Accessibility for All

 

In 2005, Ontario passed a new law - Accessibility for Ontarians with a Disability Act (AODA). There are five standards under the AODA:

  1. Customer Service
  2. Transportation
  3. Information/Communication
  4. Employment
  5. Built Environment

These standards will address barriers that affect people with the full range of disabilities, including: physical, vision, hearing, sensory, mental health, developmental and learning.

In January 2012, the customer service standard comes into force for non-profit associations.

In compliance with this standard, Owl has documented its policy, practices and procedures with respect to providing accessible customer service.  These documents are based on four principles:

  1. Independence:
    All individuals, including those with disabilities, shall be able to access goods and services, to the greatest extent possible, free from assistance
     
  2. Dignity:
    All individuals, including those with disabilities, will be treated with respect and worthiness
     
  3. Integration:
    People with disabilities are allowed to fully benefit from the same services, in the same place and in the same or similar way as other individuals.  Alternative measures might be necessary because a person with a disability requires it or because another option cannot be provided at the time.  If Owl is unable to remove a barrier to accessibility, we will consider what else can be done to provide goods and services to people with disabilities
     
  4. Equal Opportunity:
    All individuals, including those with disabilities, will have the same chances and options in the way they obtain and benefit from the goods or services provided

Owl's accessibility practices with respect to customer service are laid out in policy and procedure documents and cover the following:

  • use of assistive devices
  • use of service animals
  • general communication strategies that take into account a person's disability
  • use of support persons and our policy regarding admission fees for field trips
  • notice regarding disruption of service
  • training policy
  • feedback process

AODA: Accessible Customer Service

Feedback Process:

Should an individual wish to provide feedback to Owl on the provision of goods and services for persons with disabilities, feedback can be provided in the following manner:

  • In person at the administrative office located at 10 Washburn Drive, Unit 2, Kitchener, ON N2R 1S2
  • In person, with the Supervisor at each of the child care centres
  • By telephone, at 519-894-0581 ext. 102
  • By e-mail, via the general inquires email address at info@owlchildcare.org
  • By mail: 10 Washburn Drive, Unit 2, Kitchener, ON N2R 1S2

You may also complete and submit the Accessible Service Delivery Feedback form.