Ryan and Nick are long-time, dedicated volunteers for the Salvation Army Kettle Bell Christmas fundraiser, a cause they have passionately supported for many years. Both of them find great fulfillment in ringing the bells, meeting people, and contributing to such an important tradition that helps those in need during the holiday season. It's an experience they look forward to each year, knowing that their efforts play a part in spreading kindness and giving back to the community. | |
Isaac’s Neighbourly Spirit | |
Last week, Isaac spent a rewarding day helping his neighbor with a big fall cleanup, raking and collecting leaves to keep the yard tidy. Always eager to lend a hand, Isaac enjoys making a positive impact in his neighborhood. His kindness and willingness to help others are what make him such a valued neighbor and friend. | |
A Sunny Stroll at Lakeview Park | |
On Tuesday morning, Clayton enjoyed a walk at Lakeview Park Marina, taking in the beautiful scenery. He snapped a few pictures by the bridge and lighthouse, capturing the perfect sunny day at the end of November. It was a great way to enjoy the fresh air and the peaceful surroundings as the season changes. | |
On Track for Holiday Magic | |
Konnor had a fantastic time at the CPKC Holiday Train when it passed through Chatham. He was captivated by the bright lights and enjoyed the energetic music from the band. As a fundraiser, the event raised money for local food banks, and Konnor was proud to contribute to such an important cause. It was a perfect way to kick off the holiday season, combining fun, music, and giving back to the community. | |
Earlier this month, Kent, Neal, and Ronald had a wonderful time decorating their Christmas tree and fully embracing the festive spirit. They spent the day adding ornaments, hanging lights, and sharing laughs, making the occasion both special and joyful. Their teamwork and enthusiasm brought the Christmas magic to life in their home, transforming the tree into a beautiful centerpiece for the season. | |
Holiday Cheer at Colasanti's | |
Early last week, Dominic had a fantastic time exploring Colasanti’s, surrounded by stunning Christmas decorations that truly got him into the holiday spirit. From sparkling lights to beautifully arranged festive displays, every corner was filled with cheer. The sights and sounds of the season inspired a sense of joy and excitement. Dominic left feeling full of Christmas spirit, ready to embrace the season ahead! | |
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Giving Tuesday is Here!
December 3-December 31 Your Donation Will Be Matched!
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Our Giving Tuesday campaign is here!
Make a real impact in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities this holiday season. Now through December 31, Libro Credit Union & UNI-FAB will be matching all donations, dollar-for-dollar, up to $6000!
100% of Giving Tuesday proceeds will go toward the purchase of technology, such as smartphones, tablets, apps, and wearables, to help people we support develop skills, take part in virtual supports, and stay connected with friends and family.
This year our goal is $12,000 – help us beat it!
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#WaitingToBelong - Call For Stories | |
Did you know? Over 50,000 adults with developmental disabilities are on the waitlist for services in Ontario, while less than 35,000 people are currently receiving the support they need. Most of the 50,000 people on the waitlist will require lifelong support services. Without urgent action from the Ontario government, this waitlist will continue to grow, leaving many without the crucial services they desperately need. Help raise awareness by reposting and using the hashtag #WaitingToBelong. Community Living Ontario and OASIS is also inviting people to share their stories at the link below. | |
Come See Us at Devonshire Mall | |
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Stop by the Community Living Essex County booth at Devonshire Mall, located next to Lululemon, now through Christmas Eve! Our dedicated volunteers are ready to wrap your gifts, making your holiday shopping easier while supporting a great cause. Special thanks to St. Clair College & the St. Clair College Alumni Association for their generous sponsorship.
Let us take care of the wrapping while you enjoy the holiday season! For more information, contact Janell Violet at jviolet@communitylivingessex.org.
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Hope you’ve managed to find some time to sit back and connect with the ‘positives’ that surround us throughout the festive season. With the arrival of December came the inevitable winter season. We’re Canadian – so what would December be without a blast of frigid Arctic air 🥶 and a dusting of snow? We were lulled into thinking that the balmy ‘summer-like’ days of November were here to stay. No such luck!! 🥶 Bundle up! Winter is here!
As we go out and about, we reminisce about seasons past with family and friends. Our memories can be triggered by: photos, music, keepsakes, aromas, and sights. These shared memories are our stories.
We don’t often get to share our stories with the government. In September 2024, Community Living Ontario and OASIS launched a campaign: “#WaitingToBelong.”
Please see their website:
https://communitylivingontario.ca and consider sharing YOUR story. Change can only occur when our voices are heard!
PS. In January, when you have recovered from December, I’ll resend a “story” reminder.
In the meantime, take in all that the month of December has to offer and know there are lights at the end of the tunnel — and they’re NOT Christmas lights!!
Best wishes and happy days!
