Monthly Dances
With sadness, we announce that ABLE2 will no longer organise the monthly dances, either virtually or in person.
There are many reasons for this decision, including financial viability and ABLE2’s vision and mission.
ABLE2 conducted an analysis of the costs over the last three years involved in running the dances. Unfortunately, we found that, even with the fantastic volunteer crew, we were running the dances at a loss. Additionally, to return to an in-person event, we would have to implement the pandemic safety protocols, thus increasing the costs.
As well, in December 2020, ABLE2’s board approved a new vision and mission for the organisation that more accurately reflected our work.
Vision: An inclusive community where all people are seen as able, important and valued.
Mission: We work with partners to provide the tools, choices and connections that empower people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.
ABLE2 is reviewing all our programs and events to critically look at each to determine if they align with our vision and mission. We are asking the question, “Does this activity promote an inclusive community?”
Many of those we support love the monthly dances (held at Dovercourt or virtually during the pandemic). These dances are for people with disabilities and, as such, are a segregated activity. For ABLE2, this means they are contrary to our vision and mission. However, we do understand and respect that everyone has a right to attend any event they choose, whether it is a segregated activity or not.
ABLE2 has looked for another agency to organise the dances, and we have been unsuccessful to date. If you know of another agency or volunteer group who would like to offer these dances, please ask them to connect with our Executive Director, Heather Lacey, and we will be delighted to pass on our files, contacts etc.
We appreciate that this decision will be disappointing to you and thank you for your understanding.
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