Accessibility awards shine spotlight on community builders across Kawartha Lakes

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: The stories behind accessibility often begin with people who see barriers and decide to do something about them.

That spirit of inclusion was celebrated during the June 2nd meeting of council, when the City of Kawartha Lakes presented its 2026 Accessibility Awareness Recognition Awards to individuals, businesses, community groups, municipal staff and youth who have helped make the community more welcoming and accessible for everyone.

The annual awards recognize those who demonstrate leadership in creating opportunities for people of all abilities to participate fully in community life.

Among the recipients of the Outstanding Contribution, Individual Award were Tyler Lorenz and Jon Thurston.

Mr. Lorenz was honoured for his volunteer service with the Omemee Legion and throughout the broader community, showing, through his actions, everyone has valuable contributions to make.

Mr. Thurston was recognized for his leadership and advocacy in improving accessibility at local curling clubs and promoting accessibility initiatives throughout the community.

In the business category, Mackey's, Jardine's, Stoddart's and Hendren's Funeral Homes received the Outstanding Contribution, Business Award. The organization was recognized for incorporating accessibility features, including ramps, accessible washrooms, enhanced sound systems and large-print materials, to better serve residents and families.

The Outstanding New Build or Modification Award was presented to two recipients.

T.H.R.I.L. (Therapeutic Horsemanship and Riding in Lindsay) was recognized for facility improvements and therapeutic riding programs, designed to be accessible and inclusive for participants of varying abilities.

Downeyville Hall received recognition for extensive renovations, which included: automatic doors, accessible washrooms and a fully accessible lower hall.

Community organizations were also celebrated for their efforts.

St. Luke's Catholic Church Parish received an Outstanding Contribution, Community Group Award, for its leadership and fundraising efforts, which helped support accessibility improvements at Downeyville Hall.

Immanuel Baptist Church, in Fenelon Falls, was honoured for accessibility upgrades and inclusive programming, which welcomes participation from all members of the community.

The City of Kawartha Lakes Customer Experience Division received the Outstanding Contribution, City Employee or Team Award. Staff were recognized for helping residents access municipal programs and services, with dignity, independence and equal opportunity.

Several young leaders were also recognized through the Kathryn Peeters Youth Accessibility Award.

Ariana VanVierssen Trip was honoured for establishing an American Sign Language club and supporting a fellow student with a hearing impairment.

Aiden Timmins received recognition for advocating for classmates with diverse abilities and encouraging inclusive participation in school activities.

Rose Luciak was recognized for her leadership in youth mental health advocacy and her involvement with the Boys and Girls Club Youth Council, where she has promoted inclusion and community engagement.

The evening's highest honour, the Barbara MacArthur Memorial Award of Distinction, was presented to Joanne Berdan.

A decorated Paralympian, Berdan has earned 10 Paralympic medals, set multiple world records and been inducted into multiple halls of fame. Council recognized her lifelong commitment to sport, accessibility advocacy and community leadership, as well as her continued involvement in wheelchair curling.

Mayor Doug Elmslie congratulated all of the recipients, noting their efforts help strengthen communities and improve the quality of life for residents throughout Kawartha Lakes.

“This year's recipients remind us, accessibility is everyone's responsibility,” he said. “Their dedication, leadership and compassion are helping create a community where everyone can participate, contribute and belong.”

The awards presentation was held as part of National AccessAbility Week celebrations, recognizing the ongoing work being done across Kawartha Lakes to build a more inclusive and barrier-free community.