Supporting people who have an intellectual disability • CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-737-3475 • www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

insiDeTHIS ISSUE

A DreamCome True . . . . . . . 6

Annual General Meeting & Family BBQ . . . 3

Parent Networking Groups . . . . . . . . . 13

A Magical Day . . . 10

Senior Social Tea . . . . . . . 5

Summer Camp 2010 . . . . 8–9

… and more

2010s u m m e r r e v i e w

You can now reach ourMain Office Toll Free!

1-877-737-3475local: 905-884-9110

It’s Time!by Larry Palmer, Executive Director’s Assistant

As a direct result of the infamous bombing of Pearl

Harbour by Japan in 1941, the Canadian Government enacted the War Measures Act, statute (1914) and began the intern-ment of Japanese Canadians along a 160-kilometre “safety zone” on the Pacific coast of British Columbia. Many of these Japanese Canadians lost their homes and personal wealth—not to mention the loss of per-sonal dignity as law abiding and conscientious Canadians.

In 1988, 47 years after the fact, the Canadian government formally apologized for their actions and compensation was awarded by legislation enacted by Parliament Hill.

As we know all too well, compensation from the Canadian government—this time to the tune of 1.9 billion dollars—was awarded again in 1998 to thousands of First Nations Canadians for the also infam-ous practices of the ‘Canadian Native Residential School’ system that was finally discontinued in 1996 after almost a century of existence.

On March 31, 2009, all of us joyously celebrated the closure of the last 3 Institutions in Ontario (the fourth Province to do so!). We were well aware of the many stories of abuses that occurred as a result of institutionalization, begging the question, ‘Do these Canadian citizens deserve any less from the govern-ment than those who have been housed or interred against their free will and suffered as a consequence?’

Well, on April 19, 2010 Justice Maurice Cullity of the Ontario Superior Court issued a ruling that all of the requirements had been met for a class action lawsuit to proceed on behalf of former residents of Huronia Regional Centre. On July 15, 2010 the process will begin at Osgoode Hall in Toronto.

We will watch this action unfold with uneasy anticipation. How hard it will be for those who suf-fered to once again tell their stories.

Let us sincerely hope, as the Japanese and First Nations Canadians before them, that all persons who resided in any of the province’s 18 facilities will be awarded the same consideration from Parliament Hill—if for nothing else than in honour of those who passed away while residing there.

It’s right, it’s due, it’s time!

“�Do��these�Canadians�deserve��less?”

� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

Executive Director’s Report

Don Wilkinson, Executive Director

Community Living York South’s 56th Annual General Meeting & Family BBQ

was an astounding success with more than three hundred people in attendance. The annual meeting is a symbolic closure of another year of business. The fiscal year may end on March 31, but the annual meeting means the end of board and inter-agency committees. For a brief two months (July and August) business in the developmental services field slows down and becomes a time to reflect on the past year and begin to think of the fall schedule.

In the past year, I believe the developmental services field closed a major chapter of its history. Institutions closed their doors in March 2009. Bill 77, The Social Inclusion Act, promis-ing an individual orientation to support, fairness and equit-

able treatment was passed by the government in 2010. In 2011, regional access centers will be opened to ensure people have fair and equitable access to services and supports. In previous issues of the newsletter I have explained that people and their families will go to their regional access centers, where eligibility will be determined by case workers, physicians and psychologists.

If the person is determined to be eligible for services, they will then be assessed using the “Support Intensity Scale” to define the level of support needed. The person will then be placed on a community waiting list, where they will await allocation of government finances that will enable them to purchase supports according to their needs. The government and agencies will be active in the next year realigning their organizations to respond to the system.

As government policy changes to bring rationality to a system that is deemed chaotic and broken, I notice a new reality with fam-ilies. Families have completed their own rational assessment of the existing waiting lists and the length of time their sons and daugh-ters have been on the waiting lists. Parents’ expectations have been lowered. They realize their belief in the entitlement to services for people with disabilities is an illusion.

Parents have made decisions—some parents have chosen to give up. Their young adult sits at home watching television behind closed doors, the unseen members of our society reminiscent of the 1950s and 1960s. Fortunately, other parents are beginning to take matters into their own hands. Parents are meeting; groups are being formed to address specific issues such as recreation, sports, fundraising, dance socials, day programs and residential options. Problems are slowly evolving into solutions. Parents are sharing their stories, getting to know each other and most importantly, realizing they are not alone. Their mutual support, their love of their sons and daughters, and their desire for the best quality of life for their children will lead them into the future.

