We Advocate

Gordon & Annie VanderLeek
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We Advocate is a podcast about empowerment, advocacy, and understanding the systems that affect Albertans with disabilities. Hosted by Gordon VanderLeek, a Calgary wills and estates lawyer, and Annie VanderLeek, a disability advocate, the show explores the intersection of law, policy, and lived experience for people with disabilities and their families. Each episode breaks down complex topics — from AISH and the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) to support programs both provincial and federal, guardianship & trusteeship for those with disabilities, issues on capacity, and general planning opportunities— in plain language that helps listeners make sense of their rights and options. With insight, empathy, and a dash of candid conversation, Gordon and Annie share their experiences from both sides of the advocacy table — legal and personal — helping listeners stay informed, prepared, and empowered to navigate life with confidence. If you care about disability rights, inclusion, legal issues and social policy reform in Alberta and beyond, We Advocate is your trusted voice for clarity and change.

  1. 6D AGO

    013. Why Alberta Needs Strong Accessibility Legislation

    Episode Summary: In this episode of We Advocate, Gordon and Annie welcome Michelle Christensen and Sam Mason for an important conversation about accessibility, systemic barriers, and why Alberta urgently needs strong, effective accessibility legislation. While disability policy is often discussed in terms of income supports or services, this episode zooms out and asks a broader question: What kind of society are we building if people with disabilities still face preventable barriers in work, transportation, communication, justice, housing, and everyday life? Michelle and Sam bring years of advocacy experience to the discussion and help unpack why accessibility legislation is not just a legal issue, it’s a dignity issue, a participation issue, and a human rights issue. Why this matters: Accessibility doesn’t just affect one narrow group of people. It affects: people with visible and invisible disabilitiesseniorsparents with strollerspeople recovering from injuryworkers, students, and volunteersanyone who needs systems, spaces, and services to function wellThis episode highlights that accessibility is not only about ramps and parking stalls. It’s about whether people can fully participate in society without constantly being forced to advocate for basic inclusion after the harm has already happened. Alberta remains one of the only provinces in Canada without accessibility legislation. That matters. Key Takeaways: Accessibility legislation is about prevention, not just reacting after discrimination happensAccessibility affects far more people than many realizeAlberta’s current approach is fragmented and inconsistentBusinesses and institutions often are not trying to exclude people, they simply don’t know how to remove barriersAccessibility legislation could create consistency, accountability, and better long-term outcomesA more accessible Alberta would mean more dignity, participation, and opportunity for everyoneThe disability community must be included in the design of these systems, not consulted after the factMemorable lines: “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We just need to bring the wheel here.” “The harm is already done by the time someone reaches the human rights process.” “As a society, we should be judged by how fully we include people.” Resources & Links: Barrier Free Alberta Learn more, sign up as a supporter, and explore their campaign:  https://barrierfreeab.ca Disability Advocates More information and podcast episodes:  https://disabilityadvocates.ca

    47 min

  2. FEB 18

    012. Reimagining Disability Supports in Alberta: What Does Real Reform Look Like?

    Episode Summary: In this solo episode, Gordon VanderLeek steps back from reacting to policy changes and instead asks a bigger question: If we could redesign Alberta’s disability support system from scratch, what would real reform look like? With the introduction of the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), ongoing concerns about AISH, and limited consultation with the disability community, this episode explores what meaningful change could be, not just administrative adjustments, but structural reform grounded in dignity, stability, and inclusion. Why this matters: Disability supports affect: Over 79,000 Albertans currently on AISHCountless caregivers and familiesSupport workers and community agenciesEmployers seeking inclusive workplacesThe long-term dignity and economic stability of disabled AlbertansReform is not about political positioning, it’s about ensuring people can live with dignity, security, and opportunity. Key Takeaways: AISH currently provides subsistence-level support that does not keep pace with real cost-of-living increases.Indexing benefits to inflation should be automatic and legislated, not discretionary.The $100,000 asset limit has never been adjusted and no longer reflects economic reality.Clawbacks, especially of the $200 Canada Disability Benefit, undermine financial stability.Families are forced into roles as case managers navigating fragmented systems.Disability support workers are underpaid, leading to burnout and workforce instability.Employment should increase quality of life, not create fear of losing benefits.Alberta lacks accessibility legislation, unlike several other provinces.Real reform must involve co-design with the disability community: Nothing about us without us.Memorable lines: “Can we get beyond a system of barely getting by?” “Work should increase quality of life. It shouldn’t threaten survival.” “As a society, we’re judged by how fully we include and support people.” Resources & Links: Disability Advocates Website:  https://www.disabilityadvocates.ca AISH Program Information:  https://www.alberta.ca/aish Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) Overview:  https://www.alberta.ca Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD): https://www.alberta.ca/persons-with-developmental-disabilities-pdd FSCD (Family Support for Children with Disabilities):  https://www.alberta.ca/fscd

