Everybody loves a picnic.
The Intermunicipal Advisory Committee on Disability Issues hopes its 18th annual picnic succeeds in promoting opportunities for the disabled across the West Shore and Sooke and teaches the public about the work of the committee.
“We stand for inclusion and helping our partner municipalities to understand what people of disabilities, of all different kinds, need to participate fully in our community,” said 13-year committee member Cynthia Day. “Through that understanding, changes do occur gradually over time.”
The group has helped facilitate such improvements as accessibility on a trail in Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin, and accessible art-making spaces and washrooms on Esquimalt Lagoon in Colwood, among others.
The June 23 picnic offers an opportunity to meet committee members and enjoy complimentary beverages and barbecued food including hotdogs.
The public is asked to bring their own seating and dessert or salad to share as a partial potluck. There may even be a campfire, or a propane fire, and door prizes.
“It’s been a phenomenal group of people who have been generous and understanding of limitations in the community, and willing to work with us to improve slowly over time,” Day said.
The picnic takes place from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Metchosin Community House at 4430 Happy Valley Rd. Interested parties can RSVP to iacdisabilityissues@gmail.com. There is no alcohol allowed at the event and those requiring assistance at the picnic must be accompanied by a caregiver.
alim@goldstreamgazette.com