May is Community Living Month! | | Families founded the Community Living movement on the ideal that every person deserves to belong in their community and make their own choices. For #CLMonth2025 show us how your family is continuing this legacy using the hashtag #FamiliesForInclusion | | Get your Tickets Today!
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. | | Leaps, Landscapes, and Lift-Off | | Last week, Hayden set out on a full-day adventure to Brantford and the surrounding area—and what a day it was! The excitement kicked off at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park, where Hayden put his jumping skills to the test with energy and enthusiasm. From there, he took in the natural beauty of the region with a stop at a scenic local waterfall, enjoying the peaceful sights and sounds of nature. The adventure wrapped up with a visit to see some incredible aircraft, getting an up-close look at the impressive machines on display. From high-flying fun to breathtaking views, Hayden’s day was packed with excitement from start to finish! | | Clayton is always on the hunt for tasty new spots and earlier this week, his food journey led him to the newly opened Dairy Queen right in his neighborhood. He went with a classic choice — the strawberry sundae. With its rich vanilla soft serve topped with a generous swirl of strawberry sauce, it was the perfect midweek treat. Just another tasty chapter in his ongoing adventure. | | A Day of Innovation and Inspiration | | Last week, Cody, Rita, and Rick went to the St. Denis Centre to enjoy a robotics competition hosted locally by FIRST Robotics Canada and the University of Windsor. High school STEM students showcased their incredible work, creating robots that tackle unique challenges in an obstacle course-style competition! The event was filled with fun, music, and many amazing students who were eager to explain to Cody, Rita, and Rick how the robots were made. | | Earlier this week, Kyle, Jerry, Dan, and Cody had the chance to step back in time with a visit to the newly restored Streetcar No. 351 on Riverside Drive in Windsor. The experience was nothing short of a blast! They enjoyed learning about the fascinating history of Windsor Transit while exploring the iconic streetcar. From discovering its storied past to understanding its role in the city’s transportation history, the day was filled with excitement, laughter, and plenty of new knowledge. A fun and educational way to celebrate Windsor’s heritage! | | Brianna showed up to horseback riding this week with a mission—and a snack! She brought along some crunchy carrots to treat her horse after the ride, and it was love at first bite. The best part? Her horse wasn’t shy about asking for more—he lifted his bowl with a playful nudge, making it clear he was ready for round two! Brianna was all smiles and is already planning next week’s visit, this time with some juicy apples in hand. Looks like she’s got a new fan—and a very hungry one at that! | | Jerry, Kate, Rita, and Alvin stepped up in a big way on McHappy Day last week, proudly volunteering at McDonald's in Amherstburg to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Dubbed the "McHappy Cheer Squad," this enthusiastic group brought energy, smiles, and encouragement to everyone who walked through the doors. They cheered on patrons, engaged with passersby, and helped spread awareness about the incredible cause behind the day. After their shift, they celebrated with a well-earned lunch—purchasing their meals to further support the foundation. It was a heartwarming day of community spirit, fun, and giving back! | |
Celebrating Accessibility in Amherstburg | | |
Karen Bolger, Executive Director of Community Living Essex County, proudly presented the Welcoming Accessibility Award at the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Awards last week. The award was accepted by Kathy DiBartolomeo, Executive Director of Amherstburg Community Services, in recognition of their commitment to creating inclusive and accessible spaces in the community.
Congratulations as well to Amherstburg Sobeys and The Gibson Gallery on their well-deserved nominations for this meaningful award!
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Deadline Extended:
Inspiring Possibilities DSW Bursary
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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! | | |
Eyes Wide Open
As the Family Consultant for Ensemble and as the caregiver of an adult daughter with intellectual disabilities, I look forward to CLEC's weekly newsletter, Possibilities.
This carefully researched and presented newsletter is a fantastic source of resources that target:
- personal successes
- community events
- adaptable craft ideas
- nutritious recipes
- current family updates
This newsletter provides valuable perspectives that provide families and their caregivers, both paid and unpaid, with current and useful highlights that aim to improve the lives of those with intellectual disabilities.
My daughter Sarah and her dedicated support helper, Rosanne, saw the value of a recent featured craft that uses coffee filters. What better way to tell Mum—"I love ❤️ you"? And what better occasion than Mother's Day?
Using 12 coffee filters per flower and an eyedropper to apply paint with 'hand over hand' assistance, Sarah created a flower bouquet to rival fresh flowers ❤️
Hydrangeas never looked so beautiful!
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Next time your Possibilities newsletter appears in your mailbox—OPEN IT! 🤩
You never know what interesting news you'll find that has huge potential to 'open doors' that will provide your family with unimagined positive experiences.
Did you READ this ENTIRE newsletter? If NOT—You have NO idea what you've missed!
Until next time!
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
| | New Day: Spotlight Series & Update | | |
Spotlight on Brianne Taggart
Brianne Taggart has been a vital part of New Day since 2017 and currently serves as President and a member of the Executive Committee. Brianne is also a Director on the Agency's Board of Directors. Deeply committed to accessibility and advocacy, Brianne contributes to several key committees, including the Ruthven Apple Festival, Accessibility, and Speaking Out Planning Committees. She also serves on the Council of Community Living Ontario, where she continues her passionate work promoting inclusion and rights for people with disabilities. Outside of her advocacy, Brianne enjoys giving presentations, exploring nature, and expressing herself through art.
| | 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 Mayor’s Luncheon and a Day at the Legislature—May is a meaningful and action-packed time for New Day and our community. | | Kevin McMullan Memorial Award | | Employees wishing to nominate a colleague, please click the button below. | |  | For external nominations, please use this button to nominate an employee. | | | |
Kevin McMullan passionately instilled leadership values and advocated for those we serve. One recipient will be recognized with the Kevin McMullan Memorial Award during this year’s Annual Meeting of Members. We look forward to receiving many wonderful nominations for this prestigious award by Tuesday, May 20, 2025. If you have any questions about the award or the nomination form, please direct them to: nominations@communitylivingessex.org.
