Vibrant Nights and Ancient Sights | |
Mary Ellen and Kelly recently traveled to Mexico, where they explored the Riviera Maya. Their adventure took them to the Tulum ruins, offering breathtaking views from terraces overlooking the cliffs. From there, they ventured into the Mayan jungle, eventually arriving at a traditional village where the local residents continue to honor their ancient customs. They had the chance to learn about their daily life, rituals, and cultural practices. They even tasted some authentic Mayan tea and tried their hand at making tortillas, cooking them over an open fire—both were delicious! To wrap up this busy day, they cooled off with a refreshing swim in a crystal-clear cenote! Throughout the trip, they experienced a thrilling fire show, lively daily activities, and vibrant dancing each night. To their surprise, they ran into several familiar faces from Windsor-Essex county! It was truly an unforgettable experience. | |
Kyle and Reggie had an exciting time last weekend, celebrating their first win at the Swish Basketball Tournament in St. Thomas! Their teamwork and determination paid off, leading them to a well-deserved victory. It was a thrilling moment for both of them as they showcased their skills on the court. Congratulations to Kyle and Reggie on their impressive achievement! | |
Last month, Tony embarked on an exciting day trip to Toronto, where he explored some of the city's highlights. One of his stops was the fascinating Bubble Planet, where he marveled at the unique exhibits and interactive experiences. Afterward, he enjoyed a delicious lunch at The Cheesecake Factory. It was a day filled with fun and great food, making for a memorable trip to the city! | |
Earlier this month, Dominic, Darius, Nathan, and Max recently had an exciting day at the Autism Ontario event at Adventure Bay, where they enjoyed a day of fun and adventure. The group had a blast exploring the water park, taking part in various activities, and making the most of their time together. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to connect and have fun in a welcoming and inclusive environment. | |
A Fun-Filled Friday Tradition | |
Derek, Stephen, Joshua, June, Elly, and Caroline look forward to the last Friday of every month when they meet up for Breakfast and Bowling at Super Bowl Lanes in Windsor. The morning kicks off with a delicious breakfast at the bowling alley, then a few fun games, filled with laughter and friendly competition. It’s a great time to catch up and enjoy each other’s company. | |
Cast Your Vote for the Ruthven Apple Festival! | |
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The Ruthven Apple Festival has been selected as a finalist for “Best Festival” in the Tourism Windsor Essex Best of Windsor Essex Awards! We need your help to spread the news and to recognize the Ruthven Apple Festival as the Best Festival in Windsor-Essex for 2024-25. Vote today by clicking the button below. Cast your vote now through Sunday, March 2nd. Everyone who votes will be entered to win a $500 grand prize! Please make your vote count and show your support for the best festival, the Ruthven Apple Festival!
Note, if you do not have a valid answer for any of the 48 Best of Windsor-Essex categories, simply select N/A.
Thank you for your support!
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Coffee with Crainer: Special Guest - Karen Bolger | |
This week's episode of Coffee with Crainer features Karen Bolger, Executive Director of Community Living Essex County. Together, they explore her incredible 39-year journey in developmental services. From championing inclusion to leading a team that impacts hundreds of lives, Karen shares her passion for choice, belonging, and community. Click the button below to watch! | |
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RECOGNITION OF UNPAID FAMILY CAREGIVERS Now more than at any other time, your family voices must be heard! The Ontario government is about to ask its citizens to vote. Who you select can make a huge difference in your life and in the lives of those you provide unpaid daily caregiving to.
The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence (CCCE) was created to expose families’ circumstances while advocating for workable solutions.
In preparation for this upcoming election, CCCE has created a document titled “Get Ready for Ontario's 2025 Provincial Election!"
I can’t stress enough how important it is for you to see what they have highlighted under the "Caregiving Policy, Priorities and Recommendations" subheading. They are your eyes, ears and voice! Please help them get their message to your politicians.
Below I have pinpointed their key messages, but you must read the details under each heading! When I read it, I thought I had written their descriptions! 😆 They get it!
