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AUDIO VERSION By Linda Bartram Despite all the accommodations that have been put in place by the air travel sector, flying can still present challenges for people who are blind. A recent trip I took to Europe involved three Air Canada flights accompanied by two different sighted companions and one Aegean Airlines flight, which I took on my own. In all cases I informed the airline in advance that I am blind, and this was indicated on my e-ticket. The assistance (or lack of it) varied considerably, however, for each leg of my journey. My sister and I flew from Vancouver to Athens with a connection in Toronto. The check-in and security went very smoothly. We requested assistance for the transfer in Toronto, as time was rather tight. The experience was seamless and uneventful. My solo flight from Athens to London was not so flawless. My sister and I were booked on two different flights, but fortunately our departures were only one hour apart, and the gates were next to each other. We were very early, so the individual assisting us left us near the gate from which my flight was to depart and indicated that he would come back closer to my departure time. Once my gate area had cleared, my sister and I moved closer to the service desk. Since her flight was earlier than mine, she had to leave me there to wait on my own. After about forty minutes, no one had shown up to assist me and as my departure time approached, I thought I had better stand up and attract someone’s attention. A fellow passenger gave me verbal directions to the desk where I was helped right away. I had not heard any announcements about pre-boarding. I am not sure anyone would have sought me out had I not made my presence known. Upon my arrival at Heathrow airport in London, I received guiding assistance from the plane and with collecting my luggage. I then asked to be taken to the accessibility desk adjacent to international arrivals, where I was to meet a friend. To my surprise, neither my guide nor his colleagues, who he subsequently asked, had any idea where it might be. I suggested that he take a look at the airport’s website, where I had learned about the accessibility desk. He did so and was about to take me to the location he discovered on the site, when I heard my friend call out my name. Apparently, my friend had also found that no one he asked knew where the accessibility desk was. He decided to just hang around the arrivals area in the hopes he would spot me. In hindsight, the location we were both looking for probably goes by another name, but surely those employees providing assistance should have been able to figure out where that was. Our return journey from London Heathrow, however, was quite different from what we had experienced ten days earlier. Once we made our needs known, we were taken directly to the check-in desk and then to a waiting area where everyone requiring assistance was gathered, regardless of their flight. We were then taken through security and left at another assistance waiting area where our boarding passes were collected so folks could be assisted based on their departure times. From here we were transported to our departure gate and pre-boarded almost immediately. What a difference! As assistance at the airport still appears to be hit and miss, it pays to be well prepared, to keep your cool, and to speak up if things don’t appear to be going the way you think they should. As an aside, I would like to report that I had a chance to try out the accessible in-flight entertainment system on the three Air Canada flights. There is a tactile overlay for the flat screen but for one reason or another, it was not available. Despite this, by the third flight and after much trial and error, I was able to navigate the system independently using the audio prompts. I “watched” two movies, listened to a short audiobook and enjoyed 1.5 hours of classical music. After all, it’s a long flight from London to Vancouver.

