Tribute Award for Service

By Patchen Barss 

Brendon Pooran is a fierce advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. He created PooranLaw to provide support to this community and to influence disability law and policy throughout Canada. He uses the law as a tool to advance equity and inclusion for people with disabilities. Brendon’s unique combination of legal expertise, integrity and empathy has provided many families with the knowledge and options they need to ensure their loved ones will have the care, financial security, and quality of life they deserve.   

As a public speaker, he provides families, people, and nonprofit organizations with accessible, jargon-free explanations of their rights and responsibilities. Among his significant contributions to families in Ontario has been his championing of Microboards. He was a founding director and Chair of Microboards Ontario. A Microboard is a small group of family members and/or trusted friends who join with a person who has a developmental disability to create a legal not-for-profit corporation, which supports the person in making decisions that help them enjoy a full and meaningful life. Brendon was also a founding director, advisor, and supporter of what is today Partners for Planning.     

Brendon is sought out by governments, community leaders and legal entities for his expertise and innovative approaches to law reform in the areas of legal capacity, human rights, income security, and inclusive housing options, to name a few. He has also been a strong voice to encourage the province for policies that would allow more people with developmental disabilities to benefit from and have greater options for Registered Disability Savings Programs. As one of 12 experts who advises the CRA’s Disability Advisory Committee, Brendon continued to provide expert advice on tax measures for persons with disabilities.   

He is a committed advocate for people with developmental disabilities and their families who are trying to secure a future that draws on the support of those they know and trust. Brendon’s advocacy supports opportunities that reinforce and uphold a person’s dignity, agency, and their individual and human rights.