Following the official business portion of the meeting, there will be an abbreviated presentation of our Volunteer Awards to distinguished individuals and organizations who have been champions for children and youth with physical disabilities.

All members of the public are invited to attend this meeting.

If you would like to take part, please register by Friday, May 29, 2026, to ensure your virtual seat. We will send all attendees a link to the online meeting ahead of the event.

Easter Seals Ontario Annual General Meeting Voting Member Documents

Documents for the 2026 Annual General Meeting will be provided by Mid May 2026.

2026 Notice of Annual General Meeting of Members
2026 Easter Seals Ontario AGM Agenda
2026 Easter Seals Ontario AGM Proxy
2025 Easter Seals Ontario Audited Financial Statements
Proposed Slate of Officers 2026-2027
Nominations for the 2026-2027 Board of Directors
Annual General Meeting Minutes 2025

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The Almonte Civitan Club, a community service organization with a rich 53-year history, is one of our standout participants. The Club, which owns a community centre that accommodates 350 people on five acres of land, made a remarkable pledge this Red Shirt Day^TM: to build an accessible playground for their community, dedicating part of their land to make this possible. Although the idea of a playground had been with the Club for some time, it was Ron Terpstra, a Club member and Chair of the Playground Project, who was inspired to ensure the playground would be accessible to all.

Ron, who has been a Civitan Club member for 44 years, shared how the inspiration for an accessible playground came from the Club’s commitment to children and supporting research in mental and disabilities. After researching various playgrounds and connecting with companies like Little Tykes Commercial and Playground Planners, Ron envisioned a state-of-the-art, accessible playground with features such as rubber pads for wheelchair mobility, ramps to slides, and transfer stations for ease of use.

The design includes activity panels for children and adults on the autism spectrum, providing a safe space for engagement, along with a quiet zone for moments of calm. The Club also plans to add features like chess and checkers tables and intends to make the playground a welcoming place for seniors and others with mobility issues by adding a barrier-free, accessible walking track around the outside of the pad.

Fundraising efforts have already raised $200,000, with a goal of $800,000 by late spring 2026. The Club’s commitment to this project was further solidified when Ron discovered the Red Shirt Day^TM pledge on the Easter Seals website. To make their Red Shirt Day^TM pledge, the Club created a six-foot banner and rallied members to wear their red shirts, promising to build this inclusive, barrier-free playground.

The Almonte Civitan Club’s dedication exemplifies the spirit of Red Shirt Day^TM, as they work towards creating a playground that is for the whole family, regardless of their ability.

To learn more about the Almonte Civitan’s Club’s Playground Project, visit www.almontecivitan.com/playground or contact Ron at playground@almontecivitan.com.

The post Red Shirt Day Feature: Almonte Civitan Club Accessible Playground appeared first on Easter Seals Ontario.

Easter Seals Ontario has been helping to improve the lives of children, youth, and young adults with physical disabilities for over 100 years. In 2023, 963 Ontario families received funding from the organization to help with the purchase of essential equipment for their child. Linda, who works as a Community Engagement Officer for the organization, describes the impact of receiving funding for the installation of Grayson’s communication device: “With his communication device, Grayson has been able to take part in ‘topic of the week’ discussions – going to the front of the classroom and sharing his presentation. He can even respond to questions from his classmates. And having this opportunity to present to his class, taking part just like every other kid, it means the world to Grayson… When Grayson can join in, when he can do something as simple as read the attendance list at the start of the day, it doesn’t just affect Grayson, it affects the whole class – it changes how they see him.”

Watch Grayson’s story here: https://youtu.be/jRH7bxZI9Mw?si=OPRlgtcOBRJmPwRA

As schools across Ontario welcome students back to their classrooms this week, it is important to keep in mind that thousands of these young people have reported having at least one physical disability. Having access to the right mobility and accessibility equipment will play a pivotal role in their ability to engage in the learning experience throughout the year ahead. Support from charitable organizations like Easter Seals Ontario is essential to making this possible. When kids like Grayson are able to fully participate in school activities, it not only benefits them directly but also helps to break down misconceptions surrounding disabilities, fostering a more inclusive learning environment for all students.

