Last week, Nick had an unforgettable day exploring the sights and sounds of Niagara Falls. From cooling off at a lively water park to indulging in some sweet, well-deserved ice cream, the day was packed with fun and all of Nick’s favorite things. With its endless attractions, beautiful views, and excitement around every corner, Niagara Falls proved to be the ultimate adventure spot. Nick loved every minute of it—and he's already thinking about what to do on his next visit! | | Konnor had a great summer day on a trip to Wallaceburg last week! The day kicked off with a delicious picnic lunch outdoors, where he soaked up the sunshine and fresh air. The highlight of the trip was trying kayaking for the very first time. Out on the water, Konnor had a blast paddling and taking in the experience—it was a fun and memorable way to spend a summer day! | | Tony and his housemates finished off every last berry they picked earlier in June—so, last week, they decided it was time for a restock! Tony took a trip to pick up more fresh strawberries and was excited to make his own batch of homemade jam. He enjoyed turning the berries into something tasty to share. | | Andrea enjoyed a lovely day outdoors last week, soaking up the fresh air and sunshine. She took a break to have lunch at Lacasse Park, making the most of the beautiful surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. Spending time outside gave her a chance to relax and recharge, appreciating the simple joys of nature and good food. | | Andrew has been hard at work this past month, dedicating his time and energy to cleaning up the beaches in the Harrow and Kingsville area. With a strong commitment to protecting the environment, Andrew is doing his part to help keep these beautiful spaces clean and safe for everyone to enjoy. His efforts make a real difference—not only by removing litter but by inspiring others to take pride in caring for the natural spaces in their community. | | |
-CALLING ALL ARTISTS-
Week 1 of our official 2 months of summer has almost come to an end. Are you already wondering how to make the most of long, light-filled, warm days?
On www.crayola.com there are excellent creative summer activities for kids.
Just to mention a few:
All of these FREE craft ideas come with a list of supplies/tools, directions, and tips.
Crafts are not the only resource Crayola provides. They also have FREE colouring pages for all ages and abilities, as well as learning resources.
As a retired educator and 'forever' mother, I know the value of putting together a special "RAINY DAY" kit. Have someone select a special container that will contain: art and craft supplies, activity sheets with ideas and examples, and any other items that will provide a positive focus. Accommodating the individual's personal abilities may require 'hand-over-hand' assistance. The journey is important! Destination? A creative activity.
Preparing in advance and saving the kit contents for those indoor days will give your family member something to look forward to and it will save your sanity!
Why not give your support worker a challenge?
-ASSIGNMENT-
Design and equip a RAINY DAY KIT that meets the abilities and interests of the individual you are supporting.
Who knew you'd celebrate time spent indoors?
🥵☔️🥵 HAPPY INCLEMENT WEATHER 🥵☔️🥵
Marilyn
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
| | Register Today for the 2025 Charity Golf Classic! | | Registration is open for the 33rd Annual Charity Golf Classic, happening on Thursday, July 10th, in support of Community Living Essex County. This popular event brings together golfers, sponsors, and supporters for a day of friendly competition and fundraising to benefit individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. The tournament kicks off with a shotgun start at 11:00 AM, with check-in beginning at 9:30 AM. Enjoy a full day of golf, contests, prizes, meals, and networking at one of the region’s top courses. Spots fill fast—register early to be part of this impactful event! | | We're Member Strong! Join Us! | | A strong, thriving membership is essential to our agency. Membership includes a variety of engagement options and is a great way to show support for the work of Community Living Essex County. Members help guide the direction and work of the organization, attending events and taking a strong interest in building inclusive communities for people supported. Join us and together we can be Member Strong! Click the link below to renew your membership or join for just $10 and receive membership perks! | | 2025 Windsor-Essex Vital Signs Survey | Each year, the Windsor-Essex Community Foundation (WECF) releases the Vital Signs® Survey to better understand what truly matters to the people who live, work, and thrive in our community. This important survey gathers input on key issues such as housing, healthcare, education, employment, and overall community wellbeing. The insights gathered not only help guide WECF’s grantmaking and initiatives but are also used by government and service providers across sectors to align efforts with community-identified priorities. By taking just a few moments to complete the survey, and encouraging those we support to do the same, you are helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive, and vibrant Windsor-Essex. Click the button below to make your voice count—your feedback is essential to building a better community for all. | | |