    35 min

  3. JAN 28

    011. The Disability Tax Credit (Part 2): Why It’s a Gateway Benefit

    Episode Summary: In Part 2 of our Disability Tax Credit series, we move beyond eligibility and focus on why the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) matters so much - not just for taxes, but as a gateway to critical federal supports. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, we recommend starting there to understand who qualifies and how the application works. This episode builds on that foundation and explores how DTC eligibility unlocks financial supports, long-term planning tools, and protections that many families rely on. Why this matters: The Disability Tax Credit is often misunderstood as a modest tax break. In reality, it is a key that opens the door to multiple federal programs that can significantly impact financial security, estate planning, and long-term care for people with disabilities. Without DTC eligibility: Families may lose access to federal benefitsLong-term savings tools may be unavailableTrusts may be taxed at the highest possible rateCaregivers may face unnecessary financial strainThis episode explains how missing the DTC can quietly limit supports, even when someone clearly lives with a long-term disability. Key Takeaways: The Disability Tax Credit is a gateway benefit, not just a tax measureEligibility for the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) requires DTC approvalAn approved DTC is required to open a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)RDSPs can include up to $70,000 in grants and $20,000 in bonds over timeWithout a DTC, disability trusts are taxed at the top marginal rateWith a DTC, certain trusts may qualify as Qualified Disability Trusts (QDTs) and be taxed at lower ratesApproval letters must be read carefully, some DTCs expire and require renewalA denial does not mean the end: reapplications, reviews, and appeals are possibleStrong applications rely on storytelling, documentation, and functional evidence, not just checkboxesMemorable lines: “The Disability Tax Credit isn’t just about taxes, it opens doors to everything else.” “It’s not filling out a form. It’s telling a story.” “Without the DTC, families can lose access to supports they didn’t even know existed.” Resources & Links: Factsheet: Applying for the disability tax credit (DTC) https://www.canada.ca/en/services/taxes/income-tax/personal-income-tax/help-others/outreach/outreach-materials-print-share/factsheet-applying-disability-tax-credit-dtc.html Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP): https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/disability/savings.html Canada Disability Benefit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/disability/canada-disability-benefit.html

