June 14th, 2013
Friday, June 14, 2013
The Accessible Icon Project is a group advocating for an overhaul to the International Symbol of Access. They believe that the new sign shown above serves as a better representation of individuals living with disabilities, namely how the new design conveys a sense of action and movement. Rather than depict a static person in a wheelchair, the new icon displays an active, in-motion version of life with a disability.
The design was studied and researched for year with each element in the sign having an intention and meaning. The head is forward to indicate the...
June 13th, 2013
Thursday, June 13, 2013
The First-Time Donor's Super Credit was announced by the federal government in Budget 2013. This credit adds 25% to the federal charitable tax credit for eligible donors.
A "first-time donor" has:
never claimed the charitable tax credit
their spouse has never claimed the charitable tax credit
IF they have claimed the charitable tax credit it was in 2007 or before
This credit is excellent for new immigrants, first time donors, or young adults who are filing their income tax for the first time. This will apply for claims made in 2013 through 2017 so hurry on...
June 13th, 2013
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Yesterday ILCWR held its 16th Annual Tournament of Hope at Grand Valley Golf and Country Club, it was a great day filled with sunshine, fun and great golf! This year the tournament had over 100 golfers and raised enough money to assist 12 recipients with disabilities to obtain specialized equipment, modified vehicles, and unique services that are not otherwise covered by government funding.
Now 16 years into the tournament, we are proud to have helped 130 individuals directly in Waterloo Region by raising more than $345,000! Be sure to register for next year...
June 12th, 2013
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
A couple in England are taking accessibility even further, with a disability-friendly music festival called "Disability Rocks".
As well as the expected accessible toilets and ramps, there is a sensory tent, changing facilities for adults and children, the space to spread out on the ground, as well as designated quiet areas for those who get sensory overload.
Many families with a disabled member feel a day out is impossible or "not for them" but the little extras at this festival are designed to make it more achievable. The festival also provides volunteers...
June 11th, 2013
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
This summer, those who are wheelchair-bound are going to get some help so they can enjoy the beach and Lake Huron shoreline. The Kincardine Rotary Club is purchasing a wheelchair specifically designed to use at the beach in the sand and water.
The idea came to the club after learning of an experience of wheelchair person who could not enjoy the beach. This was the clubs response to making the beach accessible and enjoyable for all!
Check out the article here
June 7th, 2013
Friday, June 7, 2013
Check out this great video segment from Canada AM on several students demonstrating their inventions, and show how they target accessibility issues.
Click here for the Video
June 6th, 2013
Gracey2Go
Gracey2Go designs beautiful, high quality walker and wheelchair bags in an array of designs and sizes. Custom designed fabric purses and bags. She will work with you to design your dream purse or tote bag. Bags are available at Whats In a Purse in St. Jacobs, Ontario, Custom wheelchair bags are also available. Home visits and consultations can be arranged locally. Animal hats available in fall and winter.
Check out Gracey2Go here
June 5th, 2013
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Canales, a not-for-profit organization created to help deaf people in Argentina, has created a video books project. A group of women, mostly deaf grandmothers, have recorded videos in which they read and comment on classic fairy tales in sign language.
This project is meant to promote literacy as 80% of deaf people living in Argentina are functional illiterates. It also opens up a space for children to converse about the stories and understand the meanings of the fairy tales. Canales and this group of women are doing an amazing thing to break the barriers of...
June 4th, 2013
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Global News posted a great article and video on the first double-amputee to climb Mount Everest telling his story.
Sudarshan Gautam lost both his arms at the age of 14, but did not let that stop him from climbing Mount Everest. He spoke yesterday at the Hiking Centre in Vancouver, showing the world what people living with disabilities can achieve.
Check out the video below and let us know your thoughts on this inspirational story!
Click here for the Article
June 3rd, 2013
Monday, June 3, 2013
Global Accessibility News posted an interesting article on the release of VoicePod, an advanced speech control device for home automation systems. VoicePod instantly interprets speech commands for voice control of TV, music, thermostats, lighting, shading, door locks, cameras and more. Users simply say “Hello VoicePod” from anywhere in a room to activate VoicePod and then issue voice commands such as “turn on the lights”, “secure the house”, “good morning” and “listen to music”.
Voicepod provides many handy hands free features that add speed, convience and safety to...
