Disability, Diverse Abilities & Accessibility
This page includes highlights about what actions are happening now, our hopes for the future and roles involved in this stream.
We define a disability as any condition of the body or mind (impairment) that makes it more difficult for a person to do certain activities and interact with the world around them in the way it is currently structured.
While diverse abilities can also fall under this category, this term also acknowledges that people's abilities vary and may not be seen by the individual as a disability but a different way of doing or knowing.
Accessibility means removing barriers so that a person with a disability or diverse ability has the opportunity to acquire the same information, engage in the same interactions and have equal rights to the same supports and services as any person without a disability.
What Evidence Tells Us
Our 2023 JAIDE Survey demonstrated:
Representation matters.
8% of employees feel that the YMCA of Three Rivers does not actively recruit from equity deserving groups - including those with disabilities.
Belonging matters.
3% feel that their disability is not accepted at the YMCA of Three Rivers.
Stopping harm matters.
9% do not feel like the YMCA of Three Rivers challenges discrimination against disabilities.
The Impact We Hope to Achieve
We want to create a workplace where our employees will no longer feel there are barriers to their ability to achieve and grow. While we know we may not be able to remove all barriers, we want to ensure all employees feel equitable access and feel empowered to discuss and share barriers within the organization.
By fully understanding how our spaces and programs are causing barriers for anyone living with a disability or diverse ability, we will continue to work towards dismantling these existing barriers and improve access to all individuals within our communities.
Click into the sections below to see the steps we are currently taking to make an impact in this stream. This section is updated frequently and a part of our ongoing commitment and accountability towards action.
IN ACTION
1.5 Year Update
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Completed our third JAIDE survey, with specific questions around experiences for employees who identify as having a disability. The data was shared back to the organization in September (May -September 2026).
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Participated in Y Canada's National Accessibility Week learning sessions where the YMCA of Three Rivers was featured in one session to share our story and learnings from the Accessibility Audit (June 2026).
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Clearer pathways to accommodations, resources, and tools were added to the People Team (HR) SharePoint for employees (May 2026).
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Partnered with community organizations to uplift the Just Hanging Out programs yearly Prom celebration for youth with disabilities. This event provides an opportunity for these youth to connect with peers and experience a memorable Prom in an accessible and inclusive way (June 2026).
Health & Wellness and Health Management
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An Accessibility Action Plan was developed for the A.R.K. Family YMCA based on the audit conducted. Quick wins such as relocating AEDs and curb painting have been completed (June 2026).
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A successful funding grant allowed us to purchase a submersible wheelchair for the A.R.K. Family YMCA (September 2026).
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Collective fundraising during Accessibility Week for Health Management programs (Neuro Fit and Rock Steady) to purchase more accessible equipment through a fitness challenge (May-June 2026).
