Darlene is Helping to Make Birthdays Special for People in Her Community
For some families, the additional cost of the ingredients for a birthday cake could be the difference between paying a bill, purchasing school supplies or other necessary expenses.

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg, in partnership with Amherstburg Community Services, are collecting boxed cake mix, frosting, birthday candles, vegetable oil and napkins. The drop off locations are Sobeys and No Frills in Amherstburg.

On September 17th, Amherstburg Rotary District 6400 Day of Service, they will collect all of the items and present to them to Amherstburg Community Services where they will be distributed. A donation box is also set up at our Channel Resource Centre in Amherstburg, located at 260 Bathurst St.
Our Ruthven Apple Fest Online Shop is Now Open!
Shop your Apple Fest favourites and help us raise funds to purchase accessible vehicles for people with intellectual disabilities.
FREE local delivery for Windsor-Essex County on Friday, September 30th.

We’ll be back with a live in-person festival in 2023, but this year you can still experience the Apple Festival, and support Community Living Essex County, by purchasing delicious apple pies baked by Momma Bear's Bakery, and vintage-inspired Apple Fest merchandise delivered right to your doorstep!

All proceeds help us to purchase accessible vehicles for people with an intellectual disability in Essex County.
Our Ruthven Apple Fest merchandise features our original logo for a vintage look. These items are always favourites at the festival.
Nothing says fall like a fresh-baked apple pie! Once you have a bite, you’ll taste why they are always a top-seller at the Ruthven Apple Festival. Pies are baked by Momma Bear’s Bakery in Kingsville. 
What is - IS!!!
As I continue to research current perspectives that would benefit families that include individuals with intellectual disabilities, I came upon an article written by Cindy Foster, Resource Parent at FSI Vancouver.
Designing supports that celebrate your family member’s abilities, needs, and special considerations.
Educating individuals supporting your child will guarantee greater success. List strengths and positive character traits. Teach acceptance. What is - IS!!! Challenges are part of your child’s personality, train support workers to meet their needs in a calm, non judgmental way. Backup plans are essential. Preparation is a must.
Dream big, but be realistic, flexible, and time sensitive. In the end, you’ll have a plan that meets the needs of your family member, while positively celebrating their abilities.
You’ve developed a support plan for your family member. It’s time now to give your support worker an educational resource that will assist in providing greater understanding. The below link is an excellent resource.
When we work together we maximize opportunities!
Marilyn and the Ensemble Advisory Families
Community Living Essex is Hiring & We Need Your Help!
APEX Fit Together Sports and Exercise Program
A free exercise program is being offered by the APEX program at the University of Windsor. Space is very limited. Click the below link to register. Participant spots will be filled randomly.
Together We Build
New Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital Survey Results
Spacious single-patient rooms. Ample natural light. Intuitive wayfinding. Convenient parking.

Those are just some of the top priorities identified by community members who provided input into the future design of the New Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital during a recent public participation campaign. Participants made it clear they want their new hospital to be designed to include everyone in the region’s diverse community, with plenty of charging stations and private areas for visiting families and loved ones
Outdoor Movie Night
Colchester North Firefighters Association is hosting an outdoor movie night on September 16th at 5:00 pm. Enjoy a screening of Secret Life of Pets. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Tour the fire station and see the fire trucks, don't forget your lawn chair and blanket!
Autumn Prairie Day
Get outdoors and enjoy free guided hikes and activities. Celebrate the prairie and savanna around the Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve on September 17th from 2:00 - 4:00 pm.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On September 30th and October 1st, join the Town of Amherstburg for a two-day event dedicated to the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Indigenous vendors, drummers, singers, and guest speakers will be setup in Downtown Amherstburg.

September 30th from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
  • Official Opening
  • Drumming
  • Dancing
  • Storytelling
October 1st from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Indigenous Vendors
  • Drumming
  • Dancing
  • Storytelling
Positive Thoughts
Binge Worthy TV
The Crown
The Crown is an historical drama television series about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Four seasons are currently streaming on Netflix.
Recipe of the Week
Healthy Dill Pickle Dip
This creamy, tangy dill pickle dip is made healthier with Greek yogurt. It's an easy and delicious dip that's perfect for snacking! This recipe is both vegetarian & gluten-free.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Weekly Poll Question
What's your favorite autumn activity?
Visiting a corn maze
Going on a hay ride
Checking out a local farmers market
Going for a walk to admire the leaves
Poll Results
What are you most excited for this fall?
Fall leaves ~ 52.9%
Halloween ~ 21.6%
Pumpkin spice flavoured treats ~ 11.8%
Apple picking ~ 13.7%