Ray and Stephen had a wonderful Sunday afternoon soaking up the sunshine and excitement as they watched the horse races at Leamington Raceway. The perfect weather and thrilling races made for a memorable and enjoyable day out. | |
Recently, Kate attended the Harrow Fair Parade and had a wonderful time celebrating the fair’s remarkable 170th anniversary. The event was a vibrant display of local tradition and community spirit, making for a memorable and festive experience. | |
Recently, Arthur completed his final swimming lesson and was awarded a small trophy in recognition of his achievements. His hard work and dedication throughout the course paid off, and he was thrilled to have achieved this goal. | |
Last month, Cathy and Nancy had a great time at Amherstburg's Art By the River event. They enjoyed the beautiful views of Fort Malden while checking out the different art displays. The historic fort made a lovely backdrop for the variety of artworks on display, and Cathy and Nancy had fun exploring all the booths and soaking up the lively atmosphere. | |
Brianne Taggart, based in Kingsville, is the creative force behind Brianne’s Art Creations & Photography. She offers a diverse range of acrylic paintings, including stunning landscapes, beach scenes, vibrant animal portraits, and abstract art. Her photography also beautifully captures the essence of nature, as exemplified by her recent images of monarch butterflies—a lovely sign that migration season is upon us. Discover more of her enchanting collection by clicking the link below. | |
Last Friday, we said goodbye to our Director of Finance, Gary Belanger. His dedication and expertise have been instrumental in guiding our financial management, and his presence will be greatly missed. Congratulations on your retirement, from everyone at Community Living Essex County! We hope your retirement is filled with relaxation, joy, and new adventures! | |
The Tradition Continues... | |
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Get ready for a weekend of fun, food, and community spirit at one of Essex County’s most beloved events! Voted as one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario by Festival Events Ontario, the Ruthven Apple Festival has been a cherished tradition in Essex County for an incredible 44 years.
Taking place at Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, this two-day festival truly has something for everyone. Whether you're a music lover, car enthusiast, foodie, or craft connoisseur, you'll find plenty to enjoy! With two full days of non-stop live music, a spectacular Sunday car show, and over 130 craft and food vendors, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Plus, the Farmers Market will be bursting with local produce, showcasing the very best of Essex County’s harvest.
But it’s more than just a festival – it’s an opportunity to give back. Thanks to the incredible support of the community, the Ruthven Apple Festival has raised over one million dollars for Community Living Essex County. These funds go directly toward the purchase and maintenance of accessible vehicles, ensuring that people with intellectual disabilities have the freedom to participate fully in their community.
Admission is by donation, parking is free, and the memories are priceless! Join us for the 45th Annual Ruthven Apple Festival and become part of this amazing tradition.
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Ruthven Apple Festival: Car Show
Volunteers Needed
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Are you a fan of classic cars? One of the highlights of the Ruthven Apple Festival is the Classic Car Show fundraiser, taking place on Sunday, September 29th, at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens. This year's festival is shaping up to be exceptional, but we need your support to make it a success! If you're interested in volunteering, click the button below to get in touch with Tony. | |
Apple Festival Merchandise Available Now! | |
Get ready for the Ruthven Apple Festival with exclusive merchandise available on the Apple Festival website! Choose from a range of festive apparel for all ages and limited-edition collectibles that capture the spirit of the event. All online orders can be picked up at the Community Living Essex office, and you’ll receive an email when your order is ready. Merchandise will also be available for purchase at the Ruthven Apple Festival on September 28 and 29, while supplies last! Click the link below to explore and celebrate in style! | |
New Day - Speaking Out Conference | |
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New Day, Leaders of Today are proud to be assisting with the upcoming Speaking Out Conference. This conference is for people with intellectual disabilities affiliated with Community Living organizations. The conference will host up to 180 self advocates who take the lead in facilitating workshops on a variety of topics. It gives people an opportunity to connect with many different people throughout Ontario.
Every year gifts of door prizes enhance the conference experience and New Day always attempts to collect enough door prizes for every participant. If you can contribute a door prize or know a business who would be interested in helping, please email New Day at newday@communitylivingessex.org.
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My article this week will be longer because I want each one of us to move forward with renewed energy, and what better time to do this? — the fall season!
Well! You’ve almost made it through the summer! Let’s celebrate the changes in routine you’ve successfully made. Some days have gone more smoothly than others. I wonder if these days gave you new strategies?
No successes are made alone. Families that include individuals with intellectual disabilities combined with complex challenges soon learn that reaching out to others is a must! Around the world in multiple languages there is a quote understood by all:
“IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD.”
As families of school age children know; the new school year is filled with mixed emotions. Outward excitement and inward anxiety!
You play a huge part in your child’s success. Teachers establish classroom routines and expectations for the entire class, including your special needs student. They cannot do it on their own. They count on other students (Buddies), you as a family member and NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN— specially trained support staff.
TOGETHER—it’s a TEAM that will make everyone’s chances of success a possibility.
How can YOU help? First and foremost, COMMUNICATE!~ not only your child’s strengths and weaknesses but also your GRATEFULNESS for skilled educators — teachers, support staff and student Buddies. Too often the most important puzzle pieces never receive recognition.
So — THANK YOU TEACHERS, SUPPORT STAFF and CLASSROOM BUDDIES 🥰
Not all families have school age kids. More than ever those beyond formal schooling need to be assured their days will continue to be meaningful. It is to be hoped that new experiences, reflecting individuals’ changing situations will create the potential for continued growth and satisfaction.
