Durham Region partners with AccessNow to become a leader in accessibility mapping

Whitby, Ontario – In the lead up to hosting the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games, Durham Region has partnered with AccessNow to become a leader in accessibility mapping to increase inclusion confidence for residents and visitors.

AccessNow is a free app available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. It allows users to discover accessible and non-accessible pinned locations in 35 countries around the world.

All Games venues have been added to the app. The Region and its eight municipalities have committed to mapping all of their facilities.

The Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games, which run from February 3 to 5, are being hosted at nine venues across the region. More than 300 athletes will compete in 11 parasports, and there will also be three demonstration sports. Spectators are encouraged to Be the Roar and to bring non-perishable food donations in lieu of admission fees.

Durham businesses are being encouraged to add their accessibility information to the app.

Residents and visitors to our community can search, rate and discover municipal facilities, local restaurants, hotels, shops and attractions on AccessNow.

Quotes

“Durham Region remains committed to identifying, removing and preventing barriers. We take a lot of pride in working together to make our community more accessible and welcoming, and we are creating a stronger region where everyone can live, work and succeed. AccessNow is a remarkable tool to help us be better together.”

– John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, The Regional Municipality of Durham

“We are thrilled to support the leadership initiative that Durham Region is showcasing. By taking a proactive approach to highlighting the accessibility of spaces throughout the region on AccessNow, citizens, visitors and guests alike will be empowered to enjoy barrier-free inclusive experiences.”

– Maayan Ziv, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, AccessNow

“We’ve sought opportunities to grow inclusion and accessibility in our community as we prepare to host the Games. Our partnership with AccessNow and Durham libraries to add sensory support kits to their collections are two examples.”

– Don Terry, Games Co-Chair

“As a wheelchair user, AccessNow can help give me confidence that I can access and enjoy restaurants, businesses, and recreational facilities with my family and friends. I’m proud our community is taking leadership in accessible mapping.”

– Mike Frogley, Games Co-Chair

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.