Conference 2005 a Success
DRN Conference 2005 a Success


On March 7 & 8, 2005, the Disability Resource Network of BC provided another successful conference. "Circles of Influence" started with welcoming remarks by The Honourable Iona Campagnolo, PC, CM, OBC , British Columbia's 27th Lieutenant Governor. OPENING REMARKS

Brad McCannell, founder of the Canadian Barrier Free Design Inc (CBFD), provided us with insight on wheelchair friendly spaces and those that are not. As Brad said, "Years ago, if you wanted to know what a restaurant was like, ask a person in a wheelchair. They always went through the kitchen". Comments like, "We will all have a disability. The only way you can avoid it is to die young", really put the importance of disability friendly buildings into perspective. Brad says that the Vancouver International Airport is the most accessible building in Canada. "Access is a fundamental need. It should be as obvious as a washroom. In seven years, 40% of the population will have a disability. We cannot ignore 40% of the population."


The morning was then followed by workshops with Round Table Session in the afternoon.







The conference carried over into the hospitality suite where our party planners Patsy and Raisin entertained us throughout the evening.














The following day, the Minister of Advanced Education, Ida Chong gave us opening remarks and presented the DRN Awards of Recognition.


AND THE AWARD GOES TO.....





Derek Nanson, from Kwantlen University College, for his contribution to Services.



Jolene Bordewick from Capilano College for her contribution to programs.









Winners Apparel Ltd. was recognized for their Corporate contribution in providing work practicum sites for students with disabilities.


The guest speaker (and entertainer) for the morning was Joe Marrone.

Joe is a senior Program manager for Public Policy at the Institute for Community Inclusion/UMASS BOSTON and is also on the staff of the USDOL funded National Centre on Workforce and Disability based at ICI. His keynote presentation focused on emerging practices in service coordination and case management.



The remainder of the day consisted of workshops and the usual fantastic lunch from the kitchens of the Coast Plaza and Suites Hotel.

Of course the bunnies were at work throughout the day.