ABEL Enterprises is celebrating a $140,700 Grow Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to expand its volunteer-driven social enterprise that supports people living with disabilities, mental illness, and addictions.
The announcement was made during ABEL’s 42nd Annual Meeting last Friday (August 22), where the organization also unveiled its new events trailer. Guests and speakers toured the trailer in the parking lot after the announcement, seeing firsthand how it will be used to promote ABEL’s mission at community events.
In attendance were ABEL members, staff, board, and volunteers, along with George Santos representing OTF, Danielle Kershaw on behalf of MPP Bobbi Ann Brady and Councillor Alan Duthie and Councillor Doug Brunton.
“This OTF Grow grant will go a long way to giving people confidence and helping them follow positive paths,” said Brady.
So far, 70 members have connected with 27 new volunteers through this peer-led initiative. ABEL’s model fosters social connection, entrepreneurial skills, and job readiness while creating lasting benefits for the Norfolk community.
Written by Jeremy Hall