Episode 376: On Accessibility, Inclusion, and Connection with Heather Lacey

Episode 376: On Accessibility, Inclusion, and Connection with Heather Lacey

From DCO Discourse... by Distress and Crisis Ontario

June 8, 2026 · 59 min · Season 4

About this episode

The episode discusses accessibility, inclusion, and connection with Heather Lacey from Able2, highlighting the importance of these themes in the context of National Accessibility Week.

In this episode, Caitlin and Lexie sit down with Heather Lacey, Executive Director of Able2, to reflect on National Accessibility Week and explore the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and meaningful connection. Heather shares an overview of Able2's work supporting people living with disabilities and discusses how the organization's unique matching program helps foster lasting relationships, reduce isolation, and create a greater sense of belonging. The conversation explores the barriers that people living with disabilities continue to face, the impact that connection and inclusion can have on well-being, and why conversations about accessibility need to continue beyond a single week of awareness. Together, they also discuss what meaningful allyship looks like in practice, the role volunteers play in building stronger communities, and the actions individuals, organizations, and community leaders can take to create more accessible and inclusive spaces for everyone. To connect with support related to this episode, or for anything else going on in your life, please visit www.dcontario.org/locations to find your nearest Member centre. Many of our Member centres operate 24/7…

People in this episode

Hosts: Caitlin, Lexie

Guest: Heather Lacey

Topics covered

  • accessibility
  • inclusion
  • disabilities
  • community support
  • well-being
  • allyship

Keywords

  • accessibility
  • inclusion
  • disabilities
  • community
  • well-being
  • allyship
  • volunteers
  • connection

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Able2, Distress and Crisis Ontario

Places: National Accessibility Week, www.dcontario.org/locations

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