Embedded Files
Accessibility Policy
(Approved by the Board of Directors on 11/06/25)
Purpose
The purpose of this Policy is to affirm FandomForge Collective’s commitment to providing accessible programs, services, and events for all individuals, including persons with disabilities.
This Policy outlines the Organization’s approach to identifying, removing, and preventing barriers to accessibility in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), its associated regulations, and the Ontario Human Rights Code.
Scope
This Policy applies to all aspects of the Organization’s operations, including but not limited to:
Events and programs organized by the Organization;
Employees, volunteers, contractors, and board members;
Vendors, exhibitors, guests, and sponsors; and
Members of the public engaging with the Organization in person or online.
Policy Statement
FandomForge Collective is committed to:
Treating all individuals with dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity;
Providing accessible services and information to all members of the public;
Identifying and removing barriers that prevent participation; and
Meeting or exceeding the requirements of the AODA and related regulations.
All staff, volunteers, and representatives are expected to uphold this commitment and actively contribute to an inclusive and accessible environment.
Providing Goods and Services to People with Disabilities
The Organization will make reasonable efforts to ensure that its services and events are accessible to individuals with disabilities by:
Communicating in ways that take into account individual accessibility needs;
Allowing the use of personal assistive devices, support persons, and service animals;
Providing alternative methods of communication when necessary;
Ensuring accessible event venues and layouts wherever possible; and
Considering accessibility when designing event materials, registration systems, and online platforms.
Assistive Devices
Persons with disabilities are welcome to use their own assistive devices to access services or participate in events.
Where assistive devices are not permitted for safety reasons, the Organization will make every reasonable effort to accommodate the individual through alternative arrangements.
Service Animals and Support Persons
The Organization welcomes persons with disabilities who are accompanied by a service animal or support person.
Service Animals:
Individuals accompanied by a service animal may access all areas open to the public, unless otherwise prohibited by law (e.g., food preparation areas).
Support Persons:
Individuals accompanied by a support person are welcome in all public areas. If admission fees apply, the Organization may waive or reduce fees for support persons, as determined by event policy.
Communication and Information
The Organization will ensure that information and communication materials are accessible, upon request, by:
Providing alternative formats (such as large print or digital copies) when feasible;
Using clear, plain language in written materials; and
Ensuring electronic communications (including websites and online forms) comply with recognized accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.0 Level AA).
Training
The Organization shall provide accessibility awareness training to:
All employees, volunteers, and board members;
Any contractors or vendors acting on behalf of the Organization; and
Any individuals involved in developing or delivering policies, programs, or services.
Training shall include:
An overview of the AODA and the requirements of the Customer Service Standard;
The Organization’s Accessibility Policy and related procedures;
How to interact and communicate with persons with various disabilities; and
How to assist persons using assistive devices, service animals, or support persons.
Training records will be maintained by the Organization.
Feedback Process
Feedback regarding accessibility and the delivery of services may be submitted in person, by email, or by mail.
All feedback will be reviewed promptly, and responses will be provided within a reasonable timeframe.
Contact Information:
Accessibility Coordinator
FandomForge Collective
Email: Accessibility@kwcomiccon.ca
Feedback may be submitted anonymously; however, contact information will be required if a response is requested.
Notice of Temporary Disruptions
In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption to facilities or services that are used by persons with disabilities, the Organization will post notice at the location and online, including:
The reason for the disruption;
The anticipated duration; and
Alternative facilities or services available.
Review and Updates
This Policy will be reviewed at least once every two (2) years or upon significant operational change, legislative update, or event expansion.
The Organization will make this Policy publicly available upon request and on its website.
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