Julie Green, Minister Responsible for Persons with Disabilities, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 Accessibility Impact Awards.
This year’s recipients are:
1. Minister Responsible for Persons with Disabilities Accessibility and Inclusion Award:
Liz Baile, Yellowknife – For over 30 years, Liz has supported and advocated for persons with disabilities through her work as an educator and as a volunteer. Liz has shaped and advanced inclusive schooling through curriculum development, adapting learning environments, collaboration, and mentorship as an educator. She has also volunteered with the NWT and Canadian Associations for Community Living, and has promoted and encouraged individuals to join the Special Olympics as participants and coaches.
2. The NWT Disabilities Council Community Champion Award:
Emily Heeringa, Yellowknife – Emily volunteers and advocates for families in Yellowknife to raise awareness about autism and sensory processing disorder, as well as reducing stigma surrounding disability. Professionals who participate in Emily’s presentation on sensory processing disorder leave informed with new tools to better support children with, or without, development delays, while families report they feel more empowered to support and advocate for their child. Emily’s efforts have created a more inclusive learning environment for all children to learn, thrive and reach their full potential.
3. The Human Rights Commission Accessibility Award:
Jason & Karen Butorac of the Yellowknife Canadian Tire, along with Jumpstart Charities, and the City of Yellowknife received the Human Rights Commission Accessibility award for their collaboration on the inclusive playground in Somba K’e Park, Yellowknife.
This year’s awards ceremony was held on December 2, 2022, to align with United Nation’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which is observed annually on December 3. The awards ceremony provides an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of outstanding persons and businesses committed to advancing accessibility and inclusion in the territory.
