CLICK CONNECT Photography Group

More new photos

2011-10-07T10:50:00.000-04:00

Brenda and Dan will be showcasing their latest photographs at their upcoming Fall Show and Sale with the rest of their fellow Click Connect photographers.

We invite you to join us for an evening of photography and community on October 27, 2011; 7-9pm at the historic Alton Mill in the beautiful Millrace Room. 1402 Queen Street W

For more info contact Joyce Cook at 519.941.8971 x 126 or joyce@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Framed photos, greeting cards and the introduction of Clay Media.

Some new images

2011-10-07T10:45:00.000-04:00

Ann Rogers and Dwain Russell proudly display two of their newest photographs taken this past summer.

Join them and the rest of the Click Connect Photographers at their Fall Show and Sale on Thursday October 27 at the beautiful historic Alton Mill; 1402 Queen St. W

Show starts at 7pm.

Join us at the Alton Mill

2011-10-07T10:13:00.000-04:00

We invite you to join us for an evening of photography and community as we present our latest collections of photographs taken over the past year.

Millrace Room in the Alton Mill
1402 Queen Street West
October 27, from 7-9pm

We are pleased to introduce the debut of Clay media this evening.

For more information contact Joyce Cook at 519.941.8971 x 126 or joyce@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Christmas cards by Ted

2010-11-30T09:52:00.001-05:00

Golden Globe

Nutcrackers

Oh Deer!

Santa's Mail

Photgrapher: Ted Graham

Medium: Digital

Subject: Christmas Decorations

Christmas Cards $5.00 each, blank inside

Contact Joyce Cook to order 519-941-8971 ext 126

joyce@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Christmas Cards by Brenda

2010-11-30T09:49:00.001-05:00

Pretty Bow

Presents Present

Elegance

Photographer: Brenda Bovaird
Medium: Digital
Subject: Christmas Decorations

Christmas Cards $5.00 each, blank inside
Contact Joyce Cook to order 519-941-8971 ext. 126
joyce@communitylivingdufferin

New Christmas card images

2010-11-30T09:46:00.000-05:00

Photographer: Anne Rogers
Medium: Digital
Subject: Christmas decorations

Christmas cards $5.00 each, blank inside
Contact Joyce Cook to order
519-941-8971 ext 126
joyce@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Fall show and sale

2010-10-05T12:11:00.000-04:00

Join us on Thursday November 4, as we preview our latest collection of framed photographs taken this past summer and fall in and around our beautiful Dufferin County.

Community Living Dufferin
065371 County Road 3
Orangeville, ON

7 - 9 pm
Community Room

5 x 7 photos framed in a classic black 8 x 10 matted frame starting at $35.00
8 x 10 photos framed in a classic black 11 x 14 matted frame starting at $50.00

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping with a beautiful framed photograph while supporting a new artist. There will be limited photos on display but orders can be taken anytime.

RSVP Joyce Cook 519.941.8971 x126 or email joyce@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Daniel Stroop

2010-07-26T13:54:00.000-04:00

Daniel's Waterfall Trio is a very popular set of photographs.

This spectacular waterfall is located at the beautiful Alton Mill in Alton, ON

Ted Graham

2010-07-06T12:57:00.000-04:00

Ted's recent visit to a farm enabled him to capture these fabulous shots.

Implementing Ideas, Spring Harrow and Oil Lamp are just 3 from Ted's portfolio.

Anne Rogers

2010-07-06T12:54:00.000-04:00

Cedar Rails, Gateway to the Past and Winter Siding by Anne show her up close, unique perspectives on everyday items.

Sarah Godfrey

2010-07-06T12:51:00.000-04:00

With camera in hand all the time, and travelling frequently with her family, Sarah has the opportunity to snap the most wonderful images not just of our community but our country too.

While Pelican Harbour is a shot she captured in Florida this past year, Sunburst and Road Home are images she took here in Ontario.

Sara Zefilippo

2010-07-06T12:47:00.000-04:00

Sara has a natural ability to see the beauty in all things as is evidenced in Red Window, Reflections and Wood Pile, just a few of the images taken from her growing portfolio.

Devon Toms

2010-07-06T12:43:00.001-04:00

The newest member of the Click Connect Photography group, Devon shows us that he knows a great picture opportunity when he sees one.

County Roads, Shoe Tree and Pebble drop.

Donna Reid

2010-07-06T12:40:00.001-04:00

Feathers, Inukshuk and Serenity are part of Donna's growing portfolio that showcase tranquil, serene images.

Mark Hare

2010-07-06T12:38:00.000-04:00

Driving Miss Daisy, Fine arts advertising and Junk Yard dog, just 3 of the latest photos taken by Mark this past spring

Mizue Mori

2010-07-06T12:36:00.000-04:00

Ivy, Last Car and Red Door are just three of the images captured by Mizue.

Brenda Bovaird

2010-07-06T12:31:00.001-04:00

Divine Intervention, Angelic and On Tap are just three of the many photographs taken by Brenda this spring.

Dan Stroops photographs

2010-06-30T11:54:00.002-04:00

Daniel's portfolio includes these 3 popular pieces

Pebbles, Choices and Integral Supports

All three are available in two framed sizes

5 x 7 print is framed in an 8 x 10 frame

8 x 10 print is framed in an 11 x 14 frame

All of our frames are black wood with black matting

New images

2010-05-21T12:05:00.002-04:00

Some of the latest photographs taken by our Click Connect photographers.

All images are available in your choice of size, framed and ready to adorn your walls.

Contact Joyce 519-941-8971

or clickconnect@communitylivingdufferin.ca

for more information or to place an order.

Photography Club

2010-04-06T11:24:00.003-04:00

Due to popular demand, over the next couple of weeks I will upload the photographs taken by the members of the Community Living Dufferin Photography Club.

Each image can be custom ordered; 4x6, 5x7, 8x10; framed or unframed.

Our frames are classic black with black and/or white matts.

Pricing ranges from $35.00 to $50.00 for framed images.

Stay tuned for more information on gallery showings and new photos being added to the growing portfolio.

For those wishing to place orders or receive more information, please email;

karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca

or phone Joyce Cook at 519-941-8971 x 126

Introducing our FACEBOOK FAN page

2010-01-14T10:14:00.004-05:00

Visit us at our FACEBOOK Fan page

Over the next couple of weeks we will be closing down our blog but you can still find us on Facebook to keep up to date on the latest events happening at Community Living Dufferin.

In response to a request that we keep our families, staff, volunteers and community abreast of information via the web, we have created a Community Living Dufferin Facebook Fan page.
No one can deny the popularity and success of Facebook and it's the perfect media for us to keep everyone informed and connected.
Fan pages work just like Friend pages, but it's a more inclusive page allowing you to share your thoughts, comments and stories with everyone. So share away!

Not a Facebook user? You don't have to be to view our Fan page.

Share in our excitement and watch the pictorial process of the construction of our new "home".

For more information contact Karen Murphy-Fritz karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca
or phone 519-941-8971 ext 165

These are a few of my Favourite Things....

2010-01-07T09:40:00.011-05:00

It's been a year since they performed the Songs of Beauty and the Beast in 2 SOLD OUT shows, but the Creative Partners on Stage will soon take to the Theatre Orangeville stage once again to thrill us with the Songs of The Sound of Music.

Every Thursday night the halls of Community Living Dufferin ring with the beloved songs of this timeless, favourite movie of fans young and old alike. The actors are excitedly rehearsing and cannot wait for opening night on March 9.
Because of the troupes popularity we are adding a third night to the venue this year.
March 9, 10 and 11th at 7:00pm with a special noon performance for our local schools on March 10.

This performance will thrill audiences, the performers will have everyone singing along and there won't be a still toe in the house as we all dance in our seats.
Who can sit still through those beloved songs; Edelweiss, My Favourite Things, Climb Ev'ry Mountain, So Long Farewell and of course Do, Re, Mi ... just to name a few.
You're singing them in your head now aren't you, "Do a deer, a female deer, Re a drop of golden sun, Mi a name I call myself, Fa a long, long way to run and So a needle pulling thread...."

