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  Program Spotlight: Inclusive Recreation pilot programming launching this week! | |
Through our new Inclusive Recreation Program, we aim to lead in accessible, inclusive recreation by offering dynamic programs that encourage participation, build connections and create pathways into the broader community for children and youth.
We know inclusive and accessible recreation can be a gap for our community and the clients and families we serve. We’re excited to begin addressing this need, making the most of the amenities at Grandview Kids' Ajax Headquarters, The Jerry Coughlan Building, and partnering with community experts in inclusive recreation to support program delivery.
We are launching our first Inclusive Recreation Pilot Program in October, in partnership with Variety Village, a leading inclusive community hub for fitness, recreation and adaptive sports. For over 70 years, they have provided accessible programs for people of all ages and abilities.
You will find more information on the program and how to register below.
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Become a monthly donor
If you want to be part of our generous, forward-thinking group of donors to fund programs like this in the future, please consider making a one-time or recurring donation to Grandview Kids. Learn more about the impact you can make as a donor >
| | | Multi-Sport Program details | | |
Participants will have the opportunity to explore a variety of sports and activities, including Kin-Ball, volleyball, ringette and boccia, while getting active, building friendships and having fun. Team Grandview supervises this program, and Variety Village staff lead it. Parents must remain on-site during the program.

*ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, AT NOON*
Date: Tuesday evenings, starting October 13 to December 8 (9 sessions)
Time: Depends on your child or youth's age (see table below)
Location: The Jerry Coughlan Building (1461 Harwood Ave N, Ajax)
Cost: $250 per participant (to be paid at the time of registration)
| | | Groups | Time | Available spots | | Group 1: Ages 9 to 13 | 5 to 6 p.m. | 9 spots available | | Group 2: Ages 14 to 18 | 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. | 9 spots available | | | |
Children and youth who will be most successful in Grandview Kids' Inclusive Recreation programming:
- Can remain in a group environment for the duration of the program (the child or youth does not require frequent breaks outside the room or group, remains with the group without leaving, tolerates others in their space, etc.).
- Do not engage in behaviours that are harmful or dangerous to themselves or others.
- Have a reliable method of communicating their wants and needs.
- Demonstrate behaviours and use language that is respectful to themselves, peers and adults.
- Do not require individualized behaviour programming.
- Have experience managing and participating in other group environments with a similar staff-to-child ratio (one staff member to three children).
| | Registration opens on Friday, September 4, at noon! | Click the button below to learn more and register. Spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration opens on Friday, September 4, at noon. | | | Building belonging through family leadership | | |
Watch as Grandview Kids caregiver and Family Advisory Council member Christina shares her son Ethan’s journey of determination, resilience and strength. Christina uses her lived experience to support other families and give back to the community that has been such an important part of their journey. For Christina and her family, Grandview Kids has been a source of discovery, connection and belonging.
Read more on our blog >
Watch Christina's story in action >
| | Join our Youth Advisory Council! | | |
Embedding the voices of clients and their families is important to everything we do at Grandview Kids. We are proud and fortunate to capture feedback from youth clients and their siblings through our Youth Advisory Council (YAC), recognizing that these perspectives may differ but remain equally valuable as insights shared by adult caregivers.
We are currently seeking new members to join the YAC, beginning this Fall. If you or your child may be interested in this opportunity, please submit an online application by September 20.
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What is the YAC?
This motivated group of youth provides feedback to Grandview Kids on how to improve programs and services. They also plan, host and volunteer at events, earning valuable volunteer hours. The YAC plays a critical role in making Grandview Kids inclusive for all.

