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Meet Nancy

Nancy

A Beacon of Volunteerism in Toronto’s Communities

In the vibrant tapestry of Toronto’s volunteer landscape, Nancy Barber shines as a beacon of dedication and enthusiasm. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on the communities she is involved in. Despite facing personal challenges, Nancy’s commitment to service and community engagement has made her a beloved figure in various initiatives across the city. Individualized funding for community participation, from the Ontario government, enables Nancy to hire a personal assistant.

For over 20 years, Nancy has been a steadfast volunteer, dedicating her time and presence to a wide range of organizations throughout the region. What makes Nancy’s story particularly inspiring is that her disability doesn’t hinder her, and those assisting her, from pursuing opportunities for helping others. She serves as a source of inspiration for fellow volunteers and community members alike.

Nancy’s story highlights the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in volunteerism. By breaking down barriers and advocating for equal opportunities, she paves the way for others with disabilities to actively participate in civic engagement and make meaningful contributions to society. Nancy’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Navigating through the city can be daunting, especially for someone with mobility limitations. As much as possible, Nancy uses regular TTC routes and vehicles, in lieu of Wheeltrans. It is a valuable way to interact with other citizens.

Nancy’s journey in volunteerism started with grassroots community work in the Community Garden and later a drop in lunch program at The Stop Community Food Centre in the west end. When her church developed a weekly Out of the Cold commitment downtown, she joined in for a number of years. She moved with her fellow volunteers to the Regent Park Community Food Centre, now part of Fred Victor, to assist with greeting and serving lunches,  and continues there each week.

Participating in the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am/Para PanAm Games, she brought her spirit of teamwork to this prestigious sporting event, along with her parents who also volunteered. Nancy exemplified the values of inclusivity and excellence, playing a vital role in ensuring the success and warmth of the games. Assisting athletes and spectators with wayfinding, her contribution enhanced the overall experience, leaving a lasting legacy on the TORONTO 2015 Games.

Nancy has been a loyal volunteer for several cultural organizations including the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where her reliability and willingness to take on various roles earned her acclaim among fellow volunteers and organizers alike. She received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, after being one of a select group nominated by TIFF. Over the past fifteen years, Nancy has devoted countless hours to TIFF, participating in various events including the TIFF Kids International Film Festival and the  Street Marketing Team. Supported by TIFF’s Volunteer Resources department and personal assistance, Nancy fosters community connections and promotes inclusivity within Toronto’s vibrant film scene. Her involvement for over 10 years with the Hot Docs Festival, and the Docs for Schools team, has offered Nancy a sense of belonging, with such a positive experience for her and the students who come to enjoy the documentaries.  Nancy is beginning her second season as a volunteer at the Harbourfront Centre with program support with kids and Music Garden concerts.

As Nancy continues her journey of giving back to the community, her story serves as a powerful reminder that disability does not define one’s ability to make a difference. She exemplifies the true essence of volunteerism – a force for positive change that knows no bounds. In a world that sometimes feels divided, Nancy’s story reminds us of the transformative power of unity, compassion, and the human spirit.

Nancy flourishes within the inclusive environment fostered by New Visions Toronto, where her talents and distinct perspective as a person living with a disability are both celebrated and empowered. Aligned with New Visions Toronto’s mission to support, connect, and advocate for full community inclusion for individuals with disabilities, Nancy champions the well-being and inclusion of all community members, embodying the vision of “Lives well lived: Choice. Engagement. Support.”

Nancy Barber’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of volunteerism, transcending barriers and fostering connections that enrich the fabric of Toronto’s diverse community. She has become a catalyst for social justice within the community, living her life with purpose. In a city pulsating with energy and opportunity, Nancy’s impact extends far beyond the tangible results of her volunteer work. She embodies the spirit of compassion and empathy, reminding us of the profound difference that one individual can make in the lives of others, inspiring others to embrace the power of service and kindness.