MESSAGES TO THE ONTARIO GOVERNMENT:
- Make life affordable for Ontario caregivers
- Provide a coordinated respite system to ensure caregivers get “breaks” needed to sustain them
- Prioritize reducing 'waitlists’
Please read their critical messages to see how the Ontario government can, should and must finally recognize the value of unpaid family caregivers. We are the critical ingredient that supports Ontario’s programs available to those with intellectual disabilities. Without unpaid caregivers these programs will collapse. Family values direct caregivers. Surely those providing unpaid caregiving should be provided with all available resources? —how Ontario supports its most vulnerable citizens and their families underlines the value our government accords to all families, regardless of ability.
Let’s create a province that grows stronger and more vibrant as its citizens’ family values are recognized and supported!
Regards,
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
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Register Today:
RUBY - Personal Safety and Assault Prevention Workshop | |
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Community Living Essex County is offering a free in-person workshop for teens and young women with intellectual disabilities. This workshop will cover important topics such as personal boundaries, self-respect, healthy relationships, and recognizing different types of assault and violence. It is open to women aged 16 and up, with only 12 spots available, so be sure to register early. Registration ends on February 28th. To sign up, click the flyer or use 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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#WaitingToBelong - Call For Stories | |
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52,000 adults with intellectual disabilities are currently on a waiting list — waiting for necessary supports and services so that they can lead meaningful lives. Some of those waiting have shared their stories with Community Living Ontario, as well as with news outlets across the province — stories of frustration, fear, and the question: “What’s next?” Their voices need answers, and their experiences demand action.
Click the button below to view the short video titled End the Wait and hear more personal accounts of those affected. Afterward, consider sharing your own story to help amplify the call for change.
Learn more at: www.waiting2belong.ca
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New Day is Hosting an Ontario Elections Information Session | |
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With the upcoming Ontario Election, it's important to learn about the candidates and their stances on ODSP. New Day will host a virtual information session on February 21st at 11:00 a.m. They will discuss the political parties, who is running, and what the parties plan to do regarding ODSP, affordable housing, and the cost of living. If you're interested in joining the session, please email New Day to receive the meeting link.
If you have any suggestions or ideas for New Day, meeting topics, or activities, please feel free to contact New Day at newday@communitylivingessex.org.
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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! | |
Free Webinar: Navigating Special Education in Ontario | |
On February 20 at 6:30 pm EST, Community Living Ontario will host an informative online webinar for parents and guardians navigating Ontario's special education system. An expert in educational law from PooranLaw Professional Corporation will guide participants through their rights and their child’s rights, addressing key concerns and questions. This valuable session aims to empower families with the knowledge they need to better navigate the complexities of the special education system, ensuring they understand their rights and are equipped with the tools to advocate effectively for their child's educational needs. Click the button below to register for the event. | |
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MyDirectPlan Virtual Information Session:
Submitting and Managing Passport Claims
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Join MyDirectPlan for a free Virtual Information Session on Wednesday, March 5th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. to learn how to use MyDirectPlan for submitting Passport claims, managing funds, and accessing online support resources. During the session, MyDirectPlan representatives will also answer any questions participants have about the platform in a live Q&A. This session is hosted by MyDirectPlan in partnership with the Passport program, offering valuable insights and guidance on navigating the platform for a seamless experience. Click the button below to register. | |
Upcoming DSO Virtual Event | |
Developmental Services Ontario will be hosting a free virtual presentation about the eCLAIM process on Monday, February 24th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This presentation will focus on how to use eCLAIM to submit invoices and receipts and receive reimbursements quickly. There will also be a question period where participants can get answers in real-time about any part of the eCLAIM process. Click the button below to register. | |
P4P Webcast: Intro to the RDSP | |
