64th Annual Meeting of Members | | |
We’re excited to announce that our 64th Annual Meeting of Members will be held on Tuesday, June 17th at 6:30 p.m. at the Ciociaro Club.
You might know this gathering as the AGM — and it’s still the same important event! The name has simply changed to the Annual Meeting of Members to reflect updated requirements under the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA).
Along with the official business items, the evening will feature plenty of celebrations. We'll be showcasing the Year in Review video, the Employee E-Yearbook highlighting all milestone recipients, and presenting several exciting awards.
If you plan to attend, please make sure to register by June 2nd.
Please note: All voting members must hold an eligible membership current as of May 27th.
We hope you’ll be able to join us!
| | May is Community Living Month! | | Self-advocates are the driving force behind the Community Living movement. Their leadership and dedication light the path toward a more inclusive future for all of us. If you’re a self-advocate, use the hashtag #SelfAdvocatesForInclusion to share how you are advocating for inclusion. #CLMonth2025 | | |
Last Chance for Tickets!
Community Living Essex County Presents:
The Downs
| | As part of Community Living Month in May, Community Living Essex County is proud and pleased to present a matinee performance of the award-winning play, The Downs. The winner of a People's Choice and Producer's Pick Award, this heartwarming performance has been a sell out at the Blyth Theatre for years. Join us on Saturday, May 24th at 2:30pm at The Bank Theatre in Leamington. Tickets are $20 per person and available at www.banktheatre.com. | | Important Update: Canada Dental Care Plan Clients Must Reapply by June 1, 2025 | | We’ve recently learned that anyone currently enrolled in the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) will be required to reapply to maintain their coverage. Reapplications open in March 2025, and must be submitted by June 1, 2025 to avoid losing coverage at the end of June. If you're already enrolled, the renewal process should be straightforward—especially if your account is already set up. You’ll need to confirm your details and enter your membership number found on your CDCP card. Please share this information with anyone who may be affected. Help is available through online, phone, and in-person options. | | Planting the Seeds of Community | | Kyle has been hard at work helping prepare one of the eight community gardens through Amherstburg Community Services. From clearing space to getting the soil ready, he’s putting in the effort to make sure everything is set for a great growing season. He’s especially excited to see—and taste—the fresh, homegrown vegetables that will come from the garden in the months ahead! | | A Wave of Neighborly Spirit | | Janine regularly enjoys the fresh air and sunshine from her brand-new picnic table, a perfect spot to relax outdoors. She especially loves waving to people as they pass by—motorcycles and trucks are her favorite! Her cheerful waves and bright smile have become a welcome sight in the neighborhood. | | On Victoria Day, Clayton and David met up at their local Tim Hortons to enjoy a drink and a donut. They spent a relaxing morning chatting and catching up, enjoying the treats and each other’s company. It was a simple, easygoing way to start the holiday. | | Spring Cleaning for a Cause | | Last week, Ali and his housemates rolled up their sleeves for some spring cleaning and found a great way to give back in the process. They gathered up gently-used items and donated them to help create Summer Santa Kits for kids in their community as part of the Community Support Centre of Essex County’s Summer Santa Campaign. Thanks to their efforts, local kids will have a brighter, more fun-filled summer! | | An Update from Career Compass | | |
Cody is back by the water!
After spending the off-season working hard at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre, Cody is thrilled to return to the Belle River Marina for another sunny season! He’s ready to welcome boaters, enjoy the fresh lake breeze, and keep things running smoothly at the dock.
