This Remembrance Day, we take a moment to honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the men and women who have served in our armed forces. Their bravery in protecting our freedoms reminds us of the values we hold dear. On Tuesday, November 11th, let us pause to remember those who gave their lives in service to our country and show our gratitude for their sacrifices. Whether through a moment of silence, wearing a poppy, or quiet reflection, we encourage everyone to observe this important day in their own way. We also thank the families and loved ones of our service members for their support and strength. Lest we forget. | | Miracle League Magic: Halloween Edition | | Last week, Josh, Crystal, and Abby had an amazing time at their final Miracle League baseball game of the season. The day was filled with fun and festive Halloween spirit; everyone was invited to dress up in their favorite costumes. Josh suited up as the Caped Crusader, Batman, Crystal showed her sporty side as a hockey player, and Abby wrapped things up perfectly as a playful mummy. Laughter, friendship, and plenty of Halloween cheer made it an enjoyable day for all! | |
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Celebrating Success at the
2025 ODEN Rethinking Disability Conference
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Community Living Essex County was proud to take part in this year’s Ontario Disability Employment Network (ODEN) Rethinking Disability Conference, an event that celebrates innovation and collaboration in inclusive employment.
We’re thrilled to share that Career Compass, our employment supports, received the Outstanding Employment Service Provider Award — a meaningful recognition of the team’s commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities for people who have an intellectual disability.
Also representing our organization was Amanda, who attended on behalf of The REAL Xchange as both an exhibitor and presenter. She shared valuable insights and connected with service providers from across the province.
Congratulations to all this year’s nominees and award recipients for their inspiring work in the field of employment inclusion!
| | An Update from Career Compass | | During his time with the County of Essex, Colton gained valuable experience managing paperwork, including filing, sorting, and organizing documents to keep records accurate and accessible. He showed excellent attention to detail and took pride in maintaining neat and well-structured files. Through this role, Colton developed important workplace skills such as organization, reliability, and responsibility, setting a strong foundation for his future success. Way to go, Colton! | | |
New Day at the Speaking Out Conference
With the support of Community Living Essex County, New Day, and Essex County Heroes, 11 self-advocates were able to attend the Speaking Out Conference in Port Elgin. The event brought together over 200 self-advocates and their supporters from across Ontario, with some participants traveling as far as Sault Ste. Marie.
It was a weekend full of learning, sharing, and connecting with other self-advocacy groups. New Day left the conference feeling inspired and energized to explore new ways to continue our work and ensure our voices are heard.
Upcoming New Day Meeting
New Day’s next meeting will be on November 21st at Channel in Amherstburg. We’ll be sharing what we learned at the conference and discussing ways you can become more involved in self-advocacy.
Stay tuned for more information about International Day of Persons with Disabilities and New Day’s holiday get-together!
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The Connection Series:
Family Information Nights Fall Sessions
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The Connection Series – Family Information Nights continues to provide families with the opportunity to learn, connect, and plan for the future. These free, in-person evening sessions offer 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: Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
Disability Tax Credit, Wills & Estate Planning
This session will help families understand the importance of proper estate planning, including Henson Trusts, naming a trustee or guardian, and protecting assets for individuals with disabilities. Participants will also learn how to apply for the Disability Tax Credit and how to make the most of related financial benefits when filing taxes. Click the button below to register and join us for this informative, supportive evening.
| | Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel is Sunday! | | |
JOIN US THIS SUNDAY
AT KEN KNAPP FORD IN ESSEX FOR THE 31ST JINGLE BELL RUN, WALK & WHEEL!
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This festive event supports Community Living Essex County and offers a variety of options: a 2km or 5km walk or 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
- Ages 7–13: $25
- Little Elf Run (ages 6 and under): FREE (starts at 9:45 a.m.)
Registration Information:
Online registration is closed, but you can still sign up in person on the morning of the event from 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m.! Please note, registrations received after 9:30 a.m. will not be entered for timed results. Not participating but want to join in the fun? Come out and cheer on the participants as they jingle through Essex! Check out the race route below.
A special thank you to Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for their ongoing support of this inclusive community fundraising event!
Please note: Talbot St. N. will be closed on Sunday from Lapointe St. to Fairview Ave. from 9:30am-12:30pm.
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Upcoming Free Workshops in November | |
Community Living Essex County is offering three free workshops this November for teens and young adults with intellectual disabilities, each designed to build confidence, promote safety, and support personal empowerment.
The RUDY workshop (Wednesday, November 19, 12–4 p.m.) is a virtual session for young men aged 16 and up, covering boundaries, healthy relationships, and recognizing assault and violence.
The RUBY workshop (Tuesday, November 25, 1–3:30 p.m.) is an in-person session for young women aged 16 and up, focusing on personal safety, self-respect, and healthy connections.
The ASAP workshop (Tuesday, November 18, 1–3 p.m.) is open to all ages and teaches participants how to recognize and avoid crimes such as human trafficking and exploitation.
All sessions are free, but spaces are limited—click the buttons below to register early on My Community Hub and secure your spot!
