Month in Review: Black History Month & Inclusive Education Month | |
February was a month of reflection and celebration, marking both Black History Month and Inclusive Education Month. In Windsor-Essex County, various events and initiatives showcased the contributions of Black Canadians and the importance of inclusive education. Local schools, libraries, and community organizations hosted film screenings, guest speakers, and art exhibitions to honor Black history. Inclusive Education Month focused on promoting equitable opportunities for all students, with local school boards offering workshops and resources to support diverse learners. These observances remind us of the ongoing effort to ensure everyone feels valued and included, not just during these months, but all year long. | |
Max had an unforgettable day at Ojibway Park last week. He fed the birds, enjoying the peaceful connection with nature. The highlight of his visit, however, was getting up close and personal with a deer, creating a memorable moment he’ll cherish. It was a day full of wildlife encounters and unforgettable experiences! | |
Kelly and Mary Ellen recently enjoyed a relaxing pedicure together. It was a perfect way to treat themselves and unwind, leaving them both feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. A little pampering goes a long way! | |
Cathy and Kent enjoyed a visit to Colasanti’s last week to see their favorite animals at the petting zoo. Cathy had a great time with a cockatoo named Pepper, while Kent loved seeing all the animals. However, it was petting the goats that brought him the most joy! | |
Teamwork - A Recipe for Success | |
Last week, Isaac and Ali teamed up in the kitchen to prepare a delicious lunch. With a great mix of skills and teamwork, they made quick work of creating a meal that was enjoyed by all. They really work great together in the kitchen! | |
New Day hosted a movie night on Wednesday, February 19th. The movie, Out of Mind, is a heartwarming story about Melody, a teenager with cerebral palsy, as she discovers how to use her voice and the power of standing up for what she wants. | |
Last week, Steven achieved an exciting milestone by earning his full G license – a goal he’s been dedicated to for the past few years. It’s a fantastic accomplishment, and we’re thrilled to see his hard work and perseverance lead to such success. Well done, Steven – the road ahead is wide open! | |
An Update from Career Compass | |
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Huge congratulations to Christina on her 18th anniversary at McDonald's in Leamington!
Her dedication, hard work, and incredible service over the years have made a lasting impact on both her team and customers. The Career Compass team is incredibly proud of her commitment to her job!
Here’s to many more successful years ahead!
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Volunteer with Ensemble
Ensemble is a parent-directed committee of families caring for a child or adult with an intellectual disability. Created in 2000 by two mothers whose family lives had been affected by a diagnosis of disability, the name Ensemble, meaning "together" in French, was chosen for the project. Past and present mothers understood the need to connect with those experiencing similar lives in order to remain strong, resilient, and optimistic.
Ensemble is seeking additional committee members. We meet monthly over a 9-month period for approximately one hour at 7 p.m. at Community Living Essex County's Essex office. Members are encouraged to be available for all meetings when possible.
By joining our committee, you will be able to openly share lived experiences and make suggestions in the company of others who "live the life!" These insights will provide valuable family perspectives that will benefit your family and the greater community.
Visit our website:
www.ensembleunderstands.com
For further information, please email mgodard@ensembleunderstands.org.
Please consider opening doors for you and your family member with intellectual disabilities.
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
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Call for Nominations to the Board of Directors and Save the Date for the 64th AMM (formerly AGM) | |
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It’s that time of year again when we begin seeking nominations for the Board of Directors. Submissions should be sent to the Chairperson of the Nominating Committee, care of the Executive Director, and will be accepted until April 7th. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
Save the date for our 64th Annual Meeting of Members – formerly known as the Annual General Meeting. It will be held on Tuesday, June 17th, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ciociaro Club.
While the meeting name has changed to comply with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, the purpose of the meeting remains the same as in past years. Watch for the formal announcement, agenda, and registration information to be distributed in late April.
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It's your Last Chance to 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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Last Chance to Register!
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 | |
Over 52,000 adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario are currently on a waitlist for services, with some waiting for over a decade. Yet, only about a third of the 3,000 individuals who apply each year actually receive support. t’s time to take action—contact your local representative to advocate for change and help raise awareness by clicking the button below and sharing your story. | |
Applications are Open for the Light Up the Future Bursary | |
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Community Living Ontario is excited to announce that applications for the Anne Stafford Light Up the Future Bursary are now open.
The Anne Stafford Light Up the Future Bursary is open to all residents of Ontario aged 18 years and older who identify as having an intellectual disability, to help in their pursuit of an educational program or personal interest course or activity.
The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 25th at 5:00 p.m. More information and the application can be found at the link below.