Sign Up Today
Friends of Tecumseh Thunder Baseball Fun Camp
| Sign up today for the 13th Annual Friends of Tecumseh Thunder Baseball Fun Camp, happening Tuesday, July 22nd, at Lacasse Park in Tecumseh (rain date: July 23rd). The event will feature baseball skills stations, an exciting all-star game, and a hot dog lunch. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., with activities starting at 10:00 a.m. Don’t miss this fun-filled day of baseball and community spirit! Email Melissa Overkamp at moverkamp@communitylivingessex.org to sign up! | | Order Your CLEC Merchandise Today! | | Check out the latest offerings in our Community Living Essex County store! CLEC employees have the option of paying for items via Employee Payroll Deduction. Simply use the code EMPLOYEE and include your employee number when placing your order. We've recently restocked many items that were previously sold out! | | DSO Webcast: MyDirectPlan Information Session | | Join a free online information session on Wednesday, July 9th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., to learn how to use MyDirectPlan to submit Passport claims, manage your funds, and access support. Hosted in partnership with the Passport program, this session will cover how to get started with MyDirectPlan, where to find helpful resources, and will include a live Q&A with representatives who can answer your questions. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up by clicking the button below. | |
Tourism Windsor Essex County Pelee Island
Summer Event Guide
| | The Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island Summer Event Guide is here! Discover the top events happening across Windsor, Essex County, and Pelee Island through to September 30. Whether you're planning a road trip or exploring your own backyard, this guide is your go-to list for summer fun. Click the button below to see the guide or pick up a print version at the Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island office or the Caesars Windsor Visitor Information Kiosk. | | The 36th annual Essex Fun Fest returns from July 3rd to 6th at the Essex Centre Sports Complex for a weekend packed with food, music, and family fun! With free admission on Thursday and affordable passes for the rest of the weekend, there’s something for everyone to enjoy—live entertainment, tasty eats, and a lively community atmosphere. Kids under 12 and seniors 65+ get in free. Plus, don’t miss the 4th annual Sip ’N Shop Mixer on Thursday night—an evening of music, wine, and raffles in support of Community Living Essex County. | | Willistead Manor Summer Tours | Willistead Manor Summer Tours return from July 2nd to July 30th, offering a chance to explore one of Windsor’s most historic estates. Start your visit at the Coach House to purchase tickets and view the historical exhibition on the Walker family, Walkerville, and the manor itself. Then tour the stunning Willistead Manor, with Friends of Willistead volunteers on hand to share insights and answer questions. Tours run Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Prices are $6.75 for adults, $5.75 for students and seniors, and $3.25 for children 12 and under. Click the button below to visit the Willistead Manor webpage and learn more. | | 2025 Summer Series: Jazz in the Park | | Kick off your summer evenings with Jazz in the Park on Thursday, July 3, from 6:00 p.m. to sunset at Willistead Park. Featuring live jazz by the Coffee House Combo, this laid-back community event invites music lovers of all ages to relax under the evening sky. