Recipients of HCAAC Awards on International Day of Persons with Disabilities Announced

Today, the world population is over eight billion people and more than one billion, or approximately 15 per cent of the world’s population, live with some form of disability. Of those with a disability, 80 per cent live in developing countries.

Huron County Accessibility Advisory Committee (HCAAC) announced the recipients of the 2025 HCAAC Awards on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

A disability is a condition or function judged to be significantly impaired relative to the usual standard of an individual of their group. This could include physical, sensory, cognitive, intellectual, mental health and various types of chronic disease.

Factors which place people with disabilities at higher risk of violence include stigma, discrimination, and ignorance about disability.

According to the County of Huron, these awards recognise exemplary contributions to enhancing accessibility within the region.

The honorees this year demonstrate extraordinary dedication to facility design, service accessibility, and promoting inclusive practices.

In the public category, Huronview and Huronlea Homes for the Aged, Municipality of Huron East, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation, Clinton Raceway and Kinsmen Club of Goderich were presented with the Award of Merit for Barrier-Free Access.

Through a successful community fundraising effort, Huronview and Huronlea Homes for the Aged raised more than $26,000 to purchase two Duet Bikes.

These accessible bikes allow individuals using mobility devices to be safely seated at the front, while staff pedal from behind. These bikes offer an inclusive outdoor recreation option for residents.

According to the County of Huron, this project demonstrates strong collaboration and a practical improvement to the quality of life.

During Seaforth’s Homecoming ‘Doors Open’ event, the Municipality of Huron East produced virtual tours of heritage buildings that were not physically accessible to all.

These digital tours provided broader public access to Seaforth’s historic spaces.

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation’s Trail Mobile program features a six-seat accessible cart, which allows individuals with mobility limitations to experience the South Huron Trail at no cost. It is supported by volunteers.

This program encourages outdoor participation and increases access to nature-based recreation.

Clinton Raceway removed its former grandstand and constructed a new, fully accessible facility, including an elevator, accessible upper viewing areas, and new washrooms.

This design supports access for all spectators, including people with disabilities, seniors and families.

The Kinsmen Club of Goderich has shown a clear commitment to accessibility by investing over $200,000 to make their building and playground more accessible.

Recent projects include the addition of a pavilion and paved routes through the park and to the pavilion, as well as the installation of a chairlift and elevator shaft to enable people with disabilities and older adults to easily access all three levels of the building.

In the business category, The Blyth Inn (The Boot) was presented with an Award of Merit for Barrier-Free Access.

The Inn has created an all-gender accessible washroom on the main level, with clear turning space, power door functions, fold-down grab bars, and strong colour contrast.

This upgrade supports patrons using mobility devices and reflects ongoing efforts to improve accessibility throughout the property.

The annual observance of International Day of Disabled Persons was proclaimed in 1992 by United Nations General Assembly. It aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

Julie Sawchuk, a former member of the HCAAC and the HCAAC Site Plan Review Subcommittee, was presented with the Sandra Thompson Memorial Accessibility Champion Award.

Sawchuk has contributed exceptional expertise to the HCAAC, particularly in accessible washroom design. She also created the Public Accessible Spaces Simplified (PASS) program, now used across all nine partner municipalities.

As a Rick-Hansen Foundation-certified educator, international speaker, and author of Building Better Bathrooms, and Building Your Space, Sawchuk has profoundly influenced how people across the county understand and implement accessibility.

The HCAAC applauds all awardees for their efforts and dedication to making Huron County a place for everyone.

To learn more about the International Day of Persons with Disabilities visit https://tinyurl.com/2cxda99p