For those of us who have attended all the past Creative Partners on Stage performances we have witnessed the tremendous growth, both personally and professionally that these actors have acquired. They have gained self esteem and a self confidence that exudes from each and everyone as they create their characters and entertain us from start to finish.

Ticket sales will be announced soon and available from Theatre Orangeville 519-942-3423. You can also purchase tickets securely online via the Theatre Orangeville box office at http://www.theatreorangeville.ca/

So come and witness first hand how the Creative Partners on Stage answer in their unique style, the question "How do you Solve a Problem like Maria"

Winter building

2010-01-05T11:29:00.004-05:00

Up until recently Mother Nature has been on our side with warmer than seasonal temps and very little snow.
But with the current downturn in the weather construction is proving to be more of a challenge to both workers and the site. Our hats off to the men who, day after day work in those sub zero temperatures to get our new "home" finished.

Following are images taken this past Sunday January 3, 2010.

Sub zero temps make building more difficult

We've got hydro to the site now

1.6 million BTU's is needed to warm the site and

"melt" the block.....

3 giant tanks provide just 3 days supply of propane for the heater.

December 27 progress to date

2009-12-30T11:25:00.004-05:00

Looking from the East

The back of the building

The front of our new "home"

Progress is quickly being made as our new "home" begins to really take shape and we can now visualize where the offices, the sensory garden out back, the rehearsal stage for TOV will all be.

The next month will definitely be an exciting one as we continue to photograph the construction progress and wait with eager anticipation for the day when we can move in.

Christmas celebrations at CLD

2009-12-21T10:56:00.005-05:00

6 Turkeys donated by Maple Leaf Foods, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, fresh rolls from Holtom's bakery, and delicious tear-away cupcake cakes from Sobeys made for a scrumptious Christmas lunch.

Ever smiling Board members Fran, Huda and Maureen come every year to help spread Christmas cheer and the 120+ plates to all the guests.

Guests enjoy the company of friends, delicious food and christmas carols.

Toasting the season

From all of us at Community Living Dufferin we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

December 13, 2009

2009-12-14T10:25:00.006-05:00

The progress as of Sunday December 13, 2009

View from Highway 9

A little bit of snow didn't get in the way of our hardy construction team!

The berm for the amphitheatre is taking shape, the second floor is in place and the framing for the walls is ready to go up.

And we have a second floor

2009-12-10T16:07:00.006-05:00

Needless to say this past week has seen a lot of progress for our new building.

And what a building it is as it takes shape....the second floor has been lifted into place by crane, a sight to behold it was too. At least according to the men on our Building Committee who all stood in awe as this giant crane lifted massive coreslabs into place forming the roof of the first floor, thereby creating the floor to the second storey.

The buzz of excitement is palpable as we watch the progression from just blocks and wood frame to an actual building that is resembling the vision we have seen of our new home.

Stay tuned as we continue to photograph each week and share the dream here with you.

Fundraising by our community members

2009-11-30T15:17:00.004-05:00

Thank you to everyone who voted for our Creative Partners on Stage project on the Aviva Community Fund website.
Unfortunately we were up against some very tough competition and so failed to make it into the final round of judging. We'll get it next year!
Don't forget to keep checking back to see when tickets go on sale for Creative Partners on Stage production of the Sound of Music this coming March 2010.

This past month has seen 3 fundraising events here at Community Living Dufferin for our Building Dreams Together capital campaign.

Through the assistance of Thelma Fudge of Avon we sold 27 sets of hand blown glass Angel ornaments. With a profit of $4.00 per box set we raised $108.00 for BDT.

The Amaranth Lions have very generously named Building Dreams Together as the main benefactor of their annual Cash Calendar fundraising event. With 40% of the sales being donated to BDT, it's a potential $16,000.00 donation for our capital campaign. Thank you to the Amaranth Lions who have always been a great supporter of Community Living Dufferin with many of our fundraising events.

Our very own Joyful Voices choir hosted a Friends in Song Community Concert on November 22 at Orangeville District Secondary School. Accompanied by the wonderful voices of Shelburne's Forever Young Choir and the talented musicians of the Orangeville Community Band; Joyful Voices were successful in raising over $1,900.00 for BDT.

Thank you to each of you who purchased an Angel set, bought a calendar or attended the concert for your support in helping us to continue with our fundraising efforts.

You'll notice to the left of this post, photographs of our construction progress. Check back each week as we post the lastest photographs of the building as it takes shape over the next few months. With QPAC and Theatre Orangeville anticipating their move in date of March 2010, it will be exciting to watch as the building expands and takes form!

Aviva Community Fund

2009-11-19T10:52:00.004-05:00

We are 3 days into Round 3 of the Aviva Community Fund competition.

Only the top 20 applicants will move to the Semi Finals.

We are sitting currently at 142 votes with only 10 days of voting left.

If we want to succeed in making it to the Semi Finals portion we will need to garner a minimum of 1500 votes.

Currently the top idea has secured 2406 votes.

The idea sitting in the coveted 20th spot has 953 votes.

Please go to the site and vote for us!

http://www.avivacommunityfund.org/ideas/acf3745

Aviva Community Fund

2009-11-12T10:19:00.003-05:00

On the Aviva Community Fund site, we have created a page for our Creative Partners on Stage drama group in the hope of receiving funding for this program.

Here's a quick view of how it works:

The Aviva Community Fund competition is held in 3 phases to determine which ideas get funded:

Idea Entry, Semi-Finals, and Judging.

First, you vote for your favourite idea through November 29th. The 60 most popular ideas, along with 2 "buzz worthy" ideas, will move on to the Semi-Finals.

Then, people will vote for their favourite semi-finalist ideas from December 2nd through December 16th.

At the end of the Semi-Finals, votes will be tallied and the most popular 25 ideas will become finalists and move on to the Judging phase.

Now comes the best part! Judging will take place from December 17th through January 25th, our panel of judges will review all of the finalist ideas and rank them based on pre-determined criteria to determine which ones will be funded.

So now you know how it works, click here, do a quick registration; email and password, and then vote for our idea, you can vote each and every day, which of course we hope you will do, the more votes we gather, the better our chances!

Friends in Song Community Concert

2009-10-27T09:49:00.007-04:00

Community Living Dufferin presents:

Friends in Song

A fundraiser in support of Building Dreams Together

a community concert featuring:

Joyful Voices

(Community Living Dufferin’s integrated choir)

The Orangeville Community Band

Forever Young

(Shelburne Choir)

Sunday Nov. 22/09 ~ 3 - 5pm

Orangeville District S.S. 22 Faulkner Street, Orangeville

Tickets: $10.00

purchase tickets from

Community Living Dufferin, 29 Centennial Rd, Unit 10, Orangeville

Booklore, 121 First Street, Orangeville

Theatre Orangeville, 87 Broadway, Orangeville

or any Choir, Band member

Silent Auction ♪ Community Photography club ♪ 50/50 draw ♪ Baked goods

BDT Capital Campaign ~ an Update

2009-10-20T15:01:00.002-04:00

I'd like to update you on where we stand in our Building Dreams Together campaign. There have been some tremendous achievements to date and we are very close to reaching our goal with thanks to you our supporters.

Great news for all of us – a $2.7 million Grant!
If you haven’t already heard, we have received a $2.7 million Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) grant from the federal government that will help us turn our dreams into a reality. Our sincere thank you to the Federal Government for this amazing gift. An estimated $1.5 million of this grant will be earmarked for salaries and wages employing where possible, local trades people thereby benefiting our community even further.

Construction has begun!
We would like to welcome our new Construction Manager, Bob Preston who has been hired and is now on site. The construction of the building has begun and the footings have been poured. Additionally, we now have a construction time line to work with and we fully anticipate that we will be moving in throughout the spring and Summer of 2010. For a visual look, check out our You Tube embedded herein. You can also follow the construction process monthly as we will share images as the building progresses and we move forward in anticipation of throwing open the front doors!

