On February 24, The City of Lethbridge Mayor and Council unanimously passed a motion calling on the Government of Alberta to pause ADAP, provide evidence of economic and social impacts to individuals and communities because of the proposed reduction in income, and meaningfully consult with the people affected and stakeholder groups. We are pleased that the City of Lethbridge has taken action on this, and is a role model for other municipalities. Please consider sending a message to councillors commending them for taking this action. If you would like more information on this reach out to us at (403) 327-2911.
A Night of Belonging: Thank You, Lethbridge
What an extraordinary evening.
On behalf of everyone at Inclusion Lethbridge, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every person who joined us for our Spring Gala. Together, we celebrated something truly powerful: a community where everyone belongs, everyone is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
The stories shared throughout the evening reminded us why inclusion matters. We heard about challenges overcome, barriers broken, friendships formed, and lives transformed when people are welcomed not just into the room, but into the heart of their community. The inspiring presentation by Katrina Neil and Kaleb Neil touched everyone in attendance, illustrating how belonging can change the course of a life and create opportunities that once seemed impossible.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, donors, and community partners whose generosity made this event possible. Your support helps create programs, advocacy initiatives, and opportunities that empower individuals and families throughout our region. Your investment in inclusion strengthens our entire community.
To our guests and attendees, thank you for believing in our mission and for showing up with such enthusiasm, compassion, and commitment. The energy in the room was a powerful reminder that Lethbridge is a community that cares deeply about ensuring every person has the chance to participate, contribute, and succeed.
We also want to recognize the incredible volunteers and staff members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. From months of planning and preparation to the countless details that made the evening run so smoothly, your dedication, professionalism, and passion were evident in every aspect of the event. The success of the gala is a direct reflection of your hard work and commitment.
We were honored to welcome community leaders, educators, advocates, families, and supporters from across our city. From celebrating recipients of the Betty Grigg Inclusive Education Award to hearing stories of resilience, achievement, and connection, the evening showcased the very best of what inclusion can look like in action.
As we reflect on this year's gala, we are filled with gratitude and hope. The conversations, connections, and shared experiences of the evening reaffirmed that inclusion is not simply an idea—it is something we build together every day.
Thank you for helping us create a community where every person is welcomed, respected, valued, and celebrated.
We look forward to continuing this important work alongside all of you.
Together, we are building a more inclusive Lethbridge.
A huge shoutout to our volunteers, board members, staff and all those who attended and made the Inclusion Lethbridge Gala such a wonderful night!
We extend our deepest thanks to our Gala Volunteer Coordinator, Henrietta Ziengs, whose incredible dedication, organization, and heart helped shape and bring this unforgettable event to life.
Bev and Harry Nagata were the recipients of the Newton Family Leadership Award for their continued advocacy and support to the Inclusion and disability community.
Fleetwood Bawden Elementary School was nominated for the Betty Grigg Inclusive education Award (Rochelle Neville Director of Inclusive Education, Vice Principal
Nicole Freel, and Principal Kathy Mundell).
One of our longtime members Barbara Nish was honoured with the Inclusion Lethbridge Lifetime Membership Award.
This year the Neil family were the main speakers as Ultramarathoner and advocate Kaleb Neil with his mom Katrina Neil spoke of his resilience and journey with running.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
The 2026 Inclusion Lethbridge Gala is proudly sponsored by:
Why Your Support Matters
Your generosity fuels Inclusion Lethbridge’s work across Southern Alberta — from advocacy and self‑advocacy programs, to family support, to partnerships
with schools, employers, and community organizations.
You’re not just making a donation. You’re standing with people. You’re strengthening families.
You’re helping build a community where everyone belongs.
Inclusive Employment
Meaningful employment gives people purpose, dignity, and independence. Yet many individuals with disabilities still face barriers, bias, and systemic exclusion.
Meet William
William is proud of the work he does and the contributions he makes every day. With the right supports, he found a workplace that sees his value — and a job that lets him grow.
Your donation helps champion inclusive employers, job-seekers, and supports that lead to stable, meaningful, community-based employment.
Inclusive Education
Every student deserves the chance to learn in the classroom alongside their peers, be part of school life, and dream big.
Meet Maggie
Maggie attended the University of Lethbridge — not because inclusion was handed to her, but because she fought for it, and because her community believed in her right to pursue higher education.
Your donation helps students like Maggie know there are opportunities for them to learn in environments where they are welcomed and valued at every educational level.
Inclusive Sports & Recreation
Everyone deserves connection, friendships, and moments of joy. Inclusive sports and recreation open these doors, creating opportunities for physical activity, laughter, and belonging.
Meet Kaleb
When Kaleb joined his inclusive sports program, he didn’t just join a team — he found confidence, community, and a place where his abilities shine.
Your donation helps create accessible programs so youth and adults with disabilities can participate fully — on the field, in the studio, and everywhere fun and friendship happen.
Help Inclusion Lethbridge Build a More Inclusive Future
Top 5 Things Your Support Makes Possible
- Stronger Advocacy : Ensuring people with disabilities are recognized, valued, and included in every part of community life.
- Empowered Families : Providing guidance, information, and support through life’s biggest transitions.
- Leadership Through Self‑Advocacy : Creating opportunities for people with disabilities to speak up, make choices, and lead their own lives.
- Barrier‑Free Communities : Partnering with schools, employers, and organizations to remove obstacles and expand opportunities.
- A Culture of Belonging : Building a community where inclusion isn’t optional — it’s the expectation.
Every contribution moves us closer to a community where everyone belongs
— today and for generations to come.
Because inclusion matters. Because people matter.
Because your support makes all the difference.
Help us support local disability advocacy as we support families and community members!
Becoming a member — or renewing your membership — is more than a sign‑up. It’s a statement. It’s a commitment to inclusion, equality, and belonging in southern Alberta. Your membership fuels advocacy, strengthens families, empowers self‑advocates, and helps create accessible spaces and inclusive policies across our community.
Membership Has Its Rewards
- Stay connected through advocacy updates, newsletters, and community events
- Take part in workshops, peer support, and networking opportunities
- Vote at our Annual General Meeting and help shape the future of Inclusion Lethbridge
- Demonstrate to funders and policymakers that inclusion matters
- Access preferred Board Room rental rates
Membership Options
- Individual – $25
- Family – $35
- Associate – $100 (non‑voting)
Together, we can continue building a community rooted in acceptance, empowerment, and belonging — today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Join or renew your membership today and be part of the movement for inclusion.
Inclusion Lethbridge. Made with love at 527 6th Street, Lethbridge, AB.