On June 21, Children’s Treatment Network (CTN) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), ‘Better Together’ virtually and in person. 

The Honourable Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, joined us at the event and shared kind remarks about CTN. Former CTN client and advocate, Nathan Gaba shared his journey toward self-acceptance, overcoming internalized ableism and combating misconceptions affecting people living with disabilities. Hear more about Nathan’s Story. 

CTN also announced the release of the 2022-2023 Annual Report. Be sure to watch CTN’s year-in-review video shared at the AGM and view the amazing family stories such as Neil’s Story and Stephanee’s Story, which demonstrates our positive impact on the kids, youth and families we serve. 

Although not officially recognized by the Canadian government (yet), it is a response and counteraction against ableism and social stigma. This movement started in the United States and is quickly growing into a global initiative for the empowerment and visibility of those with disabilities.

Neil’s mother, Leah, is a CTN parent volunteer and regularly shares her family’s experience as it relates to her son Neil living with CLN2 Batten Disease. In this article, Leah shares her family’s tips for having a great day at Canada’s Wonderland with someone who is a wheelchair user.

The Centre for Dreams in Markham is launching a new evening and weekend program called Youth Achieving Dreams (YAD). YAD is an in-person, skills-based program for youth ages 13-18 living with an intellectual and/or developmental disability. The YAD program will implement a client-centred curriculum to teach valuable and relevant social, emotional and life skills that members can use in their daily lives.

Enjoy these great activities and events happening across York Region and Simcoe County, including outdoor concerts, festivals, farms, splash pads, drive-in movies, accessible trails and beaches and much more! Families can also borrow recreation equipment from CTN, like adapted bikes, beach wheelchairs, all-terrain chairs and more, be sure to check out the Equipment Loan Program.