AEBC: WHO WE ARE

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 resp

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 loo

The application deadline for the 2026 AEBC & Allyant Scholarship Program is Friday, May 29, 2026 . All applications and supporting materials must be received by 1:00 p.m. Eastern, 10:00 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on that date in order to be considered. The scholarship winners will be announced on August 1, 2026, or at the Annual General Meeting in September of 2026. The successful applicants will receive a confirmation email during the third week of July 2026. In September, f

AUDIO VERSION By Peg Mercer What began as a simple birthday dinner turned into a quiet but meaningful example of what accessibility can look like when it is done right. On a recent day in March, a group of eleven friends gathered in Vancouver to celebrate our friend Lynne. Alongside us were four guide dogs—calm, well-trained partners who are essential to their handlers’ independence. The restaurant we chose was the White Spot on West Broadway in Vancouver. We were seated on a

Fraud is on the rise across Canada, and scammers often target people they believe may have fewer ways to double-check information quickly. For people who are blind, Deafblind, or partially sighted, that can mean extra caution is needed when dealing with phone calls, emails, text messages, or even someone at your door. The good news is that a few simple habits can prevent most scams before they start. Common Scams to Watch For Scammers use many different tricks, but most fall

AUDIO VERSION by Suleman Arshad Learning French in Quebec is not just a choice; for immigrants, it is often a necessity. The province strongly promotes French as the common public language, and integration into society, employment, and even social life depends heavily on French proficiency. While this goal is understandable and important, the system does not work equally for everyone especially for people who are blind. My name is Suleman. I moved to Canada in 2022, and I hav