off right away.”

Beyond their shared activities, Neena and Debby are dedicated advocates for ABLE2, and have done their fair share of raising awareness and fundraising in support of the organization. For many years, they have participated in the Annual Ottawa Race Weekend to support ABLE2. In 2019, they shared their experiences as a Match at ABLE2’s signature fundraising event, Evening in the Maritimes. The following year, they came on CTV Morning Live to promote the event and talk about their special friendship. Watch their appearance on CTV Ottawa here.

Neena says when she thinks about the impacts of their relationship, she sees the effects it has had for them both.

“I help Debby by supporting her through the not-so-good times, being understanding and patient, being flexible, introducing her to things that may not be readily accessible to her, helping her find her “voice, to stand up for herself and in turn improve her self-confidence by being a good friend”.

Neena goes on to talk about the impact Debby has had on her.

“She has helped me in so many ways. I have learned to see the world with a different lens, the Debby lens, and it’s a heartening perspective. You see, Debby looks for the good in everyone, she always gives. She gives people the benefit of the doubt, she always wants to help, she provides joy through her singing and dancing. She truly sees the wonder in this world and in this beautiful life.”

Neena sums up their relationship –

“I cannot express how much Debby matters to me. We started off as friends and have become family. She is an aunt to my son, and a sister to me and my husband. Through ABLE2 I have met an energetic, capable, empathetic and insightful women who I am blessed to call a dear friend.”  

Jane Caskey is a familiar, smiling face around ABLE2. Whether bringing in donations for our annual Holiday Party, attending events, or as a person the staff can call upon to contribute to their work, Jane can be counted on to support ABLE2’s mission to empower people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy. Jane has been a long-time supporter and advocate of ABLE2, has served as a board member, and is also a volunteer Ally with the Matching Program. 

Jane’s core values of community involvement and support mean that she is dedicated to the causes she believes in and can be counted on to be a leader in the community. Over the years, she has lived her values by recruiting individuals with disabilities to her work team, sitting on the boards of small local charities, encouraging her friends to donate to the non-profits she supports, helping her neighbours, and raising funds.

ABLE2 is fortunate to be one of the charities she supports. She believes that ABLE2 does “excellent work; work that was even more important during the pandemic.” She lives this by volunteering with the Friendly Caller Program and as a regular donor.

Jane knows from personal experience the feelings of isolation individuals feel, especially when they have a disability that affects their ability to get out in the community. She knows the impact that an individual can have when they freely choose to befriend someone who lives with a disability. The impacts range from reducing loneliness and isolation to helping to develop personal networks and relations, increasing self-confidence, to improved mental and physical health. Jane regularly donates to ABLE2 because she admires the work being done and understands the impacts at an individual and community level.

Dedicated supporters and donors like Jane further ABLE2’s mission of empowering people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy. Their commitment to building an inclusive community where everyone is seen as able, important, and valued, has enabled our vital work for over 50 years. We invite you to join individuals like Jane in supporting ABLE2 to empower lives for 50 more years. 

In 2019, Nicole was looking for opportunities to make a meaningful impact in her community. She came across ABLE2’s Matching Program and was drawn to the model of having a supportive one-on-one connection with a person with disability. She was first matched with Haneen, whose goals included improving her English and pursuing an education in Canada. From the moment they met, Nicole’s purpose became clear, and their connection blossomed into a meaningful friendship.

Seeing how this relationship had positively impacted Haneen’s life, her sister Sara asked if she could also have a Match with similar goals in mind. Nicole wholeheartedly took her on as her second Friend and has since then built a strong bond with the sisters. 

The trio began meeting weekly at the local library and coffee shops, dedicating time to practicing their English and sharing stories. We often hear about language being a barrier, but in Nicole, Haneen, and Sara’s case, their strong connection goes beyond words. With patience, creativity, and understanding, Nicole has helped improve Haneen’s and Sara’s English and social skills. With a smile, Sara would proudly say, “I’m no longer shy!” Both sisters have also felt empowered to pursue an education and explore employment, all while adapting to their new lives in Canada. 

Nicole’s impact extended beyond just the sisters; she became a friend to their whole family, providing advice, encouragement, and above all, a sense of belonging. In a time when immigrant families face an evolving landscape, particularly in education and job access, Nicole’s impact on Haneen and Sara’s family has been transformative. She has provided support for the family members’ goals, empowering them to thrive in a new country. The family, full of gratitude, describes her simply:

“Nicole is friend, family, she is nice, good, fun. A godsend— mashallah.” Nicole has truly made a difference for Haneen, Sara and their family. 

As Nicole prepares to leave the country for a new work opportunity, she is determined to keep her bond with Haneen and Sara strong. Through ABLE2’s Connect Program, she will continue meeting virtually with the sisters as they grow, learn and navigate life in Canada. Nicole’s commitment to remain a steadfast friend and Ally shows the lasting, positive impact that dedicated volunteers have on the lives of the people with disabilities we support. 

ABLE2’s Matching Program isn’t just about making new friends— it’s about life-changing relationships that foster growth, confidence and empowerment. These bonds create ripple effects that impact families and communities, made possible thanks to the generosity and kindness of our donors, volunteers, and supporters.

Your support empowers more individuals like Haneen and Sara have the tools and resources they need to thrive, gain confidence and independence, and develop meaningful friendships. We invite you to be part of the legacy of building an inclusive community where everyone is seen as able, important and valued. 

Donate today to build lives of meaning and joy.

Fran and Trina first met in 2017 through ABLE2’s Matching Program. Since then, they have developed a deeper and more meaningful friendship that is beyond a volunteer Ally and a Friend.

“I have never seen a match like this. Their friendship is obvious, it is not volunteering. It is nice to see a bond like this.”

Says Fran’s group home staff on Fran and Trina’s match. 

Both Fran and Trina have the same sense of fun and willingness to try new things. Trina says she has done a lot of activities that she would never have discovered without Fran, such as rocking to Roger Waters in concert, putting on their jerseys to cheer on the Ottawa Senators, eating lobster at Evening in the Maritimes, and seeing wonderful musical productions such as Annie and James and the Giant Peach.They are both spontaneous and always ready to claim the free tickets that are offered to Matches and they also get together for simple things like walks, food and movies. It is obvious that they enjoy each other’s company. In fact, Fran, who has limited verbal skills, is known to scream “Trina” when she spots her coming to see her.

The Match is not without challenges. Trina talks about using Para Transpo with Fran and how it is sometimes late and unreliable. However, the pair try to make the best of it by having something to eat during these times. They both love food! Another challenge is when Fran needs to be adjusted in her wheelchair. This is not an easy task, but they have a great workaround – they look for some handsome helpers! 

In May 2023, Fran and Trina were invited to talk about their experience as a Match at ABLE2’s signature fundraising event, Evening in the Maritimes. They were interviewed by then CTV News Anchor Graham Richardson and had a photo moment with former NHL player Jim Kyte, who was the chair of the event. Trina shares, “I wanted to do something meaningful and personal, and something fun. [ABLE2] was looking for people to be matched with somebody in the community with a disability for the sole purpose of friendship. Some people with disabilities may only have one person or may have no on in their life who’s not paid to be with them.” Check out their interview here. 

Trina truly feels she has met her goal to find a fun way to volunteer and Fran is so happy to have a friend.

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.