October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month | National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is celebrated every October to highlight the contributions of people with disabilities to businesses and communities. The initiative focuses on raising awareness and understanding of disabilities to break down barriers and stereotypes. Join us for a Lunch Mob on Friday, October 25th, at Armando’s Pizza in LaSalle, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., to support this inclusive employer! No registration is needed—just show up, enjoy great food, and celebrate Armando’s commitment to diversity in the workplace. Everyone is welcome to participate in the Lunch Mob event. If you are unable to attend, you can still celebrate this important cause by wearing or decorating with purple and blue, baking themed treats, or displaying balloons. Participants can submit photos to be shared on social media throughout the month by clicking the link below. | |
Join Our Accessibility Committee and Help Make a Difference! | |
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The agency has an exciting opportunity for a person supported to join the Accessibility Committee. This is a two-year term, with meetings held twice a year—once in the Spring and once in the Fall.
The Accessibility Committee plays a key role in identifying and recommending improvements to accessibility within both our agency and the broader community. By raising awareness, advocating for change, conducting research, and participating in events, we ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and respected.
When we think about barriers, it’s more than just sidewalks or doorways. It’s about communities where everyone feels welcome and comfortable accessing services, businesses, and activities. Your every day experiences give you unique understanding into what can be done to boost accessibility.
We invite you to join us in breaking down barriers and shaping a more inclusive community.
If you are interested, please contact Lynne Shepley by email or phone by November 4th.
lshepley@communitylivingessex.org
or call 519.776.6483 ext. 232
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Scott and Dale visited the African Lion Safari last week and had a fantastic time exploring the park and seeing all the amazing animals. They enjoyed watching the majestic lions and playful monkeys, with each encounter bringing excitement and joy. One of the best parts of the visit was taking pictures with the gentle elephants, a moment that will always be treasured. It was a fun and unforgettable day filled with adventure! | |
A Sweet Start to the Season | |
Jared decided to bake his grandma’s oatmeal raisin cookie recipe with the help of his support worker to celebrate the arrival of fall. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting smell of cinnamon and oats, making it a perfect way to welcome the season! | |
Kevin went to a haunted house, where he explored spooky rooms filled with creepy decorations and unexpected jump scares. To his surprise, he even got to meet Snow White and take a picture with her! She was just as charming as he had imagined. That unexpected encounter made his visit to the haunted house even more special! | |
Fall Fun at Miracle League | |
Joshua has been having a great time at his first Miracle League baseball games in Amherstburg this fall. He’s even made a new friend named Robert! Whenever Robert is around, he helps Joshua hit home runs and run the bases. With every game, Joshua's excitement and joy are clear to everyone watching! | |
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As parents of families that include more than one child, which includes a child with intellectual disabilities; we strive to recognize the uniqueness of each of them. We show them how thrilled we are to share their individual milestones. We celebrate each and every accomplishment no matter how big or how small. By letting them know how valued they are, for who they are, they learn acceptance of each other. They take pride in one another and learn the value of unconditional love.
Siblings of brothers and sisters with intellectual disabilities, over time, accept others as they find them; knowing that our differences make us unique but our similarities connect us. Together we are whole!
Our lives include similar daily routines. We also share in many celebrations. Weddings are one of the most emotionally charged events in many families’ lives. For those of us with children with intellectual disabilities, these momentous occasions can often be filled with mixed emotions. So much joy with so much anxiety anticipating the unknowns! Large gatherings in unfamiliar settings with unknown guests are intimidating for many individuals, but for those with intellectual disabilities, their fears often make what could be a joyous moment a moment of total horror!
On a personal note;
one of my three daughters got married in Toronto last weekend. Knowing how difficult this celebration would be for our special needs daughter, it was decided, with her input, that she would remain at home with her trusted supportive helpers/friends. In a perfect world everyone would have wanted her to be there but we all respect her personal choices.
Siblings hold a very special place in my heart. Their unbelievable contributions to the entire family cannot be stressed enough! They are the glue that binds brothers and sisters.
At my daughter’s wedding this was made abundantly clear by the following:
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This tribute, to our daughter Sarah, was beside the guestbook, in a frame accompanied by a beautiful photo of Sarah. I saw this tribute to Sarah for the first time at the wedding. I was moved to tears as were many of the guests. My heart swelled with immense pride for Sarah’s sister Emily. When Sarah’s other sister, Rachel, gave her speech at the reception, she too included Sarah.
I bring all of these touching moments to your attention because I want siblings to be valued and celebrated for all they give so selflessly to their families. We may not think that they are connecting but in their own special way they care deeply.
Please let each of your children know how much their unconditional love means to you!
❤️ They are our future!!