None of this can occur without help. Family responsibilities are complex and demanding. Maintaining a vibrant and active life, as everyone continues to age, requires assistance. As families we look outside our home and seek to find supports. Trained support staff have the potential to join families while assisting our special needs adults.
Support staff are A LIFELINE for families. They assist in achieving a balanced and rewarding life for the entire family.
What can YOU as a family member do? COMMUNICATE!
Let individuals who support your family, know they are VALUED 😍 THANK YOU SUPPORT WORKERS.
Finally, move into the new season with renewed hope, energy and optimism. Stress positivity. And, while you’re practising COMMUNICATION with teachers, Buddies and support workers; don’t forget another community support — ENSEMBLE!
We are waiting to communicate with you 😃.
Marilyn,
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
www.ensembleunderstands.com
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Career Compass Employer Referral Program | |
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! | |
Upcoming DSO Virtual Presentations | |
Developmental Services Ontario is hosting a free virtual presentation on Tuesday, September 10th, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. This informative session will highlight various types of technological assistance available today and how they can support independence. For more information, check out the flyer below and click the button to register. | |
Developmental Services Ontario will be hosting a free 3-session workshop series designed to help create an individualized housing and support plan for you or a family member with a developmental disability. The first session will be held on Wednesday, September 11th, at 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Click the flyer or the button below to register for this workshop series. | |
Family Support Network Workshop: Trauma Informed Care | The Family Support Network is hosting a free 2-week, in-person workshop for caregivers on the topic of Trauma Informed Care. This workshop will teach caregivers the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms of trauma and the effect trauma has on mental health. Attendees will learn how to promote healing, resiliency, and coping skills in those they provide care for. Registration is required by October 7th. Snacks and beverages will be provided. If you are interested, please call 519-352-1147 ext. 250 or email njansen@clc-k.ca to register. | |
Download the Tourism Windsor-Essex & Pelee Island Fall Event Guide to discover the most exciting and enjoyable fall events in Windsor Essex this season. Use it as your checklist to explore attractions and activities that capture the essence of fall before the holiday season arrives! Click the link below to view the guide and start enjoying all that the #YQG has to offer! | |
You may have noticed that days are getting a bit shorter and nights cooler but the weather is just perfect to head into the nearest orchard or field and pick your favourite local produce. With the arrival of Fall comes a variety of local produce to choose from and apples are one of our favourites! Apple picking is an annual ritual for many families in Windsor Essex so make sure to check out the 2024 Pick Your Own Guide. Whether you pick your own or purchase them from the fruit stand, you certainly won’t be disappointed in the bounty from Essex County. | |
Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All | |
This festival in Colchester will highlight accessibility-focused activities and exhibits from local organizations, municipalities, and businesses in Essex County and Windsor. Highlights include adaptive rowing, fitness classes, basketball, and a workout session with SueSanity Pound Fitness. The event is free and features a raffle. Attendees should bring a water bottle for the filling station provided and can use the quiet space and charging stations available. For more details, click the link provided. | |
St. Paul's Anglican Church in Essex invites you to a pasta dinner, featuring all-you-can-eat meat and vegetarian pastas, salad, and cake! Take out is available. The cost is $12 per person. Enjoy good food and good fellowship while helping to support the many ministries of St. Paul's including the clothing cupboard, fun with flags, diverse and creative worship, and more. | |
Point Pelee: Dark Sky Nights | |
Explore the park after dark and experience the dark skies of Point Pelee National Park on September 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. | |
Attendees can look forward to a fantastic street closure event in Walkerville, where they can explore a diverse array of food and drink options. This inaugural event taking place on Saturday, September 7th, will start at 12:00 p.m. and continue until 10:00 p.m. It will feature live music, food and drink vendors, over 20 restaurants, tasting menus, and more. It’s an opportunity not to be missed, as it marks the debut of this exciting new experience. | |
Amherstburg Farmers Market | |
The Amherstburg Farmers Market is an inviting outdoor venue showcasing a carefully curated selection of local farmers, makers, and creators. Its mission is to support small businesses and serve as a community hub for both residents and visitors. Open rain or shine every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., from May 4 to October 12, the market is family- and pet-friendly. It features weekly live music, homemade breakfast, fresh coffee, craft beer, educational experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere. The market is located on Howard Avenue in the parking lot of GL Heritage Brewing Co., where visitors can also enjoy the brewery and patio. | |
Leamington Raceway Race Day | |
On Sunday, September 8th, Leamington Raceway will host a special event to honor harness racing caretakers, featuring Hall of Fame announcer Frank Salive. Starting at 1:00 p.m., the day will include live races called by Salive, presentations for caretakers, and family-friendly activities with food vendors and giveaways. The event takes place at 194 Erie Street North, Leamington. | |
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars | |
While many of us are reluctant to part with summer, these decadent bars might be the perfect way to embrace the arrival of fall. Featuring three delicious layers and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, these pie bars are a must-try fall dessert. | |
Leaf Felt and Cork Coasters | |
Crafting leaf-shaped coasters from felt and cork is a playful way to let autumn sneak onto your table. Cut out leaf shapes, layer the soft felt over natural cork, and voilà—your drinks have never looked more seasonally stylish! | |
| What’s your favorite way to spend a day off? | | | |
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If you could eliminate one chore forever, which would you choose?
Laundry - 28.9%
Sweeping/mopping floors - 17.8%
Dusting - 15.6%
Shoveling snow - 15.6%
Washing dishes - 11.1%
Raking the leaves - 4.4%
Mowing the lawn - 4.4%
Washing/cleaning vehicle - 2.2%
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