Project Funding
To date our community of parents, staff, people CLD supports, volunteers, TOV patrons, friends, various companies and foundations have pledged $604,000.00 to our capital campaign. With the recent federal government grant of 2.7 million, that brings our total fundraised dollars to 3.3 million. Total projected costs to completely finish the project including landscaping, high efficiency heating, walking trails and an outdoor amphitheatre, total approx 4.3 million. We are confident that with your continued support we will be able to make great strides towards our fundraising goal thus reducing our mortgage costs.

We couldn’t have done it without YOU!
A huge THANK YOU to all our donors who have donated funds, time and resources to our BDT Campaign. As you know, this is a vital and necessary project in our community and we could not have done it without YOU!!!
You are responsible for all that we have accomplished on this project and CLD, TOV and the community are extremely grateful for all your contributions.

We still need your help!
In kind donations, volunteers to assist with events and those who have gardening, interior decorating and other skills would certainly be appreciated as we make our way through this project. Please get in touch with us if you would like to participate.

ARTirondack Chairity Thank you

2009-10-06T12:05:00.002-04:00

On behalf of everyone at Community Living Dufferin we offer our thanks to the community for your continued support of our 3rd annual ARTirondack Chairity fundraising event.
This year $3,128.00 was raised through our 4 raffles.

We offer our sincere thanks to members of CLD Options’ woodworking group for building the table and chairs, to the artists Karen B and Karen M-F for painting the table and chairs and the quilters of the Dufferin Piecemakers Guild.

Special thanks to the many volunteers who sold tickets to visitors at the Spring Home Show, the Farmers Market, Theatre Orangeville and to family and friends.

Thanks to the Orangeville Lions and the BIA for allowing us space to fundraise at the Home Show and Farmers Market.

Thanks to the members of Creative Partners on Stage for their support in affording us the opportunity to sell tickets during their performances of Beauty and the Beast at Theatre Orangeville.

And finally we offer congratulations to the 4 lucky winners.

Hibiscus table: Bea Chaney

Children’s Jungle Chair: Kathy Majeski

Adult Tropical Chair: Marie Taylor

Community Quilt: Ann Somerville

We are already working on ideas for our 4th annual ARTirondack Chairity Fundraising Event.

Keep checking back for news updates

Community Living Dufferin Fundraising Committee

QPAC ~ right on time

2009-09-28T14:29:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to share some news with you about a contract recently completed in QPAC and what is possible when people work together towards a common goal.

Every year in late summer/early fall QPAC gets an order from William Prager to assemble boot weights. William Prager is a company that manufactures store fixtures and QPAC has been assembling boot weights for them for 5 years.

Typically W.P. requires 500 to 1000 pieces and QPAC employees have no problem completing an order of 1000 pieces in a week.

This year W.P. ordered 9000 and needed them in four weeks.

Needless to say, this put QPAC under some pressure and for the first time I had to inform W.P. that we would possibly have problems meeting their time line.

I am very happy to say QPAC employees and staff completed the job in the four weeks!

This accomplishment honestly comes as no surprise. The people who come to work at QPAC day in and day out are extremely dedicated, hard working and know the value of their work.

This applies to all the employees as there were other contracts with tight time lines being done as well as W.P.

It also applies to the staff who scheduled employees based on the their availability and ability to do a variety of jobs, deal with machinery that is needing constant repair and maintenance and several other factors that could have gone wrong and put the production schedule in jeopardy.

We send out a big THANK YOU to everyone at QPAC and couldn't resist sharing this story with everyone.

Ground Breaking on Dufferin Road

2009-09-22T14:15:00.006-04:00

So here it is the official Ground Breaking!

We are on our way to "Building Realities Together"

Alzheimers Coffee Day

2009-09-16T09:17:00.003-04:00

Community Living Dufferin each year participate in the Alzheimer Society Coffee Break event.

This years event will take place on National Coffee Break Day; Thursday September 17th from 1-2:30 pm at 29 Centennial Road, Unit 10, Orangeville.
Coffee and home made desserts will be available for a small donation to support this National fundraiser.

The Options participants and staff organize this fun event and this year they have gone all out with the creation of some one of a kind items.

These beautiful and truly unique items will be available for purchase through a live auction hosted by our favourite Auctioneer and a wonderful CLD supporter John Dunn.

The proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Alzheimers Society.

Come out, visit with friends, enjoy some live music and help to support the Alzheimers Society.

How QPAC makes a difference

2009-08-25T10:20:00.004-04:00

Todd Matthews is an incredible man whom I help support through Community Living Dufferin.

I have gotten to know Todd much better by working closely with him through the Options program.

Todd has no difficulty expressing what he enjoys most in life. He loves his family, his sports and most importantly his job. Todd works at QPAC. I have never met someone who takes so much pride in his performance at work than Todd. He jumps at every opportunity to work extra hours at QPAC and sometimes slips over there to see if he can convince anyone that they need extra help. He keeps a tally of how much piecework he accomplishes in a day and proudly shows it to anyone who can afford a minute. He describes in great detail what he did during the day and is happy to go home at the end of the day feeling satisfied at a job well done. Todd is fond of all his co-workers and especially fond of Cor. Cor always encourages Todd and tells him genuinely that he has worked hard.

Todd’s biggest goal in life is to work full time at QPAC. The impact that QPAC has had in Todd’s life is monumental. When Todd is working he is happy and content. He feels useful and appreciated. Through Todd’s enthusiasm for his work he inspires others to rightfully find their own perfect job, because he certainly has found his.

Lately I have been given the opportunity to spend some time with Mason Matson. I knew very little about Mason. But after spending some time with him, there is one thing I know for sure, Mason loves his job at QPAC.

Mason loves to work and assures most people that he is a very hard worker.

He enjoys helping others but is clear that his main focus is to be spending as much time as he can at QPAC. QPAC is Mason’s sanctuary. Mason’s face lights up when referring to his job at QPAC. He describes in detail what he did for the day and encourages himself to do better at his next shift. He happily gets up in the morning and waits with anticipation as the van from QPAC comes to pick him up. Mason is regarded highly by his co-workers and support workers alike. Mason is proud to work at QPAC. It provides him with a sense of accomplishment, self-esteem and character. Mason sets a wonderful example for all employees.

Summer Photography

2009-08-24T13:00:00.003-04:00

Here are just a few of the latest photos from our talented summer Photography group....

Building Dreams Together

2009-08-18T18:21:00.002-04:00

To the left you will see a new link.

Thanks to Dickinson-Hicks we can now share the beautiful artists renditions of the new building we are working so hard to build.

Enjoy the 360 degree and aerial views of what our new "home" will look like.

ARTirondack Chairity Raffle winners

2009-07-30T09:38:00.009-04:00

Congratulations

to the three lucky winners of the

ARTirondack Chairity Auction

held this week

Hibiscus table ~ Bea Chaney

Jungle kids chair ~ Kathy Majeski

Tropical Pond Adult chair ~ Marie Taylor

Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket for these raffles. We are happy to report that with your support we raised $2,100.00

We still have tickets available for the Community Living Quilt. Value $1,200.00

Draw will be held on September 3, 2009

Contact Karen for your tickets 519-941-8971 x 165

$2.00 each or 3 for $5.00

Photography 101

2009-07-22T11:42:00.007-04:00

Capturing special images within our community this summer.

We have a new summer program this year in Options.

Photography.

And the photographers have shown a keen eye when scouting out "subjects".

Seen here are some wonderful shots of the Alton Mill in Alton, ON

We will continue to share the images here and invite you to post comments about the photographs which we will share with our budding, talented photographers.

Thanks to Sara for sharing her special knack of capturing these wonderful shots for us to enjoy!

Heather Katz and music

2009-07-08T09:40:00.006-04:00

This week we were thrilled to welcome

Heather Katz

as our special guest performer at our weekly Music Group.

Heather played a large repetoire of favourites, both hers and ours for an hour.