| | 20th Annual Mayors’ Luncheon | | Last week, we proudly celebrated Community Living Month with our 20th Annual Mayors' Luncheon, where we welcomed municipal, community, and business leaders to join us in highlighting the importance of inclusive employment. Held in Maidstone, this year’s event centered around the theme “Be Seen, Be Heard, Belong.” We were inspired by a powerful keynote from Kevin McShan, a local disability advocate, journalist, and speaker, who encouraged us all to champion inclusive workplaces and recognize the incredible value people with disabilities bring to the workforce. We also heard meaningful reflections from Tracey Bailey, mayor of the Town of Lakeshore, and Ron Ricci, former president of the Leamington Roma Club, who shared how inclusive hiring has made a positive impact in their communities. It was a memorable afternoon filled with connection, reflection, and a renewed commitment to building communities where everyone can truly belong. | | |
Last Chance to Apply:
Inspiring Possibilities DSW Bursary
Application Deadline is May 23
| | |
New Bursary Opportunity: Supporting Future DSW Professionals Community Living Essex County’s Inspiring Possibilities DSW Bursary
Sponsored by Dan Gemus Real Estate Team
We're excited to announce a $1,500 bursary opportunity for high school students in Essex County who are enrolled or planning to enroll in a Developmental Services Worker (DSW) or related program at an accredited college. This bursary is generously sponsored by the Dan Gemus Real Estate Team.
This bursary will help to financially support and encourage high school students passionate about pursuing a career in Developmental Services who are enrolled in the Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program at any accredited college.
One $1,500 bursary to be awarded to one student from one at an Essex County secondary school who is enrolled or planning to enroll in the Developmental Services Worker (DSW) program.
Application Process:
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Complete the application form at the link below.
- Complete a 500-word personal essay.
- Provide proof of acceptance or application to the DSW program at an accredited college.
New Application Deadline: Friday, May 23rd, 2025
The bursary will be awarded as a one-time payment of $1,500 to be used towards tuition, books, or other educational expenses. The recipient will be notified by June 2nd, 2025, and the award will be presented by a representative of the bursary sponsor and Community Living Essex County at the CLEC Annual Meeting of Members in June.
Contact Information:
For further inquiries, applicants can contact Julie LaSorda, Director, Marketing and Innovation at jlasorda@communitylivingessex.org or at 519.776.6483 ext. 247.
| | 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! | | |
STOP THE CLOCK!
Who are these people?
How does an extra “relax” day on a long weekend bring about complete confusion about the days of the week? I’ll be honest—I have no idea! But my entire week has been off. I'm writing this on a Wednesday. I hope this meets the deadline, because you'll receive the Possibilities newsletter tomorrow—Thursday! 😆
Hopefully, you survived the long weekend—an extra day with no school and an extra-long weekend to bring adult kids and grandkids home. Lots of animation, and if your house is like ours—lots of drama!
We all remember returning home to our families as young adults. We couldn't believe the way our parents lived! How could they be so stuck in the past? They still had the same furniture! Their daily routines hadn't changed. It was so quiet. It was so boring. Everything moved so slowly. They were so predictable. No wonder we moved on!
Well, guess what? You've changed.They look at you and wonder how you have all the answers and all of the solutions.
So while you wonder who these parents are, they wonder who these kids are. And while you search for ways to change everything back to childhood days, your parents may be asking themselves, “How long do we have to wait until we grow up and have all the answers—just like our kids?”
Smile! 😋 We find you just as out of the loop as you find us. But guess what? We love you unconditionally—just the way you are. ❤️
Until we meet again—keep smiling and connecting!
Remember—change is what makes the world go 'round!
Happy "almost June"!
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
| | New Day is hosting a meeting on Friday, May 30th to celebrate Community Living Month. Come join us wearing blue and green to show your support! We’ll be discussing important topics such as ODSP, Passport Funding, and how to effectively advocate to your local government officials. With other exciting events this month—including the Mayors' Luncheon and a Day at the Legislature—May is a meaningful and action-packed time for New Day and our community. | | Libro Credit Union RDSP Presentation | | Libro Credit Union will be hosting an informative presentation for families on the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) at Community Living Essex County's Essex Centre, located at 372 Talbot St. N. in Essex. Attendees can register for the in-person session taking place on Wednesday, June 11th at 6:00 p.m., or the virtual session happening on Thursday, June 12th at 3:30 p.m. This is a valuable opportunity to learn how the RDSP can support individuals with disabilities and their families in planning and saving for the future. Click the button below to register and secure your spot. | | 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 7pm 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, 3 wine samples, 1 glass of wine, 1 individual charcuterie bowl, live entertainment, and chances to win numerous great door prizes! Click the button below for more information. | | |
Community Living Ontario Launches
Community Action Projects Grant!
