Geoffrey Ewert

CEO, Garth Homer Society

Beyond Barriers: Inclusive Volunteering

with Adults with Disabilities

This session focuses on tapping into the valuable talent pool of adults with disabilities for volunteer-driven organizations. We'll explore how these individuals make immense community contributions, drawing insights from the successful Garth Homer Society volunteer program. Learn practical strategies for finding and recruiting this talented group, along with simple accommodations to ensure inclusive participation. Discover the powerful benefits of a truly diverse volunteer base, including enhanced innovation and stronger community ties. This session offers a clear path to transforming your volunteer program through inclusivity.


Key Takeaways:


  • Recognize the value and skills adults with disabilities bring to volunteer roles.
  • Learn practical strategies for recruiting volunteers from disability communities.
  • Understand effective and often simple accommodations for inclusive participation.
  • Discover how diversity strengthens organizations and community connections.

About Geoffrey

Geoffrey assumed the role of CEO in September 2021. Prior to this, he was hired as Manager, LifeStreams Learning in March 2017, and then Director of Learning and Employment Services in April 2018. Before joining the Garth Homer Society, Geoffrey enjoyed a 20 year career in the performing arts working in theatre, film, television, and radio. In addition to his own work in the performing arts, Geoffrey has worked with several organizations to develop and integrate arts-based strategies and pedagogies in schools, art centres, theatre companies, and other community-based organizations such as the Calgary Centre for the Arts (Director of Education and Community Engagement), Sage Theatre (Artistic Associate/Festival Director), and Renfrew Educational Services (Consultant, Arts-Learning strategies), along with several post-secondary teaching positions. 


Throughout his career, Geoffrey has used the arts to engage people with developmental disabilities, which has paved the road that led him to the Garth Homer Society in 2015. He moved to Victoria in 2012 with his wife and son from London, UK where he and his wife completed their graduate studies, and now spends his free time exploring beautiful Vancouver Island with his family.