BC Affiliate members are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting on June 25 via Zoom. Join us to hear highlights from the past year, learn about current initiatives, and help shape the future of the Affiliate. We encourage you to participate and share your ideas for the activities and priorities that matter most to you. Date: Thursday June 25, 2026 Time: 7:00 p.m. Pacific Location: Virtually in the BC Affiliate Zoom Room: https://blindcanadians-ca.zoom.us/j/491319312?pwd=RFdUM0ZFMEdDaUV3UzdnZWZDQ1dBdz09 Meeting ID: 491 319 312 Passcode: 250604 One Tap mobile: +17789072071,491319312#,*250604# Canada

Where did the year go? Here we are again! It has been another busy and rewarding year for the BC Affiliate, with many opportunities to advocate, collaborate, fundraise, and connect with one another. One of our first highlights was the Vision and Hearing Resource Fair held in Vancouver in September 2025. Several AEBC members attended, and I would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who helped manage the AEBC table throughout the day. Your willingness to volunteer your time helped ensure our organization was well represented and provided an opportunity to connect with many members of the public. In February 2026, I collaborated with CNIB on behalf of the BC Affiliate to deliver three emergency preparedness workshops. Building on the work already completed through our previous achievements regarding emergency preparedness, the BC Affiliate was able to make a significant contribution to the development and delivery of this important information. We should be proud of the role we played in helping make these workshops a success and ensuring that people who are blind, Deafblind, or partially sighted have access to critical emergency planning resources. Our sixth annual trivia fundraiser was another great success. The event raised just under $2,400 to support scholarships awarded to post-secondary students in British Columbia. By all accounts, everyone who attended had a wonderful time. It serves as a reminder that while we work hard to advocate for a better and more inclusive society, it is equally important to enjoy opportunities to connect and have fun together. This year, we are proud to sponsor two scholarships. One scholarship is awarded in honour of Rob Sleath, a longtime advocate for persons with disabilities, including individuals who are blind, Deafblind, and partially sighted. Rob has made significant contributions toward removing barriers and creating greater opportunities for us, and we are pleased to recognize his work through this scholarship. The second scholarship is awarded in memory of Tom Teranishi and is generously sponsored by the Vancouver Renfrew Lions Club. We are grateful for their support of students pursuing their educational goals and helping to build a brighter future for our community. March was chosen as a good time to celebrate members who had birthdays during that month. We organized a birthday luncheon that brought together 35 people for an afternoon of good food and friendship. Social events like this remind us that AEBC is more than committees, meetings, and advocacy work. They provide an opportunity to recognize our members and celebrate the community we have built together. We are currently planning another social outing for July, so stay tuned for more information. While recognizing our social activities, I would also like to extend a special thank you to Ryan Fleury for organizing a couple of enjoyable social events for members and friends to connect over the past year. Ryan planned a special Halloween audio-described movie evening where several of us gathered in the Zoom room to enjoy The Rocky Horror Picture Show. The event was made even more festive as some participants may have handed out candy to children at their door while listening to the movie together. This does not include the goodies we may have eaten. It was a creative and enjoyable way to celebrate the season. Ryan also invited members and friends to gather just before the Holidays for an audio-described presentation of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Although I was unable to attend that event myself, I am certain there were many laughs shared throughout the evening. This movie is a family favorite, we watch it on Christmas Eve as we sip eggnog poured by someone who never forgets the rum and cinnamon sticks, which means everything is ready and it’s time to relax before the big day. It gives me a warm feeling to know members have opportunities to come together, build connections, and enjoy each other’s company during the holiday season. Thank you, Ryan, for providing entertainment that was enjoyed by members and friends across Canada. Your thoughtfulness, initiative, and willingness to create opportunities for people to connect are greatly appreciated. This year we also tried something new by participating in Purdy’s Chocolatier’s fundraising Easter campaign in March. Considering it was our first time running this type of fundraiser and that the decision was prompted by changes to their shipping policies, we were pleased with the results. We will be considering participation in their holiday campaign later this year to see if we can further assist members and supporters with their seasonal shopping. One goal we hope to achieve is encouraging Purdy’s to include their Braille chocolate box as part of their Holiday fundraising campaign selections. Many people have expressed interest in purchasing this item, and we believe it would be a welcome addition. In April, I was invited by CCB BC-Yukon Division to give a brief presentation at their conference which was held in Abbotsford. My goal was