In celebration of volunteering
I’ve been witness to the magic that happens when we work in concert towards a shared goal. We. Us. Together.
Since its launch in December 2020, volunteers have helped us grow programs and increase awareness of WAWOS Canada. This past year has been a challenging one, and the impact our not for profit organization is having would not be possible without the volunteers who show up, stand up and shout inclusion.
And, we’re just getting started.
We’re connecting with other not for profit organizations in Canada, including those that offer adaptive recreational opportunities. We want to let them know about WAWOS Wishes, our directed gift program that awards financial assistance to Canadian NGOs to defray costs as they work to make adventure accessible for more people with disabilities.
We’re building plans to establish local chapters in order to grow our reach and engage more sewists and craft-enthusiasts to create free walkercapes for our WAWOS Wear program.
We’ll keep having conversations about the importance of representation, education and participation…with our kids and with each other. To understand how critical it is that we build a world where I’m encouraged to believe in my child, who has a diagnosis of mild cerebral palsy, in the same way you’re encouraged to believe in yours. That because my daughter may have to do some things differently, doesn’t mean she won’t be able to do them or that she shouldn’t have the opportunity.
We’ll keep talking about how important accessibility is…real inclusion and not just accommodation. These children — like all children, want to be not just listened to, but heard. Not just looked at, but seen.
This is Volunteer Week, and I’m inviting you to participate in our mission. I believe in the power of people, service to others and leaving the world a better place than I found it. If you, your company or your community feel the same way, WAWOS Canada would love to hear from you.