We had a full house and thoroughly enjoyed the new songs that Heather chose to perform.

Rick, our weekly guitarist and singer enjoyed the opportunity to accompany her on guitar lending background vocals along with ours.

Ted, in his usual fine form performed his specialty "jig" to a song chosen just for him by Heather.

Barb followed him up on the dance floor to show us a few steps of her own.

It was a lively group with great music and lots of song and laughter.

A very special Thank you is extended to Heather who closed down her shop; Broadway Musical so that she could come and spend an hour of music with us.

Hockey Greats

2009-06-29T08:57:00.002-04:00

A few of our biggest hockey fans were caught on film rubbing shoulders with some

NHL greats of yesteryear at a recent autograph signing here in town.

Pete Mahovolich, our very own local hockey star Dale Hawerchuk, Brad Park and Gerry Cheevers were all gracious enough to spend some time speaking with

and signing autographs for excited fans.

The meet and greet was held in conjunction with the Dale Hawerchuk Classic Golf Tournament, a charitable event in support of Headwaters Health Care Centre.

Donna's Divas of the Red Hat Society

2009-06-24T16:11:00.004-04:00

The ladies of the Red Hat Society known as Donna’s Divas, attended their first official Red Hat Society gathering on Saturday May 2nd.

It was a party like no other; an UN-birthday party to celebrate the 364 days that are not your birthday.

There was food, games, music and dancing. The highlight of the day was when we dressed up our Queen Donna in a fabulous gown made of top quality toilet paper and then paraded her on stage for everyone to see. Donna looked amazing!

The ladies each received loot bags filled with a magic wand, bubbles, a feather pen, stickers and a tattoo.

Only at an UN-birthday party put on by the Red Hat Society is it ok to eat your cake before your lunch, they encourage this! Yum Yum

Now the red hats are once again put away, but only until the next event which takes place in September. The theme for this event is 70’s disco. Now that is an event to look forward to.

Donna’s Divas currently consists of: Donna R, Mary F, Rosemary B, Jane C, June H, Diane D and Mizue M, but there is always room for any ladies looking to have some fun!

Orangeville Flowers

2009-06-17T16:17:00.005-04:00

Joanne and Martin Woudenberg of Orangeville Flowers located at 78 John Street have very generously offered to display our adult Tropical Chair and sell tickets for our fundraising raffle.

So if you haven't purchased your tickets yet, pay Orangeville Flowers a visit, purchase a ticket for your chance to win this fabulous chair.

While you are there take some time to smell the flowers, stroll through the heavenly scented rows awash with colour and beautiful greenery sure to brighten up your gardens both inside and out.

With Father's Day this Sunday, I don't know about your Dad but mine I know would love a bouquet of his favourite Daisies....so pick up some flowers or a new plant for your Dad's garden. Not the gardening type, check out the variety of wonderful, whimsical gifts. They've got something that is sure to please any Dad.

While you're there you'll notice that we are taking commissions for your very own version of the Hibiscus table. The tables are made of pine and handpainted, varathaned with 3 coats to give it a stunning sheen and added protection from the sun. With each purchase you will receive a $50.00 tax receipt. We will paint your choice of one large flower head as seen on the Hibiscus, your colour choice. $150.00 each.

Contact Karen Murphy-Fritz at Community Living Dufferin for more information.
519-941-8971 x 165 or karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Farmers Market

2009-06-12T14:47:00.002-04:00

Starting tomorrow and for the month of June we will have a table at the Orangeville Farmer's Market from 9am - 1pm.

We will be selling our raffle tickets for the ARTirondack chairs, Table and Quilt.

July 28th is the draw date for the 2 chairs and the table, and tickets are going fast.

If you haven't already bought yours, I would suggest you not wait any longer, come see us at the Market. Tickets are only $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00.

This is our big fundraising initiative of the year and we appreciate your support.

While your there support your local farmers and businesses too by purchasing some fresh, locally grown produce, sample some of the delicious fare that the many vendors offer to tantalize your sense of smell and taste.

And of course enjoy the many local shops along Broadway.

The weather is supposed to be glorious tomorrow, lots of sun and warm temperatures.

Reflections from Barry

2009-06-01T09:57:00.007-04:00

At a recent screening of The Freedom Tour, hosted at Community Living Dufferin we celebrated the closures of the last 3 institutions which housed people with developmental disabilities on Ontario.

The Freedom Tour is an informative and very emotional film. It details the movement speerheaded by a growing group of people on a misison to have our Canadian government close once and for all the remaining institutions in the Prairie provinces.

With an intimate group of about 50 guests we welcomed Richard Beaudoin who led us in both prayer and remembrance as we honoured those people who lived and died in institutions. We also welcomed Barry Thachuk who spent a majority of his life in the Huronia Regional Centre (HRC) before coming to live in Orangeville.

Below is the speech which Barry prepared. Barry was very proud to share his thoughts with the guests and was grateful for the opportunity to honour those friends that he met and lost while he lived in the Huronia Regional Centre.
It is just a small account of his experiences and thoughts on life in an institution and the rights he enjoys now as a member of our community.

"Hello, my name is Barry Thachuk.

When I lived at HRC, one of the nurses forced me to eat when I was just a little boy.
Now, I don’t have to eat anything I don’t want to eat.

When I lived at HRC, sometimes I got locked up.
Now, nobody ever locks me up.

When I lived at HRC, I slept in a big dormitory.
Now I have my own bedroom.

The most important thing to remember about HRC is that “it’s an easy place to get into, but a hard place to get out of”.

Thank you!"

Take me out to the ball game....

2009-05-27T12:58:00.005-04:00

Excitement filled the air at Dawson as Deborah, Janet, Ed and Mark (standing) awaited the trip to the Rogers Centre to watch the Blue Jays play against the Chicago White Socks on Sunday May 27, 2009.

We had terrific seats, 10 rows off of the left field baseline.

The Blue Jays played an awesome game winning 8 - 2 !

Our beautiful faces appeared on the Jumbotron!

The Blue Jays pitcher struck out the seventh batter in the seventh inning so everyone in the park won a free slice of pizza .

Building Dreams Together fundraising event

2009-05-27T09:35:00.008-04:00

Please join us for an evening at the movies

as the Leaders for Change raise funds

with their screening of the acclaimed

Canadian film ONE WEEK

directed by local Dufferin County resident

Michael McGowan.

Proceeds will be donated to our

Building Dreams Together Capital Campaign

to build a home of our own.

Galaxy Cinema, Orangeville

Monday June 15, 2009

6:30pm

Tickets $10.00 each ($15.00 at the door)

Purchase tickets from:

CLD 29 Centennial Road 941-8971

Booklore 121 First St 942-3830

Frist Street Optical 98 First St 942-1476

Michael McGowan will be a special guest and available at the end of the film to answer any questions you may have.

Evening of Appreciation 2009

2009-05-20T13:47:00.017-04:00

Last night we celebrated our staff, volunteers, employers and donors at our annual Evening of Appreciation at Monora Park. With a guest list of 178 people it promised to be a wonderful evening full of celebration.

We were honoured to welcome Dianne Garrels-Munro, President of Community Living Ontario who made a presentation to Community Living Dufferin of a plaque.

Sylvia Jones and David Tilson, MPP and MP for Dufferin County respectively were both in attendance to make certificate presentations to our two nominated volunteers, Kim Bailey and Sylvia Cheuy.

We had the honour of presenting to Sylvia Jones a plaque on behalf of Community Living Ontario to commemorate the closure of the last institutions in Ontario housing people with developmental disabilities.

Wade of Catering Designs offered a delicious and varied selection of hor's doeurves which were served by 8 hard working student volunteers. Kudos to servers extraordinaire: Jessie Sawyer, Samantha Ryan, Caitlin Fritz, Conner Fritz, Scott Slater, Zacharie Hopkins, Mitch Hopkins and working hard in the kitchen to ensure each plate was perfectly presented was Lizz VanOmmen.

Thanks to our greeters Mizue Mori, Glen Evans and Todd Matthews.

