---

Breaking Down Barriers strives to create a supportive community where people with disabilities can live independent lives. Independent Living empowers people with disabilities to make their own decisions and to develop skills which build confidence in their abilities.

Andrea Abbott-Kokosin is the Executive Director of Breaking Down Barriers. "I grew up in Toronto but we always had a cottage at Woodland Beach. This is where I always felt at home" said Andrea. "We moved to the area and my husband found a job right away. I eventually found work with Breaking Down Barriers" Andrea added.

Andrea graduated with an Honours Degree in Socilogy from Trent University and with a Diploma in Social Work, specializing in Gerontology, from Seneca College.

"People think of physical disabilities, but it's important to know that we work to help people with all types of disabilities" Andrea said, adding that this can be quite a challenge because the types of disabilities can be very diverse. "Often they can be disabilities that cannot be seen" Andrea said

Breaking Down Barriers helps encourages clients to develop independent living skills. "It's very refreshing to help people who want to be able to do things for themselves" Andrea said.

Breaking Down Barriers will surprise you with the number of projects and services that are underway at any one time, including the "Integrated Sports and Leisure Network" funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation. A recent newsletter highlighted the "Rockin' the House off the Curling Club" event held in March at the Collingwood Curling Club. This was a sold out event where teams consisting of people of all abilities enjoyed a day full of fun, laughter and curling.
 

---

Thumbs Up Program

---

The "Thumbs Up Access and Awareness Services Program" works with local businesses to help them take steps in providing accessibility. The program promotes awareness of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005 (which will make Ontario accessible to people with disabilities with respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, building structure and premises by January 1st, 2025 by developing, implementing and enforcing province-wide accessibility standards). The program promotes opportunities for people with disabilities and helps everyone work towards an accessible Ontario.
 

---

Become A Volunteer

---

Breaking Down Barriers strives to create a supportive community where people with disabilities can live independent lives. If you are looking for a valuable experience and a way to help the community, a variety of volunteer opportunities are available. Andrea would be glad to hear from you. Her enthusiasm is contagious.

---

 

Return To Home Page