By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Chatham-Kent Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), together with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and Chatham-Kent Council, is inviting nominations for the 2025 Accessibility Advisory Committee Awards.
Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals or businesses that have made significant contributions to improving accessibility and inclusion in the community. Nominations are open until Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
“The AAC likes to honour people and businesses in the community that contribute to the independence of persons with disabilities,” said Sara Ebare, chair of the Accessibility Advisory Committee.
There are three award categories open for nominations:
Dr. Veronica Vaughn Accessible Business Award — presented to a business that provides an accessible facility and/or outstanding accessible customer service.
Sheila Lindsey Powers Accessibility Advocate Award — presented to an individual who advocates for the inclusion of people of all abilities.
Sid Ebare Perseverance Award — presented to an individual who has demonstrated perseverance in overcoming barriers to fully participate in community life.
“Accessibility is a keystone of a thriving community, and Chatham-Kent is making great strides to ensure that we’re as accessible as possible to everyone,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff. “I want to thank all of the nominees and nominators in advance for the work they are doing to make Chatham-Kent a better place to live for everyone.”
Coun. Alysson Storey, a member of the Accessibility Advisory Committee, said the awards are an important way to celebrate efforts toward inclusivity.
“Accessibility to local services is so important when it comes to ensuring our community is inclusive and welcoming to everyone,” Storey said. “Whether it’s a retail store, non-profit organization, or government building, we want all of our citizens to be able to access what they need. These awards are a great way of honouring and recognizing those who are doing just that.”
Nomination forms can be completed online at www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/accessibility-awards. Paper copies are available at local libraries and service centres upon request. Completed forms can also be submitted to any current AAC member or sent by email to ckinfo@chatham-kent.ca or ck311@chatham-kent.ca.
The 2025 Accessibility Awards will be presented at the June 9 council meeting.