We offer congratulations and thanks to:

Staff who where nominated for and winning recipients of Staff Merit Awards

Staff who this year celebrate 5, 10, 15, 20 year anniversaries with CLD

Chris Gardiner who celebrates 25 years and thinks it has gone by in the "blink of an eye"

Brenda Stephenson and Huda Scott Scholarship recipients, Shannon McGrady, Karenda Carpenter, Sharon Coyle

Mason Matson for being nominated by his peers for the Ron Jordan Memorial Committment to Work Award

Frank Guzzo of Gayla Canada Inc., recipient of the Employers Challenging Work Award for QPAC

Mary Ann Lancaster who shared with all of us her experiences as a volunteer with Bethsaida Retirement Home and the Alzheimer's Society of Dufferin

Our very own CLD Quartet consisting of Rick Hopkins, Andree Ross, Judee Dyke and Eleanor Matte who closed the evening with some fantastic tunes bringing the guests to their feet and the hall echoing with lots of hand clapping and toe tapping

Thanks also to each and every one who assisted in the success of this great evening with your attendance and support. Given the ever increasing numbers of guests at our Evening of Appreciation each year, we are confident that next year we will need to find a new, bigger venue for us to celebrate in.

Epicure fundraiser for Building Dreams Together

2009-05-12T16:20:00.004-04:00

Recently Vicky held an Epicure Fundraising event in support of Community Living Dufferin's Building Dreams Together project.

Vicky proudly presents a cheque for $185.00 to Sheryl from this successful fundraising event.

Thanks to all staff and family who purchased a set of these delicious herbs and thereby supporting us in our efforts to raise funds to build our new home.

Special thanks to Vicky for this initiative and for providing the delicious dip samples for all of us to try.

http://www.buildingdreamstogether.org/

Orangeville Shines

2009-05-04T15:53:00.004-04:00

"Timbit?"

"Don’t mind if I do!"

"Coffee?"

"Yes please!"

"Perhaps you’d care for a free T-shirt?"

"I certainly would!"

That’s a pretty good start to a Saturday morning in our books.

Organized and sponsored by The Rotary Club, Tim Horton’s, The Town of Orangeville and the B.I.A., “Make Orangeville Shine Day, 2009” was a huge hit.

After our complimentary coffees, we were given the choice of which area of Orangeville we’d rather “put a shine on”.

We chose our home turf, grabbed some garbage bags, gloves and set out to make things just a little bit nicer.

The spring thaw uncovered some pretty interesting (and at time, shocking) stuff.
Conversations of “whose bag is heavier?”, “who found the coolest junk?” and “just what WAS that?” filled the air.

Before we knew it, it was lunch time, we’d run out of garbage bags, and it was back to Rotary Park for a free lunch.

Good company, (and companies) made our morning memorable, and we’re looking forward to both new and familiar faces to join us next year.

QPAC

2009-04-17T14:43:00.004-04:00

QPAC ~ The business solution in a difficult economy

Glen works on wiring harnesses for QPAC

Businesses all around are feeling the impact of the recession and Community Living Dufferin’s QPAC program is no exception.

QPAC, which offers people with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to join the workforce, has seen business slow as of late.
There is, however, potential for a silver lining in these challenging economic times, says manager Denyse Small. She suggests companies may be able to trim their budgets by making use of what QPAC offers.
“We are very economical for businesses,” Small says, adding, “The Q in QPAC is about quality.
“There’s no F in QPAC, but we’re about flexibility too.”

The organization’s workers are currently involved in assembling various parts — doing piecework — as well as packaging and sorting tasks, for more than 20 companies.
They put together central vacuum muffler parts for Plastiflex Canada, do dishwasher wheel assembly for Rangers Metal Products, piece together gas fireplace harnesses for Oakley Manufacturing, etc.

“I like to focus on assembly jobs,” Small said, explaining assembly typically involves tools of some sort and helps increase fine motor skills. “We’ve had people go from working for QPAC to working in the community.”

QPAC operates out of a 5,400-square-foot space in a building on Centennial Road in Orangeville. That space, Small says, allows them to accommodate a wide variety of needs, as well as timelines.
“A lot of our customers have lost a lot of work,” the manager says. “Last fall, we were so busy it was amazing.”

Depending on the work lined up, QPAC employs between eight and 60 workers.
“Often they don’t get an opportunity to work in the community,” Small says of the workers. She notes people with intellectual disabilities have the same desire to contribute to society as everyone else, and they gain a strong sense of accomplishment by doing so.

For more information about QPAC, contact Denyse Small at 519-941-8456 ext. 167.

Family’s Heartbreaking Plight Sheds Light on Deeper Issues

2009-04-14T15:34:00.003-04:00

Press release from Canadian Association for Community Living
April 9, 2009

From Day One it’s been all about what Kaylee Wallace won’t do. She won’t go to school, she won’t walk, she won’t live a typical life. One of the first suggestions was not to feed her. It seems there has been very little about what she might do, what she could become and that her life, while following a different path, could be just as fulfilling, just as wonderful and just as valued as any other. The take away message has been that a life with a disability is a fate worse than death.
The Wallace family, and many that have come before them, have found themselves in a heartbreaking predicament. They are told by medical professionals and experts that their daughter’s life is in immediate peril. That efforts to support her are futile, that the family should leave her be and let her die with dignity. Families, under pressure, often sleep-deprived and in the throes of emotional trauma rely on their trusted doctors to provide them with unbiased information. They rely on their doctors to treat their children, not just with dignity and respect, but to treat their medical conditions. Life-and-death medical decisions are being made on a particular perspective of quality of life. If your child is not expected to follow a particular path perceived by others as typical development then the quality of their life is brought into question.
As a family-based, national association which advocates for people with intellectual disabilities and their families, the Canadian Association for Community Living is concerned that this tragic situation is another example of a child’s treatment being defined and determined by disability. Joubert Syndrome is not described as a terminal illness. The breathing difficulties often associated with the Syndrome are more commonly known as apnea which is a highly manageable condition – one that most people with Joubert Syndrome outgrow. It is hard to get an accurate account of the specifics with Baby Kaylee. Joubert Syndrome, as with many disabilities, doesn’t not have one predictable outcome. Yet, the focus of Baby Kaylee’s short life has been that imminent death was the only outcome.
The active devaluation of the lives of persons with disabilities is a disturbing trend. Misinformation about disability is a real concern for individuals and families who live with disability. The lack of public discussion about the impact of devaluation makes people with disabilities and their families extremely vulnerable. The perception that a life with a disability is not worth living is perpetuated in the media interest surrounding the Wallace family and other similar stories. The increased demand for prenatal testing and the pressure prospective parents experience to terminate when an “anomaly” is detected risks leading us down a dangerous road reminiscent of our eugenic past.
Baby Kaylee may not survive. If that heartbreaking outcome is to be her reality it should not be because she hasn’t received all of the treatments and health supports she deserves.

For more information contact Anna MacQuarrie 416-602-3015
The Canadian Association for Community Living is a national association of 40,000 members, 400 local and thirteen provincial and territorial associations for community living, working to promote and achieve the full inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in all aspects of community life.

Computer Upgrades

2009-04-09T10:30:00.003-04:00

Ed's forte is all things techy! He has a knack with gadgets and gizmos and can run circles around most of us here at the office. When something goes wrong with the DVD or VHS players, the TV's, the CD players or the computers, Ed's the first one to step up and help to fix the problem.

So it was a natural step for him to enroll in some computer upgrade courses along with some new courses such as Publisher and Power point.

With one course already under his belt, Ed will spend the next 4 weeks attending morning classes learning some graphics programs.

An avid photographer, these new found skills will enhance Ed's ability to format his photographs and soon you will see the fruit of his accomplishments in the pages of our AMONG FRIENDS newsletter. Ed has agreed to assist us by becoming a CLD photographer.

Congratulations Ed on a successful first course and Good Luck with the rest.

