. . . . . available for speaking engagements!

Ability Connections is a group of young people with disabilities who through public speaking aim to increase public awareness of "Abilities" and "Possibilities". They share their stories and experiences with students, teachers, parents and other community groups.

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Disability issues discussed can include:

• Inclusion
• Attitudes and Behaviours
• Accessibility
• Living Independently
• Education
• Employment/Voluntarism
• Relationships
• Leisure & Recreation
• Transportation
• Government funding

Call Linda Baldwin at Thames Valley Children's Centre - 685-8680 extention 53706,
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   
Fax: 519-685-8689.

When booking an Ability Connections speaker, let us know the following:

• Description and size of audience
• Location, date and time of presentation
• Physical accessibility of the location
• Presentation topics of interest (length, subject matter)
• Availability of audio/visual equipment 6. Contact person, including name, address, phone number and e-mail

Members of the Ability Connections speak out!

"I am a 23 year old small business owner. I joined this group to show everyone that people with disabilities can make a positive contribution to society."

"I am 21 and I have a brain injury. I wanted to let people know that people with disabilities can do anything!"

"I joined this program because I thought that it might be fun to speak in public. I also want to change people's ideas about what having a challenge means."

"I joined this program to help inform others about disabilities and to improve my public speaking skills."

"I am a 15 year old who became involved with the program due to personal experience. I have witnessed firsthand the struggles of living with a disability."

"I have cerebral palsy. I am with this program to raise awareness and to go out and speak in the community."

"I joined this group to have fun and to educate people about disabilities."

"I have a disability which requires that I use a computer to speak to people. I joined Ability Connections because I have a lot to say that people need to hear."

"I got involved with Ability Connections because I want to talk about some of my experiences with my disability."

And here's what people are saying about the Ability Connection presentations:

". . . a great learning experience"

". . . really opened my eyes" "this type of presentation helps to break down the social barriers"

"having a disability doesn't mean that you can't lead the life that you want to"

"I'll be more patient and understanding when talking with people"