to bring awareness to participants about the BC Affiliate and its activities, and I believe my message was well-received. I learned there was interest from a few people wanting to add their names to AEBC’s mailing list, so they can keep informed of current news. At the end of May, I had the opportunity to represent our organization at CNIB’s Connecting the Dots Lite conference held in Kelowna. As part of the conference agenda, I was asked to participate on a panel to discuss emergency preparedness, continuing our collaborative work with CNIB in this important area. AEBC also managed a table in the Vendor Alley, which was shared with Ann McNabb from the Canadian Council of the Blind. Throughout the day, I was reminded of the value of collaboration and partnership. Although our organizations may approach issues from different perspectives, we share many of the same goals and concerns regarding accessibility and inclusion. We had the chance to speak with many attendees, and I believe participation in public awareness events such as this remains an important part of our work. I understand that another resource fair is being planned for September by the Canadian Council of the Blind and a Surrey Lions Club. I will share additional information as it becomes available. As I reflect on this past year, I want to thank everyone who contributes to AEBC in whatever way feels meaningful to them. Whether you offer your input by completing surveys, participate in special projects, contribute to discussions about issues such as floating bus stops, support training opportunities, partake in Thursday chats, serve on National committees or assist in countless other ways, your involvement matters. There is always work to be done and more to learn and we encourage every member to find opportunities that match their interests and strengths. Finally, I would like to thank our executive team for their dedication, commitment, and willingness to find new ways for the BC Affiliate to make a meaningful difference. Time is one of the most valuable resources any of us can offer, and we are deeply grateful that you choose to share yours with AEBC. A reminder that we will be electing a new Executive at the upcoming AGM June 25, 2026 and if you wish to let your name stand for elections, you can let us know in advance. You may also want to arrange for someone to nominate you, which lets them know you are interested and you have given some thought to the role you wish to assume. Thank you for your continued support, participation, and commitment to our organization. I look forward to what we can accomplish together in the coming year. Sincerely, Chantal Oakes President, BC Affiliate

AUDIO VERSION By Linda Bartram I recently returned from a month-long trip to Greece and Great Britain. Originally, I had planned a 15-day trip to Greece with my sister in May and a trip to Britain with an elderly friend in the Fall. The latter was moved up to this spring, so the two trips were combined into one month-long journey in May. I usually do thorough research before travelling but the revised and extensive itinerary made this very time-consuming. In hindsight, more planning would have enabled me to get more out of the sights we visited and avoid some of the challenges I faced. Here are four lessons I learned that may make your next trip easier and more enjoyable: 1. So, my first tip is to keep your itinerary as simple as practical and keep your expectations realistic. 2. Definitely do your research! An AI search can provide information about accessible independent travel, travel assistance and described tactile tours. If you ask the right questions, in a matter of seconds you will have information that would take hours to plough through with a Google search. Ask AI to give you online references for the information it is providing so you can check for accuracy. I then used the official websites when booking accommodation, travel and tours. 3. Do your planning well in advance of your departure date. Arranging described tactile tours usually requires sending an email, often more than once, and responses may take weeks. It has been my experience that it is worth the effort. 4. Beef up your smartphone skills and invest in an international phone plan recommended by a peer who has found it accessible. One thing I discovered is there is an increasing expectation that travellers have access to, and are very comfortable with, a smartphone. During my planning and travels it became apparent that my technology skills were not quite up to what was required when travelling internationally these days. I managed the online booking sites on my laptop which were, for the most part, accessible. Hard copy confirmations were still accepted but I anticipate that it won’t be long before it will be necessary to provide confirmation on your phone. I encountered QR codes on British Rail, the only way to order snacks and drinks. And of course, in order to use your phone outside of Canada, you need to purchase an international phone plan or use roaming services. As my sister is very proficient with her smartphone, my elderly friend planned to purchase international minutes for his flip phone, and I would have access to free internet in hotels and on the cruise ships, I decided just to use roaming for the odd day I needed it. Unfortunately, this became necessary more than I had anticipated and I was not able to figure out how to make calls. Thank goodness I was able to receive them! In follow-up blogs later this month, I will share some of my observations and highlights, including accessibility in Athens and Great Britain, flying solo from Athens to London, and my experiences with described and tactile tours.