The YAC meets both virtually and in-person throughout the year. Every meeting offers a chance to socialize with other members. Meetings also include discussions to provide feedback on important topics to Grandview Kids. Members are supported to participate in meetings in ways meaningful and accessible to them.
| Grandview Kids' YAC and Family Engagement team at our Accessible Trick-or-Treat Event. | |
Who can apply?
Individuals who are comfortable sharing and reflecting on their lived experience as a Grandview Kids client, grad or sibling – who also want to make a difference to better support all Grandview families – should apply.
- Applicants can be a current or former (graduate) client.
- Applicants can be siblings of a client.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 12 and 25 years old.
How do you apply?
Fill out this online application form to share your background and interest in this opportunity.
What happens after you apply?
- The Family Engagement team will review applications.
- Individuals may be invited to interview for the positions.
- Recruitment considerations will be made to ensure the YAC reflects the diversity of clients, caregivers, programs and communities served by the organization. 
If you have questions about the YAC, application process or eligibility, please email familyengagement@grandviewkids.ca.
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Strategies from Grandview Kids clinicians
Nine tips to help your child transition back to school
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As summer ends and school approaches, our Social Work team recommends that it is time to start adjusting your child’s schedule to ensure a smoother transition from a relaxed summer routine to a more structured one.
“Starting school can be a very emotional experience for both parent and child. This can be even more difficult, depending on the child’s behaviours,” says the Grandview Kids Social Work team. “One way that parents can help ease this transition is to prepare themselves and their child for this next stage.”
To support your family's transition from a summer to school schedule, Grandview Kids' team of social workers share several helpful tips on our blog. Click the button below to read the nine helpful tips from our Social Work team.
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Back-to-school season is here! What’s on your bookshelf?
Our book A Place Where Everyone Belongs is a great way to introduce and reflect on the concepts of belonging, inclusion and acceptance. It shows readers the different ways that people may move, communicate, play or learn. It is a beautiful message to spread as children and teens return to classrooms with their peers. Grandview Kids celebrates and supports these differences. It’s a place where everyone belongs.
Thoughtfully curated by the Family Engagement Team and supported through the generosity of Lyn Coughlan and her late husband, Jerry Coughlan, via donations, this book is available for purchase for $15 by debit or credit at the Grandview Kids Café in The Jerry Coughlan Building or to borrow through the Ajax Public Library.
For more information, please contact familyengagement@grandviewkids.ca.
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  | | Upcoming events in September | | |
Did you know? Our Family Engagement program is donor-funded.
Help us keep offering impactful events like the ones shared below by becoming a Grandview Kids donor today! Thank you for your generosity and support.
| | | Grandview Kids Carnival Day | | | | |
Join us for a fun-filled day at Grandview Kids as families explore the Family Engagement Program through interactive activities, including a park playdate, dance party, scavenger hunt along our fully accessible sensory trail, a sensory-friendly quiet room and cool treats.
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: The Jerry Coughlan Building (Ajax HQ), 1461 Harwood Ave N, Ajax, ON, L1T0R3
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Adult Legal Guardianship Workshop
Join us for an educational and fun evening to learn about Adult Legal Guardianship. This virtual workshop, led by TBH Legal, provides caregivers with an opportunity to learn about adult legal guardianship for their youth. Registration is required.
Click here to register >.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2026
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Virtual (meeting link will be shared with registrants a few days before the workshop)
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Jurassic-themed Fun & Dance
Get ready to roar, explore and dance the night away at our Jurassic-themed Fun & Dance, a fun-filled evening for youth, ages 15 to 21! Join us for an unforgettable night of music, dancing, games, delicious snacks and plenty of laughs.
Click here to register >
Date: Monday, September 21, 2026
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: The Jerry Coughlan Building (Ajax HQ), 1461 Harwood Ave N, Ajax, ON, L1T0R3
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September Caregiver Café
This is a relaxed, welcoming space for caregivers to connect with one another, share experiences and take a moment to recharge alongside others who understand. This month, we’ll chat about ways to support kids throughout the school year and make the experience smoother and more positive for everyone.
Click here to register >
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: The Jerry Coughlan Building (Ajax HQ), 1461 Harwood Ave N, Ajax, ON, L1T0R3
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Online Youth Hangout: Adolescent Transition Program
Our virtual hangout is a great opportunity for participants in the Adolescent Transition Program to connect with their peers, have fun and engage socially, all from the comfort of home.
Registration is limited, so act fast!
Click here to register >
Date: Monday, September 28, 2026
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Location: Virtual (meeting link will be shared with registrants a few days before the workshop)
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These events are only the start!
View the Calendar on our website to see all the events, workshops and purchased services we host each month. This month, we’re hosting seven free events for Grandview Kids clients and caregivers.
Hover over each event to learn more and click a link to register (if applicable). Check this page regularly to stay on top of all our exciting activities at Grandview Kids!
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  | | Development at Grandview Kids | | |
Grandview Kids is a registered charity. We rely on community support to help fund programs, services, equipment and family supports not fully covered by government funding. Our Development Department works with donors, sponsors, community partners, foundations and event participants to raise funds that enhance care and create opportunities for children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs across Durham Region.

