Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) – Accessibility Statement

At African Community Services of Peel (ACSP), we are committed to providing accessible and inclusive services in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), 2005. We recognize the diverse needs of the African community and are dedicated to removing barriers and ensuring equal access for individuals of all abilities.

As part of this commitment, ACSP will:

• Ensure that all services, programs, and employment opportunities are accessible to persons with disabilities in a manner that respects their dignity and independence.
• Provide information and communications in accessible formats upon request.
• Make every reasonable effort to ensure that our physical premises are accessible and that accommodations are provided during events, meetings, and service delivery.
• Train all staff, volunteers, and board members on AODA standards and the Human Rights Code as it relates to accessibility.
• Continuously review and improve our accessibility policies and practices to reflect best practices and legal requirements.

If you require any accommodations or would like to provide feedback on the accessibility of our services, please contact us:

 1. Purpose

In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), this policy outlines ACSP’s commitment to providing equitable, respectful, and inclusive customer service to individuals of all abilities.

2. Our Commitment

ACSP is committed to excellence in serving all clients, including persons with disabilities. We strive to ensure that our services are accessible and that barriers to participation are identified and removed to the greatest extent possible.

3. Communication

We will communicate with individuals with disabilities in ways that take into account their accessibility needs. ACSP staff are trained to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities, and alternative formats of information will be made available upon request.

4. Assistive Devices

Clients are welcome to use their personal assistive devices to access ACSP services. Staff will be trained to support clients who rely on such devices.

5. Support Persons

ACSP welcomes individuals accompanied by a support person. When confidential matters are involved, the consent of the person with a disability will be obtained prior to any discussion with the support person.

6. Service Animals

Clients with disabilities may bring their service animals on ACSP premises where the public or third parties are allowed, unless excluded by law. If excluded, we will provide alternate accommodations.

7. Notice of Temporary Disruption

In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption in facilities or services usually used by individuals with disabilities, ACSP will provide notice as soon as possible. The notice will include the reason for the disruption, its expected duration, and alternative service options, and will be posted at the location of the disruption and/or communicated through ACSP’s website and reception.

8. Training

All ACSP employees, volunteers, and anyone involved in service delivery will receive training on:

• The purposes of AODA and the requirements of the customer service standard.
• How to interact and communicate with individuals with different types of disabilities.
• How to use available assistive equipment at ACSP.
• How to respond to a person having difficulty accessing services. Training will be refreshed regularly and updated as needed.

9. Feedback Process

ACSP welcomes feedback on the accessibility of our services. Feedback can be shared:

• In person
• By telephone: (905) 460-9514
• In writing: 10 Gillingham Drive, Suite 308, Brampton, ON L6X 5A5
• By email: info@africancommunityservices.org

All feedback will be reviewed by the Executive Director or designate, and we will respond within ten (10) business days. Where appropriate, concerns will be addressed, and actions taken will be documented.

10. Modifications to This Policy

This policy will be reviewed and updated as required to ensure ongoing compliance with AODA and alignment with ACSP’s values of equity, respect, and inclusion.

African Community Services of Peel (ACSP) Approved: May 2025