Ability NB and the Municipality of Grand Lake

A Collective Effort is Breaking Down Barriers and Driving Inclusive Change Across New Brunswick

For over half a century, Ability New Brunswick has been an inspiration of empowerment for people living with mobility disabilities. With a mission rooted in inclusion, independence, and community participation, this provincial non-profit has transformed lives - one person, one story, one success at a time.

In 2024, a new chapter began when Ability NB collaborated with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) to launch a pilot project aimed at making workplaces more accessible. The initiative was bold and included assessing real-world accommodation needs, educating employers, and promoting inclusive design across New Brunswick. The response was overwhelming -- nearly 150 businesses and organizations  participated, and the pilot quickly evolved into a full-fledged program.

The Municipality of Grand Lake has had one of the most impactful outcomes of this initiative.

It all started with a straightforward goal: renovating the washrooms at the Chipman Heritage Centre. While researching funding options, ACOA economic development officers connected municipal staff with Ability NB’s free accessibility review service. What began as a single inquiry ignited a collective effort that advanced inclusive growth.

Together, they expanded the scope to include the Minto Municipal Building and Library and the Minto Museum. Ability NB’s team conducted in-depth accessibility reviews, offering practical recommendations, funding guidance, and employment resources. The impact was immediate - and inspirational. A local church soon joined the effort, inspired by the municipality’s example.

But the most enduring transformation was in mindset.

“Before this, we thought accessibility meant ramps and wide doors – the review process opened our eyes to how multi-faceted true accessibility really is,” said Alyson Boudreau, Senior Economic Development Officer, Municipality of Grand Lake.

“Now we understand it’s about clear signage, sensory-friendly spaces, cane-detectable surfaces, and inclusive wayfinding. It’s about designing for everyone.”

Thanks to the reviews, the municipality is now planning upgrades like elevators and improved signage. More importantly, they’ve shifted from a compliance-based approach to one rooted in universal design -- creating spaces that are welcoming, intuitive, and equitable for all.

This shared initiative has become a catalyst for regional change. In a rural area where resources are often limited, the project proved that meaningful progress is possible with the right support. ACOA’s investment in Ability NB empowered small communities to access expert services without straining their budgets.

“We’ve learned that accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all,” Boudreau reflected. “And that partnerships - like the one we have with Ability NB - are essential. This initiative is helping us build a more inclusive, resilient, and economically vibrant region.”

Executive Director Haley Flaro of Ability NB echoed that sentiment:

“This is our first collaboration with ACOA, and it’s a shining example of what’s possible when federal partners work hand-in-hand with communities. We’re proud to see this model expanding and inspiring others.”

This story is more than a case study - it’s a blueprint for change. It shows how a shared vision, supported by strategic funding and community leadership, can break down barriers and build a more inclusive future for all.

Take a closer look at the vibrant community of Municipality of Grand Lake here and discover more about Ability NB here.