Ross Chilton, CLBC CEO
A message from
Ross Chilton, CLBC CEO
Listening is an essential part of any relationship—at home, at work, and in community. When we don’t take the time to truly listen, we risk misunderstanding what matters most and missing opportunities to grow, connect, and make better decisions.
As CLBC marks its 20th anniversary, we know that listening to the people we serve has helped shape who we are. But it’s important that we go beyond listening. We need to support self-advocates not just as participants in conversations, but as leaders and decision-makers in their communities.
As Nolda Ware shares in the story about supporting self-advocacy groups, this shift takes commitment and intention. It means inviting people with disabilities into real decision-making spaces, being open and respectful of their perspectives, and ensuring their ideas help guide action.
This edition of Celebrate Diverse Abilities highlights stories of exactly that—self-advocates presenting to city councils, joining advisory committees, and influencing change.
In Surrey and White Rock, a group organized well-attended all-candidates meetings for the recent provincial and federal elections, moving from being heard to asking the questions and setting the agenda.
At a recent health and wellness conference, three self-advocates delivered the keynote address, not only sharing personal experiences but leading conversations that shape how systems respond.
In this edition, we also remember Mike Gauthier, whose advocacy with his wife Jo-Anne led to a more accessible community, helping remove barriers that limited people with disabilities from taking part in city council meetings and visiting the local mall and police station.
These are just some of the examples of the impact that leadership can have. I hope you will enjoy reading and learning from these stories as much as we enjoy sharing them with you.
If you’re part of a government, business, or community organization, I encourage you to connect with self-advocates in your area. Make space for their voices, take their input seriously, and include them in shaping what comes next. Listening is a start. Leadership is the goal.
Ross Chilton
CEO, Community Living BC