Volume 31 | JULY 2022
The Nature Prescription - 5 Proven Health Benefits of Nature
The Nature Prescription - 5 Proven Health Benefits of Nature
It’s the perfect time of year to submerge yourself in the outdoors; to feel the sun on your face and take in the scents of trees, grass, and flowers. Studies show that being out in nature has a positive effect on physical and mental health. It’s why more and more doctors look at nature as medication and why the next prescription you may receive is one that prescribes 20 minutes of green space a day. 
Caregiver 101
Caregiver 101
This free, self-directed e-learning module is for people new to caregiving. Whether you are caring for a family member or friend for a short time or for an indefinite period, this module will introduce you to the role, provide practical information on what to expect, the importance of caring for yourself and where you can find support.
The module takes less than 60 minutes to complete. You can complete it at a time convenient to you, starting and stopping as needed. Take the course here.

Other e-learning modules available:
I am a Caregiver Toolkit
I am a Caregiver Toolkit
Recently, OCO shared its I am a Caregiver toolkit in local newspapers across the province. The toolkit provides important information for caregivers on topics such as: building your support team, assessing your own well being, signs of caregiver burnout and where to find support. Thank you to those caregivers and care providers who reached out to share that the information was helpful and to request more copies. If you didn’t receive the toolkit, you can download your copy here.
Capacity Building Grants for Family Support Networks - Applications Open the Week of July 18!
Capacity Building Grants for Family Support Networks - Applications Open the Week of July 18
Family Support Networks (new and existing) and organizations who support them can apply for grant funding to help build, support, and strengthen the critical peer networks of families and unpaid caregivers that support adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario.  We want to make it easier for families and caregivers of people with developmental disabilities to find peer to peer support in their community, share information, and build connections for their own well-being and the people they care for. Please share with organizations who may be interested.
Mark Your Calendar
Discover the Healing Power of Journal Writing
Thu, July 21st, 2022
12 – 1 p.m. ET

Journal writing can be a form of self-care for caregivers at any stage of their caregiving journey. Donna Fitzgerald, a former caregiver, explains how journaling can enlighten and enrich our purpose and meaning. You will have a chance to practice journaling during this session, so have your pen and paper ready! Two winners will be chosen from a random draw of entries to win Donna’s journaling workbook. Details of the draw will be provided during the webinar.

Take a Breath! Tips from a Caregiver Coach
Thursday, August 11th, 2022
12 – 1p.m. ET

Caregiving is complicated. Knowing where to turn and how to care for yourself can be overwhelming. Caregiver coaches get it – they have real-life experience, tips, and tools to help you. Discover helpful OCO tools and resources, try some practical self-help activities, and learn how to create a self-care plan.

The SCALE Program Returns this Fall
The SCALE Program (Supporting Caregiver Awareness, Learning and Empowerment) aims to empower caregivers with practical information and skills to focus on their mental health and well-being. It offers weekly webinars, free and confidential online group and/or individual counselling. Registration will be open in August. Stay tuned for more information.

Session 1: Understanding the Emotional Experience of Caregiving
September 14th - October 4th, 2022

Session 2: Strategies for Caregiver Mental Health & Well-Being
October 12th – November 2nd, 2022
Missed a webinar?
We know caregivers are busy. That's why we record webinars so that you can watch them after the event, at a time that's convenient for you. 
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