Ideal-Way Inc Art Competition

2009-04-06T16:14:00.005-04:00

Luke Gallagher is a multi faceted artist. As a member of the Community Living Dufferin Drama Troupe audiences have enjoyed his many dramatic presentations including Lion King, Hairspray and this years Songs of Beauty and the Beast.

But Luke's talent lies not only on stage but also on paper.

For the past two years Community Living Dufferin have asked for submissions of Christmas themed art to use on our Christmas cards. Of the many designs we received last year, we chose two of Luke's designs for our 2008 Christmas cards.

This past week Luke was one of the 80 artists chosen in the Ideal-Way.ca (seeing ability in disability) province-wide art contest.

160 out of 500 entries were shown at the Varley Gallery in Markham April 1-5.

Here, Luke is seen with Robert the founder of Ideal-Way, and John one of the judges of the contest.

Luke proudly displays his pencil sketches.

Congratulations Luke, it is the ultimate acheivement for any artist to have their artwork featured in a gallery!

The "R" Word

2009-04-02T16:37:00.003-04:00

This link will allow you the opportunity to hear a young man, Soeron Palumbo deliver his essay to classmates honoring Olivia, his younger sister with an intellectual disability.

It is a moving and thought provoking video that requires no introduction.

You cannot listen to this young man deliver this speech and not be moved by his words.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoqaNG0Ozqc

Kiss the Moon, Kiss the Sun

2009-03-30T09:06:00.006-04:00

The Wednesday April 29th performance of Kiss the Moon, Kiss the Sun is being offered at a special rate for all friends and family of CLD.

Meet Robert, an intellectually challenged young man with a sense of humour that will knock you off your feet.
Meet Holly, a young woman whose unexpected pregnancy has knocked her right off her feet.
When their worlds collide in this touching comedy, the power of this extraordinary friendship changes their lives forever.
*Due to mature content and language, this production is not recommended for younger audiences.

Call the Theatre Orangeville box office and mention Community Living Dufferin to receive the special rate of $23.10 (includes GST) for the Wednesday April 29th performance.
519-942-3423

ARTirondack Chairity Raffle

2009-03-24T16:29:00.010-04:00

BUY A RAFFLE TICKET
for your chance to win these beautiful,
unique, one-of-a-kind
hand-made and hand-painted

ARTirondack Chairs and table

or hand sewn Quilt

Tropical Pond Chair
(front, back, side view)

Jungle Chair

Hibiscus Table

Hand sewn Quilt

TICKETS $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00

Email karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca
to order your tickets or call 519-941-8971

Lottery License number M609696

2009-03-12T12:10:00.001-04:00

Community Living Dufferin invites you to join us

for an evening of observance & reflection as we present:

The Freedom Tour
a documentary DVD created by People First of Canada.

March 31st commemorates the official closure of the last 3 remaining institutions in Ontario designed to house people who have disabilities. The Freedom Tour brings awareness to the work that is required to close those institutions still operational in our Prairie Provinces.

Tuesday March 31 ~ 7pm
A candlelight remembrance service will be held
immediately following the movie.

29 Centennial Road, Unit 10, Orangeville

RSVP by March 27th: Karen Murphy-Fritz
519-941-8971 ext 165
karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca

Visit these websites for more information:

www.thefreedomtour.ca
www.peoplefirstofcanada.ca

Minuteman Press donation

2009-03-06T15:47:00.005-05:00

As reported last month, Steve McLeod of the newly opened Minuteman Press offered to donate a portion of his February sales to Community Living Dufferin's Building Dreams Together capital campaign.

Today Steve dropped by our office to present his cheque for $227.50 to Sheryl Chandler, Executive Director.

Our sincere thanks to Steve for this most welcome and generous donation to our campaign.

For more information on our Building Dreams Together campaign visit:

http://www.buildingdreamstogether.org/

For more information on the services and products available at Minuteman Press please visit:

http://www.orangeville.minutemanpress.com/

Sheltered from my son

2009-03-04T14:27:00.002-05:00

Having a disabled child means learning to stand up to ignorant people, people who are afraid of my son.

I was shocked.

Completely and utterly shocked.

I was so surprised by the stupidity of her comment that it took me a few moments to find my voice and mumble an astounded, "Too traumatic? Did you just say it would be too traumatic for young kids to be around disabled children like my son?"

Being a parent of a severely disabled child is indescribably difficult and filled with so many challenges, not the least of which is a constant battle against fear borne out of ignorance.
But there is no reason to be scared of my son. His disability is not contagious, though his laughter is. And it is so hard to deal with people who don't understand that.

Around the time that new mothers are starting to feel comfortable with their new bundles of joy, I was thrust into the terrifying and unexpected role of protector. Not in the typical "I won't let anyone push you in the playground" way. I was learning to stand up to ignorant people, people who were afraid of my son.

I am not naive enough to believe that everyone must accept my child without hesitation. He is different. He can't sit by himself, he drools and, although he understands everything that goes on around him, his communication skills are limited to yes and no responses.

It's not easy to look at a beautiful little boy, with thick dark hair and a giggle that makes you want to laugh too, in a body that doesn't work properly.

But when someone takes the time to come close to him and look a bit deeper, they can see so much life and mischief in his gigantic green eyes, lined with enviously long black eyelashes.

Over the course of Jacob's six years, I have seen that young children are incredibly accepting of differences.

When he was 3, Jacob attended a summer camp with "regular" kids. Although his bunkmates understood he was different — he couldn't walk, talk or eat like they did — he still fit in. When the group participated in a scavenger hunt, some kids helped him collect his pieces without a counsellor's prompting.

At the end of another summer-camp experience, the director called to tell me she thought the staff and other campers benefited at least as much from being around Jacob as he did from being at camp. She told me a group of children would take turns sitting next to him, recording their voices on his communication switch, which he uses to make himself understood, and reading to him after lunch. I was not surprised, but I was proud of my son.

Two years later, at another camp, I was told that Jacob had made a new friend. A few days into the session, this friend announced that Jacob was her new "number 1 best friend". By the following week, Jacob was Taryn's boyfriend. She told everyone she knew that she liked to "kiss his eyeballs." At 6 years old, 10 days younger than Jacob, this little girl wasted no time getting to know him.

Jacob's experience with typically developing kids has always been positive — young children tend to gravitate toward him, not savvy enough to notice their parents' discomfort over how to react in the presence of a severely disabled child.

So when I was told by a senior administrator at a private school that exposing young kids to disabled children was not something the school would support, I was horrified.

We were discussing whether her Grade 2 students, some of whom knew my son, could perform their class play for the students at Jacob's school.

I questioned whether she meant the experience would be too traumatic for the students or for the teachers. She reiterated that according to her advisers, it would be "too traumatic for the students."

As this discussion was unfolding, the stupidity of her words reverberated in my head. My amazement at her ignorance grew until I wanted to scream. This person was a senior educational administrator but was devoid of confidence in and understanding of her students' abilities to interact with others who were different.

My heart was beating so quickly. I felt sick to my stomach and angry at myself knowing that I had considered sending my twin daughters to this school.

After we ended the phone conversation and I allowed some time for my racing heart to calm down, I realized that some people live sheltered lives. They don't allow themselves to experience the joys that come from learning something new and being exposed to someone who is different.

This school is located in a beautiful building, has a lovely and colourful playground and modern facilities. But it lacks something so much more important — compassion.

I do not know a single person who would say their child has been negatively affected by my son. But I can list many people who would say their lives have been sweetened by spending time with Jacob and watching their children make him laugh his contagious laugh.

Marcy White lives in Toronto.
From Monday's Globe and Mail March 2, 2009 at 12:00 AM EST

The Freedom Tour

2009-02-26T13:16:00.005-05:00

Recently Community Living Ontario held it's annual Communications Strategies Workshop. An important two day event that brings all of Ontario's Community Living agencies together to network and learn.

Wednesday night we were invited to a special screening of The Freedom Tour, a documentary about deinstitutionalization, created by People First of Canada, The National Film Board and provincial People First organizations in Manibotba, Saskatchewan and Alberta.