Marilyn
Ensemble Family Consultant
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Community Living Essex County and the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) | |
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Community Living Essex County is now in line with the new ONCA. ONCA was introduced to update the legal framework governing not-for-profits in Ontario. The new Act has been modernized, with improved clarity and transparency, enhanced governance and flexibility.
After consultation with legal counsel a draft of the Agency’s updated By-law was reviewed and recommended by the Board of Directors for approval by our voting members. At a virtual Special Meeting of the Members on October 11th the By-law was confirmed.
A summary of changes can be found here and the new By-law is available here.
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Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel - Register Today! | |
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JOIN US SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
AT KEN KNAPP FORD IN ESSEX!
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Join us on Sunday, November 10, at Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for the 30th anniversary of the Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel! This festive event supports Community Living Essex County and offers a variety of options: a 2km or 5km walk/run, and a Little Elf Run for kids 6 and under.
Participants receive a commemorative medal and a 30th-anniversary sweatshirt. You can join individually or as part of a team, and festive attire is encouraged!
Entry Fees:
- Adults: $40
- Ages 7-13: $25
- Little Elf Run: FREE (starts at 9:45 a.m.)
Registration Deadlines:
- Online: Until 4:00 p.m. on Nov. 5
- In-person: Until 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 at Ken Knapp Ford
- Race Day: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (No timed results for late entries)
Race Kit Pick-Up:
- November 8 & 9: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Race Day: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Support a great cause even if you can't participate—donate to Community Living Essex County! Prizes will be awarded for the highest pledge amounts. No pets allowed (only working service dogs). A special thank you to Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for their ongoing support of this inclusive community fundraising event!
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Click the link below to register for the Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel. | |
Prize awarded for top pledge amount! Click the link below to download pledge form. | |
Click the link below to donate to Community Living Essex County. | |
RUBY - Personal Safety and Assault Prevention Workshop | |
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Community Living Essex County is offering a free virtual workshop designed for teens and young women with intellectual disabilities. This 4-session workshop will cover crucial topics such as personal boundaries, self-respect, healthy relationships, and recognizing different types of assault and violence. The workshop is open to women aged 16 and up. There are 8 spots available, so be sure to register early. Registration ends on October 31st. To sign up, click the flyer or the button below to register on My Community Hub.
Please contact Lisa Wallace at lisaw@communitylivingessex.org if you have any questions.
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Community Integration Through Cooperative Education Information Session | |
St. Clair College will host an information session for those interested in attending the Community Integration Through Cooperative Education (CICE) program in September 2025. This session will take place on Wednesday, November 6th, at 6:00 p.m. The CICE program aims to provide individuals with developmental disabilities and significant learning challenges the opportunity to experience college life, pursue postsecondary education, and develop skills for future employment or volunteer work. Click the link below to register for the information session. | |
The WEFN and the Enhancing Support for Education Committee have launched an Inclusive Educator Award, allowing students and their families to nominate educators at their schools for recognition as the Inclusive Educator of the Month. Nominations will be accepted until the 21st of each month, after which they will be anonymized for review by the Enhancing for Education Committee. The selected winner will receive a gift bag, along with a gift for the nominating student. WEFN encourages ongoing nominations throughout the year and invites agencies to donate items for the winners. Additionally, WEFN is promoting inclusivity through a fundraiser featuring a set of board books titled "Lovely as Can Be," created by an author with a physical disability. These books aim to spread awareness of diversity and inclusion in various community settings. Orders for the books can be placed through the WEFN website, and they make great holiday gifts for young families. | |
Career Compass Employer Referral Program | |
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! | |
Upcoming DSO Virtual Presentations | |
Join DSO Housing Navigators on Monday, October 28th, for a virtual presentation on Additional Dwelling Units and Tiny Homes. The presentation will begin at 1:00 p.m. and will cover the benefits of tiny homes, types of additional dwellings, placement options, planning considerations, and manufactured homes. If you would like to attend, please click the link below to register. | |
The DSO will host a free virtual presentation on Tuesday, November 12th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This presentation offers an opportunity to learn about the DSO, its functions, the application process, and how to access Ministry-funded services. Check out the flyer below for additional information, and click the button to register. | |
P4P Webcast: The Disability Tax Credit | |
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) webcast takes place on Tuesday, October 29th, at 7:00 p.m. The DTC offers more than just tax savings. It provides many financial benefits for people with disabilities, enhancing their security. Beyond reducing income taxes, the DTC opens doors to additional programs for eligible individuals. This webcast, presented by Partners for Planning, covers the DTC overview, application process, and essential tips for people with disabilities, their families, and professional advisors. Click the button below to register for the webcast. | |