| | Community Living Ontario is offering Community Action Projects Grants of up to $2,500 to youth groups (ages 14–29) to support projects that promote the authentic inclusion of youth with intellectual disabilities in their communities. Eligible groups must include at least five youth—two with intellectual disabilities—be connected to a school or youth-serving organization in Ontario, have an adult ally, and designate one youth as the Project Lead. Applications are due by June 13th, at 11:59 p.m. Click the buttons below to learn more and apply. | | |
Community Living Essex County Presents:
Yoga with Cocoyoga
| | Yoga with Cocoyoga is offering a FREE 4-part Outdoor Yoga Series for all levels, with no registration required! Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast, Coco, an experienced and adaptable instructor, will guide you through each session, offering modifications and adaptive methods to suit everyone. Join us as we stretch, relax, and work toward a more active, flexible, and Zen lifestyle! The sessions will take place on May 27th, June 3rd, June 10th, and June 17th, from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at Optimist Park in Windsor. Come out and enjoy the peaceful outdoor setting while improving your mind-body connection! | | |
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: Strategies for Employment -
Preparing, Finding, and Retaining Work
| Join the P4P Planning Network on Thursday, May 29th at 7:00 p.m. for Strategies for Employment: Preparing, Finding, and Retaining Work—a free webcast for families supporting a loved one with a disability and employment-focused goals. Learn how to assess job readiness, set realistic expectations, identify quality employment supports, and encourage continued growth—even after a job is secured. The session includes a live Q&A with expert panelists. Don’t miss this chance to gain practical tools and guidance—register today by clicking the button below! | | |
Bryerswood Youth Camp:
Summer Camp Programs 2025
| | Looking for an unforgettable summer experience? Bryerswood Youth Camp in Amherstburg, Ontario, offers exciting programs for youth ages 4 to 18. Nestled on 25 acres of beautiful outdoor space, including open fields, a pond, and a bush lot, campers will have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, build confidence, and connect with nature. From fun activities to lifelong memories, Bryerswood provides a safe and inspiring environment for youth to thrive. Don’t miss out—click the links below for more details and to register today! | | Leamington Fair is Happening This Weekend | | The 177th Leamington Fair returns from Thursday, May 22nd to Sunday, May 25th, bringing four days of fun, tradition, and excitement to the community. With roots dating back to 1848, this beloved annual event will feature all-day rides and admission for just $25. Attendees can look forward to a new and improved animal area with more animals, pig races, and even the chance to name a turkey. New rides and surprises are also in store! Click the button below to stay updated. | | Windsor Rib & Beer Festival | | The Windsor Rib & Beer Festival is back from Friday, May 23rd to Sunday, May 25th at Riverfront Festival Plaza! Part of the Northern Heat Rib Series, this sizzling weekend promises mouth-watering BBQ from top ribbers, cold beer, and finger-lickin’ fun for the whole family. Admission is just $2 per person, and kids under 5 get in free. Event hours are Friday 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturday 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Come hungry and ready to savour the best ribs in town! | |
3rd Annual Tailgate Takeout Charity
Cornhole Tournament
| The 3rd Annual Tailgate Takeout Charity Cornhole Tournament is set for Saturday, May 24th, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Walkerville Brewery. This fun-filled afternoon supports the Canadian Mental Health Association – Windsor Essex County and features a single-elimination, swap-style tournament run by Windsor Cornhole. Enjoy local brews, tasty eats from vendors, live music, raffles, and a 50/50 draw—all for a great cause. Entry is $35 per person, open to all skill levels, with cash prizes for the top three teams! Click the link below to purchase tickets. | |
Gina Lori Riley Dance Enterprises Presents:
Movement, Fantasy, and Memory
