Volunteer Airdrie highlights importance of accessibility in local programs

Volunteer Airdrie is encouraging local organizations to remove barriers for volunteers with disabilities after highlighting the issue during its recent annual meeting.

The Volunteer Airdrie annual general meeting (AGM) saw the re-election of its existing board and a renewed focus on making volunteerism more inclusive for those with disabilities. The AGM took place on July 8 at the Community Room at the Co-op with a large contingent of their non-profit members and board both in-person and virtually. One of the course of actions for the AGM was to elect the board for the new season.

"All existing board members were re-elected including Daria back into the role of Chair and Phil into the Vice Chair role," the Executive Director of Volunteer Airdrie Naomi Slipp said. Additionally, two basic bylaw amendments were passed at the same meeting, reducing the notice period to 21 days to align with official requirements and also to have the AGM in either June or July. The Lunch and Learn session followed afterwards leading to a speech by Courtney, the Wellness Services Team Leader from Vecova, then Josh spoke about his experience volunteering, specifically at Community Treasures Thrift Store.

The Lunch and Learn subject revolved around volunteers with disabilities. Approximately 27 per cent of Canadians have one of more disability. According to Slipp, people with disabilities bring diverse perspectives, new community connections and eagerness to help.

"An inclusive volunteer program strengthens your organization's diversity and better reflects the community you serve," Slipp said in her presentation. One of the many myths discussed was special expertise is needed to manage volunteers with disabilities. However, what is truly required is a welcoming attitude, willingness to learn, and an open mind are often all it takes.

The message was clear: shift the thinking from saying "the person is the problem" to "the barrier is the problem." For example, a building without a ramp creates a barrier; small print create a barrier, and unclear instructions create a barrier. Moreover, the organization's 15 years of impact was discussed during the meeting: 70 organizations were supported; 100 opportunities promoted; 2,700+ volunteer hours were contributed; 28 growing nonprofit memberships were recorded, and more.

When it comes to the community engagement, Volunteer Airdrie altogether had over 300 Volunteer Fair attendees and 196 bags were collected in highway cleanups. For Seniors Support, Volunteer Airdrie has a partnership with Drive Happiness, and that program provided 2,516 trips; and 86 clients were served. Youth volunteers with Youth Volunteer Corps completed 151 projects; 3,746 hours were given to the community and 134 youth.

The Duke of Edinburg Program has ten active participants and three award leaders. Volunteer Airdrie is focussed on making volunteer opportunities accessible, but Slipp also suggests that volunteers let the organization know of the accommodations required during the application process.