Wall inlets are just one way that kids explore the welcoming space at KidsAbility Kitchener. | |
Hi Lisa
Along with the calendar changing to warmer—and longer—days, there are so many changes happening here at KidsAbility. If you follow us on social, you’ll know in December we opened our doors to our new Kitchener location, complete with a space theme that launches the impossible towards possible!
Overwhelmingly, families share how big, bright and welcoming the whole space is—from the reception spaces to the therapy rooms. Lots of our families have commented on the added space for toys and games to greet them, and I can’t tell you how many kids run right straight to the inlets/cubby holes in the wall with parents having a great time snapping pics of their little ones having fun!
Sharing stories of the lives you help empower is the very reason this e-news is called Connections. I have lots to share and I hope you enjoy catching up with me.
With gratitude,
Lisa Talbot,
Executive Director, KidsAbility Foundation
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A Peek Inside KidsAbility Kitchener... | | |
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Skylab
Material Prep Room
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Constellation
Welcome Area
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Meet Justin, Social Worker at KidsAbility
During March, we celebrate Social Work Week and our dedicated 18 social work professionals who support kids and their families to realize their full potential.
Like each social worker at KidsAbility, Justin's role involves understanding the unique complexities that come with having a child with disabilities. He provides tailored counselling support to help parents advocate for their child’s development, navigate complex systems to access services from community agencies, school and the health system, and better cope with stress, grief, loss and aloneness by connecting them with others who have shared experiences. He shares what he loves most about his work:
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"Looking back, I've always had an innate desire to help others.
I love the opportunity social work provides me to work alongside various families, empowering them to harness their strengths and explore unique solutions to the challenges that they may be facing. Every day is different and exciting in its own way."
Justin S.,
M.S.W. R.S.W. Social Worker
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With every gesture of support, your gift provides
the power to transform children's lives.
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Providing a childhood filled with play at KidsAbility Waterloo. | Thank you to those who contributed to our Come Play with Us project to support an inclusive, accessible playground for all abilities in our community. | |
Celebrating a loved
one with meaning
and purpose. | |
A deep appreciation to each of you who chose to make a gift to KidsAbility in the name of a special loved one.
You are a true friend
of KidsAbility.
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KidsAbility Kitchener,
a place filled with opportunities. | Thank you to those who funded the KidsAbility Kitchener: Reimagined project to support a space that strengthens families and fosters a sense of community and belonging. | | |
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“KidsAbility is amazing. I was so scared that my daughter Amberley wasn’t meeting her milestones, but her team challenges her with the best therapy possible, and we get tips to practice at home. Our older daughter Claire feels included, and she adores helping her little sister. I honestly don’t know where we’d be without our therapists and all the donors who support their work.” | Chantelle, mom and supporter of KidsAbility | | |
From turning a balancing therapy game into a future milestone, Amberley is a testament to the life-changing power of our services and programs. Please consider donating to KidsAbility to help other children like Amberley reach their full potential. Your support really does transform lives. | |
News from KidsAbility's Rocket Discovery Centre | | | |
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Launching research possibilities | Last year, we introduced you to Rocket Discovery Centre, an initiative funded in part by loyal donors like you that launches forward the bright ideas of our staff and explores ways we can provide breakthrough discoveries and life-changing interventions. | Today, we are excited to share how the appointment of Adjunct Scientist, Dr. Michelle Phoenix, will advance the work to imagine, innovate and introduce new and efficient pathways to deliver pediatric care. | | |
KidsAbility Plasma Car Races | |
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As a business/corporate team of 4 racers, you'll wiggle your way towards the finish line, competing with others for the coveting winning title. It's an extraordinary opportunity for team building, networking, and raising funds for kids!
Thursday, April 4
137 Glasgow St. Kitchener
Race: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. | Networking: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Presented by Miovision in support of KidsAbility.
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Ongoing Fundraisers for KidsAbility | |
Fundraising for KidsAbility throughout the year is a conscious decision for some local businesses, as it allows them to align their values of giving back to the community where they and their staff live, work and play. | |
Local makers of luxury bath and body products made of clean, simple ingredients. | Luxnglow will donate 20% of any online products purchased throughout the year, when you use promo code KIDS. The perfect gift for all occasions! | |
Grainharvest Bakehouse doesn't just make pretzels—they carefully craft each one by hand and bake them to twisted perfection.
| With an ongoing commitment to give back a portion from each purchase, they help support KidsAbility's greatest needs. | |
Fundraising Events for KidsAbility | |
The goodwill of individuals, businesses, and our community partners has always been our greatest strength. Take a look at these ways you can make a difference for kids! | |
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Is there a story you’d really like to hear? Other feedback you’d like to share?
If so, simply email me. I welcome your thoughts and ideas. And, if you know a family member or friend who would love reading these stories, please share this email. Thanks for reading this issue of Connections.
Lisa Talbot, Executive Director, KidsAbility Foundation
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