The Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and Chatham-Kent Council are calling for nominations for this year’s annual Accessibility Advisory Committee Awards.
To fill out a nomination form, please go to www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/accessibility-awards and when completed, please hit “SUBMIT”. If you require a paper copy of the Nomination Form to fill out, please reach out to your local Library or Service Centre and they will provide a paper copy to you.
Forms can also be submitted to any current member of the AAC or by emailing ckaac@chatham-kent.ca or CK311@chatham-kent.ca
Deadline for receipt of nomination forms is Friday, May 15, 2026.
Members of the community are invited to nominate a business or an individual they feel should be recognized in one of the following three categories:
Dr. Veronica Vaughn Accessible Business Award
Is presented to a business that stands out as providing an accessible facility and/or accessible customer service.
Sheila Lindsey Powers Accessibility Advocate Award
Is presented to an individual in this community who stands out as an advocate for the inclusion of people of all abilities.
Sid Ebare Perseverance Award
Is presented to an individual who stands out as a person who perseveres beyond their limitations to participate in community life.
Sara Ebare, Chair of the Accessibility Advisory Committee said “I'm always happy and encouraged to see the type of submissions we receive every year for this award. Our community always makes an effort to be more accessible to all."
“It’s so important to remove as many barriers as possible so all citizens in a community can participate and engage in everyday activities," said Councillor Alysson Storey of the Accessibility Advisory Committee. "These awards are a wonderful way for the Municipality to recognize and celebrate individuals and businesses doing this work.”
“Accessibility is fundamental to supporting a growing community where everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff. “These awards shine a light on the individuals and businesses in Chatham-Kent who are leading by example by removing barriers, championing inclusion, and making a real difference in people’s daily lives. I encourage residents to take the time to recognize those efforts by submitting a nomination and helping us celebrate the progress we continue to make together.”
The 2026 Accessibility Awards will be presented during the June 8th Council Meeting.
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Media Contact:
Eric Labadie
Manager, Corporate Communications
Municipality of Chatham-Kent
519-360-1998 x 2039
ericl@chatham-kent.ca
