Council Recognizes Ability Hive Founders with Citizen Recognition Award

At last night’s Council meeting, Council presented a Citizen Recognition Award to Josée Martel and Kim Vincent, residents of Embrun and founders of Ability Hive. The nomination was endorsed by the Township’s Accessibility Advisory Committee in recognition of their leadership and contributions to accessibility and inclusion in the community.

Launched in 2023, Ability Hive is a local company dedicated to offering sensory and therapeutic tools for autistic individuals, people with special needs, and those with disabilities.  The company’s mission is to enrich lives through specialized products, raise awareness of disability issues, and give back to the community.

From the beginning, Josée and Kim committed to donating 2 percent of sales from Ability Hive products to support local initiatives and non‑profit organizations serving the autism and developmental disability communities. To date, Ability Hive has donated more than $16,000 to Township‑based organizations, including Barry Poppins, Quick Start Autism, Valoris, and others.

In the same year the company launched, they organized the Township’s first accessible Halloween Trick‑or‑Treat event in Embrun. The event provided the special needs and disabled community a safe, fully accessible curb‑side experience, supported by community volunteers and the Township of Russell. Due to its success, the event has become an annual tradition.

In 2024, they also organized the Township’s first Sensory Santa event, offering a calm and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy meeting Santa and the holiday season. This event was another successful partnership with local residents and the Township of Russell.

Ability Hive operates an online store at www.abilityhive.ca that improves access to specialized products and services. Its website also features “The Big Impact Blog,” a resource hub for parents and caregivers of children with special needs. Most recently, they announced they will be opening of their first official store this summer at St-Laurent Boulevard and Belfast Road in Ottawa!

These services and inclusive community initiatives were not available in the Township of Russell prior to 2023. Through their leadership and dedication, Josée Martel and Kim Vincent have made a lasting and meaningful impact on local families.

We thank Josée Martel and Kim Vincent for their ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive community. With the support of the Accessibility Advisory Committee, this recognition highlights the importance of initiatives that improve access and quality of life for residents of all abilities.

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If you know a dedicated community member, or someone celebrating a milestone anniversary, submit a nomination! Requests and nominations are accepted year-round by contacting our Communication Department at comms@russell.ca.

As part of the Citizen Recognition Program, we offer:

• Certificate from the Mayor for Special Anniversaries/Events
• Community Award for Dedicated Citizens
• Key to the Township for National/Global Ambassadors

Learn more about our Awards and Recognition Program.