AUDIO VERSION By Richard Marion Uber has been a great option overall for people who need low-cost door-to-door transportation and do not drive. However, for people with disabilities using guide or service dogs, it has presented many accessibility challenges and barriers. Last year, Uber implemented a feature on their app so that a person could notify a driver that they are travelling with a guide or service dog. However, the driver only receives this notification as they arrive to pick up the passenger. Therefore, some users report drivers cancelling trips and refusing to pick them up. Others report being charged extra fees after a ride with their guide or service dog. Last week I took an Uber home from visiting my mother who is in the hospital waiting for a care home placement. When the Uber arrived, the driver asked my husband and me if the dog could ride in the trunk. We indicated that this would not be possible as the dog is a guide dog and it has to be with me at all times while it is working. The driver agreed and nothing else was said. The trip was uneventful until we got home when the driver asked if I could give him a five-star rating. I did mention that asking for a rating usually causes me to lower the rating, but I would give him the five-star rating anyhow. Later the next day, I was reviewing my charges on my credit card and I noticed that Uber charged a cleaning fee of $31.50 for my trip. After many enquiries, Uber finally got back to me and indicated it was for dog hair. The issue was particularly troubling because, according to their own policies and the provincial guide and service dog legislation, charging extra fees for guide and service dogs is not permitted. When I disputed the fee with Uber, they indicated that because of the hair, the cleaning fee would stand. This was baffling because when I left the car, there was no other issue from my dog other than the hair that it shed from lying on the floor of the car. The other issue that occurred in that incident was, because I was travelling with a guide dog, the Uber driver gave me a three-star rating. I found this out from an Uber agent who deals with accessibility issues when I first launched my dispute over the cleaning fee. Uber claims that they are providing accessible services for people using guide and service dogs, but the issues we deal with persist even with the changes that Uber has implemented to make the service more accessible. Not only does Uber collect an amount from all its customers for an accessibility fund, experiences such as mine raise serious concerns about how accessibility policies are being applied in practice. Additional charges like I experienced, along with reports from others of drivers refusing to transport people with disabilities with their guide and service dogs, suggest that significant barriers still remain. Others I know of have had other types of accessibility issues with Uber that have resulted in extra charges. Therefore, I think it would be useful to bring public attention to the fact that people with disabilities have experienced extra charges for the same services everyone else receives. People with disabilities are supposed to be equal in society. However, simply receiving basic services from companies like Uber is still seen as a privilege and not a right for people with disabilities using guide or service dogs to improve our daily lives.

AUDIO VERSION For many blind and low vision travellers, museums and historic sites can offer much more than traditional visual displays. Around the world, more cultural attractions are creating accessible experiences that include touch, audio description, and interactive exploration. Recently, AEBC members shared some memorable travel experiences in London and beyond that showed how meaningful accessibility can be. Discovering Accessibility at Historic Sites One member described visiting Windsor Castle and using a special audio guide designed for blind visitors. As they entered each room, the device provided detailed descriptions that helped bring the space to life. Staff also offered tactile experiences, including samples of chandelier crystals that visitors could touch. Another member recommended Stonehenge, noting that its audio description system reportedly helps visitors navigate the site more independently while learning about its history and layout. The British Museum also stood out for its tactile accessibility. While visiting the Elgin Marbles exhibit, one traveller unexpectedly discovered a side room with 3D replicas designed for touch exploration. The experience added another layer to understanding the artwork and history behind the display. Others recalled positive experiences at attractions such as the Tower of London and Madame Tussauds wax museum, where touching costumes, displays, and figures helped make visits more interactive and engaging. Accessible Museum Experiences in Canada Accessible and tactile museum experiences are growing in Canada as well. Several museums and galleries now offer audio description, tactile exhibits, multisensory tours, and touch-friendly programming. The Bank of Canada Museum in Ottawa offers tactile experiences upon request, sensory bags, Braille materials, assistive listening systems, and captioned videos in both English and French. You can also request in advance additional supports such as customized tours and sign language interpretation. In Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum offers tactile tours, Braille materials, descriptive audio guides, tactile maps, captioned videos, and American Sign Language tours. The Art Gallery of Ontario has developed multisensory programs that encourage visitors to experience artwork through touch, sound, smell, and audio description. The gallery also offers customized experiences led by Deaf art educators. In Quebec City, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec offers descriptive tours and adapted guided experiences. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg offers a Braille guide, including tactile maps, as well as descriptive audio, and videos interpreted via ASL and LSQ. The museum also has an accessible self‐guided museum tour with their free app, and tactile floor markers to support independent exploration. Because accessibility programs can change over time, and some adapted tours must be booked in advance, it is always a good idea to contact museums directly before visiting. Share Your Recommendations Have you visited a museum, gallery, historic site, or attraction that offered a particularly interesting, accessible experience? We’d love to hear about tactile exhibits, audio description, guided tours, or other accessibility features that helped make your visit enjoyable and inclusive. Your recommendations may help other members discover new places to explore.

