Easter Seals Alberta Society

Easter Seals Alberta Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization and registered charity dedicated to fostering inclusion, independence, and recreation for individuals with disabilities and medical conditions in Alberta. Established in 1951 in response to the polio epidemic, the organization has since expanded its mission to connect Albertans with direct services, programs, and advocacy designed to support people with various disabilities across the province.

History

Easter Seals Alberta began as a volunteer effort motivated by the polio epidemic affecting children in the mid-20th century. The first Easter Seal and Easter lily campaigns in Alberta were launched in 1951, alongside the formation of the Alberta Council for Crippled Children, which later evolved into Easter Seals Alberta. Over the decades, the organization has grown into a leading service provider for people with disabilities in Alberta.

Mission and Services

The core mission of Easter Seals Alberta Society is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and medical conditions by promoting inclusion, independence, and opportunities for recreation. The organization offers a range of programs and services that are often described by participants as transformative, including the provision of accessibility equipment, specialized recreational camps, and respite for families.

Key services include:

• Accessibility Supports: Providing critical equipment and support to help individuals overcome financial barriers to independence.
• Camp Horizon: A fully accessible camp facility that offers year-round programs aimed at promoting recreation and self-reliance. Camp Horizon also serves as a venue for community events such as weddings and corporate retreats.
• Advocacy and Community Programs: Connecting Albertans with disabilities to resources and support networks to reduce isolation and improve social inclusion.

Impact and Community Role

According to Statistics Canada, over 22% of Alberta's population identifies as living with a disability. Easter Seals Alberta serves this substantial community by addressing specific barriers to communication, mobility, employment, and social acceptance. The organization’s work helps reduce isolation, promotes confidence, and enriches lives, making a significant impact on individuals and families affected by disabilities.

Financial Overview

In the fiscal year 2022, Easter Seals Alberta received $1.5 million in donations, supplemented by $1.2 million in government funding and $611,000 in service fees. Administrative costs represent approximately 10% of total revenues, while fundraising costs are around 20% of donations, leading to an overall overhead of 30%. For every dollar donated, about 70 cents directly support the organization’s charitable programs. The society maintains reserve funds sufficient to cover a year of program costs, ensuring financial stability.

Governance

Easter Seals Alberta is governed by a board of directors and led by a Chief Executive Officer. The organization maintains transparency and accountability in its operations and financial management as a registered charity in Canada.

Easter Seals Alberta continues to advocate for an inclusive society where individuals with disabilities have access to the supports and opportunities necessary for full participation and independence within their communities.