The Association staff is supporting these parents to form groups, introducing parents to other parents with children of similar age, assisting parents to fundraise and to self-finance day supports. The Association has submitted a grant request to the Trillium Foundation to help parents to organize, to advocate and to get their young adults actively involved in creating a meaningful life. I encourage you to join the parents who have chosen to fight to create a meaningful life for their children’s future.

In this edition of the Update I would like to introduce you to a guest contributor to the Update newsletter. Heather Resnick is a parent, an author, and a spirited activist who believes parents can be change agents. Heather believes her parental responsibility is to invest in her daughter’s future. In this addition of the Update we share a poem by Heather (see page 12). I look forward to working with Heather and distributing her articles to you.

Enjoy your summer!

FunFair & BBQUnited Way of York Region 2010 Donation Campaign Kick-off!

September 22, 201011:00am–3:00pm (BBQ from 12–1pm)

Gym @ 101 Edward Avenue, Richmond Hill

Free admissionPurchase activities and food

Proceeds to benefit the United Way of York Region

RSVP by September 17, 2010 @ 3:00PM toDianna: 905-884-9110, Ext. 238

Kula: 905-884-9110, Ext. 703or Pamela: 905-884-9110, Ext. 650

onlinenow:www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca �

56th Annual General Meeting and Family Barbecueby Sandy Fielding, Senior Administrative Assistant

Thursday, June 24 was the per-fect day to host Community

Living York South’s 56th Annual General Meeting and Family Bar-becue. Mother Nature cooperated by providing plenty of sunshine at this year’s event.

2010 is the fifth year that Community Living York South has hosted a barbecue to accompany the Annual General Meeting.

To facilitate this event, space inside the 101 Edward Avenue build-ing was transformed into a large and comfortable meeting area to host the formal business meeting. Outside, the “back yard” looked regal with rows of chairs and long tables, decorated in red, yellow and blue. An outdoor coffee bar was laid out for those in need of an evening “boost” and a large white tent was set-up for inclement weather or for people who might like shelter from the sunshine.

As the evening began, volunteers and members of our staff team eagerly greeted attendees as they arrived. Each person was directed along the line of registration tables to receive the event outline, the 2009/2010 Annual Report, and a copy of the audited financial statements. Members also received a package that included materials required for voting. Kevin, our well known receptionist, encouraged everyone to sign the guest book before taking their seat.

Together, Josie Diprofio, our newest Finance & Payroll Administrator, and Sandy, a volunteer, ensured that everyone attending the festivities received their ticket entitling them to the BBQ. The catering was provided by Peter Anthos and his crew from Fire It Up Barbecue Catering (fireitup-bbq.com).

The Annual General Meeting provides an opportunity for registered Members to actively participate in the business meeting portion of the event. Members play a vital role in contributing to the organization’s fu-ture strategic directions. They may, for example, vote for and/or approve decisions on new board members, on changes to operational by-laws, and on audited financial statements.

As the business meeting began, Board President Claudio Battaglin and Executive Director Don Wilkinson introduced special guests, the Honorable Bryon Wilfert, MP, and Dr. Reza Moridi, MPP, Richmond Hill.

Bryon Wilfert commented on how proud he was to be in attendance and to have been asked to install our 2010/2011 Board of Directors. He kindly welcomed two new Board members: Mickey Mahmood and Ajay Gupta. Earlier in the day on twitter.com, Mr. Wilfert “tweeted”, announ-

cing: “Community Living York South 56th AGM. Asked to induct the new Board of Directors. Work-ing with people with disabilities. A great cause.”

Tony Carella, Vaughan Coun-cilor and former board member, also stopped by to say hello.

The evening was also an occa-sion to celebrate the contributions made by our community partners. To thankfully acknowledge their long-term partnership with the Creative Theatre Workshop (CTW), Kyla Dover and members of the CTW presented a Community Partnership Award to A Stroke of Art (astrokeofart.ca). A Stroke of

Art is a progressive art studio in Vaughan. Paying tribute to the dedica-tion of Parent Group organizers, Cheryl Rennick, Team Supervisor, made a presentation to Rina Kogon, the coordinator of Stepping Out.