AUDIO VERSION A recent article published by Toronto CityNews on April 30, 2026, by David Zura, highlights growing public interest in the return of Ontario Northland’s passenger train service, expected to resume later this year. As details begin to emerge, many prospective riders are looking for more information, particularly regarding fares, accessibility, and travel planning. The strong public interest reflects how significant this service may become for many Ontarians. Marcia Yale, President of AEBC and a member of Ontario Northland’s accessibility advisory committee, noted in the CityNews article that while people are eager for more details, it may take time before final information is available. According to the CityNews article, initial ticket prices are expected to cost between approximately $50 to nearly $190, depending on the route and timing of booking. While this gives a general sense of the cost, several details that are important for trip planning and accessibility remain unclear. The CityNews report also notes that several pricing and fare-policy details remain unresolved, including baggage fees, discount programs, and eligibility criteria for reduced fares. The article indicates that discounts are expected to be available for certain groups, including students and passengers travelling for medical purposes, although specific details will be confirmed closer to the service launch. For many travellers, this information is essential for planning. This is especially true for individuals who rely on the train for regular trips, including travel related to medical care. For many travellers with disabilities, accessibility details are not secondary considerations, but essential information needed for confident trip planning. Information about station accessibility, boarding procedures, luggage assistance, and scheduling can significantly affect whether travel feels practical and manageable. Clear, timely, and accessible communication will also be an important part of the rollout. For many travellers, having access to accurate information in advance can reduce uncertainty and make travel planning more accessible overall. As more details about the Ontario Northland train service are released, accessibility will remain an important part of the conversation. We will continue to follow updates as more information becomes available, with a focus on how accessibility considerations are reflected both in the final service design and in communicating with the public. Read the original article by David Zura for Toronto CityNews for additional details.

AUDIO VERSION As the 2026 census begins, it’s clear that for many blind and partially sighted Canadians, participation is not always easy. Every five years, Canadians are required to complete the national census. The information collected is used to make important decisions about services, funding, and programs in communities across the country. For that reason, participation is obligatory, and penalties may apply for those who do not complete it. However, as census packages begin arriving in the mail, many blind and partially sighted Canadians are once again encountering familiar barriers. In fact, for some, the challenge starts with identifying the envelope itself. Without accessible labeling, it can be difficult to know what has arrived. While tools such as smartphone apps, scanners, or services like Be My Eyes can help, not everyone currently has access to these tools or feels comfortable using them. In some cases, individuals have received Braille versions they cannot read. This emphasizes a persistent issue: accessible doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all. Even after identifying the package, another barrier appears. Inside is a 16-digit access code required to complete the census online. If that code isn’t easily readable, the process can stall before it even begins. It’s also worth noting that not everyone has the same level of access to technology or the support at home needed to navigate it independently. Completing online forms or setting up new tools can be a barrier in itself for certain people, especially those living alone. Nonetheless, some people complete the process independently online. Others prefer to call and complete it with support, as they have done in previous years. But for many, these extra steps highlight a broader issue: accessibility is not always built in from the start. Still, there are options available to complete the census. It can be completed online using the access code, or by phone with the help of a live agent. Support is available through a toll-free number (1-833-852-2026), and a TTY line (1-833-830-3109) is also listed on the census website. Alternative formats, such as American Sign Language (ASL), Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ), audio, DAISY, electronic braille and e-text, can also be requested. For people experiencing barriers and issues related to accessibility and Statistics Canada’s services or their website, you can use their accessibility feedback form: Accessibility feedback form. The census is a reminder that accessibility must be considered from the start, not added as an afterthought. This is one of the reasons organizations like AEBC continue to advocate for change. We have contacted Statistics Canada regarding the issues our members are experiencing. If you are completing your census this year, we encourage you to use the option that works best for you, whether that’s online, by phone, or with support. If you’ve encountered challenges, you’re not alone. And if you’ve found solutions, those are worth sharing. Your experience matters—not only in ensuring your voice is counted in the census, but in helping shape the ongoing conversation about accessibility in Canada. We invite you to share your experience with us. What worked? What didn’t? Because accessibility starts with understanding what’s actually happening and making sure those experiences are heard.

