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Inclusion isn’t just about making space—it’s about valuing every person for who they are. For people with Down syndrome, being included in education, work, and social activities fosters confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging.

Welcome to the Spring 2025 edition of our Star Magazine! The holiday season is behind us and staff, clients, and families are looking forward to a warm, and hopefully less wet spring!

In 2023, Darryl faced an unexpected challenge. After 22 years of dedicated work as a warehouse worker, the business shut down.

I have thought a lot about product labels this week in response to the American President’s proposal on trade tariffs. It’s clearly more important than ever to buy Made in Canada goods. While labels are helpful to make these decisions, they only tell you so much about a product.

Statistics Canada has revealed that nearly 60% of people with disabilities encounter accessibility barriers to employment. If a more severe disability or long-term condition is involved, that percentage goes up to 70%.

For people in the Lower Mainland, a fresh snowfall is a beautiful sight. Waking up to a vista of snow-capped mountains on the North Shore is one of the wonderful things about living here. But for people with disabilities and limited mobility, snow and ice turn everyday tasks into majour obstacles.

Spring break is the perfect time to escape the daily grind, but for people with disabilities, planning a trip can come with unique challenges. Thankfully, with the growing focus on accessibility, there are now many tools, companies, and apps that make traveling more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

The third Monday of January, often dubbed “Blue Monday,” has a reputation as the most depressing day of the year. While the science behind this label is debatable, the gloomy weather, post-holiday lull, lack of connections, and lingering New Year’s resolutions can indeed make this time of year feel heavier.

With the retirement of Alanna Hendren, DDA’s long-serving Executive Director, the DDA Board of Directors conducted a nation-wide search for her replacement. We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Zuberbuhler as DDA’s new Executive Director.

As we step into the New Year, many of us are making resolutions to improve ourselves or our lives. New Year, New Me, as they say. But this year, let’s challenge ourselves to think beyond personal goals. What if we focused on making the world a better place for others, especially those whose voices are often unheard? This year, resolve to create a more inclusive, accessible, and diverse world.

In a momentous step towards inclusion and equity, Manitoba has announced the closure of its last remaining institution for people with developmental disabilities. On Human Rights Day (Dec. 10th), the Manitoba Development Centre closed its doors for the last time.

Since proclamated in 1948, December 10th celebrates International Human Rights Day. While the day highlights human rights in general, it’s a reminder that disability rights are included in that.