With the formal portion of the evening concluded, attendees made their way outside to enjoy the barbecue and music provided by D.J. Vince Manganaro. After toe-tapping and wriggling in their seats as long as they could, some people jumped right up and started boogieing to the music on the grassy dance floor.

A short Board meeting was held behind the scenes to elect the Of-ficers of the Board.

Also taking place during the evening was a short meeting facilitated by Outreach team members for parents who were interested in becoming a part of a newly-formed Parent Networking Group. Other stakeholders engaged in a pre-arranged question-and-answer session with the Board of Directors.

It is our sincere hope that everyone enjoyed meeting the many faces representing Community Living York South, reconnecting with “old” friends, making new ones, and sharing experiences.

Our membership numbers have grown and attendance at the Annual General Meeting and family BBQ has tripled in the last five years! After months of planning and a very busy day getting set up, the evening was a huge success. This is just one of the wonderful reasons why working at Community Living York South is great—we are one big team and we all work harmoniously together through thick and thin.

Last but not least, I extend a very special and huge THANK YOU to all the staff and volunteers who helped make the evening run smoothly. Together, we continue to work towards promoting citizenship, belonging, and equality with people who have an intellectual disability.

See you all next year!

“Members�play�a�vital�role�in�…�future�strategic�directions.”

� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

Building a Foundation for Successby Karen Penton, Foundations Coordinator

Foundations provides 2 years of support to youth who have transitioned from high school and are seeking to plan and set goals for their future. Youth pursue

their interests in competitive employment, community connections, social, educa-tional, and/or leisure opportunities.

Participants in the Markham Foundations group have been sharing their skills and talents, forming friendships and developing self-confidence along the way.

On Wednesdays, the Markham Foundations group and students from a local high school get together for a self-esteem discussion.

Here are some of their comments:“I enjoy this group because I have met a lot of people… and I like listening to people.

I enjoy this group because I can express myself [and] everyone speaks their mind. It gives me a day off work to relax. I have fun!” —Lucas

“I like learning new stuff when I come every Wednesday. It’s fun to learn new things and can’t wait to see! I like to thank Kitty for teaching me.” —Hiba

“I come to the Markham Foundation’s program on Mondays and Wednesdays. A lot of students come on Wednesdays. We [have a] self-esteem group. We do social skills [activities]. I like talking to new friends.” —Gajen

“I like meeting new people [and] learning new things.” —Andrew

“I enjoy this group because I learned [the value of going] to work.” —Kitty

“I like coming to the self esteem Wednesday group because I have been making new friends. Also learning to bead a dog chain and doing presentations to people.” —Billy

“When I come to the self-esteem sessions I really enjoy meeting the new students, role playing and talking about safety—also, making the dogs with beads. It was hard, but it was really fun to learn something new. I thank Kitty for teaching me!” —Teena

“I enjoy this group. It is a lot of fun. I meet new people.” —Brian

“When I come here I meet new people. I learn about positive and negative self-esteem. I learn to make a dog with beads—Kitty [taught] us.” —Kimberly

“I like Markham Foundations group because I am meeting new people.” —Lionel

For more information about Foundations, contact:In Markham: Karen Penton at 905-294-4971, extension 48In Richmond Hill: Dee Manikam at 1-877-737-3475 or 905-884-9110, voicemail 604

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Physical Activity and Agingby Rochelle Smith, Residential Supervisor

It is well known that physical activity provides health benefits to individuals of all ages. For

those older adults at risk of frailty, structured physical activity programs are necessary to both maintain and improve their ability to perform functional activities of daily living independently.

Functional ability is the ability to interact with ones environment effectively. Adequate functional ability is essential for such activities as changing a light bulb, climbing stairs or taking out the garbage. A measure of functional ability is also needed for a person to maintain their personal grooming and/or transfer safely from the bath.

The loss of independence due to decreased functional ability may pose a greater perceived threat to normal aging than the fear of death. A simple fall can bring about an end to a person’s independence.

Regular physical exercise is the key to pre-serving adequate functional mobility. A pre-ventative exercise program, such as “Functional Fitness for Older Adults” can offer many benefits

See FITNESS on Page �

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Making Things HappenA Grandmother’s Storyby Kula Kulasegaram, Community Support Coordinator

On June 30, the summer Senior Social Tea, our two guest speak-ers presented useful resources for senior parents. Raymond

Forde of I.T.I. Marketing spoke about assistive devices and Regis-tered Nurse, Rochelle Smith, talked about functional fitness for older adults and provided an interactive demonstration.