Easter Seals Ontario has been a leading provider of programs and services for children and youth with physical disabilities since 1922. The organization is a registered charity committed to empowering individuals with physical disabilities to reach their full potential and make their own positive impact on the world. Easter Seals offers a wide range of programs and services, including mobility and accessibility equipment funding, accessible and inclusive summer camp, post-secondary scholarships, youth ambassadors, and advocacy and public awareness. Easter Seals is only able to provide these programs thanks to the generous support of its donors and sponsors. For more information or to donate, visit EasterSeals.org or connect on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

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Media Contact:
Robyn Visheau
Easter Seals Ontario
Tel: 416.510.5078
Email: rvisheau@easterseals.org

The post NINE-YEAR-OLD KINGSTON BOY WITH RARE CONDITION STARTS GRADE WITH THE HELP OF SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT & EASTER SEALS ONTARIO appeared first on Easter Seals Ontario.

Become a Leader, Advocate, and Voice for Individuals with Physical Disabilities

Each year, we select two outstanding young individuals to represent Easter Seals Ontario and children and youth with physical disabilities as Provincial Ambassadors.

Meet Shamil Sohail (he/him)

 “I want to use my experiences to raise awareness, inspire others, and contribute to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.”

watch Shamil Sohail’s story

Meet Chloe Fraser (she/her)

“I want to inspire other kids with disabilities to go after their goals and dare to try new things and be a great role model.”

Watch Chloe Fraser’s story

Benefits of the Ambassador Program

Embarking on the journey as a Provincial Ambassador for Easter Seals Ontario is about more than just representation—it’s a transformative experience. Successful candidates will have the unique opportunity to hone crucial life skills, from public speaking to networking. As you share your story and help to advocate for children and youth with physical disabilities, you’ll find your own voice growing stronger and more impactful. Beyond skill development, you’ll connect with a supportive community and form lasting relationships with fellow advocates, all while making a meaningful difference.

Please note that the Ambassador roles within Easter Seals Ontario are honorary volunteer positions; they do not come with monetary compensation. 

See past ambassadors

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Celebrating Disability Pride Month: “We Want a Life Like Yours”

Hi, everyone! My name is Sebastien Parent. I’m an 18-year-old from Sudbury, Ontario, and I was born with cerebral palsy. I’m excited to share my thoughts with you as we approach Disability Pride Month this July. Currently, I’m gearing up to start my second year at Cambrian College, where I’m pursuing studies in the Media Communications program.

What is Disability Pride Month?

Disability Pride Month is celebrated each July to honour the history, achievements, and struggles of the disability community. Originating in the United States, it has gained recognition across borders, including here in Canada. The month is a time for reflection, celebration, and advocacy, and promoting a society where everyone is valued and included.

The significance of Disability Pride Month lies in its dual purpose: to celebrate the uniqueness and diversity of the disability community and to challenge the societal barriers that continue to exist. It’s a time to educate others, promote inclusion, and advocate for equal rights and opportunities. By highlighting the contributions and capabilities of people with disabilities, we work towards dismantling stereotypes and creating a more inclusive society for all.

This Year’s Theme: “We Want a Life Like Yours”

The theme for Disability Pride Month 2024, “We Want a Life Like Yours,” resonates deeply with the aspirations and dreams of the disability community. This theme, introduced by The Arc’s National Council of Self-Advocates, encapsulates the desire for equality, inclusion, and the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives.

At its core, this theme is a call to action. It emphasizes the basic human right to live a life of one’s choosing, free from the constraints and limitations imposed by society and physical barriers. For many people with disabilities, everyday activities that others might take for granted—like pursuing education, finding employment, participating in community events, or even enjoying hobbies—can often be challenging due to lack of accessibility and understanding.

