In This Issue

NEWS & NOTES

Hear, Hear!

SMD Alliance recently conducted a much needed review of Manitoba’s Hearing Aid Act, putting forward several recommendations to the Provincial government. The recommendations focused on making the Hearing Aid Board more accountable to the public.

Funds Get an Assist

Recognizing the important role that assistive technology can play in the lives of people with disabilities, SMD Foundation recently topped up its endowment fund for assistive technology to $500,000. Technological items required by SMD consumers will be… [ con’t on page 4 ]

Of equal importance is the potential for collective advocacy among the 13 organizations at the SMD Self-Help Clearinghouse. Many of the organizations share common agendas on public policy issues. By working together and harmonizing their voices, these organizations have an opportunity to present a united front on issues, thereby increasing opportunities for success and change.

The entire SMD Family is further supported by a six regional offices which enable SMD to deliver a variety of services to even the furthest of Manitoba’s rural communities through partnerships with local businesses, educators and related programs. In addition, partnerships with various national organizations deepen the pool of resources available, enabling SMD to access the most up-to-date information on disability issues.

Members and Volunteers Matter
The greatest strength of the entire SMD Family is its people. Just as each individual organization strengthens SMD as a whole, staff and volunteers who contribute their time and expertise are vital to improving the lives of people with disabilities.

Both staff and volunteers do more than deliver programs. They provide insights based on personal and professional experience. They relate to people with disabilities as individuals with specific problems, feelings and concerns. They do this because the staff and volunteers at SMD usually have a connection to the disability community – as a friend, relative or person with a disability themselves.

This connection to the disability community is also instrumental in defining SMD’s continuing role. Through its staff and volunteers, SMD is able to keep in touch with the realities of today’s disability community, directing programs and strategies to ensure that needs are truly being met.

What You Can Do
When you volunteer your time to SMD, you’re lending your knowledge, abilities and voice to help others in the disability community. When you become a member of SMD Alliance, you’re offering your insights and voice to the entire SMD Family. You can begin making a difference by calling (204) 975-3018 and inquiring about how you can become a member of – or volunteer for – SMD Alliance today.