It is rare to see a member with a disability at my gym. However, after seeing a person with an impairment, I had a lot of questions for fitness facilities. Specifically, how are they accommodating gym members with disabilities? So, I spoke to the manager at my gym. He has kindly shared what he has come across during his employment.
AODA Resources
Resources on issues of accessibility and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Community Accessibility: How You Can Get Involved!
You may be someone who wishes to become involved in community accessibility, but are unsure of how best to do so. If so, this article shows ways that you can take an active role in ensuring community accessibility for all. You can take part in community accessibility in many ways, such as:
- Learning more
- Becoming a volunteer
- Being an advocate
- Attending community meetings
Accessible Writing Style
It is important that writers consider their audience when creating their text. In light of this, writers should think about how they will adopt an accessible writing style. If writers use an accessible style, the writer can ensure that the text reaches as wide an audience as possible.
Venue Policies make Access2 Cards Less Effective
The Access2 card program is a great opportunity for people with disabilities to be part of their communities, but policies within partner institutions make it much less useful than it should be.
The Access2 card program was created in 2004 by Easter Seals Canada with help from Cineplex Entertainment and many national disability organizations. When a person with a disability who has an Access2 card comes to a partnering venue with a support person, the support person enters for free or at a reduced rate. Support persons may help people with disabilities:
Accessible Camps for Children with Disabilities in Canada
Many Canadians have fond memories of summer camps. Not only are summer camps fun for kids, but they also provide the chance to develop skills and forge lasting friendships. Now, imagine a child can’t attend summer camp because they have a disability. They miss out on all the life-changing experiences. Similarly, they miss out on the happy memories that last a lifetime. The good news is that there are accessible camps for children with disabilities throughout Canada!