The Abilities Centre has always been the primary location for Special Olympic athletes to train in Durham Region.
Now, thanks to a five-year partnership – partially funded by a contribution from the Richmond Hill-based Four Oaks Foundation – Special Olympics Ontario will have its own permanent space in Whitby.
Special Olympics Ontario has long sought a lasting home in Durham where athletes can train and compete close to their communities, said CEO Cody Jansma, who noted that this investment “helps make that vision a reality,” providing athletes with ongoing access to quality training and competition facilities for years ahead.
“Strong Special Olympics communities are built when athletes have a place to belong, grow and compete year after year,” Jansma stated. “This partnership is about more than just securing space; it’s about establishing a sustainable home for Special Olympics in Durham Region and creating a model for strengthening community programming across Ontario. We’re extremely thankful to Abilities Centre and the Four Oaks Foundation for sharing this vision.”
The financial investment – the exact amount was not disclosed – will support essential upgrades at Abilities Centre, including enhancements to the Jim Flaherty Fieldhouse and its sports equipment.
The Abilities Centre will also provide space and programming for Special Olympics events and programs.
“Every athlete deserves the opportunity to challenge themselves, celebrate their achievements, and be part of a community that believes in them,” remarked Michael Cvitkovic, CEO of Abilities Centre. “We’re proud to partner with Special Olympics Ontario and help create something meaningful for athletes, coaches, and families in Durham Region that will last generations.”
This collaboration aims to establish Abilities Centre as the long-term home for Special Olympics programming in Durham Region, supporting various initiatives like youth fundamentals, a Unified Program working jointly with local school boards, rhythmic gymnastics activities, alongside provincial competitions such as basketball tournaments and women’s 3×3 basketball events.
Throughout this agreement period, both organizations are working towards several common goals, including:
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Eliminating barriers to regular training and competition spaces. Increasing opportunities for youth and adult athletes with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Creating a stable environment for provincial and regional competitions. Recruiting more volunteer coaches and officials for Special Olympics Ontario. Enhancing referral pathways with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations. Boosting athlete retention through dependable year-round programming.
The Abilities Centre will also offer discounted memberships to athletes from Durham Region who participate in Special Olympics along with their families. The partnership will be recognized through dedicated signage located in the facility’s main lobby.
This collaboration builds on Abilities Centre’s goal as an accessible facility that serves as a community hub while reflecting both organizations’ commitment to promoting inclusion, dignity, and belonging for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports.
“Having a real place we can call home means everything to our athletes, volunteers, and families,” said Donna Edwards from Greater Durham Special Olympics Community. “It provides our athletes with the stability they need to succeed while empowering our coaches and volunteers. It also allows us to welcome even more members into the Special Olympics family. This partnership brings much-needed stability and opportunities we’ve worked hard toward.”
Abilities Centre is an advanced facility located next door to Iroquois Park Sports Centre as well as Whitby GO station dedicated to improving life quality across all ages and abilities. Their mission is centered around rethinking accessibility while redefining how Canadians live work play together.
Matisse Hamel-Nelis from the facility shared with INSAUGA Canada that “Abilities Centre has proudly hosted special Olympic athletes along with coaches over many years,” adding that this partnership “formalizes our relationship” going forward.
“Together we’re making Abilities Centre the official home base for Special Olympics Ontario programs here in Durham Region.”
Mayor Elizabeth Roy of Whitby referred to the funding announcement as “fantastic news” for residents. “We’re really lucky that Whitby hosts Abilities Centre. This development enhances its leadership role within our community where everyone can participate fully.”
The partnership extends until 2031.
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