News Flash

COQUITLAM, B.C., April 29, 2026 – Discover accessible programs, services and supports available in Coquitlam at the City’s AccessAbility Resource Fair on May 24, held in recognition of National AccessAbility Week.

This free event brings together local organizations from across the community, making it easier for residents to connect with services, learn what’s available and explore opportunities to get involved. 

Event Details

• Sunday, May 24, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m., on the first floor of Pinetree Community Centre (1260 Pinetree Way)
• Wheelchair-accessible facility with automatic doors, lowered curb between sidewalk and parking, and a front entrance drop-off area conveniently located near transit
• Accessible parking available on site

 Connecting Residents of All Abilities

Now in its fourth year, the AccessAbility Resource Fair provides a meaningful opportunity for residents to connect, share experiences and celebrate achievements across a diverse range of abilities.

Visitors can speak directly with local organizations and learn about accessible resources, programs and services available in Coquitlam and across the Lower Mainland, including the City’s newly adopted Accessibility and Inclusion Plan and Recreation Inclusion at the City. 

The event is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, and other accessible communication methods available during scheduled activities, to support participation.

Event Highlights and Activities 

• Paddling Try It!: The city’s first adaptive paddling try it. Experience paddle boards and/or kayaks outfitted with outriggers for stability and a variety of other devices that accommodate for different levels of ability. These sessions are facilitated by Power for All. 
• 1:30 - 1:45 p.m. (Register here) 
• 1:50 - 2:05 p.m. (Register here)
• 2:10 - 2:25 p.m. (Register here)
• 2:30 - 2:45 p.m. (Register here)
• 2:50 - 3:05 p.m. (Register here)
• 3:10 - 3:25 p.m. (Register here)
• 3:30 - 3:45 p.m. (Register here)
• Dance for Every Body Workshop: A participatory workshop that invites people of different abilities, backgrounds, and experiences to explore movement in an open, safe, and welcoming environment. Led by artists from the All Bodies Dance Project. (Course ID 229742)
• Caregiving for Neurodivergence Workshop: Low-demand caregiving is one of the many approaches that are helping neurodivergent individuals as they recover and seek to be their authentic selves everywhere they go. Facilitated by Power for All. (Course ID  229743)
• Boost Your Brain with Movement & Music:  A fun and interactive presentation that invites people of all abilities to experience the benefits of movement, music, and cognitive engagement. This accessible chair-based session promotes brain health, attention, and coordination. Facilitated by the Adult Cognitive Wellness Center.    (Course ID 229744)                 
• Free Child-minding: The City’s recreation staff will be on site to support childminding with engaging and active puzzles, games, and crafts while parents and caregivers attend workshops. Please pre-register as space is limited. (Course ID 229657)

Visit coquitlam.ca/AAW for more information. 

Join the Fun at AccessAbility Week Activities 

Coquitlam is also hosting a variety of programs and events during the week of May 24 – 30 to celebrate the ongoing efforts that help create more accessible and inclusive communities across Canada. Everyone is welcome to join in, with programs designed to support inclusion, connection and movement. Highlights include:

• Sensory-Friendly Family Basketball Drop-in: Designed for families of different ages and abilities, this inclusive drop-in offers a calm, welcoming environment with reduced noise and a flexible, unstructured format so families can play at their own pace. Free with equipment provided; pre-registration required in advance. (Course ID: 228850) 
• Sitting Tai Chi/QiGong: Sitting Taichi and Qigong exercises are great for everyone, especially for those with limited mobility. Follow through some low-impact exercises that are aimed to increase joint flexibility, improve balance, and enhance mental relaxation. (Course ID: 228731) 
• Sensory-Friendly Skating: Designed for individuals who may have sensory sensitivities or anyone looking for a quieter skating experience. Music, bright lighting, and arena buzzers are turned off during the skate. Reduced capacity ensures a sensory-friendly atmosphere. Pre-Registration is highly recommended for this event because there is a limited capacity of 50 spots. (Course ID: 227919)

Find a full listing of activities and details at coquitlam.ca/AAW. 

To learn more about inclusive recreation opportunities, as well as programs and resources designed to reduce barriers to participation, visit coquitlam.ca/RecAccess, or contact the Community Services team at 604-927-6076 or CommunityServices@coquitlam.ca. 

Accessibility and Inclusion in Coquitlam 

The City of Coquitlam is focused on enhancing accessibility and fostering welcoming, inclusive spaces and services in our community. Building on a strong foundation grounded in proactive work, strategic partnerships, and progressive policies and programming, the City continues to identify and remove barriers to participation in our diverse community. Coquitlam has recently launched its first-ever Accessibility and Inclusion Plan, which will help make its spaces, services and programs even more welcoming and accessible.

Learn more at coquitlam.ca/accessibility.

Media contacts:
Manisha Dutta
Senior Manager, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
EDI@coquitlam.ca    

Karen Basi 
Community Recreation Manager
prcs_info@coquitlam.ca
604-927-4386

We acknowledge with gratitude and respect that the name Coquitlam was derived from the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ (HUN-kuh-MEE-num) word kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (kwee-KWET-lum) meaning “Red Fish Up the River”. The City is honoured to be located on the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm traditional and ancestral lands, including those parts that were historically shared with the q̓ic̓əy̓ (kat-zee), and other Coast Salish Peoples.