As we come together to celebrate Thanksgiving, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you—our dedicated employees, generous supporters, committed volunteers, and valued community members. This season, let’s honor the unique strengths and talents of everyone we serve and continue building a more inclusive and compassionate community together. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, warm, and meaningful Thanksgiving! | October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month | October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the valuable contributions of people with disabilities in workplaces and communities while raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and breaking down barriers. Across Canada, landmarks and businesses will be lighting up in purple and blue to show support for this important cause. Community Living Essex County and our Employment Services team, Career Compass, invite you to join in by wearing purple and blue, decorating your home or workplace, baking themed treats, or displaying balloons. Share your photos using the link below and we’ll feature them on our social media channels throughout the month! | | October is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month | October is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Canada, a time to celebrate and support people with autism and their contributions to our communities. This month is all about increasing understanding, promoting acceptance, and breaking down barriers and misconceptions. It’s an opportunity for all of us to learn more about the diverse experiences of people with autism, recognize their strengths, and work toward creating a more inclusive, welcoming, and supportive society. | Big City Lights to Island Nights | Darlene had an incredible vacation this year—one that fulfilled a lifelong dream! Her adventure began in New York City, where she attended a taping of Live with Kelly and Mark and said she had never clapped so much in her life. She explored Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Rockefeller Center, and even dined at a local restaurant featuring off-Broadway entertainment. The excitement continued as she set sail on her first Bermuda cruise, enjoying all the ship’s activities and treats—especially the soft-serve ice cream. In Bermuda, she took a Bermuda Triangle sunset cruise, spent time at the beach, and explored the Dockyard. It was a busy, joy-filled trip that Darlene says she’ll remember for a lifetime—and she’s already planning her next adventure! | Last week, Megan and Mandy had an exciting day at Colasanti’s, diving into the fun of the arcade and racking up lots of tickets along the way! They also explored the vibrant grounds, enjoying all the festive fall décor that made the visit extra special. From games to seasonal sights, it was a day full of laughter, fun, and autumn cheer for everyone! | | Last month, David had an exciting and informative visit with local firefighters! He learned about the meanings behind the different colors on fire hydrants, toured the fire truck, and got a firsthand look at life at the fire station. He also took a moment to thank the firefighters for their dedication and service to the community and even left with a fun swag bag to remember the visit. It was a memorable and educational experience that left David inspired and smiling. His visit was especially meaningful with October being Fire Prevention Month, serving as a great reminder of the importance of fire safety and the incredible work firefighters do every day to keep our communities safe. | | An Update from Career Compass | | This past summer, Jacob made an impact through the Youth in Action program while working at the Town of Amherstburg. He jumped right into his role, setting up tents, helping with road closures, organizing games, handling cleanup, and tackling any task asked of him. Jacob did a fantastic job, and his hard work truly made a difference. Way to go, Jacob! | Join Career Compass for a NDEAM Lunch Mob | Join Career Compass for a Lunch Mob at Vernon's Tap & Grill, on Thursday, October 23rd from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., to support this inclusive employer! No registration is needed—just show up, enjoy great food, and celebrate Vernon's Tap and Grill'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. | | |
CONNECTING WITH YOUR VALUED SUPPORTS - Paid and Unpaid
Caregiving is so much about connections—physical and emotional. As the Thanksgiving weekend will soon be here, connections will be more valued than ever. I'm sure all families, including those with children with intellectual disabilities, are busily thinking about past traditions.
For many families, it involves gatherings with people they see infrequently. Their arrival brings with it 'change'—more people, more noise, more activity, more food, and the need for more 'flexibility'.
For individuals with intellectual disabilities, established routines are part of everyday life. These routines bring calm to their days. Unexpected and sudden change to routines causes confusion, which is sometimes displayed as negative behavior.
In preparation for seasonal events, it is critical that you have additional supports in place. If you know that what could be a meaningful celebration has the potential to become a nightmare, plan ahead! You need distractions either in your house or elsewhere. Share your needed adjustments with your guests. Open, honest communication puts everyone at ease. If you don't share the realities of daily living, there can't be understanding and a willingness to provide needed emotional support.
Make seasonal events special for everyone! Maybe this is when you plan an outing away from home for your special needs family member? What about changing the seasonal date? This way your support helpers can celebrate the actual day with their families. Support staff are flexible and understand the special needs of the individual supported and of their family.
So, reach out! Connect with your "support helpers" and come up with a plan that shows everyone that it is possible to meet "individual needs" by connecting.
