Today is World Down Syndrome Day

On World Down Syndrome Day, let's amplify Down Syndrome International's powerful call to action: END THE STEREOTYPES! Stereotypes limit our understanding and are often rooted in misinformation or bias. They're perpetuated by media and societal narratives, leading to the unfair treatment of those with disabilities. It's time we unite to shatter these misconceptions and #EndTheStereotypes for good! Don't forget to #RockYourSocks!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Swish & Swirl: A Night of Basketball Magic!

Last Wednesday, Paul and Brigitte had the pleasure of attending a Harlem Globetrotters game at the WFCU Centre. The evening was filled with many mind-blowing tricks and hilarious performances that made it an unforgettable experience. They also had the unique opportunity to meet some of their favourite players, adding a personal touch to an already memorable event!

Ensemble Invites You...

As March draws to a close, Ensemble is delighted to have organized three FREE recreational activities for unpaid family caregivers. These events were very well received throughout the month. But don’t worry—the momentum continues into April! We’re kicking off the new month with two additional FREE recreational activities for unpaid family caregivers. One will take place in Essex, and the other in LaSalle. Please RSVP to mgodard@ensembleunderstands.com, and be sure to specify which event you’d like to attend. Please note that there are limited spaces available for each event, and we kindly request that only one adult caregiver per family registers. Once we reach the maximum number of registrants, registration will close. Those attending will receive a prior notification before the event takes place. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

We hope you’ll consider joining other families —to experience new activities, to share ideas, to make new connections AND last but not least — HAVE FUN JUST FOR YOU! 😊



  **Reserve your space now**


🌞 Brighten your spring days with Ensemble.🌞

Marilyn, 

Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee 

mgodard@ensembleunderstands.com or 519-776-6483, ext. 225

Save the Date for our Annual General Meeting!

Join us for our 63rd Annual General Membership Meeting on Tuesday, June 18 at the Ciociaro Club at 3745 North Talbot Road in Oldcastle. Stay tuned for registration details.


Note: to be eligible to vote at the AGM, you must renew your membership by May 28. Click the link below to renew your membership or join for just $10 and receive new membership perks!

CLICK HERE TO BECOME A MEMBER

New Day: 20th Anniversary Celebration

Tickets are now on sale for New Day's 20th Anniversary Celebration, taking place on Saturday, April 20. New Day started in 2004 and has become a voice for people who receive supports from Community Living Essex County.  This is a party for everyone to celebrate the work that has been done through self-advocacy over the last 20 years. Everyone is welcome!

To purchase tickets, call Beth at 519-736-5077 or email newday@communitylivingessex.org.

Applications are Open for the Light Up the Future Bursary

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 26 at 5pm. More information and the application can be found at the link below.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Ruthven Apple Fest Steering Committee is Looking for Volunteers!

Ruthven Apple Fest Looking for Steering Committee Volunteers


The 45th Ruthven Apple Festival, held at Colasanti’s in Ruthven will take place on September 28 and 29, and is Community Living Essex County’s largest annual fundraiser. The festival steering committee is looking for two volunteers, particularly family members of people supported by the organization, to join their dynamic team. Meetings occur monthly from March to September, and committee volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in various festival activities.


If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Tony DeSantis, Manager, Community Relations and Resource Development at 519-776-6483 ext. 246 or by email at tony@communitylivingessex.org.

#5toSurvive: Sign the Petition Today!

Make your voice heard! Over 10,000 people have added their names to this campaign, but let's keep it going! Follow the link below to send a templated letter directly to your local MPP, the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and the Premier. Families and people with intellectual disabilities have been waiting patiently while their daily support services change or disappear altogether. Together we are making a difference.

CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR VOICE TO THE CAMPAIGN

Upcoming DSO Virtual Presentations

Developmental Services Ontario is holding two free virtual presentations. The first, taking place on March 25, will be an informative session about ODSP, and will feature John Done – Executive Director, Kingston Community Legal Clinic. The second, on April 30, will give you an opportunity to learn about the DSO, it's function, the application process and how to access Ministry funded services. Check out the flyers below for additional information and to register.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Online P4P Webcast: Microboards

Join P4P Planning Network for an informative, free webcast about Microboards. Microboards offer a unique approach to empowering individuals with disabilities by harnessing the collective support of family and friends. Through Microboards, individuals with disabilities actively direct their lives, making crucial decisions with the backing of a dedicated team. Karen Bell of Microboards Ontario will shed light on this empowering model in an upcoming webcast, inviting families to explore its suitability for their needs, followed by a live Q&A session.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Shop Local Easter Market

Shop local this Easter with over 25 Windsor-Essex vendors! Find the perfect treat or locally made gift on Saturday March 23 from 10am to 3pm at the Kingsville Lakeside Park Pavilion – 315 Queen Street. There will also be an Easter Egg Hunt with prizes! Bring the kids out for a day of fun and shopping local! Free Admission and not just for moms, there will be something for everyone and all are welcome!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

A total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Windsor and Essex County, weather permitting, on Monday April 8th. Windsor-Essex will be in the path of totality, making it one of the premier spots in the WORLD to witness the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality is a narrow corridor where the sun is completely covered by the moon for about 2 to 3 minutes, allowing viewers to see the sun’s corona and other features. Eye protection is essential. The partial phase starts at 1:58pm and ends at 4:28pm, with totality from 3:12pm to 3:15pm. Click the button below for more information and a guide to local events taking place on April 8.

CLICK TO LEARN MORE

Solar Eclipse: Free Public Talks

Free Laughter Yoga Class

Discover the transformative power of Laughter Yoga! This delightful practice merges playful laughter exercises with calming breathing techniques, unlocking a world of joy and energy. Say goodbye to stress and hello to a healthier, happier you. Walk-ins welcome!


CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Positive Thoughts

Recipe of the Week

March 25 is International Waffle Day!

International Waffle Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to the beloved dish known as the waffle. Observed on March 25, this special day brings together food enthusiasts, waffle aficionados, and culinary explorers to share their love for this versatile treat. Click the button for an amazing waffle recipe and enjoy!

CLICK HERE FOR RECIPE

Meme of the Week

Craft of the Week

Egg Painting

Whether it’s turning a real egg into a galaxy masterpiece or transforming wooden eggs into a beautiful floral centerpiece, the Easter egg painting ideas are only limited by your imagination! Decorating Easter eggs is no longer just about dipping eggs into dye using a store-bought kit. Over the years, people started branching out and coming up with different ideas to add color. Click the button to see some of these ideas and tutorials!

CLICK HERE FOR INSTRUCTIONS

Weekly Poll Question

What is your go-to morning beverage?
Coffee
Tea
Water
Energy drink
I just get up and go!
I work nights, so I drink my coffee in the evenings!

Last Week's Poll Results

What would you do If you found a pot of gold?


Pay off my bills ~ 35.3%

Take a dream vacation ~ 25.5%

Invest it ~ 17.6%

Save it for a rainy Day ~ 9.8%

Find the leprechaun and give it back ~ 5.9%

Donate it ~ 3.9%

Go on a shopping spree ~ 2%



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