The Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues is seeking nominations for its annual awards.
The committee is currently planning the 14th annual Accessibility Awards. It is seeking nominations for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows businesses, organizations and members of the general public who are ‘difference makers’ by supporting individuals with varying abilities, inclusive of physical, emotional, social and financial challenges and needs.
Awards are given to businesses, individuals and organizations in the following categories:
• universal/architectural access (residential/commercial);
• leisure and recreation;
• customer service;
• volunteer/employment;
• citizen champion.
Throughout the past 14 years, the committee has recognized over 100 businesses, organizations and citizens for their outstanding commitment and willingness to ensure that all citizens can access local services.
“Without the support and willingness of these ‘difference makers,’ the cities of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows would not be where they are today when it comes to accessibility and inclusiveness,” said Petra Frederick, recreation and community services, Maple Ridge.
Nomination forms are available at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre, Maple Ridge City Hall, Maple Ridge Public Library, Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre, Pitt Meadows City Hall and Pitt Meadows Public Library or online.
Completed applications can be dropped off at Maple Ridge Leisure Centre or the Pitt Meadows Family Recreation Centre or faxed to 604-467-7393 or emailed to pfrederick@mapleridge.ca on or before Wednesday, May 31.
This year’s 14th Annual Awards event will be hosted on Thursday, June 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Maple Ridge city hall and is open to all members of the public.
“Please nominate your ‘difference makers’ and join us in celebrating these individuals’ contributions to the communities.”
The committee advises Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows councils on civic matters that affect people with disabilities. It strives to remove the social, physical and psychological barriers that prevent people from fully participating in all aspects of community life.
• For more information, contact Petra Frederick, recreation co-ordinator, recreation and community services, at 604-467-7355.