The Widening Our World (WOW) Awards, presented by Community Living BC, recognize individuals and organizations across B.C. whose work is helping create more inclusive, accessible and welcoming communities.
This year, among others, Lynne-Mari De Frane from Victoria has been recognized for her leadership in improving communication access for people who are non-speaking. Through the “Communication for Everyone” initiative, Lynne-Mari has worked with the South Island Community Council and School District 62 to develop communication boards that use symbols and alternative communication methods, helping people express their needs, choices and preferences. These boards have now been installed in CLBC offices across B.C., making Lynne-Mari’s work particularly relevant to CAYA clients who rely on alternative forms of communication. Her advocacy demonstrates the importance of creating environments where communication is accessible to everyone, rather than placing the responsibility solely on the individual to find a way to be understood. Congratulations to Lynne-Mari on this well-deserved recognition and on the meaningful impact her work continues to have on communication access and inclusion for people across B.C.
To learn more about the “Communication for Everyone” initiative and download the communication board that is used in CLBC offices across BC, please visit: https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/volunteer/overview/how-community-councils-volunteers-make-a-difference/sicc-communication-board-initiative/
To read about the 2026 WOW Award recipients, visit: https://www.communitylivingbc.ca/whats-new/wow-awards/