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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! | |
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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 | |
The "Creating Your Individualized Housing and Support Plan" workshop series is a three-session virtual program designed to help individuals and families begin developing a personalized housing and support plan for those with a developmental disability. The sessions will take place on three consecutive Tuesdays, starting March 11th, with additional sessions on March 18th and March 25th, each session starting at 10:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. This workshop series offers valuable guidance on navigating housing options and identifying the necessary support services. Participants can register through the provided link and take the first step in planning for a supported future. | |
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 Thursday, March 20th, at 3:00 p.m. Click the link below to register. | |
Chocolate & Mulled Wine – Oh My! | |
Celebrate Mulled Wine Day early at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery on Saturday, March 1st and Sunday, March 2nd from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can enjoy a cozy outdoor experience by the fire, indulging in chocolate fondue, s’mores, and mulled wine. Admission is free, with food and drinks available a la carte. Attendees are encouraged to register on the North 42 Degrees website to ensure there’s enough wine for everyone. It’s the perfect way to warm up and enjoy these delicious treats! Click the button below to RSVP. | |
The Essex Train Show 2025 takes place on Saturday, March 1st and Sunday, March 2nd at the Essex Recreation Complex from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This family-friendly event features model train exhibits, a variety of vendors, and a Kids Zone with crafts, puzzles, a scavenger hunt, and story-times. The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club will be operating a canteen on-site. Admission is free for children 12 years and under, and the event serves as a fundraiser for the Historic Essex Railway Station. | |
International Women’s Day: Rock ‘N Motown | |
The Fogolar Furlan Women’s Association celebrates International Women’s Day: Rock ‘N Motown on Saturday, March 1st, at the Fogolar Furlan Club in Windsor. The event kicks off at 5:00 p.m. with local vendors and raffle ticket sales, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. for $65 per person, which includes both dinner and the show. Musical performances will begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets for the show-only are available for $40, with doors opening at 7:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Windsor Chapter. For tickets and more information, contact the Fogolar Furlan Club or click the button below to visit the event website. | |
The Spring Market, hosted by Janine’s Jewelry – Craft & Gift Shows, takes place on Sunday, March 2nd, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Atlas Tube Centre. This exciting event features 50 local vendors showcasing handmade products, with Pretzel Central offering cold drinks and their delicious handmade soft pretzels. Admission is free, making it the perfect opportunity to shop unique items and enjoy a fun day out. Don’t miss out on this local market experience! | |
The Yamaha Grand Duo Concert will take place on Sunday, March 2nd, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Mackenzie Hall Cultural Centre. The event will feature Windsor’s top musicians, Mike Karloff and Mike Palazzolo, performing live as part of the recording for the album Mike Karloff and Friends: Live at Mackenzie Hall Jazz. With intimate seating close to the concert piano, attendees can enjoy two 1-hour shows at 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., each with only 65 seats available. Tickets are $30 in advance via e-transfer or $35 at the door. Don’t miss this special musical event! | |
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. | |
Pasta Dinner at St. Paul's Anglican Church | |
St. Paul's Anglican Church in Essex invites you to a pasta dinner on Friday, March 7th, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The meal includes pasta, salad, a roll, a beverage, and dessert, with takeout available. Meatless pasta option is available. The cost is $14 per person. Enjoy great food and fellowship while supporting the many ministries of St. Paul's, including the Clothing Cupboard, Fun with Flags, Diverse and Creative Worship, and more. Click the button below to visit the event website. | |
French Toast Crepes are the perfect blend of breakfast and snack! Made with gluten-free almond flour tortillas, this easy recipe features tortillas dunked in eggs and maple syrup, then pan-fried to golden perfection. The result is a delicious, crepe-like treat with a French toast twist. Serve them with blueberry sauce, thawed frozen fruit, or roll them up with jam and yogurt for a quick, grab-and-go option. These versatile crepes are a tasty and fun addition to any meal or snack time! Click the button below for the recipe. | |
Enhance your home décor with these elegant DIY paper lanterns, perfect for adding a touch of rustic farmhouse charm to any space. Crafted from sturdy cover stock, these lanterns are designed to mimic the look of high-end metal lanterns, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. The process involves cutting, folding, and assembling the paper into a lantern shape, with optional spray painting to add texture and weight. For added durability, consider adding clear or frosted plastic to the lantern windows. These lanterns are versatile and can be customized to suit various décor styles. Click the button below for a detailed tutorial and step-by-step instructions. | |
| If you could change one thing about your daily routine, what would it be? | | | |
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Last week's poll results:
If you had to be a contestant on a game show, which of the following would you choose?
The Price is Right - 29.5%
Wheel of Fortune - 25%
Jeopardy! - 15.9%
Deal or No Deal - 11.4%
Cash Cab - 9.1%
Minute to Win it - 4.5%
Who Wants to be a Millionaire - 4.5%
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