Evening in the Maritimes raises $300K to empower people with disabilities through ABLE2

Dan Spagnuolo may have started volunteering, with the goal of impressing a girl, but, as last night’s Evening in the Maritimes made clear, his involvement in ABLE2’s Matching Program led to something far more enduring: a long-term friendship with a member of our community living with a disability.

For nearly two years, Spagnuolo has been hanging out and doing stuff with Mark Evraire through a local program created by ABLE2: Support for People with Disabilities to provide companionship to a segment of the population that’s at much greater risk of loneliness and social exclusion.

The friends shared their story on stage last night with Evening in the Maritimes (EiTM) emcee Patricia Boal, anchor of CTV News at Six and radio host of 580 CFRA’s Ottawa at Work with Patricia Boal. They all sat back for a “dockside chat” in their bright red Muskoka chairs.

It was touching to see Spagnuolo occasionally reach over to give Evraire a comforting pat on his forearm as Evraire spoke about how much he valued their friendship. “He’s a gift from God,” said Evraire.

Evraire proudly recalled how they celebrated their shared birthday together this past spring at Boston Pizza.

As for Spagnuolo, the Matching Program has encouraged him to step out of his comfort zone by trying new activities and meeting new people. “I have been humbled by Mark’s bowling skills.”

The program has also led to Spagnuolo volunteering at the Parkdale Food Centre with Evraire, who considers the community hub to be his “second home”.

To read full coverage: https://carolineinthecapital.ca/evening-in-the-maritimes-raises-300k-to-empower-people-with-disabilities-through-able2/