Best wishes for a memorable weekend wherever you are and for whatever you do!
Marilyn
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
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Friendsgiving Potluck – Wednesday, October 15 | 6–8 p.m. | Essex Centre Office
New Day is hosting a Friendsgiving, a Thanksgiving-style get-together for friends! Join us for an evening of good food and great company. Please bring a dish to share (no nuts due to allergies) and RSVP to newday@communitylivingessex.org.
Ruthven Apple Festival Success
New Day had a fantastic time at the Ruthven Apple Festival! Our interactive booth engaged many community members, and we shared information about our group and upcoming meetings. A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello.
Looking Ahead
New Day is excited to announce that ten members will be attending the 2025 Speaking Out Conference in Port Elgin from October 24–26. This annual event brings together self-advocates from across Ontario to learn, share ideas, and connect with others who are passionate about inclusion and independence.
Our members are looking forward to taking part in workshops, hearing from inspiring speakers, and bringing back new ideas to share with the group. It’s an amazing opportunity for personal growth, leadership, and representing New Day.
New Day is always welcoming new members—come check us out and be part of something great!
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The Connection Series:
Family Information Nights Fall Sessions
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The Connection Series – Family Information Nights continues to offer families the opportunity to learn, connect, and plan for the future. These free, in-person evening sessions provide practical information, trusted guidance, and access to local experts on topics that matter most when navigating developmental services in Ontario—from housing and finances to life planning and more. Each session is designed to support your family every step of the way.
Upcoming Session: Thursday, October 21st
Housing Options & Supports
Explore different housing models, funding options, and supports available for people with intellectual disabilities. This session will be presented in partnership with a representative from the City of Windsor's Social and Affordable Housing department. Click the button below to register and join us for an informative, welcoming evening.
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Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel
Early Bird Pricing Ends Today!
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JOIN US SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9th
AT KEN KNAPP FORD IN ESSEX!
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Join us on Sunday, November 9th, at Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for our 31st annual 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.
You can join individually or as part of a team, and festive attire is encouraged!
Entry Fees:
- Adults: $40 (Early bird $35 – register by October 9!)
- Ages 7–13: $25 (Early bird $20 – register by October 9!)
- Little Elf Run (ages 6 and under): FREE (starts at 9:45 am)
After October 9, fees increase to $40 for adults and $25 for kids 13 and under—so don’t miss out!
A special thank you to Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for their ongoing support of this inclusive community fundraising event!
| | Only one session remains in this FREE Outdoor Yoga Series with Cocoyoga—open to all levels and requiring no registration. Whether you’re new to yoga or already an enthusiast, Coco, an experienced and adaptable instructor, will guide you through the session with modifications and adaptive methods to suit everyone. The final class takes place on October 14th from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Optimist Park in Windsor, offering the perfect opportunity to stretch, relax, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor setting while working toward a more active, flexible, and Zen lifestyle. | | Disability Tax Credit Assistance | | |
Get Free Assistance With Disability Tax Credit
and Canada Disability Benefit Applications
Community Living Ontario is reaching out to let you know about a resource you may be interested in.
Plan Institute is a national non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to lead a good life. They help people with disabilities and their families make informed decisions about future and financial planning through their webinars, resources, community-based programming, and advocacy.
Plan Institute also offers one-on-one support through their free Canada-wide Disability Planning Helpline. Their key areas of focus include the Disability Tax Credit, the Registered Disability Savings Plan, and the Canada Disability Benefit.