"An institution is any place where people who have been labeled as having an intellectual disability are isolated, segregated, and / or congregated. An institution is any place in which people do not have, or are not allowed to exercise control over their lives and their day to day decisions. An institution is not defined merely by its size." People First of Canada / Canadian Association for Community Living Joint Task Force on Deinstitutionalization Definition of Institution

The idea for the film came about when the government of Manitoba announced that it would be investing $40 million dollars into re-development of the Manitoba Development Centre - one of the remaining, large - scale institutions designed to house people who have a disability.

People First organizations protested the government's decision and decided to travel across the Prairie provinces to raise awareness about the continuing institutionalization of people who have a disability.

The film documents the tour of 16 people in 4 vehicles across 3 provinces using 2 cameras with 1 goal ... Free Our People!

The film offers an emotional, heart wrenching glimpse of what life was like inside the institututions through archival pictures, video footage, and powerful first-hand accounts from survivors and their families.

The Freedom Tour provides a powerful tool to reflect on our history, to recognize the harm that people experienced and to remember those who died in institutions.

March 31st, 2009 will see the goal of closing institutions in Ontario realized. The doors of Rideau Regional Centre, Huronia Regional Centre and the Southwest Regional Centre will close, never to open again. Everyone will have left the building.

While the day will be celebrated across the province there will also be time for reflective observance in memory of those people who died while housed in an institution.

With your support of The Freedom Tour we will realize the goals of closing the remaining institutions in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Please visit The Freedom Tour and People First of Canada websites to learn more about how you can lend your support and sign the on-line petition.

For more information on Community Living agencies visit: http://www.communitylivingontario.ca/

Change 4 Change

2009-02-24T10:51:00.008-05:00

The excitement being generated by our capital campaign "Building Dreams Together" is helping us to raise the money we will need to see our dream of having a home of our own come true.

The people Community Living Dufferin supports are eager to see building begin and have taken their own initiative to help in the fundraising efforts.

CHANGE 4 CHANGE containers were distributed to all of our CLD homes.

A couple of weeks ago the containers were collected and tallied up.

We are happy to say the $38.88 was presented to Sheryl for the "Building Dreams Together" campaign.

Glen is pictured making the presentation to Sheryl Chandler, Executive Director of CLD.

To date, with the support of our many valued donors, we have raised $470,670.51

Thanks to everyone for contributing to this great cause and bringing us ever closer to realizing our Dream!

Going Green with our Newsletters

2009-02-23T14:30:00.006-05:00

Community Living Dufferin is going GREEN.

Were you aware that you can access past copies of Among Friends on our website?

Would you prefer to read the newsletter on your computer?

If you answered YES then please send an email with the subject line GO GREEN to karenf@communitylivingdufferin.ca

This will help us to reduce the costs associated with printing and mailing copies of the newsletter.

Of course we will happily continue to mail copies to those who prefer to receive the paper version or do not have access to online reading.

Thank you for helping us to GO GREEN.

Great Support

2009-02-17T14:57:00.003-05:00

M went for cataract surgery in December and handled it fabulously. In order for him to recover successfully, he needed to have 24/7 support and care, which wasn't possible at his home.
So the decision was made for M to move temporarily into his neighbours' house next door. One of his neighbours, J, instantly bonded with him and took M under her wing. She put aside her own concerns to focus on M's needs and her outlook was really positive and caring.

M stayed next door for 3 weeks with constant support from J and the staff. Though M likes his privacy and his space very much, neither of those were a luxury he could afford during his recuperation. In spite of the limitations of the situation, M coped very well.

J's helping was well received and much appreciated. Staff deserve receognition too for their sensitive and respectful support. They were very observant, offering support, yet stepping back when needed. They also ensured that M was comfortable with all the help that was being offered to him.

After the 3 weeks with his neighbours, M was able to go home and be by himself. He's back to work now, having made the transition from recuperation to regular daily expectations and handling that well too.

Kudos to everyone for the tons of positive encouragement, caring support and sensitivity during a hectic and challenging time!

Congratulations to M on a successful recovery.

Superbowl celebrations 2008

2009-02-16T09:17:00.004-05:00

The gang came together to experience Superbowl 2008 earlier this month.

Featuring cold beer, pina coladas, soda pop, prizes, games, laughter, excitement, chips, cheesies, good friends, enough pizza to shingle a roof with, and a ten foot television screen; Superbowl Sunday at Dawson made Christmas look like unnecessary roughness.

This year's game was a rollercoaster of surprises, and many partygoers left with raw throats.

The Cardinals showed real determination, and through dedicated teamwork, made the Steelers earn every yard of their championship win.

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Steelers, NFL Champions of 2008!

Motivation and determination

2009-02-04T09:58:00.006-05:00

R is a man who knows his own mind. In the past, R has preferred to stick with certain jobs he enjoys rather than move from job to job. The staff of QPAC understand his preferences and his style of communication and have only seen him perform a limited number of the available jobs, in spite of opportunities to have more variety.

Last fall QPAC experienced a slow down in customer demand and some QPAC employees were being laid off. Staff asked R to come into the office and they opened up a conversation about a layoff, being as clear as possible while sensitive that it wasn't good news.

What happened next was truly a surprise for the staff and a celebration for R. Faced with the reality of a layoff, R saw an opportunity to depart from his usual routine and offered to do a job he had never tackled before. He told staff "I can do that job", pointing to a complicated assembly job. He related to C (staff) that he once helped his dad with trailer assembly, knew how to handle a drill and could do the job. Because R was motivated, he took a chance and tried. R has proven he is very capable of doing this job well and he has been doing it ever since.

Well done R!

Thanks for reminding us to take a chance, and to let the world know our hidden talents.

C's actions remind us that when we avoid making assumptions about people's capabilities, great things can happen.

Grand Opening of Minuteman Press

2009-01-30T10:59:00.005-05:00

Steve McLeod of Minuteman Press hosted his Grand Opening today at his location at 76 Centennial Road, Unit #2, Orangeville.

Ed and Janet, as representatives of Community Living Dufferin, attended this official ribbon cutting ceremony.

David Tilson & Sandra Pinkney, Tam from SNAP Dufferin, the Banner and the Citizen attended to record the official opening of the store.

As mentioned in a previous entry, we are very honoured that Steve has kindly chosen to donate a portion of his February sales to CLD.

We wish Steve and his staff all the best with this new business.

We knew you could do it!

2009-01-29T10:24:00.003-05:00

We have had lots to celebrate this past holiday season.

"B", A, S and T" attended the Christmas Luncheon hosted each year at CLD and had a great time.
It wasn't too long ago that they were coming to the cafeteria for various activities and all the areas containing food had to be kept out of sight. "B, A, S and T" have Prader Willi Syndrome.

How wonderful that they could join in the festivities so successfully and enjoy themselves right along with all their friends.

Food abounded but they handled themselves with calm assurance.

Kudos to "B, A, S and T" for their success and kudos also to the staff who helped them to participate in such a joyous celebration.

It was great to have the four of you celebrate with us.

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a genetic condition caused by abnormalities in chromosome 15. PWS affects both males and females of all races. In adulthood, Prader-Willi causes onset of hyperphagia (persistent urge to eat, lack of satiation) which can result in food foraging.
In the absence of diet management there is dramatic weight gain, the risk of morbid obesity and as a result an increased risk of serious health problems. Click the link above to learn more.

A Proud Canadian

2009-01-23T10:43:00.012-05:00

Celebrating with cake, flags,

the singing of Oh Canada and her friends,

"M" enjoys a very special day!

Several years ago, while helping people we support prepare for a tropical vacation, staff discovered that "M" was not a Canadian citizen as was formerly believed. "M" needed a passport to travel and was not eligible for a refund if she cancelled. It would be such a disappointment as well as a loss of all the money she had saved. Her support worker, "R", contacted both local politicians and the Japanese consulate to obtain the needed passport. She moved Heaven and Earth to make it happen. With only two days to spare, "M" got the passport and was able to enjoy her tropical holiday.
Numerous phone calls and trips to Toronto were required to solve the problem but it was done because "M's" needs came first. It was too important for her quality of life to give up in the face of an obviously tight time line and the difficulties of red tape.
Now, finally, "M" is becoming a Canadian!