As demand for services continues to grow, community generosity is essential to help us reach our fundraising goals and ensure children, youth and families receive the support they need. To learn about our fundraising priorities and impact, please view our Case for Support Summary.
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Community Corner
Fundraisers supporting Grandview Kids this month
Community fundraisers build awareness and foster a shared sense of purpose. By organizing or supporting a Grandview Kids fundraiser, you make a meaningful difference in the lives of Durham Region families.
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Durham Fashion Week
Sunday, September 13, at Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax
Durham Fashion Week (DFW) is Durham Region's leading fashion event, uniting emerging and established designers on one iconic runway. Join us as we celebrate creativity, diversity and the future of fashion. Proceeds support Grandview Kids, helping to make a meaningful difference for children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs. More information and tickets are available here.
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Durham Region Transportation Association Golf Tournament
Tuesday, September 29, at Deer Creek Golf Club in Ajax
The Durham Region Transportation Association (DRTA) annual golf tournament will be held at Deer Creek Golf Club on Tuesday, September 29. Lunch is at noon, with the shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. Join the DRTA for what promises to be a fun day out on the course as we head into fall. Learn more about the event and DRTA by visiting their website.
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6th Annual Hot Dog Halloween Fundraiser
Saturday, October 31
BOO! It’s scary to think, but Halloween is around the corner! If you’re in the Liberty/Longworth area of Bowmanville, please consider stopping by the sixth annual Hot Dog Halloween Fundraiser in support of Grandview Kids.
The Hot Dog Halloween fundraiser takes place on Halloween night. While you and your family are out trick-or-treating, stop by and pick up a hot dog (vegetarian options available) and a non-alcoholic drink. A suggested donation of $3 per hot dog is appreciated, and all proceeds will be donated to Grandview Kids.
If you would like more information on the exact location of the fundraiser, please contact development@grandviewkids.ca.
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In September, Ajax Public Library plans many engaging activities, including:
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Family Storytime on Saturday, September 12. Drop in from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ajax Public Library Grandview Kids Express Branch.
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Sensory Storytime on Thursday, September 20 and 24. Drop in from 10 to 10:30 a.m. at the Ajax Public Library Grandview Kids Express Branch.
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Design a Bookmark Contest from Tuesday, September 8 to Monday, October 5. Open to Ajax kids in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8.
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Repair Café on Saturday, September 18 at the Ajax Main Branch. Bring a broken item that needs a repair, and the volunteers will do their best to fix it!
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Honouring Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, September 28. Join bestselling author Monique Gray Smith as she shares her personal journey of truth and reconciliation. The event takes place Monday, September 28, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Ajax Main Branch or virtually via Zoom.

For a complete listing of Ajax Public Library-hosted programs and services in September, visit: ajaxlibrary.ca.
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Play and Learn Kits created in collaboration with Grandview Kids!
Play and Learn Kits help develop fine motor, tactile and awareness skills.
Borrow one today with your Ajax Public Library card.
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Durham Regional Police Service Children's Games
Registration is now open for the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Children’s Games!
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Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
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Time: In-person registration begins at 9:30 a.m.
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Location: Durham College, 2000 Simcoe St N, Oshawa
Click here to register >
About the Games
The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Children’s Games is a fun, inclusive and empowering event for children and youth ages 5 to 18 with physical disabilities. The Games bring families from across Durham Region and the GTA together for a variety of adapted, participation-based activities such as basketball, wheelchair rugby, parachute games and more.
Children receive a team T-shirt, connect with peers, police members and community volunteers, and enjoy a supportive environment designed to celebrate ability, build confidence and foster friendships. All activities are adapted to ensure every participant can engage fully.
The event also includes a family lunch and ends with a medal ceremony, recognizing every athlete’s participation. Athletes who demonstrate outstanding enthusiasm and sportsmanship are honoured with the "Laura Zutell Spirit Award."
Click here to learn more >
| | September Dates of Significance | | Every month, members of Team Grandview’s Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee research and share blog posts about holidays, cultural celebrations, awareness days and other dates of significance that are meaningful to staff, clients, caregivers, partners and the community. | | |
This September, we acknowledge Craniofacial Acceptance Month, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, World Duchenne Day, World Suicide Prevention Day, Ganesh Chaturthi, Yom Kippur, International Day of Sign Language, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and more.

Read more on our blog >
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Message from the CEO
I hope you have enjoyed a wonderful summer and had the opportunity to create special memories with your loved ones. It is hard to believe how quickly the season has passed. The past few months have been full of exciting moments at Grandview Kids and in my personal life.
Our younger daughters, both in their mid-twenties, are Special Olympics athletes. In August, we travelled with them to the National Summer Games in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where their team won gold in women’s soccer! It was a proud moment for our family and for our community. The games were everything we aspire to for our children: recognition, acceptance, celebration and an opportunity to be the best they can be. I never fail to tear up when I hear the oath that athletes recite at these events: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
As we prepare for September and the back-to-school season, I know firsthand, as a parent, that this transition can bring a mix of emotions. As your family gets ready for the new school year, I hope you take a moment to read the nine tips from our Social Work team to support your child’s transition back to school. These practical strategies can help make the transition from summer routines to school schedules smoother and more manageable.
I also want to note that this week marks the launch of our Inclusive Recreation pilot program. Our first offering, a Multi-Sport Program, will be delivered in partnership with Variety Village. Our goal is to create fun, inclusive recreation opportunities that help our children and youth take part, make connections and feel supported in their community. With limited spaces available in the first program, I encourage you to register as soon as registration opens at noon on Friday, September 4.
September also brings many opportunities for families to connect, learn and have fun together. Our Family Engagement team has lots of fun events lined up, including the Grandview Kids Carnival Day, Jurassic Fun and Dance and the Adult Legal Guardianship Workshop. Be sure to visit the events calendar on our website for upcoming programs, workshops and events.
I wish you and your family a wonderful start to the school year.
Sincerely,
Tom McHugh
CEO, Grandview Kids
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Content in Gather is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor. Views expressed in posts and resources listed do not signify endorsement by Grandview Kids.
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