| | Upcoming DSO Virtual Event | | On October 23rd, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., the DSO Housing Navigators invite you to a virtual education session, Understanding Renter Rights, presented by the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights. Participants will gain valuable information about key renter rights, including starting a rental, dealing with repairs, understanding rent increases, maintaining privacy, addressing discrimination, and navigating eviction. The session will also highlight available supports for individuals and families facing housing challenges. If you are interested in attending this free virtual event, please click the button below to register. | |
P4P Free Information Session | P4P will be hosting a webcast on October 15th at 7:00 p.m. focused on Jordan’s Principle, a program that ensures all First Nations children have timely access to the supports, services, and products they need. The session will introduce how families and communities can access this funding to support children’s health, social, and educational needs. Participants can register by clicking the button below. | |
Tourism Windsor Essex County Pelee Island
Halloween Event Guide
| | Get ready to embrace the Halloween spirit across Windsor, Essex County, and Pelee Island! From haunted houses and spooky trails to pumpkin patches and family-friendly festivals, this guide is your go-to list for all things Halloween. Use it to plan weekend adventures, discover hidden gems, or check off must-see events as you explore the region this season. Click the button below to view the guide. | | This is the last weekend to experience Oktoberfest at the Heimat Banquet Centre! From Friday, October 10th to Saturday, October 11th, guests can enjoy authentic Paulaner Oktoberfest beer imported from Munich, a traditional Bavarian menu, lively music, and dancing. Celebrate 10 years of Oktoberfest in Windsor’s only German fest hall and keep the tradition alive. Tickets are selling fast—check availability and secure yours today through the event website! | | Thanksgiving Stroll the Street | Celebrate the season of gratitude at Thanksgiving Stroll the Street on Friday, October 10th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. along Notre Dame Street in Belle River. This family-friendly event offers festive fall activities, shopping, dining, and entertainment, creating an upbeat urban experience with small-town charm. Locals of all ages are invited to stroll, shop, eat, and enjoy everything the community and local businesses have to offer. For more details, click the button below to visit the event website. | | Get ready to celebrate the flavors of fall at the Pumpkin Spice Fest on Saturday, October 11th, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens. This indoor event features pumpkin-themed treats, seasonal delights, and offerings from local businesses and artisans, all set to live music for a festive autumn atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the season, shop local, and soak in the sights and sounds of fall. | | Celebrate the season at the LaSalle Autumn Market 2025 on Saturday, October 11th, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the LaSalle Event Centre. Enjoy handcrafted goods, artisan treats, autumn décor, seasonal foods, live entertainment, and a pumpkin carving contest with prizes for all ages. General admission is free, but registration is required. Contest entry is $15. Click the link below to register and enter the contests. Support local businesses, soak in the fall vibes, and make it a day to remember! | | Experience the excitement of the Essex Centre StreetFest on Saturday, October 11th, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. as Talbot Street transforms into a lively hub of local business, artisan markets, food vendors, and entertainment. Enjoy live music, street performances, family-friendly activities, and a variety of local culinary delights. StreetFest is a celebration of community, small businesses, and seasonal fun—perfect for residents and visitors alike. Bring your friends and family and join the festivities! Click the button below to learn more. | |
Leamington Raceway Presents:
Thanksgiving at the Races
| Thanksgiving at The Races! Celebrate Thanksgiving at Leamington Raceway on Sunday, October 12th. Enjoy the thrill of live harness racing and exciting giveaways all afternoon, including a $100 gas card, an Antonino’s gift certificate, and a chance to play Press Your Luck for up to $500 in betting vouchers. Admission and parking are free, offering a fun and festive way to spend the holiday with family and friends. Click the button below to visit the event website and learn more. | | Pull-Apart Garlic Butter Bread Wreath | Golden, buttery, and garlicky, this bread wreath is a true Thanksgiving showstopper. Soft and fluffy on the inside with just the right touch of flaky sea salt on top, it practically melts in your mouth. Even better—it’s easier to make than it looks! With simple pantry staples like milk, butter, and garlic, you’ll have the perfect pull-apart bread to share around any holiday table. Click the button below for the step-by-step recipe and wow your guests this Thanksgiving! | | Mind Your Money: Fall Financial Tips | | Fall Into Smart Grocery Habits | | Fall is in full swing, bringing fresh, seasonal produce and comforting meals. Make a weekly meal plan, create a shopping list, and stick to it to avoid impulse buys. Seasonal veggies like squash, pumpkins, and apples are not only cheaper but also packed with flavor. Keep an eye on store flyers for weekly deals and discounts—stacking these small savings can make a bigger difference than you think. A little planning now pays off in both your wallet and your kitchen. | | Looking for a simple and meaningful way to celebrate Thanksgiving this year? This easy DIY garland is a thoughtful craft that brings everyone together and reminds the whole household of what they’re thankful for. Using downloadable templates, each person can write down something they are grateful for, then fold the flag and attach it to a garland or string. Hang it in a shared space to create a daily reminder of gratitude and spark conversations about the things that make everyone’s lives special. | |
| What’s the dish you can’t live without at Thanksgiving? | | | | |
Last week's poll results:
How are you feeling about the start of October?
Loving the cooler temperatures - 36.6%
Hoping for more sunshine - 19.5%
Excited for fall activities - 14.6%
Looking forward to Halloween - 12.2%
Feeling busy and overwhelmed - 9.8%
Excited for fall fashion - 4.9%
Not sure yet - 2.4%
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