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Re:action4Inclusion: Youth Leadership
Workshop Series
| Re:Action4Inclusion (R4I), supported by Community Living Ontario, is a youth-led movement empowering young people to create more inclusive schools and communities. R4I offers free virtual leadership workshops for youth aged 14–29 on topics like leadership, accessibility, and building inclusive spaces. Community Living Ontario also provides the Truths of Institutionalization: Past and Present curriculum and workshops, which explore the history of institutions and promote advocacy for inclusion. Both programs encourage youth to learn, lead, and take action toward a more inclusive future. | | Upcoming DSO Virtual Event | | Join the DSO Housing Navigators for Pathways to Independence: CICE Programs and Housing Navigation, a free virtual session on Thursday, November 13th, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn how working with a housing navigator and participating in a Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program can support your goals for independent living. The session will also explore how to determine if a college program is the right fit for you. Click the button below to register for this free event. | |
P4P Free Information Session | The P4P Planning Network is hosting a free online webcast on Future Planning with Siblings in Mind on Tuesday, November 18th, at 7:00 p.m. The session will explore how parents and adult siblings can work together to plan for the future of a family member with a disability. It will cover how to begin open conversations about future roles, tips for creating peace of mind through shared planning, and the importance of flexibility to stay prepared for life’s changes. A live Q&A will follow, and a recording will be available for one month. Click the link below to register. | | 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! | |
Tourism Windsor Essex County Pelee Island
Remembrance Day Guide
| | The 2025 Remembrance Day Guide offers a comprehensive list of ceremonies, services, and commemorative events across Windsor-Essex County. Join the community in honoring the sacrifices of our veterans and active service members this upcoming Remembrance Day. | |
Windsor Firefighters' Chili Fest | On Friday, November 7th, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., the Windsor Firefighter’s Annual Chili Fest returns to the Hellenic Cultural Centre. Enjoy over 30 chilis from local restaurants and firehalls, vote for the Best Chili Award, and support a great cause. Tickets are $15 at the door for all-you-can-eat chili, with proceeds helping those in need in the community. Click the button below to visit the event website and learn more. | | Bloomsbury House Presents: Waiting for the Parade | | On Friday, November 7th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Bloomsbury House presents Waiting for the Parade by John Murrell at the Masonic Temple Ballroom. Directed by Alex Hagen and assisted by Tim Maitland, this Canadian multi-genre classic explores the experiences of women during wartime. Discounted advance tickets are available online by clicking the button below. | |
HNM Dance Company Presents:
Old Gems Reimagined
| On Friday, November 7th, from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., experience Old Gems Reimagined at the Capitol Theatre in Windsor—an epic contemporary and modern dance performance celebrating thirty years of artistic creation. Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 on the day of, or $50 including the After Glow party. Click the button below to visit the event website and purchase tickets. | |
Park House Museum presents:
Victory in the Kitchen
| On Saturday, November 8th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Park House Museum hosts Victory in the Kitchen, an interactive program exploring wartime recipes and historical cooking methods. Experience how cooks adapted to limited resources and learn how these traditions have shaped modern cuisine. Cost is $60 per person. Pre-registration is required by calling 519-736-2511 or emailing parkhousemuseum@gmail.com. Click the button below to visit the event website and learn more. | | Kingsville Holiday Market | | On Saturday, November 8th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Kingsville Holiday Market at Lakeside Park Pavilion features over 40 local vendors offering gifts, baked goods, handmade crafts, and unique holiday items. From artisanal soaps and candles to jewelry, home décor, and treats, there’s something for everyone. Admission is free, and the event welcomes the whole community. Click the button below to learn more. | | Walkerville Brewery Nostalgic Book Fair | | On Saturday, November 8th, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Walkerville Brewery Nostalgic Book Fair brings back the classic book fair experience—this time for adults! Browse local vendors and independent bookshops while enjoying craft beers and ciders. It’s a perfect afternoon for book lovers to indulge in their favorite reads and drinks in one lively setting. Click the button below for more details. | |
Windsor Symphony Community Orchestra Presents:
Music of Lord of the Rings
| On Saturday, November 8th, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the Windsor Symphony Orchestra presents Lord of the Rings, a special program featuring epic music from all three films composed by Academy Award-winner Howard Shore. The performance also includes selections by Richard Wagner, whose Ring Cycle operas influenced both Shore and J.R.R. Tolkien. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students. Click the button below to purchase tickets. | | Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup | This week’s featured recipe is a cozy fall favorite—Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup. Made with a full head of roasted garlic and blended cauliflower, this velvety soup delivers rich, savory flavor without a drop of cream or flour. A touch of melted cheddar adds the perfect hint of comfort, making every spoonful smooth and satisfying. Pair it with crunchy croutons or a slice of toasted sourdough for a simple, wholesome meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Click the button below for the step-by-step recipe! | | November Zen: Breathe, Reflect, Reset | | As the days grow shorter and the year winds down, now is the perfect time to pause and reflect. Take a few quiet moments each day to consider what went well, lessons you’ve learned, and moments you’re proud of. Reflection doesn’t need to be long—just a few minutes can help you gain perspective, reset your mindset, and approach the rest of the season with calm and focus. Try journaling or simply sitting in silence to let your thoughts settle—it’s a small practice with a big impact. | | There’s no better way to recognize Remembrance Day than by creating the iconic symbol of the poppy. Using simple materials, this meaningful craft combines creativity, patience, and reflection on the importance of remembrance. Whether displayed as a single bloom or arranged into a bouquet or wreath, each handmade poppy serves as a thoughtful tribute to those who served and sacrificed. Click the button below to start crafting! | |
| How do you usually celebrate Remembrance Day? | | | | |
Last week's poll results:
How will you be celebrating Halloween this weekend?
Decorating and handing out candy - 39.5%
Trick-or-treating with family - 15.8%
Watching spooky movies at home - 13.2%
Something else - 13.2%
Going to a party or event - 10.5%
I will be working - 7.9%
Hosting a Halloween gathering - 0%
Exploring haunted attractions - 0%
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