The P4P Planning Network is offering a free online webcast about The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This savings plan represents a unique Canadian initiative, offering a long-term savings option tailored for individuals living with disabilities. Key benefits include gaining insight into the RDSP and the potential for government contributions, staying informed on the most recent updates and modifications to the RDSP, learning tips and strategies, along with free resources for further information. The webcast is scheduled is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 24th, at 1:00 p.m. Click the link below to register. | |
Join in the fun at Oscar Trivia Game Night on Friday, February 21st, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Bank Theatre! Test your movie knowledge in this exciting trivia event, with a chance to win a $100 prize. Teams of up to four can enter for $20.00 + HST, or individuals can join for $5.00 + HST each. The event is open to all ages, with limited capacity, and OG Pizza will be available for purchase. Sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington and Chances Gaming Lounge. Click the button below to purchase tickets and reserve your spot today for a night of movie magic and trivia fun! | Point Pelee: Dark Sky Nights | On Saturday, February 22nd, join the Dark Sky Nights event at Point Pelee National Park, a designated Dark Sky Preserve. This unique event offers stargazing under one of Canada’s best night skies, where visitors can witness millions of stars without light pollution. The park will stay open until midnight, giving you the chance to explore the night sky and enjoy the park after dark. Be sure to bring binoculars or a telescope for the ultimate experience. Visitors can also pick up a seasonal star chart upon arrival. This event is part of the park’s commitment to protecting the environment from artificial lighting and promoting responsible lighting practices. Click the button below to learn more about this event. | NCG Wrestling Presents: Ain't Easy | |
NCG Wrestling kicks off its 2025 events with "Ain't Easy," featuring WWE Hall of Famer The Godfather and NCG Women's Champion Tessa Blanchard. The action-packed event will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 22nd, at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing. Wrestling fans won't want to miss this exciting night filled with high-energy matches and star appearances. Get ready for a thrilling experience as NCG Wrestling brings the best to the ring! | |
Estate of Health - Lounge Night | |
Estate of Health invites you to unwind under the stars at their Lounge Night, taking place on Thursday, February 27th, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Enjoy a relaxing evening with soothing tunes, a hot tub soak, fire-side meditation, and stress-melting sauna sessions in a tranquil, alcohol-free space. The cost is $35.00 per person. Bring your bathing suit and cover-up; towels, water, and tea are provided, with light snacks and beverages available for purchase. Please note that the pool is closed during the cool season, and registration is required, so be sure to secure your spot for this calming experience! | |
WFCU Presents: Cirque du Soleil OVO | |
Cirque du Soleil returns to Windsor with its high-energy production OVO, running from Thursday, February 27th to Sunday, March 2nd at the WFCU Centre. Presented by Sun Life, OVO takes audiences on a vibrant journey into the life of insects, showcasing stunning acrobatics and the unique personalities of different species. This exciting show celebrates the beauty and energy of nature’s biodiversity. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience for all ages at the WFCU Centre! Click the button below for more information and to purchase tickets. | |
Mediterranean Quinoa Bowls with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce | |
Looking for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal? Mediterranean Quinoa Bowls with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce are a must-try! This vibrant dish combines quinoa with your choice of fresh greens like cucumbers, kale, or spinach, and is topped with feta cheese, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and a generous dollop of homemade roasted red pepper sauce. The sauce is a game-changer, offering a burst of flavor that ties everything together. Add some hummus and fresh herbs for an extra touch, and you have a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Click the button below to try it today! | |
Popsicle Stick Hexagon Shelf | |
Add a stylish and functional element to your home with this DIY popsicle stick hexagon shelf! This simple craft transforms everyday popsicle sticks into a sleek, modern shelf that’s perfect for showcasing small decor items or plants. With just popsicle sticks, glue, stain, and a free hexagon template, you can easily create a geometric piece that adds texture and interest to any room. Whether you’re decorating your gallery wall or looking for a creative storage solution, this easy-to-follow tutorial will guide you through the process. Click the button below to access the tutorial! | |
| If you had to be a contestant on a game show, which of the following would you choose? | | | |
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Last week's poll results:
What is your favorite way to celebrate Valentine's Day?
Spending time with family and friends - 42.1%
I don’t celebrate Valentine's Day - 23.7% A romantic dinner - 18.4%
Sending thoughtful gifts - 7.9%
Treating myself to a self-care day - 5.3%
Watching a romantic movie - 2.6%
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