Ontario Ancestors / The Ontario Genealogical Society (“The Society”) is committed to being an accessible organization that encourages, brings together and assists all those interested in the pursuit of family history without barriers for people with disabilities.

Ontario has laws that set standards for accessibility and The Society and its Branches and Special Interest Groups are working to comply with all applicable requirements under each of these standards. On this page, you will find a summary of The Society’s guiding accessibility principles. To find out more, you can read or download our full Accessibility Policy in pdf format, or request that a copy be sent to you by mail in regular or large print by e-mailing us at [email protected] or contacting The Society office by telephone or in person.

Communications

You may request communication with The Society by e-mail or TTY Relay Service if regular telephone communication is not suitable to your needs. Additional communication supports may be possible upon advance written request. Most of our forms, invoices, and other written materials about The Society are available in accessible formats (including HTML, large print etc.) on request at no extra cost. We will work with you to determine which methods of communication and which accessible formats are most suitable for your needs.

Assistive devices

You are welcome to use a personal assistive device when accessing The Society office or events. If an assistive device presents a significant and unavoidable health or safety concern or may not be permitted for other reasons, we will take other measures to ensure that you can access our goods, services or facilities.

Support persons and service animals

Support persons accompanying persons with disabilities to The Society office or events are welcome at no charge apart from the cost of any extra meals. Service animals are welcome on the parts of our premises that are open to the public.

Access to Society premises

The Society premises are currently located on the second floor of an office building without elevator access, and are not wheelchair accessible. If you use a wheelchair or other mobility aid and wish to visit The Society’s premises, please contact us in advance so that we may make satisfactory alternative arrangements. In the event of a temporary disruption in regular access to The Society’s office, we will post a physical notice at the front entrance to the office building, and an electronic notice will be posted on The Society’s website and distributed to members.

Feedback process

The Society welcomes feedback on how we are meeting your accessibility needs and suggestions on how we may improve our services. Please address your accessibility questions or comments to [email protected] You may also contact us by telephone or regular mail. We will respond within seven (7) business days.