    29 min

  4. JAN 14

    010. The Disability Tax Credit (Part 1): What It Is, Who Qualifies, and Why It Matters

    Episode Summary: In this episode of We Advocate, Gordon and Annie VanderLeek unpack one of the most misunderstood, and increasingly important, disability supports in Canada: the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Often dismissed as “just a small tax break,” the DTC is actually a gateway benefit that unlocks access to other critical federal and provincial programs. With upcoming changes to Alberta disability supports and the introduction of the Canada Disability Benefit, understanding the DTC has never been more important. This episode provides a practical, plain-language overview of how the Disability Tax Credit works, who qualifies, and why families should prioritize applying, even if there is little or no immediate tax benefit. Why this matters: Clears up harmful myths about who qualifiesExplains the real value of the DTC beyond taxesHelps families avoid missed opportunities and unnecessary stressEncourages proactive planning instead of crisis-driven applicationsKey Takeaways: The Disability Tax Credit is a gateway benefit, not just a tax breakYou can qualify even if you pay little or no taxEligibility is based on functional limitations, not diagnosesMental health and cognitive impairments now have clearer pathways to approvalThere are four eligibility routes, not just oneThe application requires accurate, honest storytelling, not optimismStrong documentation and record-keeping can make or break an applicationHaving the DTC in place protects future access to:RDSPsCanada Disability BenefitLong-term estate and caregiving plansMemorable lines: “The Disability Tax Credit isn’t about the tax, it’s about what it unlocks.” “If you wait until you need the Disability Tax Credit, you’re already behind.” “CRA isn’t asking what your diagnosis is, they’re asking how you live your life.” Resources & Links: Canada Revenue Agency – Disability Tax Credit Overview https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/segments/tax-credits-deductions-persons-disabilities/disability-tax-credit.html Disability Tax Credit Application (Form T2201) https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/forms-publications/forms/t2201.html Canada Disability Benefit (Federal Program Info) https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/disabilities-benefits.html Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/disability/savings.html Alberta Disability Supports (AISH / ADAP context) https://www.alberta.ca/aish.aspx

    27 min

  5. 12/31/2025

    009. Looking Back at 2025 And What Comes Next for Disability Supports in Alberta

    Episode Summary: In this reflective year-end episode, Gordon and Annie look back on a tumultuous year for Alberta’s disability community and look ahead to what 2026 may bring. What began as conversations around Bill 12 and proposed changes to AISH has evolved into a year marked by uncertainty, fear, increased workload for families, and a growing sense of distrust between the disability community and government decision-makers. This episode isn’t just about policy, it’s about people, lived experience, and the emotional toll of navigating constant change without clear answers. Why this matters: Disability policy doesn’t exist in a vacuum, it affects real lives every dayUncertainty can be just as damaging as cutsFamilies deserve clarity, respect, and a seat at the tableAdvocacy doesn’t stop when legislation passes Key Takeaways: 2025 was marked by uncertainty, not clarity, for people relying on disability supportsBill 12 has passed, but critical details remain unknownRegulations not legislation will determine real-world impactFamilies and caregivers are facing increased workload and emotional strainRepeatedly “proving disability” is dehumanizing and exhaustingGovernment messaging often does not reflect lived realityAdvocacy must continue after legislation passesPersonal stories are one of the most powerful tools for change Memorable lines: “It wasn’t just the change it was the uncertainty around how it would be implemented.” “Stories make us real. They remind government that we’re not numbers.” “Even if we can’t control the outcome, we still have a responsibility to speak.” Resources & Links: AISH Program Overview (Government of Alberta) https://www.alberta.ca/aish Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) – General Information https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program Bill 12 – Alberta Legislature https://www.assembly.ab.ca/assembly-business/bills/bills-by-legislature Disability Advocates – VanderLeek Law https://disabilityadvocates.ca Find and Contact Your MLA https://www.assembly.ab.ca/members/members-of-the-legislative-assembly

