The City of Sarnia honored local individuals and businesses who have strived to make the community more inclusive and accessible for those living with disabilities on Dec. 1 as part of their 10th annual Accessibility Awards ceremony.
Award recipients gathered at the St. Clair Corporate Center for the event, with the Sarnia Accessibility Advisory Committee as host.
Mental-health advocate Dan Edwards was the keynote speaker and winners were lauded for their initiatives that have made the city a better and more accessible place said Sarnia’s Accessibility co-ordinator Dale Mosley.
“It takes effort at every level to create a welcoming and inclusive community where all individuals, regardless of ability, can live, grow and thrive,” he said. “Right across our community there are those who step up to create accessible, inclusive spaces, and today we thank them for that critical effort and hope their example encourages others to take action.”
This year’s winners are:
- Prelude to Excellence Large Business Award (businesses with 50 or more employees who create inclusive environments): Penny Churchill and the Sarnia Observer.
- Prelude to Excellence Small Business Award (businesses with less than 50 employees that create inclusive environments): The Book Keeper.
- Exceptional Leadership in Customer Service Award (exemplary service to those with disabilities): The Mitton Village Collective.
- Exceptional Accessible Physical Environment Award (forward thinking inclusive design in build environments): Bains BBQ.
- Creating Opportunities for an Inclusive Community Award (providing leadership in inclusive programming for those with disabilities): Hairstylist Keira Hong.
- Going Above and Beyond Award (business/individual who goes above and beyond serving or assisting individuals with disabilities): The Lambton College Massage Therapy Clinic.
- Outstanding Customer Service in a Social Service Sector Award (individuals in the social service sector who offer exceptional service): The County of Lambton Community Paramedic Program.
- Kevin Schenk Legacy Award (a new award for individuals who inspire the community to make it more inclusive and accessible): Kevin Schenk, who passed away in 2022.