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Community Living Essex County Hosts
64th Annual Meeting of Members
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Community Living Essex County held its 64th Annual Meeting of Members (formerly known as the Annual General Meeting) on Tuesday, June 17th, with over 125 people in attendance.
Much has changed beyond the event’s name over the past year. We continue to mourn the loss of our Chair, Sue Desjarlais, who passed away in April. We also continue to celebrate Sue and count our blessings that she was such a tremendous and meaningful part of our agency. Her dedication, spirit, and advocacy will always inspire all that we do.
The business portion of the meeting included the election and induction of the Board of Directors for 2025/26. All four individuals elected to the Board—Ron Giofu, Gillian Heisz, Michelle Mastellotto, and Brianne Taggart—were current members standing for re-election. Prior to the meeting, Dan Gemus was appointed by the Board of Directors as a Director, with a term ending in June 2026. Our Board members are valued volunteers who bring a wealth of diverse skills and experience, serving the agency with dedication and care. More information about our Board can be found on our website.
BDO completed the agency’s audited financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2025. These were approved by the Board and subsequently by the membership at the Annual Meeting, with thanks extended to BDO for their efficient handling of the audit.
Advocacy and community were prominent themes in this year’s award presentations. The following deserving recipients were recognized during the 64th Annual Meeting of Members. Each one continues to make a difference, inspire possibilities, and uplift those around them:
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Outstanding Achievement Award – Johan Klassen
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Community Leadership Award – Brigitte Gagnon
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Inspiring Possibilities Youth Award – Alexa Moores
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Community Ambassador Award – What’s Poppin Popcorn Factory
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Families for Inclusion Award – George Raffoul
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The Jeremy Hart Memorial Bursary – Saba Noor
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The Kevin McMullan Memorial Award – Lisa Laframboise
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Check out our Year in Review video, showcasing highlights from the past year and celebrating the return of in-person events.
Our Annual Report has been modernized, refreshed, and expanded this year, and is available on our website.
We look ahead to the coming year with optimism, continuing to envision a community that celebrates inclusion and inspires possibilities. Our unwavering commitment remains: to support people with intellectual disabilities in achieving their goals and dreams, empowering them to flourish as full citizens, valued in their community.
Thank you for helping us make a difference.
See you in June 2026 for our 65th Annual Meeting of Members!
| | Ron attended the Mega Machine Party in Tilbury, an event that featured a wide range of large and specialized vehicles. During his visit, he had the chance to see many different types of machines up close, including SWAT trucks and John Deere tractors. The event offered a closer look at equipment used in farming, emergency services, and more, making it an interesting and hands-on experience. | | Brigitte and Neal had a fun date night out attending the A Night of Legends Semi Formal. They enjoyed a nice pasta dinner together, followed by fancy drinks. They spent the rest of the evening dancing and enjoying each other’s company. | | A Leisurely Look at Local Art | | Max spent a beautiful weekend afternoon at Art in the Park, taking advantage of the pleasant weather to explore the many vendor booths and creative displays set up throughout the event. He enjoyed walking through the park, browsing a wide variety of artwork and handmade items, and wrapped up his visit with a relaxing lunch. It was a great opportunity to take in the atmosphere and support local artists. | | Zina spent the day walking along the shore at Leamington beach, enjoying the warm sunshine and fresh air. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore added to the calm and peaceful feeling of the day. It was a simple and enjoyable way for Zina to get some steps in and enjoy the beautiful weather. | | Last week, Wes, Art, and Tony set out on a sweet little adventure to Meleg’s Lakeview Orchards for an afternoon of strawberry picking fun! The sun was shining, the berries were juicy and plentiful, and the atmosphere was just right for a relaxing day outdoors. After filling their baskets, they topped things off with fresh, warm donuts — the perfect ending to a simple, satisfying day. | | 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! | | |
- POSITIVE CONNECTIONS -
On Tuesday, June 17th, Ensemble had the opportunity to participate in Community Living Essex County's Annual Meeting of Members (AMM). Highlights of the past year, 2024–2025, were featured.
Community leaders and businesses, support staff, administrative staff, self-advocates, and volunteers participated. An overview of the year was presented via a photo journal video (Year in Review). So many accomplishments and so many SMILES 😃
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It was evident by everything highlighted that CLEC is a forward-thinking, well-respected community living agency—both locally and provincially.
