As we celebrate the vibrant festival of Diwali, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May this festival of lights fill your homes with joy, prosperity, and happiness. Let’s embrace the spirit of Diwali together by spreading positivity, kindness, and unity throughout our community. Wishing you a sparkling Diwali filled with memorable moments and cherished time with family and friends! | |
Join Our Accessibility Committee and Help Make a Difference! | |
 | |
The agency has an exciting opportunity for a person supported to join the Accessibility Committee. This is a two-year term, with meetings held twice a year—once in the Spring and once in the Fall.
The Accessibility Committee plays a key role in identifying and recommending improvements to accessibility within both our agency and the broader community. By raising awareness, advocating for change, conducting research, and participating in events, we ensure that the voices of people with disabilities are heard and respected.
When we think about barriers, it’s more than just sidewalks or doorways. It’s about communities where everyone feels welcome and comfortable accessing services, businesses, and activities. Your every day experiences give you unique understanding into what can be done to boost accessibility.
We invite you to join us in breaking down barriers and shaping a more inclusive community.
If you are interested, please contact Lynne Shepley by email or phone by November 4th.
lshepley@communitylivingessex.org
or call 519.776.6483 ext. 232
| |
Rob recently hopped on a train to Toronto for a much-anticipated vacation. While he was there, he visited some of the city's popular sights, like the CN Tower and the Toronto Zoo. He enjoyed the lively atmosphere, tried tasty local food, and experienced the city's rich culture. Each day he spent in Toronto was filled with fun and adventure. | |
Brianna enjoyed a lovely fall day at Colasanti's. She spent time looking at the different wildlife and farm animals, checking out the displays, and taking a picture in the famous photo room. | |
Sunshine and Serenity at Sadler's Pond | |
Cassie loves spending time outdoors and really enjoyed the autumn sunshine during her walk at Sadler's Pond in Essex. The bright red, orange, and yellow hues were wonderful to see and promoted a sense of peace and calm. | |
Janine had a fantastic time at her first day back at the Friendship Group. She even won a game of Halloween bingo, which added to the fun! She’s thrilled to start attending every month and looks forward to the good times ahead! | |
Jacob has been working hard at the Belle River Marina to make sure it's clean and tidy for its visitors. Jacob's tasks include picking garbage and using the power washer to clean the showers! | |
Pictured: Richard Tapping (Vice Chair), Joe Garon (Chair), Karen Bolger (CLEC Executive Director) and committee members, Katie McGuire-Blais, Kim Verbeek, Nicole Atkinson | |
|
Last week, the Essex Fun Fest Committee presented Community Living Essex County with a check for $3,620 from the proceeds of the Thursday Night Kick-Off Event.
We've partnered with the Essex Fun Fest for the last few years, and receive a portion of ticket proceeds for the Sip 'N Shop Mixer event! Thank you to the Essex Fun Fest for your ongoing support and generous donation.
| |
 |  | |
As a family support group, ENSEMBLE is made up of family members just like you. We are all navigating lives that include children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
The committee shares many special qualities you may not be aware of. Did you know that ALL Ensemble committee members are VOLUNTEERS? As well as providing support and structure at home, working outside the home and raising community awareness about the lives of those with intellectual disabilities, these family members commit to giving freely of their limited available time. How? As volunteers on the Ensemble committee.
This is not the only place these family members volunteer. With access to available support workers and with careful time management they volunteer in community events.
As the holiday season fast approaches Devonshire Mall is gearing up for the onslaught of frenzied holiday shoppers. All these gifts need to be wrapped. Gift wrapping is often a dreaded activity. Devonshire Mall is well aware of shoppers’ needs. Each holiday season they provide a designated gift wrapping station. All wrapping money received is given to the featured charitable organization.
For many years Community Living Essex County has enthusiastically offered their gift wrapping expertise. Ensemble Committee volunteers are once again giving back to the community by participating.
| |
|
Won’t you consider joining Ensemble as we wrap for charity? You can be there for as little or as long as is possible. This fun event raises money that will directly impact your family. Services available will be enhanced by these monies. The BEST part? LOTS OF POSITIVE ENERGY and LAUGHTER! 😂
We want to invite YOU to join the Ensemble volunteers to help us raise much needed money and to raise awareness of the value of Community Living Essex County.