On January 16, we held a reception to celebrate and congratulate her on her new status. Donning red and white hats, and waving paper Canadian flags we shared in her excitement, joined in as she led us in the singing of Oh Canada, and enjoyed the giant cake adorned with a Canada flag.

Special thanks to "R" for making this happen and to everyone who organized and attended this special celebration for "M".

We're happy for her eh!

Developmental Services Worker Apprenticeship Course

2009-01-23T10:38:00.003-05:00

A developmental disability significantly affects one’s ability to learn and use information. Whether caused genetically or developmentally, a developmental disability continues throughout a person’s life.

As a consequence of their permanent intellectual limitations, people with a developmental disability require varying degrees of support throughout their lives.

A Developmental Services Worker (DSW) supports people with developmental disabilities to be fully active and inclusive members of society. They encourage skill development by assisting with the maintenance of health and wellbeing, fostering life skills, and personal empowerment.

DSWs fulfill many roles as they help to build natural community supports, networks and valued social roles. They foster connections between the people they support, their families and community partners.

Developmental Services Workers play an increasing role in promoting the development of inclusive communities that accept people with disabilities as valued and participating citizens.

They do this by helping members of society change their beliefs, fears, stereotypes and attitudes, thereby enabling persons labeled developmentally disabled to become a part of their lives and communities.

Providing support services for people with special needs can be highly rewarding work on a personal level. It also continues to be a very stable employment area. However with a shortage of DSWs in the social services field, the Ontario government recently announced that a Developmental Services Worker apprenticeship course would be added to college curriculums. Orangeville’s Humber College offers the DSW apprenticeship program at their Alder Street campus.

The apprenticeship program is open to people already working in the Developmental services field, students considering an apprenticeship or people looking for a career change. You will have the opportunity to make a difference to people with a developmental disability by helping to build a diverse and inclusive society.

The new Developmental Services Worker Apprenticeship program is a unique opportunity to get paid while training for a rewarding career. About 90 per cent of the training happens on the job and takes about 2 years to complete. You will also receive 780 hours of classroom instruction at the college. The student will develop transferable skills while being trained within provincial industry standards, work with employers who value highly skilled workers, receive a certificate of Apprenticeship upon completion and pay only a portion of the classroom training costs. The apprenticeship can lead to a DSW diploma if it’s combined with general college education credits.

A Developmental Services Agency in Ontario must sponsor your apprenticeship training. Community Living Dufferin is an example of such an agency. The agency will contact the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to register you in an apprenticeship training agreement.

For more information on the DSW Apprenticeship Program visit the website at www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu/apprentices
or call the Employment Ontario Hotline 1-800-387-5656.
If you work in the field contact your Human Resources department.
For more information on CLD services visit our website at www.communitylivingdufferin.ca

Minuteman Press donates to CLD

2009-01-20T16:47:00.004-05:00

New to the Orangeville community is Minuteman Press owned and operated by Mr. Steve McLeod. Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with him to his new business.

When it comes to business communications services, Minuteman Press can do it all. With a complete range of products and services at your disposal, they can help you get your message out to customers, employees and vendors alike. Using the latest printing and document management technology, Minuteman Press can handle your projects from start to finish. Their energetic and experienced staff is dedicated to delivering what you need, when you need it.

On January 30, 2009 Minuteman Press will host their Grand Opening at their 76 Centennial Road, Unit 2, location.

Believing in giving back to his community, Steve has very generously offered to donate a portion of his sales to Community Living Dufferin during the month of February.

To learn more about what Minuteman Press can do for you, contact Steve today.
519-940-5755 email: orangeville@minutemanpress.com
http://www.orangeville.minutemanpress.com/

Overcoming Fear

2009-01-14T10:40:00.003-05:00

“Joyful Voices” is Community Living Dufferin’s integrated choir. Over 40 members strong consisting of people CLD support, staff, board members and volunteers, they have been singing within the community for over 10 years now.

Each year the choir accompanies CLD’s Drama Group, “Creative Partners on Stage” in providing backup vocals for their musical presentations at the Orangeville Town Hall Opera House. This year will see them present “Songs of Beauty and the Beast” on March 25th and 26th.

On Thursday December 4, 2008 the “Joyful Voices Choir” sang Christmas Carols at Bethsaida Retirement Home.

“C” is one of the newest members of the Joyful Voices choir. As this was only "C's" second performance in front of an audience it was quite an accomplishment for her personally.

”C” has a fear of men. The day she performed at Bethsaida, the stage she was standing on and the audience she performed before was full of men.

Her support worker was there to encourage and reassure her if she became fearful, but she performed brilliantly. She thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

The team who support “C” recognize the possibilities and her potential. They know and appreciate her as a person and are willing to take a little risk to help her overcome her fears and worries.

They believe, as all CLD staff do, in the words “YES you CAN!”

*Facing our fears
You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, “I lived through this…I can take the next thing that comes along….” You must do the thing you think you cannot do.
*Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, You Learn by Living

Empty Nest Envy

2009-01-09T14:12:00.007-05:00

For most of us as parents, we look forward, perhaps with a degree of guilt, to the day when our children leave the nest. “Empty Nest” syndrome is experienced by parents who suddenly find their family home devoid of kids. We become free to embark on our own adventures. Perhaps we will fulfill the dreams we put on hold to raise our families, take up a new hobby or perfect an existing one, do some traveling or just take time for some much needed R & R. Whatever the choice, we are fortunate to have that opportunity to rejuvenate ourselves.

However, there is another group of parents who experience “Empty Nest Envy”.
While most parents can look forward to children spreading their own wings, there are some who look to the future with trepidation and uncertainty. Not just for themselves, but more importantly for their adult children who have developmental disabilities. These parents, when their children graduate from high school, suddenly find themselves supporting their adult child full time.

The reality for these parents can be daunting. For one family their son (28) remains with them, despite thinking that he would be living on his own with supports at this age, the reality is that he will probably remain with them “until one of us dies or we’re in crisis”. This couple has little time alone and never the opportunity to holiday away together. *

Another mom, who is 60 with a 30 year old son with autism, warns, “When the kids graduate there is nothing but endless applications for funding. I can’t afford to retire. I have no savings. I’ll retire when I drop dead.” *

The biggest worry for families whose adult children remain at home is what will become of them when they are gone.

Advice from parents across the province includes ensuring that there is a circle of people around your child who will spend time with them, offering respite and support. Involve your child in decision making about their future, ask what they want. Ask the school about transition planning. Teach your child as many life skills as you can. Research Respite programs in your community www.respite services .com and network with other families, an option which may offer respite if only for a few hours. Be pro active! Start early. If you wait until they are finished school, chances are you’ll wait even longer for services.

Organizations such as Community Living Dufferin can provide opportunities to families. With programs and services such as employment, arts, recreational/leisure opportunities and supportive housing, Community Living Dufferin can assist a family to find suitable activities for their adult children. While there are waiting lists for programs, particularly supportive housing, we may be able to assist in connecting your son or daughter to a social network.
For more information on services we provide please visit our web site at:
http://www.communitylivingdufferin.ca/

Here are some other useful resources:
Canadian Association for Community Living http://www.cacl.ca/ Provides information, support and advocacy for people with an intellectual disability and their families.
Community Living Ontario http://www.communitylivingontario.com/
The provincial association that advocates for people with intellectual disabilities to be fully included in all aspects of community life.
Ministry of Community and Social Services http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/
Helps build resilience and removes obstacles that impede opportunity and participation in community life.
More Than a Mom — Living a Full and Balanced Life When Your Child Has Special Needs
Written by Amy Baskin and Heather Fawcett http://www.morethanamom.net/
*excerpts printed with permission of Amy Baskin. See full article on Empty Nest Envy in the November edition of More magazine