We were able to tackle numerous issues, including:

• Collaborating with MOH’s implementation team to operationalize ways to centralize public coverage for intermittent catheters and other urinary supplies.
• Working with our stakeholders to submit a proposal to the Premier’s Office to modernize the Assistive Devices Program. This included an expansion of device options such as transfer devices, standing frames, commodes and pressure relief mattresses.
• Addressing the lack of PSW support in our community; our Public Policy team created new models for support options, including Family Managed Services.
• Playing a pivotal role in producing health and education standards to amend with AODA legislation.
• Continuing to ensure that sidewalks do not become obstructed for people with disabilities by e-scooters.
• Executing a new Toronto by-law that enables improved accessible parking on our streets and condos.
• Creating six online courses on disability and employment through a Resilient Communities Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
• Building a partnership with the TRAIL Lab, a research hub housed at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation’s Hospital Research Institute to make available a new toolkit on disability disclosure in the workplace.
• Expanding Employment Services to serve job seekers across Ontario through virtual workshops.
• Informally launching Internet Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (iCBT) for our clients.
• Nearly doubling our volunteers actively involved in fundraising for SCIO. This includes the Advocacy Fundraising Committee, which is seeing great success in reaching new avenues for potential donors.
• Launching the early stages of an Equity, Diversity Belonging and Inclusion strategy for SCIO.
• Building growth and community on our social media channels by launching two new Facebook groups dedicated to members of our community. (Facebook Community Connect and SCIO Marketplace)

This year, our online educational content saw immense growth, particularly on Youtube. Our new interview series, Underestimated sheds light on the experiences of people with disabilities on their journey to landing meaningful work. It is generating interest within our community, and we have secured a distribution partner for a second season.

Demand for spinal cord injury training for support workers and mediation services was low. COVID has had a significant impact on community service organizations with staffing shortages, outbreaks and reductions in direct service. As such, revenue was down for the year. We are continuing to conduct market research on training opportunities and updating our business plan for organizational services.

Our Peer Connections continued to operate virtually and new and interesting topics were explored. While some support was available in person, Zoom and Teams provided us with an ongoing virtual platform, which led to new referrals.

The Regional Services team continued in-person services in 21-22 and our work with the Consortium – the five major SCI rehabs – demonstrated the importance of our role in the community. Access to assistive devices was highlighted as an urgent need for clients transitioning out of rehab and funds from Ontario Health enabled us to support those most in need.

On behalf of SCIO, a heartfelt thank you to our staff, volunteers, donors, corporate partners and community members who continue to bring our mission to life by helping people with SCIs and disabilities live the life they choose.