Collingwood marks National AccessAbility Week with community-focused initiatives

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Group photo with National AccessAbility Week flag

The Town of Collingwood is proud to recognize National AccessAbility Week (NAAW), taking place May 31 to June 6, 2026, with a series of activities designed to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and engage the community in building a more accessible town for everyone.

National AccessAbility Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities and to highlight the importance of removing barriers in everyday life.

Throughout the week, Collingwood will host events and initiatives that encourage residents, businesses, and organizations to learn more about accessibility and take practical steps to improve inclusion.

“Accessibility is about making sure everyone feels welcome and can fully participate in our community,” says Mayor Yvonne Hamlin. “We are committed to creating a barrier-free Collingwood, and National AccessAbility Week is an important opportunity to reflect on our progress and hear directly from the community.”

Planned activities include:
• May 30: Community outreach at the Collingwood Farmers’ Market
• June 1 - 7: Town Hall window display highlighting accessibility resources
• June 2: A formal flag raising and Council proclamation to launch the week
• June 3: E3 Community Services Open House, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at 250 Peel Street
• June 4: Staff Lunch & Learn session focused on inclusion and accessibility
• June 5: Breaking Down Barriers – Map Mission Day. An interactive accessibility scavenger hunt to map accessibility in Collingwood. 1:00 p.m. at 234 Ste. Marie Street.

These initiatives aim to spark conversations about the everyday barriers people with disabilities may face and to highlight how small changes can make a big difference. Accessibility benefits everyone, whether it’s improved signage, inclusive programs, or barrier-free spaces.

The Town continues to advance accessibility through ongoing work, including developing its Multi-Year Accessibility Plan, improving digital services, such as the municipal website, and collaborating with the Accessibility Advisory Committee and local partners.

Community feedback plays a key role in shaping these efforts. Residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to participate in National AccessAbility Week activities and share their ideas to help improve accessibility across Collingwood.

The Town’s goal is to listen, learn, and act, recognizing that by working together, the community can become more inclusive and ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.