As families, with our input, CLEC will continue to advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Our voices CAN shape the future!
Creating LIVES of POSSIBILITIES will ALWAYS be the focus!
Please continue to reach out! Your input is the most important first step, needed to create a community of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for citizens of all ABILITIES!
Connect now!
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
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Rudy - Personal Safety and Assault Prevention Workshop | |
Community Living Essex County is offering a free in-person workshop for teens and young men with intellectual disabilities, with two sessions taking place on Tuesday, July 8th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday, July 9th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The workshop will cover personal boundaries, self-respect, healthy relationships, and recognizing different types of assault and violence. It’s open to men aged 16 and up, with only 8 spots available, so be sure to register early before the June 30th deadline. To sign up, click the flyer or use the button below to register on My Community Hub.
For questions, please contact Nick St.Denis at nstdenis@communitylivingessex.org.
| | Get Your Tickets for the 4th Annual Sip 'N Shop! | | Do not miss your chance to attend the 4th annual Sip ’N Shop Mixer that kicks off the annual Essex Fun Fest on Thursday, July 3rd at 7:00 p.m. at the Essex Arena Fairgrounds. Join us for a fun night of music, food, wine, and raffles with $10 from every ticket to benefit Community Living Essex County. A limited number of tickets are available now at $35 each at the front desk at the Essex Centre, located at 372 Talbot St. N. in Essex. The ticket price includes admission to event, souvenir wine tumbler, Essex BIA tote bag, three wine samples, one glass of wine, one individual charcuterie bowl, live entertainment, and chances to win numerous great door prizes! Click the button below for more information. | | 2025 Charity Golf Classic Registration Now Open! | | 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! | |
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! | | |
P4P Webcast - Journey to Belonging:
Choice and Inclusion
| | P4P is hosting a virtual bilingual (French/English) presentation on Tuesday, June 24, at 7:00 p.m. about Journey to Belonging: Choice and Inclusion, the Government of Ontario’s plan to reform developmental services. This plan centers on a vision where people with developmental disabilities are supported by their communities, support networks, and government to belong and live inclusive lives, empowered to make choices and live as independently as possible. The presentation will include updates on key commitments such as the development of a new needs-based funding approach. Following the webcast, there will be a live Q&A session with MCCSS Directors Christine Kuepfer and Amy Olmstead. Click the button below to register for this informative session. | | DSO Webcast: Inclusive Housing Network Guide Information Session | | On June 23rd, join a virtual information session on the Inclusive Housing Network Guide, a new resource developed by DSO Housing Navigators to support inclusive, person-centered housing solutions for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will learn how building strong networks among diverse stakeholders can lead to accessible, affordable, and culturally responsive housing rooted in choice, equity, and dignity. The session will run from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a meeting link provided prior to the event. Click the button below to register. | |
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. | | World's Finest Shows Midway | | The World's Finest Shows Midway is now open at Riverfront Festival Plaza and runs through Sunday, June 29. Presented by World’s Finest Shows, the event features a full lineup of rides, games, and classic midway fun for all ages. Ride All Day Wristbands are available in advance at local 7/11 stores. For more information, visit the event website. | |
Korda Artistic Productions presents:
The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals
| Korda Artistic Productions presents The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals at Kordazone Theatre, running select dates until June 28th, including evening shows at 8:00 p.m. This darkly comedic musical tells the story of Paul, an average guy caught in a bizarre musical apocalypse overtaking the city of Hatchetfield. Directed by Jeremy Burke and presented with special arrangement from StarKid Productions, this cult-favorite show blends horror, satire, and song in a uniquely offbeat theatre experience. For showtimes and tickets, click the button below. | | The award-winning Carrousel of the Nations is happening now until Sunday, June 22nd, inviting guests to experience a world of culture right in Windsor-Essex. This free, family-friendly festival features over 20 cultural villages spread across Windsor, Amherstburg, Leamington, Harrow, and Kingsville, each offering traditional music, live performances, and iconic global cuisine. From the rhythms of the Caribbean to the flavours of the Middle East, the Carrousel celebrates the region’s rich cultural diversity and vibrant community spirit—no