Shining a spotlight on Vaughan’s 2026 Accessibility Champions
Congratulations to the 2026 Accessibility Champions – the people who advocate for an accessible city, groups working to advance inclusivity practices and businesses that have created an accessible work environment!
At the May 26 Council Meeting, Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council recognized the City of Vaughan’s 2026 Accessibility Champion Award recipients during a special ceremonial presentation.
Established in 2019 by the City’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, these awards are presented every other year to businesses, groups and individuals for their meaningful contributions to advancing accessibility in the community.
This year, six recipients were presented with the 2026 award in recognition of their efforts to foster a barrier-free community, including:
- Toro Group of Companies in the Large Business (for profit) category. In partnership with local educators, Toro Group launched a pilot co-operative education program, creating meaningful opportunities for high school students with disabilities to explore careers in manufacturing and construction. Under the leadership of Franco DiMarco, the company has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion, providing hands-on experience, dedicated workplace accommodations and ongoing support. This initiative is already making a lasting impact, helping students build skills, confidence and pathways to future employment.
- JCC Schwartz Reisman Centre (Inclusion Services Team) in the Large Business (non-profit) category. The JCC Inclusion Services Team is a leader in accessibility, inclusion and community engagement, embedding inclusion as a core value across all programs and services. Through innovative, person-centred supports and strong community partnerships, they create meaningful opportunities for youth and young adults with disabilities to participate, build skills and belong. Their work reduces barriers, addresses service gaps and has a lasting impact on individuals, families and the broader Vaughan community.
- Community Living York South (CLYS) in the Medium Business (non-profit) category. For more than 71 years, CLYS has been a leader in advancing accessibility, inclusion and full participation for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Vaughan and throughout southern York Region. Founded by families and community advocates, the organization delivers person-centred supports to people of all ages through multiple locations and a diverse, dedicated workforce. CLYS continues to set the standard in the developmental services sector by empowering individuals to live, learn, work and fully engage in their communities.
- Accessible Daily Living (ADL) in the Small Business (for profit) category. Accessible Daily Living (ADL) is dedicated to providing home and workplace modification solutions that support individuals with disabilities in their rehabilitation and daily lives. Though a small business, ADL makes a significant impact through compassionate service, innovative and practical solutions, and a strong commitment to integrity. With a client-first approach, they consistently deliver timely, high-quality support that helps individuals adapt and thrive.
- Creating Alternatives in the Small Business (non-profit) category. For more than 26 years, Creating Alternatives has supported adults with disabilities in Vaughan, with accessibility at the core of everything they do. Through proactive barrier removal — including accessible transportation, facilities and adaptive equipment — they ensure participants can engage with dignity, comfort and independence. Their inclusive, personalized programs and strong community partnerships create meaningful opportunities for connection and belonging. With well-trained, compassionate staff and a deep commitment to accessibility, Creating Alternatives has a lasting impact on individuals and their families.
- Roberto DiGiovanni in the Individual category. Roberto DiGiovanni is a dedicated accessibility advocate whose leadership and lived experience have made a meaningful impact across Vaughan and York Region. As Vice Chair of the York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee and a Senior Policy Advisor with the Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility, he helps shape policies, programs, and built environments that remove barriers and promote inclusion. Through his work in government, community initiatives, and nonprofit leadership, Roberto advances accessibility, collaboration, and public awareness.
The City invited residents and community organizations to submit nominations for the 2026 awards throughout January and February. The City’s Accessibility Advisory Committee selected the recipients during the March 23 committee meeting, with the decision approved by Vaughan Council at the April 28 Council meeting.
Learn more about the City’s Accessibility Champion Awards at vaughan.ca/accessibility.
QUOTES
“At the City of Vaughan, we are committed to treating everyone in a way that allows them to maintain their dignity and independence. We believe in integration and fair access for residents, visitors and employees with visible or non-visible disabilities – but we can’t do it alone. We need people and organizations advocating for an accessible city, advancing inclusive practices and creating environments where everyone can participate fully. That’s why it’s a pleasure to celebrate the 2026 Accessibility Champions – six outstanding recipients who are going above and beyond to help build a more inclusive and accessible city. Toro Group of Companies, JCC Schwartz Reisman Centre’s Inclusion Services Team, Community Living York South, Accessible Daily Living, Creating Alternatives and Roberto DiGiovanni, congratulations, and thank you for your leadership, your advocacy and your dedication to creating a city that works for everyone.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“Congratulations to the 2026 Accessibility Champions! One of our main priorities at the City of Vaughan is to ensure that Vaughan is welcoming, inclusive and a place where people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can thrive. Together, these recipients remind us that accessibility is not a single action or policy – it is an ongoing commitment rooted in leadership, empathy and action. Their efforts are helping Vaughan move even closer to a barrier‑free community. Thank you to all the recipients for the work you do, and I hope you continue to inspire us all!
- Gila Martow, Ward 5 Councillor, Chair of the Accessibility Advisory Committee
QUICK FACTS
Six recipients received the City of Vaughan’s 2026 Accessibility Champion Award during a special ceremonial presentation at the May 26 Council meeting.
These awards are presented every other year to businesses, groups and individuals for their meaningful contributions to advancing accessibility in the community.
LEARN MORE
City of Vaughan’s Accessibility Champion Award webpage
