The City, in partnership with the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee (MAAC), is now accepting nominations for a new award to celebrate contributions that improve access for people with disabilities.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities Access Award recognizes a person, group or organization that has made or is making a significant contribution beyond legislated requirements, towards improving access for persons with disabilities in Kingston.
Nominations will be accepted until Monday, Oct. 31. That’s the day after the Rick Hansen Relay – which also promotes accessibility – will have its End of Day Celebration in Market Square. The October 30 celebration is set for 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will include an information fair for local accessibility service providers, interactive displays and the Man in Motion himself, Rick Hansen (see www.cityofkingston.ca/maninmotion) .
“The timing is no coincidence. Both the Relay and this Award promote and celebrate significant advancements towards creating a truly accessible, inclusive and sustainable society,” says Julie Salter-Keane, the City’s Accessibility Compliance Project Manager.
Any individual, team, company or organization living and/or working in Kingston or involved in a project which directly benefits the citizens of Kingston can be eligible for this Award. To be eligible, projects must have been developed within the past three years (2008 to 2011).
More information and nomination forms are available at www.cityofkingston.ca/accessaward. The forms must be submitted to the Accessibility Office, City Hall, 216 Ontario St., K7L 2Z3 by 4 p.m. on October 31.
A selection committee including the Chair of MAAC and members from its Built Environment, Information/Communication/Employment and Transportation working groups will chose a winner to be celebrated at an Awards Ceremony in December. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is on Saturday, Dec. 3.
Media contact information: Cindie Ashton, Communications Officer, 613-546-4291, extension 3116 (cell 329-3462). Or call the City of Kingston’s media hotline at 613-546-4291, ext 2300.