AUDIO VERSION The journey to getting a guide dog is a lengthy process, one that takes time, patience, and careful evaluation. Louise, beginning the process for her sixth guide dog, began with an application. From there, evaluators assess everything from the applicant’s mobility skills to their environment and lifestyle. Applicants complete a “white cane walk” to demonstrate they can travel safely and solve problems independently — crossing streets and navigating obstacles without assistance. They are also asked detailed questions: · What kind of environment do you live in? · Are there other dogs nearby? · Do you use public transit or travel often by car? · Do you have any breed preferences? · What handling needs or temperament traits are important for you? · What pace do you walk? Pace is a key factor in making a successful match. Instructors may conduct what’s known as a “Juno walk,” using a harness and app to evaluate walking speed and comfort, checking in to ensure the pace feels right for the handler. All this information goes to a review board. And then… there is the wait. When Louise got the call, everything moved quickly. Within days, she was on her way to the Guide Dogs campus in California, beginning the process for her sixth guide dog. Like many handlers, she shared the experience in real time with a close group of friends on WhatsApp, sharing voice updates as each day unfolded. At first, there were more questions than answers. She knew only that her new partner would be a female. For now, the dog would remain “Mystery Dog Number Six.” First Meeting The introduction itself was simple and brief. Outside her room, with trainers nearby, Louise met her new dog for the first time — just a few minutes to connect and observe. Then came a bit of heeling practice: walking together in the hallway. Then, some time in the dining room, and after quiet downtime together, starting the process of bonding. Those first moments were about settling in. Even then, there were signs it might be a good match. “She seems comfortable,” Louise said. “I’m really looking forward to putting the harness on and seeing what kind of worker she is.” By the next morning, the mystery dog had a nickname: Pumpkin. Early Days: Building a Routine Pumpkin settled quickly. She slept through the night, relaxed at Louise’s feet, and showed calm, steady behaviour in the dorm. She wasn’t overly excitable. She didn’t rush doors and was content to lie quietly and wait. The first week of training focused on the basics. Louise needed to learn how the dog works at corners and curbs, how to maintain a straight line when crossing streets, and how to read each other’s movements through the harness handle. That physical connection is one of the main ways handlers interpret a dog’s body language. But Louise was learning something entirely new. This was her first time training with a guide dog while using a support cane. Using the cane while working with the dog is almost like adding a third leg. Louise had to learn new footwork while maintaining her balance, giving the dog enough space to turn, and making sure she didn’t accidentally bump her with the cane. “Training is not just picking up the harness,” Louise explains. Turning a corner, navigating stairs, or stepping off a curb, required careful attention. Some turns needed to be wider, others tighter. Louise had to learn how to give clear, consistent information through both her movement and the harness while also staying aware of her surroundings. Together, they were learning to communicate and get their movements and timing in sync. At the same time, Pumpkin began learning Louise’s routine — where to relieve, when to settle, and how the rhythm of the day flowed. Slowly, her personality started to emerge: playful at times, focused when working, and very content to relax when asked. Learning Together As the days went on, the work became more detailed. The second week introduced more complex, real-world environments: public transit, audible crossing signals, stores, malls, and busy traffic. They practiced walking on different terrains, including trails and hills, building confidence in a range of situations. Louise worked on problem-solving routes, working through distractions, and learning techniques like clicker training and targeting poles or railings. There were lessons in navigating tight spaces, handling stairs and elevators, and moving safely through busy areas. Not everything went smoothly. There were moments where Pumpkin needed a bit more focus. A missed cue here, a hesitation there. Louise also had a small stumble when stepping off a curb, which shook her confidence for a moment. And then there was the emotional side. Even after five previous guide dogs, Louise found herself questioning things. “Can we become a team?” she wondered. “What’s going to go wrong?” The Turning Point That