CLBC opens nominations today for our annual provincial award that recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond to build BC communities that include people of all abilities. All British Columbians are invited to nominate inclusion champions in their communities.
The Widening Our World (WOW) Awards were established by CLBC seven years ago to provide provincial recognition to individuals, family members, employers, service providers, teachers, volunteers and community organizations that are making a positive difference in the lives of adults CLBC serves.
Since 2008, the WOW Awards have been given to more than 45 people from around the province who have found important ways to ensure individuals with developmental disabilities can be full participants in community life. British Columbians have been honoured for creating employment opportunities, developing sports programs, initiating new ways to connect people to community, and promoting awareness of people’s abilities through events and speaking.
In recognition of CLBC’s 10th anniversary, CLBC is asking people to include a photo, along with their nomination form, that shows what inclusion looks like in their community. Nomination forms are available online and at CLBC offices throughout the province. CLBC is accepting nominations until November 30, 2015. Winners will be determined by a committee of family and community members, CLBC community council members, staff, service providers and individuals served by CLBC. Award winners will be announced early in 2016, and events will be held in the award winners’ home communities.
Last year, the award focused on inclusive employment. More than 80 nominations were received, and four employers were recognized. Last year’s winners were:
- Chilliwack – Kris Krentz, Manager, RONA
- Penticton – Chris Boehm, Owner, Burger 55
- Vancouver – Muncie Booth, Owner/Kim Cooper, Manager, McCleery Golf Course
- Kamloops – Al Avila, Manager, Shoppers Drug Mart
For information about the awards program, visit: www.communitylivingbc.ca/projects/recognition-awards
CLBC provides supports and services to more than 18,000 individuals with developmental disabilities and works with them, their families, service providers and community groups to build good lives in welcoming communities. The launch of the WOW!clbc awards coincides with Community Living Month in October. For more information about CLBC, or for a listing of Community Living Month activities across the province, visit www.communitylivingbc.ca.
Quotes:
Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation Michelle Stilwell
“Congratulations to all the past winners of the WOW Award for the terrific work you’ve done making your communities more inclusive, and I know this year’s winners will be just as remarkable. Community Living Month is a time to salute the contributions of people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends, supporters and employers, and the WOW!clbc award gives us all a chance to honour them. “
CLBC CEO Seonag Macrae
“Recognition and celebration are key components in raising community awareness about the importance of inclusion. As we mark CLBC’s 10th anniversary, we are encouraging people across B.C. to send in a WOW Award nomination to recognize inclusion champions who are working hard to create communities where people of all abilities feel welcome, valued and included.”
Contact:
Community Living BC
Communications
604-209-7608