    45 min

  6. 12/17/2025

    008. Myth-Busting AISH: Is It Really “Easy to Get”?

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Gordon and Annie tackle one of the most persistent and most harmful myths about the Alberta Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program: “AISH is easy to get.” Spoiler: It’s not. This conversation breaks down the reality of the AISH eligibility process, the misconceptions driving public commentary, and the lived experience of families who navigate the system every day. With major changes coming in 2026 through the proposed ADAP program, understanding the foundations of AISH, what it requires, why people struggle, and how the process really works, is more important than ever. Why this matters: Misinformation hurts disabled Albertans.Families need to know the truth so they can advocate effectively.AISH is already difficult and changes may make it even harder.Public narrative shapes legislation.Understanding the real barriers helps reduce stigma and increase empathy.Key Takeaways: 1. AISH is not easy to get — or to keep. Despite public claims, AISH has strict medical, financial, and eligibility requirements. Many applicants are denied, and current recipients undergo ongoing reviews. 2. The medical criteria are rigorous and often misunderstood. A disability must be severe, permanent, and must prevent the ability to earn a livelihood. Even small wording choices on medical forms can result in rejection. 3. Doctors aren’t always equipped to complete the form accurately. Psychologists can't submit the medical portion, even if they know the client best. Many family doctors don’t know the applicant well enough, creating gaps in documentation. 4. Family support can unintentionally mask the severity of a disability. Applicants often appear more capable than they are because their family provides ongoing structure, prompting, and daily support making it essential to describe functioning without that help. 5. AISH’s financial rules are strict and complex. An applicant must: Have less than $100,000 in non-exempt assetsMeet income limitsBe 18–65Be an Alberta residentBe a Canadian citizen or permanent resident  Any change in income, assets, or living situation must be reported.Memorable Lines: “AISH isn’t easy to get. It’s hard to get on, and it’s hard to stay on.” “People appear more capable because their families work tirelessly behind the scenes.” “If AISH were truly easy, we wouldn’t see the number of rejections and clawbacks that we do.” Resources & Links: AISH Program Overview (Government of Alberta) https://www.alberta.ca/aish AISH Policy Manual https://www.alberta.ca/aish-policy-manual AISH Application Forms https://www.alberta.ca/aish-how-to-apply

    30 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    007. Bill 12 – What It Really Means for AISH & ADAP

    Episode Summary: In this episode of We Advocate, Gordon and Annie unpack Bill 12 – the biggest change to AISH in over 20 years. They walk through what the Bill actually does, why it’s so concerning for people with disabilities and their families, and what we still don’t know because so much is being left to regulations behind closed doors. If you (or someone you love) relies on AISH, this is a must-listen. Why this matters: Financial security is on the line - For many disabled Albertans, AISH is the difference between “barely scraping by” and homelessness. A $200/month cut and no guaranteed indexation is not abstract – it’s food, rent, meds, and transportation.The rules can change quietly later - Because so much is being moved into regulations, the government can tighten eligibility or reduce protections without the same level of public debate or media coverage.People with disabilities are being asked to carry all the risk - The people with the least margin – and often the least capacity to navigate complex systems – are being asked to live with maximum uncertainty.Precedent for how Alberta treats disabled people - This isn’t just about one program. It’s about what Alberta is signalling about the value placed on disabled people and their right to a stable, dignified income.Key Takeaways: What Bill 12 actually does Rewrites the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped ActCreates a two-tier structure: AISH vs ADAPTies eligibility explicitly to employment and “ability to work”The two-tier system: AISH vs ADAP AISH: for those whose disability permanently prevents employmentADAP: for those whose disability substantially impedes employmentThe wording sounds simple, but how it will be interpreted is completely unclear.Automatic transfer of current AISH recipients Around 80,000 people on AISH will be automatically moved to ADAP as of July 1, 2026The ADAP rate is $200/month lower than AISHThere is no right to appeal the move itself – you can only try to prove you “belong” back on AISH afterward.Indexation & future benefit levels Bill 12 removes the automatic annual indexation that helped benefits keep pace (somewhat) with cost of livingAny future increases become discretionary and can be changed quietly by regulation, not debated openly in the Legislature.Memorable Lines: “Imagine your employer told you: we’re changing your job, paying you less, and we won’t tell you the rules yet. But trust us – it’s better for you. That’s what this feels like.” “AISH used to focus on whether you could support yourself. Now the language is all about employment – and that’s a very different lens.” “Every single person on AISH will be moved to ADAP first. There’s no appeal of that move. You only get to fight your way back afterward.” Resources & Links: Text of Bill 12 Search “Bill 12 2025 Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped Act” on the Alberta Queen’s Printer site: https://www.qp.alberta.ca Government information about AISH & ADAP General AISH program page (watch for ADAP updates): https://www.alberta.ca/aish VanderLeek Law ADAP / AISH summary Gordon’s firm has prepared a 4-page summary of the proposed changes. https://vanderleeklaw.ca/aish-adap