What Does the Theme Mean to Me?

For me, as someone with cerebral palsy, the theme “We Want a Life Like Yours” speaks to the heart of my personal experiences and aspirations. Growing up as a young child with a disability, I faced various obstacles, from physical limitations to societal misconceptions about my abilities. I’ve always strived to lead a life that reflects my true potential and passions.

To me, this theme is about breaking down barriers and advocating for a world where people with disabilities are provided with the same opportunities and support as everyone else. It’s about recognizing our talents, dreams, and ambitions, and ensuring that we are given the space to thrive.

As a student at Cambrian College, I’ve encountered both challenges and triumphs. The support of my family, friends, and the college community has been instrumental in my journey. However, I’m aware that not everyone has access to the same level of support and understanding. This is why Disability Pride Month is so important—it shines a light on these issues and encourages action to create a more inclusive society.

Thriving with Opportunity

Throughout Disability Pride Month, we’ll be sharing stories of individuals with disabilities who are thriving in various aspects of life—whether as students, employees, leaders, or active members of their communities. These stories are a testament to what can be achieved when we focus on abilities rather than disabilities.

For example, I know many peers with disabilities who have excelled academically, pursued careers in their chosen fields, and made significant contributions to their communities. Their successes are not just personal victories but also powerful statements against the limitations that society often imposes on people with disabilities.

Moving Forward

As we celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, let’s embrace the theme “We Want a Life Like Yours” by advocating for greater inclusivity and equality. Let’s work towards a future where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can pursue their dreams and live their lives to the fullest.

I invite you to join me in celebrating this month by sharing your own stories, learning about the experiences of others, and taking steps to support the disability community. Together, we can create a world where everyone’s potential is recognized and valued.

Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. Here’s to a month of pride, celebration, and progress!

Sebastien Parent

The post Celebrating Disability Pride Month appeared first on Easter Seals Ontario.

It is with a heavy heart that we share the tragic and unexpected loss of a beloved Easter Seals Ontario team member, Lauren Squizzato.

Lauren passed away on Sunday, June 16, after experiencing a serious medical event. Lauren has been a pivotal member of our Toronto Development team for over 16 years and has been a part of the Easter Seals family for most of her life, having volunteered at Easter Seals events since she was a teenager. Lauren cared deeply about the kids and families we support, and she worked tirelessly to ensure every one of her fundraising events was as successful as possible. She was an incredibly caring and compassionate individual, and she will undoubtedly be remembered for the difference she made in the lives of countless Easter Seals kids and families.

Over the years, Lauren worked closely with so many of our Easter Seals colleagues, community and corporate partners, donors, sponsors, and hosts, allowing us all to experience her warmth, dedication, and spirited sense of humour. We are forever grateful to Lauren for bringing passion to everything she did, for always making us laugh – even during the most stressful events, and for being a true ally and friend to so many of the children and youth we serve. Lauren’s passing is a tremendous loss to the Easter Seals community, and she will be profoundly missed.

In lieu of flowers, Lauren’s family has requested that donations be made to Easter Seals Ontario in her name. This gesture supports a cause that meant so much to her and allows us to carry on the work that Lauren dedicated herself to wholeheartedly.

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Join us at our 2024 Celebrity Hockey Classics to get a chance to participate in the raffle.

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Sharing moments of disability joy and pride.

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In 2013 I received a phone call that changed my life.

The call was to inform me that I would be the Provincial Ambassador for Easter Seals Ontario in the coming year. At 11 years old, I didn’t fully comprehend what this would mean. This was a position that my mom had pushed me to apply for because she believed in my ability far more than I did. I was a shy kid, who struggled making friends. Growing up with cerebral palsy, I never let my disability get in my way. I was always pushing my limits. I had lots to say, but often let stigma and societal ideas influence my self-esteem. This would be the first time I’d be able to control my own story.

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Find out more about Easter Seals Ontario Regional and Provincial Ambassador opportunities.

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Learn more

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