Marilyn
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
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2024 Holiday Sharing Guide | |
211 South West Region Ontario has announced the release of the 2024 Holiday Sharing Guides for Windsor and Essex County. These guides provide information on how to give help to those in need and get help during the holiday season. They include details about gift and toy programs, food drives, and community holiday meals available throughout the region. Click on the guide relevant to your area to learn how you can help or receive assistance this holiday season. | |
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! | |
Dollars and Sense Events - Save the Dates | |
The Windsor-Essex Family Network is bringing back its Dollars & Sense Events for families with a loved one who has a disability. Presented by Stephanie Dickson from Pooran Law, the free sessions will cover topics such as Alternatives to Guardianship, Estate Planning, and Home Ownership Options. These events will be held in person and via Zoom on January 22nd, March 20th, and April 10th. Key topics include ODSP, Wills, Trusts, POAs, and more. Registration details will be available after December 5, 2024. | |
Upcoming DSO Virtual Event | |
Developmental Services Ontario will be hosting a free virtual presentation about the eCLAIM process on Friday, December 13th, 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 ODSP | |
The P4P Planning Network is offering a free online webcast about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This program provides essential financial assistance to individuals with disabilities to cover basic living and medical expenses. Key topics will include an overview of the ODSP, how to qualify and apply, the definition of disability under the program, and how employment impacts benefits. The webcast will also cover recent changes to the program. The session is scheduled for Monday, January 8th, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by a live Q&A session. Participants will receive an email with the webcast link 24 hours before the event. Click the link below to register. | |
2024 Holiday Lights Guide | |
The 2024 Holiday Lights Guide provides information about all the light festivals taking place around Windsor-Essex County. This year, a free Holiday Lights Pass is being launched to guide participants to each festival—and offer them the chance to win as they explore! The Holiday Lights Pass requires no downloads; users simply register with their email and phone number to receive a text directly on their phones. Each check-in counts as another entry for a chance to win a $500.00 shopping spree at Devonshire Mall. Participants are encouraged to register for their pass now to access bonus draws and the opportunity to win exclusive prizes from the proud sponsors of Bright Lights Windsor! Click the button below to get started. | |
The 28th Annual McGregor Community Christmas Turkey Dinner will be held on Sunday, December 22nd, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the McGregor Columbian Club. This festive, dine-in-only event, sponsored by the Knights of Columbus and served by the Squirettes of Mary, offers a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings, including mashed potatoes, stuffing, corn, salad, rolls, cranberry sauce, and dessert. There is no charge for the dinner, though donations are gratefully accepted. Santa Claus will also be onsite for photos. Reservations can be made online by clicking the button below and filling out the form, or by calling Rose Renaud at 519-919-5318. Home delivery is available for those unable to attend. | |
Gibson Gallery - 2024 Holiday Artisan Shoppe | |
Visit the Gibson Gallery in Amherstburg for the 2024 Holiday Artisan Shoppe event, running from Thursday, November 14th to Sunday, December 8th, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. This festive marketplace features over 50 local artists and artisans showcasing their handmade creations, offering a wide variety of unique and thoughtful gifts perfect for the holidays. From stunning jewelry and home décor to festive ornaments and cozy textiles, there’s something for everyone on your shopping list. Support local talent and find one-of-a-kind treasures at this must-visit holiday event! | |
Jack Miner Country Christmas | |
Celebrate the holiday season at Jack Miner Country Christmas on Friday, December 6th, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event offers a festive atmosphere with plenty of activities for everyone in the family. Visitors can meet Santa in the beautifully decorated historic house, roast marshmallows by the open fire, and enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate. Get creative with holiday crafts, engage in play-based learning at the Jack Miner Learning Centre, and explore the fascinating Jack Miner Museum. Don’t miss out on this magical evening at the Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary! | |
Point Pelee: Dark Sky Nights | Explore the park after dark and experience the dark skies of Point Pelee National Park on Saturday, December 7th. You will have the opportunity to stay late and experience the park at night. Visitors can pick up a seasonal star chart at the front gate upon arrival. The park is open until midnight, unless otherwise stated. Click the button below to visit the event website. | |
LaSalle Breakfast with Santa & the Mayor | |
Join Santa and LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche for a festive breakfast on Saturday, December 7th, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the LaSalle Event Centre. Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, live magic, face painting, holiday character fun, and music by DJ Jon. Tickets are $10 per person, with limited availability. Children under 2 are free. Don't miss this holiday celebration! Click the link below to purchase tickets. | |
Christmas at the Parks Candlelit Tours | |
Get into the holiday spirit with the Park House Museum’s Christmas at the Parks Candlelit Tours, happening Friday, December 6th and Saturday, December 7th. This immersive, festive experience invites guests to step back in time and discover the origins of beloved holiday traditions. With tours running at 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm, visitors will enjoy the charm of the museum, beautifully illuminated by candlelight. Tickets must be booked in advance by calling 519-736-2511 or emailing parkhousemuseum@gmail.com. Additional tours are available on December 13th, 14th, 20th, and 21st. Don’t miss this enchanting holiday event! | |
On Saturday, December 7th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., JOI Rising and Aligning Stars Optimist Club invites families to bring the kids to the Essex Youth Centre for a special holiday event! Children 14 and under will have the opportunity to "shop" for up to 2 gifts for Mom and Dad, choosing the perfect presents and then wrapping them with the help of festive elves. This fun, free event is a wonderful way to get kids involved in the holiday season and make them feel the joy of giving. The event is free for children and runs while supplies last, so be sure to stop by and join in the holiday cheer! | |
They can transform a traditional taco night into something a little different with this taco pasta bake. Combining two popular favorites, it becomes a cheesy dish packed with spices. This family-friendly recipe is the perfect affordable and make-ahead option for busy weeknights. | |
Snowy Mason Jar Luminaries | |
These DIY Snowy Mason Jar Luminaries are incredibly easy to make with readily available items. They create a beautiful holiday display for flameless tea lights, or can even be used as vases for holiday garlands or flowers, perfectly complementing any home décor style. | |
| Which Christmas character do you identify with the most? | | | |
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How do you prefer to wrap presents?
I get all my wrapping done at the Community Living Essex County Holiday Charity Gift Wrap Booth - 56.8%
Printed wrapping paper – 21.6%
Kraft paper and twine - 8.1%
Gift bags - 8.1%
Reusable gift boxes - 5.4%
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