On Wednesday, November 6th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the ICHA will host a Pasta Fundraiser at the Caboto Club to support the Italian Canadian HandiCapable Association’s mission of empowering individuals with disabilities in the community. Guests can enjoy a hearty pasta dinner for just $15, with payment accepted at the door for both dine-in and takeout. For takeout orders, please call 519-252-8383. This event offers a great opportunity for friends and family to come together for a night filled with delicious food and community spirit, all while making a positive impact. | |
Download the Tourism Windsor-Essex & Pelee Island Fall Event Guide to discover the most exciting and enjoyable fall events in Windsor Essex this season. Use it as your checklist to explore attractions and activities that capture the essence of fall before the holiday season arrives! Click the link below to view the guide and start enjoying all that the #YQG has to offer! | |
Get ready for a thrilling Halloween season in Windsor Essex! The Halloween Guide is the ultimate resource for finding the best haunted attractions, eerie events, and family-friendly activities throughout the region. Explore all the must-see sights and spine-tingling experiences this Halloween! Click the button below to access the Halloween Event Guide. | |
Join Instructor Andrea Niven of Bear Foot Studios for a family craft night event! The event will take place on Thursday, October 24th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $45 for an adult and child, with additional children priced at $25. The ticket price includes pizza from OG Pizza, Tim Hortons Timbits, coffee, and juice. *Children are considered ages 4-12 for this event. | |
Murder Mystery: Dead on Arrival | |
From Friday, October 25, 2024, to Sunday, October 27, attendees are invited to participate in the captivating Murder Mystery event, "Dead on Arrival," at The Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village. For just $12 per person, participants will have the chance to help solve the mysterious murder of Arthur Backwood. This thrilling experience promises suspense and excitement for all who attend. Click the button below to purchase tickets. | |
The Bank Theatre Presents: Dracula | |
From October 25th to 27th, The Bank Theatre will host the thrilling adaptation of "Dracula," based on Bram Stoker's novel. Tickets are priced at $25. Performances will take place in the evenings and on select afternoons from October 25 to November 3. Doors open 30 minutes before each performance. For the performance schedule and to purchase tickets, please click the button below. | |
On Saturday, October 26th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., all are invited to North Star High School for Pumpkin Fest, featuring over 200 vendors inside and outside the school. Attendees can explore a fantastic variety of products, making it the perfect opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts for everyone on their list. This exciting event promises to be a must-attend for families and friends, supporting local artisans while enjoying a fun-filled day of shopping. For more details, click the button below to visit the event website. | |
Get ready for Rail Expo 2024, a must-see event for model train enthusiasts! Attendees can look forward to an exciting Model Train Show and Social, featuring a selection of top model rail vendors. The expo will take place on Saturday, October 26th from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, October 27th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with admission priced at just $5.00. Co-sponsored by The Essex Model Train Club and The Windsor Model Railroad Club, this event promises a fantastic experience for all ages, offering the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow hobbyists and explore the world of model railroading! | |
Harvest & Horses Festival | |
On Sunday, October 27, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., John R Park Homestead will host the Harvest & Horses Festival, where visitors can celebrate autumn with activities like cider pressing, sausage stuffing, and pony rides. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children (ages 3-12) and seniors (65+), or $30 for families (up to six people). The event features the popular Parade of Horses at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., along with ongoing demonstrations and a harvest-themed selfie station. BBQ lunch items will be available for purchase from Scotty’s BBQ food truck. Tickets can be bought in advance or at the door. For more details, visit the event website. | |
Stretching at the Stables Fundraiser | |
Join the community for the Stretching at the Stables Yoga Fundraiser, taking place at the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association on Friday, October 25th, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. This inclusive event, open to everyone, costs $15 and features adaptive and modified yoga accessible to all. Please bring your own yoga mat if you plan to practice on the ground. Tickets will be available at the door. Cash payments only. Receipts can be provided. The event will go on rain or shine. | |
Celebrate fall with these delicious baked sweet empanadas, a handheld twist on classic apple pie! Filled with tart Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples and warm spices, they’re perfect for bake sales or cozy picnics. Enjoy them warm or with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream for a treat that’s sure to impress. Easy to make with store-bought dough, these empanadas are the perfect way to savor the season! | |
Create a charming floating ghost decoration for Halloween with this easy DIY project! The materials are easy to come by and are usually available at your nearest dollar store. These ghosts are not only simple to make but also a delightful addition to your outdoor Halloween décor! | |
| What’s your preferred Halloween costume style? | | | |
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Which of the following fictional movie characters do you find most frightening?
I have not seen, nor will I see, any of the movies featuring these characters. - 34.2%
The original Pennywise the Dancing Clown - 21.1%
Freddy Krueger - 10.5%
Jigsaw - 7.9%
Michael Myers - 7.9%
Chucky - 7.9%
Annabelle - 5.3%
Jason Voorhees - 2.6%
Slender Man - 2.6%
Candyman - 0%
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