The Whitby Autism Fun Fair scheduled for September 12 at the Abilities Centre has been postponed while organizers look for a new venue.
Lake Ridge Community Support Services said it chose to delay the event rather than move quickly to a location that might not meet the accessibility, sensory and safety requirements of the families it serves.
A replacement date and location have not yet been announced. Ticket holders, vendors and families should watch the organization’s event page for confirmed updates before making new plans.
More than 500 people had been expected
The fair was planned as a major community event and fundraiser for ABAforAll, an initiative that subsidizes Applied Behaviour Analysis programs for children, youth and adults with intellectual disabilities across Durham Region.
Organizers expected more than 500 attendees along with local vendors, performers and community partners. Lake Ridge Community Support Services said the Abilities Centre advised this week that it could no longer host the event.
The organization emphasized that a fully accessible and sensory-conscious setting is essential. Postponing the fair gives organizers time to confirm a venue that can provide the required accommodations rather than reducing the event’s accessibility.
Abilities Centre issues apology
The Abilities Centre apologized for the late change. In a statement linked from the event coverage, the centre said an unusual opportunity arose for the non-profit that affected its ability to host the fair.
Lake Ridge Community Support Services said it remains committed to holding the event once a suitable site is secured. No indication was given that the fair has been permanently cancelled.
Families should rely on direct updates from the organizer for the new date, venue, accessibility details and any information about tickets or registrations. A reposted or third-party event listing may still show the original September 12 schedule until calendars are updated.
Sources: Lake Ridge Community Support Services event page; Durham Radio News