Please contact Marilyn at Mgodard@ensembleunderstands.com to sign up to be an Ensemble gift wrapper. There’s no better way to raise your spirits and to get into the holiday mood!
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Marilyn
Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
| |
Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel - Last Chance for Online Registration! | |
|
JOIN US SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
AT KEN KNAPP FORD IN ESSEX!
| |
|
Join us on Sunday, November 10th, at Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for the 30th anniversary of the Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel! This festive event supports Community Living Essex County and offers a variety of options: a 2km or 5km walk/run, and a Little Elf Run for kids 6 and under.
The first 400 registrants will receive a commemorative medal and a 30th anniversary sweatshirt. You can join individually or as part of a team, and festive attire is encouraged!
Entry Fees:
- Adults: $40
- Ages 7-13: $25
- Little Elf Run: FREE (starts at 9:45 a.m.)
Registration Deadlines:
- Online: Until 4:00 p.m. on November 5th
- In-person: Until 4:30 p.m. on November 5th at Ken Knapp Ford
- Race Day: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (No timed results for late entries)
Race Kit Pick-Up:
- At Ken Knapp Ford November 8 & 9: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Race Day: 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Support a great cause even if you can't participate—donate to Community Living Essex County! Prizes will be awarded for the highest pledge amounts. No pets allowed (only working service dogs). A special thank you to Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for their ongoing support of this inclusive community fundraising event!
| |
Click the link below to register for the Jingle Bell Run, Walk, & Wheel. | |
Prize awarded for top pledge amount! Click the link below to download pledge form. | |
Click the link below to donate to Community Living Essex County. | |
|
Some members of New Day attended the Speaking Out Conference in Port Elgin. New Day helped plan this conference over the last year and welcomed over 200 attendees to this year's event. Judy Noonan was the Key Note Speaker and taught us to stand up to our "Inner Ninjas" and with lots of practice and determination our goals are possible.
Some of this year's sessions included " Research For Us, By Us" , " The Golden Standard of Employment", "From Housing to Human Right’s: Councils Advocacy Priorities and Action Steps to Promote Inclusion", "How Advocacy Changed Our Lives" and "Using Facilitation To Uncover My Voice."
Brianne Taggart from New Day also presented a session on " Heal Your Mind Through Photography" where Brianne spoke on how photography can improve your mental health.
Everyone had a wonderful time at the conference and it was a great opportunity to learn and connect with other self-advocates across Ontario.
New Day's next meeting will be Friday, November 8th from 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. at the Essex Centre. We will be talking about Disability Pride and what makes us who we are as we prepare to celebrate The International Day of Persons with Disability on December 3rd, 2024.
| |
Community Integration Through Cooperative Education Information Session | |
St. Clair College will host an information session for those interested in attending the Community Integration Through Cooperative Education (CICE) program in September 2025. This session will take place on Wednesday, November 6th, at 6:00 p.m. The CICE program aims to provide individuals with developmental disabilities and significant learning challenges the opportunity to experience college life, pursue postsecondary education, and develop skills for future employment or volunteer work. Click the link below to register for the information session. | |
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 and receive assistance this holiday season. | |
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 Presentation | |
The DSO will host a free virtual presentation on Tuesday, November 12th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This presentation offers an opportunity to learn about the DSO, its functions, the application process, and how to access Ministry-funded services. Check out the flyer below for additional information, and click the button to register. | |
P4P Webcast: Intro to the RDSP | |
The P4P Planning Network is offering a free online webcast about The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This savings plan represents a unique Canadian initiative, offering a long-term savings option tailored for individuals living with disabilities. Key benefits include gaining insight into the RDSP and the potential for government contributions, staying informed on the most recent updates and modifications to the RDSP, learning tips and strategies, along with free resources for further information. The webcast is scheduled is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, November 12th, at 2:00 p.m. Click the link below to register. | |
