Agenda Package - City of Vernon

Globat Accessibility lnitiative (GAl) - This comprehensive rating system, assessment tool
and guidelines will provide practical online information regarding the level of accessibility of
buildings. once assessed, buildings will display their accessibility ratings in full view and this
information will be available online providing immediate, consistent information'
lnterdepend ence 2oL2 - May 15 to 18, 2OI2, at the Vancouver convention centre in
Vancouver, BC. lnterdependence 2072 is a major global conference and exposition with a focus
on creating accessible communities and advancing spinal cord injury (SCl) research for a cure'
The accessibility agenda will provide a meaningful forum for difference makers in accessibility
to share best practices, lessons learned, and to set the stage for international collaboration
for the next 2b years; centering around three global themes - accessible tourism, accessible
transportation and livable and accessible communities. The research agenda will focus on the
engagement and collaboration of national and international partners with the ultimate goal of
accelerating the translation of evidence-based treatments and best practices from "bench to
bedside,, and out into the community. Thousands of delegates from developed and developing
countries are expected to attend this unique global event'
Gafa Events - Z5th Anniversary Galas will follow the Relay route and will occur in major markets
and capital cities. Each gala will be a memorable experience featuring top local and cultural
entertainment, speakers, local dignitaries, athletes, Sponsors, donorS and other notable
Canadians.
The Rick Hansen Foundation speaker Program - RHF Speakers talk to audiences about the
courage it takes to overcome major life challenges through hard work and determination' They
help raise awareness about the potential of people with disabilities and inspire others to make
a difference in their communities. These speakers can play an integral role with Community
Planning Teams (explained on page 5) and will make presentations at community celebrations, in
schools and other community events along the Relay route'
Youth Engagement - Young people from schools, youth organizations and community groups from
across the country will have the opportunity to witness and celebrate various events around the
Rick Hansen 25rh Anniversary Relay. Youth engagement is an important part of the Foundation's
efforts to ensure that Rick Hansen's story lives on in the hearts and minds of all canadians'
Homecoming Celebration - A Homecoming Celebration will be held at the end of the Relay
and marks the conclusion of the Rick Hansen Foundation 25rh Anniversary activities' The
Homecoming Celebration will connect Canadians from coast to coast and target international
communities who have been a part of Rick's journey over the past 25 years.