    35 min

  8. 12/03/2025

    006. Speaking Out on ADAP: A Conversation with MLA Marie Renaud & Advocate Zachary Weeks

    Episode Summary: In this episode of We Advocate, Gordon and Annie sit down with two powerful voices in Alberta’s disability community: MLA Marie Renaud (St. Albert, Opposition Shadow Minister for Community & Social Services) and disability advocate Zachary Weeks. Together, they unpack what’s happening behind the scenes with the proposed Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), from the lack of meaningful consultation to fears about reduced benefits, reassessments, and the real-world impact on people who rely on AISH. Marie offers an insider’s view of how legislation actually moves through the Alberta Legislature (and how that process is being shortened and constrained), while Zachary shares what he’s hearing directly from disabled Albertans: fear, anxiety, and a growing sense that they are being pushed further into poverty and blamed for needing support. This is a grounded, honest conversation about policy, power, and people - and what all of us can do next. Why this matters: This isn’t abstract policy — it’s rent, food, and medication.It sets the tone for how Alberta treats disabled people.The process signals how other systems may be changed.Families and caregivers are being pushed to the breaking point.Silence will be read as consent. Key Takeaways: ADAP is coming — but the rules aren’t clear. The government has announced the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) to “replace” or sit alongside AISH, but so far we have only a discussion paper and vague timelines, not full legislation or detailed regulations.Democratic process is being squeezed. Marie explains that debates in the Legislature are often shortened or pushed through multiple stages in a single day, meaning fewer MLAs get to speak and big changes can pass with minimal scrutiny.People with disabilities are being left out of the design.There has been no meaningful consultation with the disability community, front-line advocates, or opposition MLAs on how ADAP should work — despite it fundamentally changing financial supports for ~80,000 people on AISH.Fear and anxiety are sky-high.Disabled Albertans are worried about: Mass reassessments of AISH recipientsBeing judged on a simplistic idea of “ability to work”Losing benefits or being pushed onto a lower-benefit tier with no clear appeal pathThe employment promise doesn’t match reality.Government messaging suggests ADAP will “empower” people to work, but: There is no robust infrastructure to support disabled workersEmployers aren’t being meaningfully prepared or educatedEven non-disabled Albertans are struggling to find stable, livable-wage workMemorable Lines: “I’ve never seen this magnitude of change with so little information.” – Marie “They’re drafting programs and policies at a table where the very people affected aren’t even sitting.” – Zachary “We used to be proud that Alberta led the way on disability supports. Now we’re watching that pedestal crumble.” – Gordon Resources & Links: Government of Alberta – ADAP Discussion Guide  We Advocate – ADAP Summary Whitepaper (VanderLeek Law & Disability Advocates) Gordon’s 4-page plain-language summary of the ADAP changes, intended to help families, advocates, and even MLAs understand what’s coming.  Disability Advocate for Alberta – Contact Page Where individ

    47 min
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About

We Advocate is a podcast about empowerment, advocacy, and understanding the systems that affect Albertans with disabilities. Hosted by Gordon VanderLeek, a Calgary wills and estates lawyer, and Annie VanderLeek, a disability advocate, the show explores the intersection of law, policy, and lived experience for people with disabilities and their families. Each episode breaks down complex topics — from AISH and the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) to support programs both provincial and federal, guardianship & trusteeship for those with disabilities, issues on capacity, and general planning opportunities— in plain language that helps listeners make sense of their rights and options. With insight, empathy, and a dash of candid conversation, Gordon and Annie share their experiences from both sides of the advocacy table — legal and personal — helping listeners stay informed, prepared, and empowered to navigate life with confidence. If you care about disability rights, inclusion, legal issues and social policy reform in Alberta and beyond, We Advocate is your trusted voice for clarity and change.

Information

  • Creator
    Gordon & Annie VanderLeek
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 We Advocate
  • Show Website
    We Advocate