VRCA Partners with Rick Hansen Foundation
By Adam Freill
Construction Health & Safety LeadershipConstruction association looks to strengthen commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in the building sector.
The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) recently announced a new partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF), a renowned national charity dedicated to eliminating barriers for individuals with disabilities and advancing accessibility in our communities.
Championed by the VRCA Life Members Committee, VRCA says the partnership reinforces the association’s commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness within the organization, among its members, and within B.C.’s construction industry. The program will offer VRCA members various RHF training options to support members and industry peers on their journey towards improved accessibility.
VRCA has scheduled an introductory lunch and learn session for its members on Thursday, May 9 to share more information about Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) Fundamentals training, as well as the key principles of meaningful access. Following the webinar, VRCA members can then register for a RHF four-week online course designed to equip participants with foundational knowledge on the needs of individuals with disabilities and how physical spaces can be made more accessible.
“The Rick Hansen Foundation is doing exemplary work educating and changing the world in terms of accessibility. I am proud that the VRCA Board supports this initiative,” stated Pat Dennett, chair of the VRCA Life Member Committee.
“Professionals in the construction industry are critical to ensuring the places we live, work, learn and play are more inclusive of everyone, everywhere. We’re grateful to VRCA’s partnership and leadership towards improved accessibility for people of all ages and abilities,” said Rick Hansen, founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation. “With one in four adults in Canada living with a disability and 1.3 billion globally, we are all connected to disability whether it be yourself, a colleague or a loved one. Through awareness and education, courses like RHFAC Fundamentals training will help us achieve a truly inclusive and accessible world faster.”
“We are thrilled and honoured to partner with the Rick Hansen Foundation, a leader in accessibility, to facilitate and offer courses and practical steps to help VRCA members create more inclusive environments,” said Jeannine Martin, president of VRCA.