On Wednesday, November 6th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Italian Canadian HandiCapable Association (ICHA) will host a Pasta Fundraiser at the Caboto Club to support their mission of empowering individuals with disabilities in the community. Guests can enjoy a hearty pasta dinner for just $15, with payment accepted at the door for both dine-in and takeout. For takeout orders, please call 519-252-8383. This event offers a great opportunity for friends and family to come together for a night filled with delicious food and community spirit, all while making a positive impact. | |
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! | |
Essex County Pumpkin Parade | |
On Friday, November 1st, residents can donate their jack-o-lanterns to showcase their creativity. Attendees can walk the lighted pumpkin trails at each of the parks mentioned in the above flyer, to enjoy the displays. After the event, the pumpkins are donated to local farms as livestock feed. Painted pumpkins cannot be accepted due to safety concerns. Please note the pumpkin drop off times and parade walk times. | |
Windsor Firefighters' Chili Fest | |
Get ready for a flavorful evening at the Windsor Firefighter’s Chilifest on Friday, November 1st, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Hellenic Centre in Windsor. For just $15, attendees can sample an array of delicious chilis and cast their votes for their favorites in the competition for the Best Chili Award. It’s the perfect opportunity to grab a friend and enjoy a fun night filled with great food and friendly competition. For more information click the button below to visit the event website. | |
Art Windsor Essex Free Guided Tours | |
Have you ever wondered what secrets lie within the works of art in the galleries? Find out for yourself during the Public Guided Tours of Art Windsor Essex (AWE)! Join the knowledgeable Gallery Guides on Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. for an interpretive tour of the gallery. Learn about the artistic approach and vision of the fascinating artists featured in the current exhibitions. Attendees will meet their Gallery Guide on the 2nd floor. Tours are free with admission to the gallery. Admission is always free for members. | |
My Letter to Santa 2nd Annual Holiday Market | Join the festive fun at the My Letter to Santa Holiday Market, happening on Sunday, November 3rd, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Event Centre in LaSalle. This vibrant market will showcase over 90 local small businesses, offering a wide range of unique gifts and holiday treats. While parents shop, children can write their letters to Santa, making it a delightful experience for the whole family. For more information, contact Donna Jewell at 519-990-3901. Don’t miss out on this wonderful community event! | |
The second annual Epic Harvest Festival, presented by Scotiabank, will be held at Pelee Island Winery on Sunday, November 3rd, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The event features traditional activities such as grape stomping, wine tastings from local wineries, live music from bands like Carson Janik & Leave Those Kids Alone, and food trucks. Tickets are $30 for general admission and $20 for designated drivers. Attendees are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items to the Kingsville Food Bank. Click the button below to get your tickets now and secure your spot! | |
Closing Day at Leamington Raceway | |
Join the community at the Leamington Fairgrounds for the final race event of the season on Sunday, November 3rd, at Leamington Raceway! Attendees can look forward to an exciting day of racing with no admission fee and free parking. The event starts at 1:00 p.m., and everyone is invited to celebrate a fantastic season together. Families and friends are encouraged to come out for a fun day at the races! | |
This Tuesday, November 5th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Windsor-Essex 50+ 2SLGBTQIA+ community is invited to visit, hang out, and enjoy activities at the Windsor Market Square. Hosted by Mel Lucier, these gatherings offer a chance to meet fellow community members while enjoying light snacks and refreshments. Click the button below to visit the event website. | |
Halloween Cheesecake Bars | |
Cheesecake is a beloved dessert for good reason, and this classic recipe brings that creamy perfection right to your kitchen! This super easy recipe ensures that anyone, regardless of their kitchen experience, can whip up these tasty treats. Plus, these cheesecake bars are stackable and portable, making them the ideal choice for Halloween parties, bake sales, and potlucks. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that’s as fun as it is festive! | |
At this time of year, homes are often filled with signs and symbols of nature. Whether through real or artificial décor, many people incorporate elements of the outdoors to enhance the elegance of a modern home. This project combines fall cleanup with fall décor, making it a practical choice. It’s easy, inexpensive, and a great way to recycle! Here’s a simple tutorial for this quick and classy project. | |
| What are your plans for Halloween night? | | | |
|
What’s your preferred Halloween costume style?
I don't do the costume thing. - 29.4%
Funny (pun-based, silly) - 20.6%
Group or couple (coordinated costumes with friends or partners) - 17.6%
Pop culture (character from a movie or show) - 8.8%
Historical (famous figures, traditional costumes) - 8.8%
Retro (70s, 80s, or 90s themed costumes) - 5.9%
Classic (witch, vampire, ghost) - 5.9%
Scary (zombie, monster) - 2.9%
Cosplay (detailed character from video games or anime) - 0%
| | | | |
