THE INSPIRED BLOGGER - SPECIAL NEEDS IN MONTREAL

The All Abilities Expo brought 70 exhibitors together

to share their services and expertise

On October 19th, 70 exhibitors gathered at Stade Uniprix for the largest annual gathering of individuals, families, advocates, organizations, and agencies that cater to individuals with special needs and disabilities.

We were proud to be a part of the Quebec Special Needs Association event, which showcased exhibitor services that included Assante Capital Mangement Ltd, ABR Canada, iLoc Technologies, Michele Perry, Physipro, Island Hyperbarics Centre, The Big Blue Hug, Lakeshore Soccer, Yaldei, Centre Neuropsychologie et de Psychologie de Laval, Rekinéxion, Giant Steps, Étoile de Pacho, and Proset Autism.

The organizers chose a perfect venue, with ample space for expo attendees to leisurely visit exhibitors. The Stade Uniprix was well located, fully accessible, and well attended by families and individuals with special needs. Kudos to Marla Vineberg, Event and Exhibition Manager, Quebec Special Needs Association, for seeking out so many reputable and varied services, who shared their expertise with the hundreds of guests that came in search of new services, ideas, and support.

Master of Ceremony Barry Morgan, host of CJAD's The Barry Morgan Show was on board to facilitate the event programming, which included entertainment by Steven Abadi, who sang at the opening ceremony, The I Can Dream Theatre Group, which serenaded guests upon arrival, Luca "Lazylegz" Patuelli and his dance troupe who offered hip hop demonstrations, and Andre Langevin, who shared a karate demonstration and lesson.

Karate classes for children with autism and their parents have been developed, adapted and based on the personal experience of teachers karate André Langevin and his wife Nathalie Paré.

Children were treated to a babysitting service, which looked like tons of fun, and they probably enjoyed perusing many of the 'kid friendly' exhibitors, who sets up a wonderful spread of toys that children are welcome to try out.

The Expo gave us the opportunity to catch up with old friends, and meet new ones! We were particularly pleased to end the day with a visit from three delightful visitors from The Action Centre. We enjoy every opportunity we get to connect, exchange stories, and share a laugh or two with the community we strive to support. Thanks you to the Quebec Special Needs Association for providing us this invaluable opportunity. We encourage everyone we met to keep in touch and share your stories. They are all, well, inspirational!