Kim Rogers, a grandmother who attended, was appreciative of the support her family has received through Community Living York South. Kim expressed the desire to share her experience with other families through the Update.

Dear Kula,It gives me great pleasure to let everyone know how wonderful

the outreach team is. I am very grateful for all of the support that my grandson Jordan, myself and my family have received from Community Living York South.

At a point in my life I thought that many doors were closed to me and I was under a lot of stress in trying to find the best options for my family. I didn’t know where to go until I connected with your services.

Your kind support reduced all the struggles and helped me to overcome problems one-by-one. I wish that families that are going through similar struggles would come out and connect with the experienced staff who can assist in problem solving.

I couldn’t have had my needs met without the help of your great team. I have become more and more informed by coming out to Senior Social Tea and other workshops.

At Senior Social Tea not only do families have a chance to receive information about services from experts from different services and to talk about what’s available out there, but also to talk and share experiences, resources and ideas—to feel better in knowing that you are not alone.

I am very thankful especially to Anita and Kula and the others. They all help make things happen for my family. I cannot stop thanking them for the way they reached out to my family.

I would like to encourage other families to not ignore the help offered to you through outreach. Get to know what Community Living York South stands for. You will never be sorry.

—Kim Rogers

If you are a senior parent who would like to know about future Senior Social Tea resource, information and life planning sessions, contact Kula Kulasegaram, Community Support Coordinator:

Phone: 1-877-737-3475 or 905-884-9110, extension 703Email: kkulasegaram@communitylivingyorksouth.ca

î the Boghossian family, Anita

î Rochelle

The Festival of Craftsby Barb Eldridge, Women’s Auxiliary

The Women’s Auxiliary’s annual bazaar, “The Festival of Crafts”, will be held on November 13, 2010.

Due to last year’s success, we will, once again, be selling fully decorated Christmas trees along with our traditional offer-ings. The event will feature a selection of wonderfully delicious homemade pies, cakes, jams and more; an assortment of one-of-a-kind handcrafted items; and an extensive section of items at an incredible bargain.

All proceeds from The Festival of Crafts will benefit people supported in residential services. Please come out and show your support.

î Kim

Find the Perfect Holiday Gifts at

Festival of Craftspresented by the Women’s Auxiliary

November 13, 2010 @ 9 am–2 pm101 Edward Avenue, Richmond HillAll proceeds to benefit people supported by Community Living York South.

Donations for our nearly new table would be appreciated. To donate, contact Anna at 905-884-3990 or Mona at 905-884-4258.

� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

A Dream Come True for Ottawa actors who have an intellectual disabilityby Kyla Dover, Community Support Worker

On Tuesday, May 11, the Creative Theatre Workshop was invited to attend a free per-

formance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat by Tamir (tamir.ca) at Centre Point Theatre in Ottawa.

Tamir is a Jewish charitable organization com-prised of people, families, volunteers and profes-sionals dedicated to assisting people who have an intellectual disability realize their potential in a supportive environment through opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.

In addition to being a completely entertaining experience, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat was an inspiration to the Creative The-atre Workshop actors.

The inclusive production was the first ever full theatrical production in Ottawa in which people who have an intellectual disability performed with actors from amateur and professional theatre.

Following the play, members of the Creative Theatre Workshop spent the night at the Travelodge Hotel and had a great time swimming at the hotel’s indoor water park. We spent the rest of our trip sightseeing around our nation’s capital.

î L to R: Caroline, Rosalia, Emilio, Shahid, Chris, Andrea, Adriano, Lori; Angie (front)

for the older adult to maintain and/or improve independence. This program consists of progressive exercises that include strength, mobility and balance training. It requires use of simple equipment, and often, only one’s own body weight, and can be delivered in as little as 30 minutes.

The Functional Fitness for Older Adults program was developed and evaluated by The Centre for Activity and Aging at the Uni-versity Of Western Ontario (ccaa.ca). It is safe for all levels and no prior exercise experience is necessary—just a positive attitude!

