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June 20^th, 2017

Thank you for saying Count Me In!

Thank you for saying Count Me In!

I Choose Dignity’s 5th Annual Count Me In! March was a huge success.

On Thursday June 8th, 2017, more than 350 Waterloo Region residents marched in solidarity, claiming that their rightful place in a community where everyone belongs. This year’s march focused on being a disability pride event, and it certainly was!

Waterloo Regional Police Services Police Chief Bryan Larkin was a phenomenal Master of Ceremonies, and kept everyone in great spirits. With powerful and motivating speakers like Sam Forbes (Sam the Dancing Barista), Jeff Heer, Ryan McTavish and Sarah Bacon, the crowd was invigorated and inspired heading into the centrepiece of the event: the march.

Marching through Downtown Kitchener, this year’s disability pride march caught the eye of locals, all while highlighting our place in the community.

Back at Carl Zehr square, those in attendance were treated to delicious food from several DTK establishments. The Berlin, J& P Grocery, UNity Baking and Queen Street Commons all brought their A-Game, keeping event go-ers well fed.

Kids of all ages were delighted by Busy Bee’s face painting and balloon twisting, the KPL’s craft table, Jordan Comely’s carciatures, and Flashpoint Productions photo booth!

The event turned party when KW Glee’s Hit Parade hit the stage in the ultimate mashup with the Buddy Choir. Both vocal groups combined to sing Journey classic Don’t Stop Believing, bringing the crowd to their feet.

It was a super fun evening, and Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region is thrilled to have hosted this event through I Choose Dignity, an initiative of our Community Development team. So many families and community members came out in support, and celebrated our region’s great diversity!

A massive thank you to all of this year’s sponsors, volunteers and attendees for making the 5th Annual Count Me In! March one for the record books!

Want to relive the magic? Check out the event photos here.