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, gather with friends and family, and enjoy the smooth sounds and welcoming atmosphere that make this series a summertime favorite. Click the link below to view the event website. | | W.E. Heart Local Pop-Up Market | | Shop local and farm fresh at the W.E. Heart Local Pop-Up Market at Libro Credit Union in Essex on Thursday, July 3rd from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event features local vendors including Raymont’s Berries, The Walnut Grove Bed and Breakfast, Simpson’s Orchards, and Denver’s Homestead. Guests can also sign up for the free W.E. Heart Local digital passport—a seasonal guide to over 60 farm-fresh stops across Windsor-Essex, with chances to win as you explore. Don’t miss the exclusive $100 giveaway for visitors who register and check in. Click the button below to visit the event website. | | Electric Avenue International Jazz Festival | | The Electric Avenue International Jazz Festival is lighting up Windsor from Friday, July 4th to Saturday, July 5th with two days of world-class jazz, delicious food, and vibrant community spirit. Hosted at the WindsorEats Food Hall and set in the lively Electric Avenue Art Alley, the festival will feature acclaimed jazz performers, local eats, and drinks in an unforgettable atmosphere. Best of all—it’s free to attend, thanks to the St. Clair College Alumni Association and Medica Pharmacy. Grab your friends and get ready to groove! Click the button below to visit the event website and learn more. | | Hamilton Screening & Singalong | | Celebrate summer with history and song at the Hamilton Screening & Singalong on Friday, July 4th at 4:00 p.m. at the Park House Museum! Enjoy a screening of the hit musical Hamilton, followed by a lively costume contest and engaging conversations about the Revolutionary War and the real history behind the show. Popcorn will be available for purchase from Richmond Popcorn Co., and admission is by donation. Don’t throw away your shot—join in on this unique and festive summer event! | |
Moonlight Movie Night returns on Friday, July 4 from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Tecumseh Town Centre Park with a screening of Ratatouille! Enjoy this charming animated film about a rat with big culinary dreams, all under the stars. Bring your blanket, lawn chair, bug spray, and some good company for a fun, free summer movie experience you won’t want to miss! Click the button below to visit the event website. | 2025 Windsor Classic Car Show | On Saturday, July 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., head to Farrow Riverside Miracle Park for the 2025 Windsor Classic Car Show, a free, family-friendly event in support of Make-A-Wish® Southwestern Ontario. Enjoy a dazzling display of classic cars, live entertainment by Bad Moustache, and a lively community atmosphere. Car registration begins at 8:00 a.m. for those looking to showcase their vehicles. Whether you’re a vintage car lover or just looking for a great way to spend the day, this is a can’t-miss event for a great cause! Click the button below to visit the event website. | | Everything Greek Pork Pitas | Everything Greek Pork Pitas are the ultimate flavor-packed handheld meal—juicy, peppery shredded pork stuffed into warm pitas and topped with tzatziki, feta, red onion, fresh herbs, tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and a squeeze of lemon. Whether made in the slow cooker or Instant Pot, this dish is easy to prep and bursting with bright, Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Perfect for a casual dinner or a satisfying lunch, these loaded pitas are messy in the best way—and totally worth it. Click the button below for the full recipe! | | Keeping Cool in the Summer Series | | When the sun is out and temperatures rise, your body loses fluids faster—so staying hydrated is key to feeling your best. Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go and take small sips regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty yet. Try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries for a tasty, refreshing twist that makes drinking water feel like a treat. Staying hydrated can help prevent heat-related fatigue and headaches too! | | Looking for a fun and creative craft project the whole family can enjoy? This DIY Cardboard Harp is a great hands-on activity that turns everyday materials into a working string instrument! With step-by-step instructions, a free downloadable template, and plenty of decorating options, it’s perfect for music lovers and young crafters alike. All you need is cardboard, rubber bands, a few tools, and a bit of imagination to create your own mini harp—no musical experience required! Click the button below to get started. | |
| Which of the following summer event do you look forward to the most? | | | | |
Last week's poll results:
How will you be celebrating Canada Day this year?
Relaxing at home with family and friends - 38.6%
Other - 18.2%
Watching fireworks - 13.6%
Going on a nature hike or outdoor adventure - 9.1%
Attending a local parade or community event - 9.1%
Hosting or attending a backyard BBQ - 6.8%
Trying out Canadian-themed recipes or treats - 4.5%
Visiting a national park or historic site - 0%
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