doubt didn’t last long. With support from her trainer, and a bit of problem-solving, things began to click. One small adjustment made a big difference — switching to a shorter harness handle. Suddenly, their movement was smoother and Louise felt more connected to what Pumpkin was doing. Confidence started to return. Routes improved. Turns became cleaner. Pumpkin handled busy environments well, including traffic checks designed to test how a dog responds to unexpected situations. Little by little, the question shifted from uncertainty to trust. More Than Training Alongside the work, there were lighter moments. Louise got to hold a puppy heading out to a raising family — a reminder of where every guide dog begins. Pumpkin snored softly in her sleep one night; Louise couldn’t help but smile. There were evenings with comfort food after long, rainy days, and time to relax and reflect. Pumpkin also showed excellent manners. She stayed settled even with the door open. She didn’t rush or react unnecessarily. She simply waited until she was needed. Those quiet behaviours said a lot. The Reveal Eventually, the mystery ended. Handlers don’t reveal the dog’s name until the match is confirmed. Once matched, the puppy raiser is notified, and the handler can finally share the name with friends and family. Pumpkin’s real name is Kiara — a Lab cross, about 21½ inches tall and weighing 46 pounds. By then, the name almost felt secondary. The bond had already started to form. Heading Home As training wrapped up, Louise and Kiara completed more advanced work, including traffic checks, busy routes, and time in shopping areas. They focused on teamwork, timing, and communication — the details that turn a good match into a strong partnership. Soon after, they were heading home. The transition didn’t end there. Even once matched, it typically takes 6 to 12 months to fully bond. It’s a gradual process of learning to trust each other, understand each other’s “language,” and move as a team. Once back home, Louise continued building routines — organizing space, refining routes, and helping Kiara settle into her new environment. Short walks, playtime, and small adjustments made daily life smoother. And there were clear signs it was working. “She’s really smart,” Louise shared. “I love that about her.” A New Partnership Every guide dog journey is different, even for someone with experience. This one had its share of questions, a moment of doubt, and plenty of learning. But it also brought steady progress, quiet confidence, and a growing sense of trust. Kiara is still settling in. There’s more to learn, more routes to master, and more experiences ahead. But the foundation is there. And as Louise puts it simply — after everything — “She’s a good girl, and I love her.” Kiara and Louise

AUDIO VERSION By Linda Bartram Volunteering is increasingly being shaped by accessibility, technology, and a stronger emphasis on inclusion, rather than charity. The focus is less on “helping” in a traditional sense and more on removing barriers and the principle of autonomy.  It is recognized that the most effective volunteers are those who listen carefully, follow the lead of the person they are supporting, and understand that inclusion is about equal participation and respect, not just assistance. Volunteering today offers a range of meaningful advantages for persons with disabilities, many of which go beyond the traditional idea of “giving back.” One of the most significant benefits is the opportunity to build skills and experience in a flexible, supportive environment. Whether through remote roles or in-person placements with improved accessibility, volunteers can develop communication, leadership, and technical skills that may translate into education or employment opportunities. Just as importantly, volunteering allows individuals to explore their interests on their own terms, with accommodations and adaptive tools more widely accepted as standard practice rather than exceptions. Another key advantage for all volunteers, is the sense of connection and influence that volunteering can provide. Volunteering opens doors to social networks, reduces isolation, and creates a stronger sense of belonging in the community. In addition, for persons with disabilities, volunteering offers a platform to shape change, bringing lived experience into decision-making, improving accessibility, and challenging outdated assumptions. In 2026, organizations are increasingly recognizing that volunteers with disabilities are not just participants but contributors whose insights lead to better, more inclusive programs and services.  