| On Saturday, May 24th, from 5:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Gina Lori Riley Dance Enterprises presents "Movement, Fantasy and Memory" at the Armouries Theatre, 37 University Ave E in Windsor. This special evening celebrates Gina Lori Riley’s career in dance and movement with the screening of three award-winning experimental films—One of Those Nights, Commedia Fantasia, and I Am Here—alongside a display of original costumes, masks, and headdresses. The event also features a cocktail reception, hors d’oeuvres, and a live Q&A session. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and will be locked at 6:15 p.m., so guests are encouraged to arrive early. Click the button below to purchase tickets. | | Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market
| | Visit the Downtown Windsor Farmer’s Market on Saturday, May 24th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Pelissier St. The market will be running every Saturday through October 25th, offering fresh, farm-to-table produce and unique artisan food products from the best local producers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including a Kids Corner, art exhibits, craft vendors, community booths, entertainment, food demonstrations, and special events, making it the perfect family-friendly outing. Don’t miss your chance to support local businesses and experience the best of the community! Click the button below to visit the event website. | | The LaSalle Night Market returns on Sunday, May 25th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the LaSalle Civic Centre. This vibrant outdoor market features local artisans, farm-fresh produce, handcrafted goods, food vendors, and small businesses showcasing their unique creations. Admission is free and all are welcome—there’s truly something for everyone! In case of rain, the event will move indoors to the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing. Click the button below to visit the event website. | | |
Windsor International Film
Festival Under the Stars
| | WIFF Under the Stars returns for its 2025 edition from Friday, June 13th to Sunday, June 15th, transforming the front lawn of the Aquatic Centre into a vibrant outdoor cinema experience. Born out of a pandemic-era pivot, this now-annual tradition offers the community a full weekend of free film screenings on a 20’ LED screen, with 23 titles spanning festival favourites, summer blockbusters, and standout Canadian programming. With a mission to give back and make great films accessible to all, WIFF invites audiences to bring their blankets, chairs, and loved ones for a memorable weekend under the stars—complete with concessions from local favourites What’s Poppin’ and Soda Pop Bros. Click the button below to see the full film schedule and start planning your weekend under the stars. | | Creamy Garlic Roasted Red Pepper Pasta | Looking for a dinner that’s rich, healthy, and wildly delicious? This creamy garlic roasted red pepper pasta is a must-try. Made with roasted red peppers, garlic, and almond milk, this vegan-friendly sauce is the kind of creamy that dreams are made of. Whether you toss it with traditional pasta or spiralized zucchini, this recipe is as versatile as it is flavorful—and ready for your personal twist. Add goat cheese, sautéed kale, or a pinch of cayenne and turn your cozy night in into a restaurant-worthy experience. | | Spring Cleaning Tip of the Week | | Don't Forget the Baseboards! | | Baseboards may not be the most obvious part of your spring cleaning routine, but giving them a refresh about once a month can make a big difference. Start by removing surface dust using a vacuum with a brush attachment or a microfiber mop. Next, wipe them down with warm water mixed with a bit of cleaning vinegar. Finish by drying them with a microfiber cloth and running a dryer sheet over them to help repel future dust buildup. | | Add a breezy, coastal touch to your summer décor with this charming driftwood art project. Using just a few supplies like driftwood, a starfish, craft paint, and a recessed wood panel, this simple yet stunning craft brings a bit of the beach into your home—perfect for mantels, shelves, or walls. Whether you collect driftwood during a lakeside stroll or order it online, this piece adds natural texture and nautical flair to any space. A dry-brushed finish and a starfish centerpiece give it a rustic, relaxed vibe ideal for summer. | |
| If your life had a background soundtrack, what genre would it be? | | | | |
Last week's poll results:
If you could go back in time, which form of past entertainment would you like to experience?
A performance by the Beatles at The Cavern Club in Liverpool - 25%
A folk music performance at Woodstock in 1969 - 20.5%
A disco night at Studio 54 in the 1970s - 18.2%
A Broadway show in the 1980s - 15.9%
A concert by Beethoven in Vienna - 9.1%
A Shakespearean play in Elizabethan England - 4.5%
A gladiator fight in Ancient Rome - 4.5%
A medieval jousting tournament - 2.3%
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