The Kevin McMullan Memorial Award committee appreciates your efforts to recognize an exceptional employee of Community Living Essex County!
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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. | | 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: Henson Trust
and Trustee Considerations
| P4P invites you to join the Henson Trust and Trustee Considerations webcast on Tuesday, May 20th at 7:00 p.m. This informative session will provide valuable insights into the Henson Trust and other estate planning strategies designed to protect ODSP benefits and secure the financial future of family members with disabilities. Attendees will learn about ODSP-related restrictions, explore trust options, and receive expert tips on appointing trustees. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain important knowledge—register now to reserve your spot! | | |
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. Come out and enjoy the peaceful outdoor setting while improving your mind-body connection! | | |
Save the Date:
Friends of Tecumseh Thunder: Baseball Fun Camp
| Save the date 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! | | |
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! | |
Riverfront Theatre Company presents:
Les Misérables: School Edition
| | From Friday, May 16th to Sunday, May 18th—with additional performances on May 23rd, 24th, and 25th—Riverfront Theatre Company presents Les Misérables: School Edition at The Capitol Theatre. This epic and uplifting adaptation of the world’s longest-running musical features a talented youth cast and delivers all the drama, hope, and powerful music that has moved audiences around the globe. Tickets are $22 for students under 18 and $27 for general admission. Click the button below to purchase tickets. | | On Saturday, May 17th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the W. F. Chisholm Public Library (1075 Ypres Avenue in Windsor) will host Ojibway on the Go—a fun and educational program in collaboration with the Ojibway Nature Centre. This month’s theme, Things with Wings, invites attendees to learn all about local birds and their unique sounds. The event also includes story time and a nature-themed craft, generously sponsored by the Friends of Ojibway Prairie. After the session, families can even borrow a Birding Backpack to continue the adventure at home. No registration is required—just drop in and enjoy! | | Movie Night at the Chrysler Theatre | On Saturday, May 17th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., movie lovers can enjoy The Breakfast Club Movie Night at the Chrysler Theatre. Directed by John Hughes, this 1985 comedy-drama follows five high school students who, during Saturday detention, discover that they share more in common than they ever expected. With a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes, this beloved classic is perfect for a night out. Tickets are priced at $10 plus taxes and fees, with general admission seating. It’s an evening not to be missed for fans of the iconic 80s film! | | Downtown Windsor Farmers' Market
| | Visit the Downtown Windsor Farmer’s Market on Saturday, May 18th, 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. | | On Sunday, May 18th at 2:00 pm, the Masonic Temple Ballroom (986 Ouellette Avenue in Windsor) will host Hocus Pocus 2025, a two-hour magic extravaganza perfect for all ages! Attendees will be treated to up-close table-side magic, followed by a grand stage show featuring stunning illusions, with performances by six talented magicians from the Windsor Magic Circle. The event will also include face painting, magic displays, and more fun activities. Tickets are $20 each. For more details, click the button below and visit the event page. It's an afternoon of magic you won’t want to miss! | |
St. Clair Beach Optimist Club
Victoria Day Fireworks
| | Celebrate Victoria Day with a spectacular fireworks display at the Optimist Victoria Day Fireworks event, presented by the Optimist Club of St. Clair Beach and Rock Developments! On Saturday, May 17th, head to Green Acres Optimist Park in Tecumseh for an unforgettable evening under the stars. Festivities start at 6:00 p.m., with fireworks lighting up the sky at dusk. Enjoy delicious food from local vendors and food trucks, live music to keep the energy high, and a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Admission is free—just bring your lawn chairs, appetite, and love for community fun. Don't miss out on this epic kick-off to summer! | | Delicately layered with buttery crescent dough and a smooth cream cheese filling, this elegant pastry is complemented by a swirl of strawberry jam, a light vanilla butter glaze, and a finishing touch of sugared cranberries for added texture and visual appeal. Baked to golden perfection and best served warm, it offers a balanced blend of rich, sweet, and tart flavors—perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying as a simple indulgence any time of day. | | Spring Cleaning Tip of the Week | | You’ve probably already got everything you need for a thorough kitchen cabinet cleaning—possibly stored in those very cabinets. Fill an empty spray bottle with a 50/50 mix of vinegar and warm water, spritz generously, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe clean with a soft cloth (microfiber works especially well). For stubborn grease or sticky spots, add a small amount of dish soap to the solution and repeat as needed until your cabinets are sparkling. | | Turn an ordinary Pringles can into a charming DIY spring vase with just a few simple supplies! Perfect for holding artificial flowers, this decorative project transforms a small snack container into a vintage-inspired accent using patterned wrapping paper, delicate white lace, and mini pearl stickers. No special tools or waterproofing required—just clear glue and a bit of creativity. This quick and easy craft adds a touch of seasonal elegance to any shelf, table, or mantel. | |
| If you could go back in time, which form of past entertainment would you like to experience? | | | | |
Last week's poll results:
What is your screen-time guilty pleasure?
Binge-watching shows - 23.8%
I try to keep my screen time to a minimum - 21.4%
Online shopping - 21.4%
Scrolling through TikTok videos - 14.3%
Gaming - 11.9%
Watching DIY or home makeover videos - 7.1%
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