Vecova is proud to stand alongside our community partners in celebrating a week of connection, accessibility, and inclusion across the Bow Valley. From December 3 to December 10, organizations throughout Banff and Canmore are hosting events that highlight the strength, creativity, and diversity of people of all abilities.

This week of programming aligns with the spirit of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reminding us that inclusive communities aren’t built in a single day, they grow through shared experiences, open dialogue, and accessible spaces where everyone belongs.

Below is a look at what’s happening throughout the week.

Vecova’s Commitment to an Inclusive Future

Vecova is honoured to be part of a network of organizations, including Rocky Mountain Adaptive, Bow Valley Connections Centre, the Alberta World Cup Society, artsPlace, Pride Network, and many others, working to strengthen accessibility and inclusion in our communities.

These events reflect what we believe deeply at Vecova:

Inclusion is an ongoing practice.
Accessibility is a shared responsibility.
Community is strongest when everyone can participate fully.

We invite you to join us throughout this week of learning, celebration, and connection. Together, let’s continue building communities where all people with disabilities can thrive.

Location: Canmore & Banff

Banff

Catharine Robb Whyte Building Pioneer Room

Canmore

Family Gathering Centre
Canmore Civic Centre
Arts Place Canmore

🗓 August 24 & 31 | 20 Spots Available | Onetime $10 fee

We’re thrilled to invite you to Mixed Ability Rugby, happening August 24 and 31 – a fun, introductory, no-contact game of rugby designed for all abilities, including individuals with disabilities, autism, or anyone looking for a safe, supportive way to get active. This unique program includes two separate classes per age category.

One class is for youth ages 8 to 17, and the other is for adults 18 and older. The program uses rugby as a tool to promote inclusion, confidence, and connection through adaptive sports. The cost is $10 and covers participation in both weekend sessions. Each class is limited to only 20 spots.

What You Can Expect:

No tackling – completely non-contact (flags will be used), with a focus on movement, fun, and teamwork

There will be a tackling station where bags and padding will be provided if you or your child would like to experience using rugby practice equipment

Mixed abilities welcome – designed for youth and adults with disabilities, autism, or no prior experience
Safety reassurance – led by coaches trained in adaptive and inclusive sport practices

Supportive and introductory – perfect for anyone new to the sport. A strong focus on belonging, confidence, and making connections through play

With guidance from skilled coaches and staff experienced in adaptive and mixed ability programs, participants will enjoy a welcoming introduction to rugby fundamentals, designed to be inclusive, accessible, and fun for everyone.

Whether you’re trying rugby for the first time or looking for a more inclusive way to stay active, Mixed Ability Rugby is your chance to step onto the pitch in a safe space where everyone belongs.

Let’s learn, play, and grow together.

🗓 Session Details

Saturday, August 24th

Saturday, August 31st

📍 Location: Calgary Canadian Irish Athletic Club

4334 18 St NE, Calgary, AB

⏰ Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Youth (8-17)

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Adults (Ages 18+)

💲 $10 total – covers both sessions!

📝 Register Here – Opens July 22nd

🎯 20 Spots Available Per Age Group

🌟 Who Can Join: Open to all abilities, including individuals with disabilities, autism, and all experience levels.

Come be part of a safe, no-contact rugby experience where mixed abilities are embraced, and everyone has a place on the field.

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image source=”featured_image” img_size=”full”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1492008828909{margin-top: 40px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]October 13, 2022[/vc_column_text][nd_options_spacer nd_options_height=”20″][vc_column_text]

Celebrate DEAM with Employment Services!

Join us on October 27, 2022 from 11 am to 2 pm in Studio 2 at Vecova

[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]

Meet Vecova’s Employment Services community and learn about their employment journeys, skills and abilities!

Vecova’s Employment Services is excited to welcome back consumers, employers, community partners and Vecova team members to our first DEAM (Disability Employment Awareness Month) event in three years. We are proud to highlight the employment accomplishments of consumers in both our Adult and Youth programs.

Consumers will be presenting their employment information and showcasing their skills and abilities at this celebratory event at Vecova. This event will include the opportunity to speak to consumers and Vecova employees, guest speakers, activities, refreshments and more![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”8211″ img_size=”full” onclick=”link_image”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text]About DEAM

October 1 marks the start of Disability Employment Awareness (DEAM) month across Canada and in Alberta. DEAM celebrates, educates, raises awareness and promotes employment inclusion within the job market for people with disabilities. Persons with disabilities face barriers to employment and each year DEAM provides an opportunity for employers, people with disabilities, service providers and Canadians to come together to act in removing barriers and creating a more inclusive economy. Throughout the month of October, DEAM events, panel discussion, and activities occur across Canada and Alberta.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/vc_row]