BC Affiliate 2026 President’s Report

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