Community Report - West

From riding pedal and motor bikes to tobogganing on her family farm, loving sports in and out of school, to an Internet DJ, Toni Freimark is a multi-passionate go-getter. Growing up with vision loss has never stopped Toni from living the fullest life she can. Toni is a proud Albertan who began her life in Buffalo, Alberta, and then moved to Medicine Hat at the age of 19.
 
For over 13 years, Toni has been an advocate and support worker for adults, youth and families impacted by various disabilities, needs and challenges. 
 
Toni currently works for Next Step Residential Services and Family Managed Program, and continues to volunteer for CNIB where she worked for almost two years. Toni is also an active member of the Working Group for Accessibility & Inclusion in Medicine Hat.
 
Visiting her parent's ranch in Halkirk, camping and tandem cycling are some of Toni's favourite things to do. Toni thrives on her connection to her community and is driven to stay informed about the opportunities available to those living with vision loss. Toni is beyond thrilled to represent Alberta as an AMI Community Reporter ... stay tuned for more!

Recent Reports: October 25

• Now Taking Applications for Working Group for Accessibility and Inclusion (WGAI)
  • Date: First Wednesday of each month at 11:15am -1:00pm
  • Contact: Leslie Jerry
• Part-Time Position available for a Regional Program Lead for ASRAB in the South region of Alberta- Alberta Sports and Recreation Association for the Blind
  • Date: Present
  • Contact: Linda MacPhail- Executive Director, ASRAB

Marc Workman is a respected leader in the disability advocacy world.

As the CEO of the World Blind Union, he brings a wealth of experience from his previous management positions at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind and the Government of Alberta. With a master's degree in political science and an engaging public speaking style, Marc is a sought-after lecturer on diversity and inclusion. He's also a dedicated volunteer with over 15 years of service to organizations, such as the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians and Barrier Free Canada. In 2020, he was named one of Edmonton's Top 40 Under 40 for his many contributions to the community. 

Vic Pereira is a career public servant with the Government of Canada. He is on the board of directors for the Vision Impaired Resource Network (VIRN). Vic is a guide dog handler with all his guides coming from the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s Vet Dogs.

As a former Paralympic wrestler and someone who leads an active lifestyle, Vic advocates for people who are blind or partially sighted to be active and be included in everything the community has to offer. He believes everyone must be able to take part in everything they want to do when they want to do it.