Last month, the Accessibility Advisory Committee presented its annual awards to three very deserving members of our community, Municipal officials say.
Rachel Guerin was presented with the Sheila Lindsey Powers Accessibility Advocate Award.
Rachel has a proven track record of advocacy through the Children’s Treatment Centre, including creating workshops such as “How to be an Effective Advocate.”
She continues to use her role at the CTC to advocate for accessibility and teach others how to advocate for themselves.
The Sheila Lindsey Powers Accessibility Advocate Award is presented to an individual in this community who stands out as an advocate for the inclusion of people of all abilities.
Benjamin Guerin was presented with the Sid Ebare Perseverance Award.
Benjamin has overcome multiple types of personal challenges all while continuing to fight for accessibility throughout Chatham-Kent.
He initiated a barrier-free garden, has advocated for curb cuts, accessible buttons, inclusive sports, and more.
The Sid Ebare Perseverance Award is presented to an individual who stands out as a person who perseveres beyond their limitations to participate in community life.
Wanda Bell from Mrs. Bell’s Tea Room was presented with the Dr. Veronica Vaughn Accessible Business Award.
Wanda has made significant efforts to ensure that when she relocated her business, her new space was renovated to be barrier-free and welcoming for all, including adding a ramp, accessible washrooms, and ensuring accessible space within her business.
The Dr. Veronica Vaughn Accessible Business Award is presented to a business that stands out as providing an accessible facility and/or accessible customer service.
“My husband Sid would be honoured to see that his name lives on to recognize people like Ben who don’t let their disability define them and work to make their community a better place,” said Sara Ebare, Chair of the Accessibility Advisory Committee, in a media release.
Accessibility Advisory Committee Council representative Alysson Storey said, “We have a wealth of individuals and business owners who work every day to make Chatham-Kent more inclusive, accessible and welcoming to all. It’s a highlight of every Council year for me to recognize and celebrate people like Ben, Rachel and Wanda making our community a better place. I’m deeply thankful for their work, and I hope their examples continue to inspire others to do the same.”
The opening of nominations for the 2026 Accessibility Advisory Committee Awards will be announced in early 2026.
Accessibility Advisory Committee meetings are held monthly September to June and open to the public.
For more information please contact the AAC Council representative, Councillor Alysson Storey at Alysson.Storey@chatham-kent.ca or 519-350-5689.
