As I think about the moments that first come to mind, they all involve people - this might seem like an obvious answer, given that I lead an organization focused on service delivery for people experiencing disability. However, working in and being a part of our Steadward Centre community is something special. Within our program space, this looks like members who show up to exercise everyday because they know someone will be waiting for them to say hello and have a quick chat. Or for the family members and caregivers that support our members to attend our annual BBQs and potlucks. In addition to the benefits that come from participating in regular physical activity, these are the moments that build our community and lead to critical social and mental health benefits. 

TSC is about community and relationships. This extends across the province as we collaborate with coaches in Calgary, post-secondary partners in Grande Prairie, and inclusive recreation organizations in Canmore, Medicine Hat, and Samson Cree Nation. We are a leader within the Inclusive Sport and Recreation Collective, a network of Alberta based organizations that are dedicated to improving access to quality physical activity participation among people experiencing disability. In November, we led an in-person gathering at Seven Chiefs Sportsplex to initiate conversation about the needs of Indigenous people experiencing disability. Investing time in relationship building is a critical step towards making things better. 

Finally, we celebrated our incredible community at a Watch Party in June to celebrate the premiere of AMI’s Our Community series, which focused on The Steadward Centre. More than 100 people came together to watch the premiere and listen in on a panel discussion with Dr. Steadward and the members who had shared their stories. 

Our core values are rooted in community and I’m proud of the work that we do to foster relationships and have impact as leaders in adapted physical activity. Listening to our members and then making decisions that support their development as leaders and participants means everything. I hope you enjoy reviewing stories about the impact our Steadward Centre staff, volunteers, and participants had in 2024-2025. It was quite the year!

Sincerely,

Jennifer Leo 

 Director

The Steadward Centre for Personal and Physical Achievement