passport required! Click the button below to see the location schedule. | | The Amherstburg Ribfest returns to Ramsay Street from Friday, June 20th through Sunday, June 22nd. Ribfest contestants and food vendors will line the street between Richmond and Murray Streets, serving up delicious ribs and more from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on June 20th and 21st, and 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on June 22nd. Parking is available behind the Richmond Street businesses, where attendees can also enjoy tables, music, and a festive atmosphere. This free event is perfect for a sizzling weekend — for details, visit the event website. | | Celebrate the summer solstice at Green Heart Farms on Friday, June 20th, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This special event marks the sun’s highest point and the official start of summer, offering music, yoga, yard games, intention setting, a gratitude ceremony, forest walks, and delicious food and drinks from Green Heart Kitchen. Activities and food will be available throughout the evening, so attendees are welcome to join anytime between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. For more details, visit the event website. | | Join the Sacred Women’s Circle for a transformative evening on Friday, June 20th, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at The Lodge at Lakeshore in Belle River. This healing circle offers a safe, sacred space to release life’s burdens and connect deeply through meditation, breathwork, movement, energy healing, and group sharing. Facilitated by Elam’s Hands, the event aims to empower and activate the Divine Feminine within, fostering growth and collective healing. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, blanket, eye mask, journal, and wear comfortable clothing. For more details, click the button below. | |
The Essex Centre StreetFest returns on Saturday, June 21st, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Transforming Talbot Street into a lively community hub, this outdoor festival brings together local businesses, artisans, food vendors, and entertainers for a fun-filled day. Enjoy live music, street performances, artisan markets, family-friendly activities, and a variety of local food options. StreetFest celebrates and supports small businesses while creating an engaging atmosphere for residents and visitors. Mark your calendars for future events on August 16th and October 11th. For more details, click the button below to visit the event website. | Philippine Independence Day Fiesta | Celebrate Philippine heritage at the Philippine Independence Day Fiesta on Saturday, June 21st, from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. in downtown Windsor at Inasoul. This vibrant outdoor festival blends traditional culture with contemporary street style, featuring live dance, music, and storytelling performances. Attendees can enjoy Filipino street food, visual showcases of traditional and modern fashion, interactive contests, and live DJ sets. Admission is $10 for adults (or 4 for $30), and kids under 12 are free. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or a family-friendly celebration, this event offers an engaging day immersed in the spirit of the Filipino community. For more information, visit the event website. | | Springy Blueberry Lemon Bread | Enjoy the perfect balance of juicy blueberries and bright lemon zest in this highly-rated Blueberry Lemon Bread. Known for its soft, thick texture and golden crust, this simple yet delicious quick bread uses traditional white sugar for just the right sweetness. Best served chilled for easy slicing and a satisfying bite, it’s a favorite recipe among home bakers. For the full recipe, visit the link below. | | Water Plants with Ice Cubes | | To avoid overwatering potted plants, try using ice cubes as a simple way to provide slow, steady hydration. Placing a few ice cubes on the soil allows them to melt gradually, delivering a controlled amount of water without flooding the roots. This method is especially effective for small to medium-sized indoor pots, as the slow melt helps the roots absorb moisture over time, promoting healthier plants. | | Get ready to add some sunshine to your door with this DIY Lemon Pizza Pan Wreath, the perfect summer craft that won’t break the bank! For under $5, you can turn simple supplies from your local dollar store into a cheerful, vibrant wreath that captures the essence of the season. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this easy project is the perfect way to bring a touch of summer to your home. With just a few affordable items, you’ll create a fun, lemon-inspired wreath that will make your front door shine all season long! | |
| What’s your summer personality?
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Last week's poll results:
Which gift would your dad appreciate the most on Father’s Day?
A day off to do whatever he wants - 17.2%
A new gadget or tool - 17.2%
A nice bottle of his favorite drink - 13.8%
A tech accessory (headphones, smartwatch, etc.) – 10.3%
A handmade card or craft - 10.3%
Tickets to a sports game or event - 6.9%
Gift card to his favorite restaurant - 6.9%
Outdoor gear or accessories – 6.9%
Cooking or grilling equipment - 5.6%
Other – 4.9%
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