Volunteers with disabilities are often central to shaping policies, evaluating services, and improving accessibility, whether by testing websites, co-leading workshops, or providing feedback on public spaces and events. Overall, volunteering for people with disabilities in 2026 looks more like active participation, leadership, and influence. This begs the question: If persons with disabilities are providing valued lived experience, should they not be compensated? When someone is contributing lived experience in a way that shapes policy, improves services, trains staff, or evaluates accessibility, that’s not just “volunteering” in the traditional sense. It’s specialized knowledge. Calling it “volunteering” in such situations can sometimes blur the line and risk undervaluing expertise, especially when others in similar advisory or consulting roles would be paid. That said, it’s not an all-or-nothing situation. Some people with disabilities choose to volunteer for the same reasons anyone else does: to connect with their community, support a cause, or gain experience. The key issue is choice and clarity. If the role is genuinely voluntary, with clear boundaries and mutual benefit, that can be appropriate. But if the organization is relying on lived experience to inform decisions, design programs, or meet inclusion goals, then compensation is a more equitable and respectful approach. If the contribution is service-oriented and optional, volunteering can make sense. If, however, the contribution is advisory, consultative, or essential to organizational outcomes, it should be treated, and paid, as work.  Consequently, there’s a growing push in disability advocacy circles to move toward “nothing about us without us”. Otherwise, organizations risk expecting people with disabilities to carry the burden of improving systems without recognizing the real value of that contribution. As these conversations continue, one thing remains clear: lived experience is essential to building inclusive systems. Recognizing, respecting, and appropriately valuing that contribution, whether through volunteering, compensation, or both, is part of that ongoing work.

AUDIO VERSION There’s something special about the bond between a guide dog and the person they support. It’s built on trust, consistency, and a deep understanding that grows over time. For many people who are blind or deafblind, a guide dog is more than mobility support—it’s a steady companion that helps make daily life safer and more independent. That connection is at the heart of Life With Jefferson, co-authored by AEBC member Penny LeClair. Penny’s story offers a close look at what it means to find the right match in a guide dog. It also reminds us that behind every successful partnership is a careful process that begins long before a handler ever holds the harness. Guide dogs are not simply trained—they are selected, raised, and matched with great care. From early puppyhood, potential guide dogs are assessed for temperament, health, and focus. Not every dog makes the cut. Those that do go on to months of structured training, learning how to navigate obstacles, stop at curbs, and respond to commands while also making independent decisions when needed. One of the most important skills is “intelligent disobedience”—when a dog chooses to ignore a command to keep their handler safe. Matching a dog with a handler is just as thoughtful. Trainers look at walking pace, lifestyle, environment, and personality. A busy city route calls for a different kind of dog than a quieter rural setting. For someone who is deafblind, like Penny, those considerations can be even more specific. When the match is right, the result is a partnership that feels natural, steady, and dependable. Through heartfelt and often humorous stories, readers come to know Jefferson’s personality, devotion, and deep desire to communicate and protect. As he aged, his wisdom grew, and his dedication never wavered. This moving nonfiction account offers an intimate look into the bond between a guide dog and the humans who depend on him—a story of trust, love, and partnership that will stay with you long after the final page. The book is available on Amazon , in Kindle, Audiobook, or Paper Back format. Here is the publisher description: “Life With Jefferson tells the true story of the remarkable partnership between Jefferson and Penny Leclair, a deafblind woman whose independence depended on finding the right guide dog. After two years of searching, Jefferson was chosen for his unique intelligence, sensitivity, and ability to meet Penny’s specific needs. His training continued with special considerations that shaped him into more than a working dog—he became a trusted partner and beloved family member.” In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing another story from within our community. AEBC member Louise Johnson was recently matched with her new guide dog, and her experience offers a fresh look at the excitement, adjustment, and learning that come with a new partnership. It’s a journey many will recognize—and one worth following.