There is solid evidence that supports the positive relationship between regular physical activity and healthy aging. Often called the “elixir” of healthy aging, regular physical activity adds vitality and quality to life. In fact, it can add years to your life!

Maintaining adequate muscle, strength, flexibility and endur-ance takes on new importance as individuals age. In terms of loss of muscle mass (atrophy), there is a 1% decline per year beginning at age 24 years or 10% per decade, with an accelerated loss of up to 50% of muscle mass at age 70. Studies show that, if you don’t use it, you really do lose it!

Older Canadians who participate in regular physical activity are less likely to experience illness and are more able to delay some of the declines associated with aging. Equally, there are social benefits associated with exercise. Engaging in exercise with others can help

seniors make connections and build social networks that promote overall health and well-being.

It is never too late to attain the benefits associated with regular physical activity.

Please watch for upcoming Functional Fitness for Older Adults exercise classes offered at Community Living York South this fall!

For more information about upcoming classes, please contact Rochelle Smith:905-294-4871 x44 or email Rochelle@communitylivingyorksouth.ca

FITNESS Continued from Page �

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Special Olympics Ontario–York South Newsby Margaret French, Special Olympics Ontario-York Region

Our annual Sports Banquet on June 5, 2010 concluded

a very successful sporting year. Part of the festivities included the presentation of a sportsman-ship award in memory of Patsy Hawkins, an awesome bowler who passed away in March 2010. Patsy attended many competi-tions right up to the Special Olympics Ontario National Games in Sudbury.

The award, bearing the inscription “In memory of Patsy Hawkins, a true friend and bowler”, was presented to recipient Kathleen by Patsy’s sisters, Anne and Peggy.

Throughout the year, athletes participate in a variety of competitions for 5 pin and 10 pin bowling, basketball, swimming, floor hockey and skiing.

Award presentation to Kathleen (front row) by Anne and Peggy

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Some of our recent sporting highlights include:Our 5 pin bowlers qualified for tournaments played and arranged in partnership with the York Simcoe 5 Pin Bowling Association (ys5pba.ca).The first ever International Special Olym-pics Bocce Tournament, held in King City, was attended by one of our teams.Following qualification in 2008 at the provincial games, athletes Bill, Rielle, Carol, Joseph, Anna Maria and Alex were members of Team Ontario attending National games (London, Ontario) in their respective sporting categories with coaches Michelle Joyce, Lesley Yule, Bud Anderson and Margaret French.

For information about future athlete registration dates, sporting program listings and registration fees in Southern York Region, please contact:

Margaret A. FrenchSpecial Olympics Ontario-York RegionPhone: 905-898-1676Email: mfrench195@gmail.com

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Remembering Jean Nugentby Barb Eldridge, Women’s Auxiliary volunteer

We are saddened to report the

passing of one of the founding members of the Women’s Auxiliary.

Jean Nugent, after a lengthy battle with cancer, succumbed on July 18.

Since the concep-tion 48 years ago, Jean always worked hard and contributed so much in so many ways – espe-cially with her sense of humour.

Advocate. Parent. Volunteer.

Jean will be missed.

I n M e m o r i a mLooking for Volunteer, Social, Recreation or Leisure Options in Your Community?Check out your Local Recreation Guide! You can find everything from arts to aquatics, basketball to bocce,

dance to decorating, first-aid to fitness, painting to Pilates, sports to school break programs, and tennis to Tai Chi.

Recreation programs are an affordable way of learning new information, developing skills or enjoy existing interests while meeting new people.

— Town of Markham —Visit markham.ca online and click on the image of the Markham Life guide.

Phone: 905-415-7535

— Town of Richmond Hill —Visit richmondhill.ca online, place your cursor

on the ‘Leisure’ text (top of page) and click the Recreation link. Phone: 905-771-7545

— City of Vaughan —Visit vaughan.ca online and click on the ‘Recreation Guide’ link

(left; under the ‘Popular Information’ heading). Phone: 905-832-8500

You may be able to take advantage of the Children’s Fitness Tax Credit or use Special Services at Home funds to purchase recreation programs in your area. Check with your Parks and Recreation representative when

registering to learn if you are able to do so.

� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

Summer Camp 2010

Cowboy theme day at the Markham camp

î Douglas

î Cooking with Beverly and Jessica

î Sandra, Stephanie, John

î Blueberry the fish, Stacey

Checking the bowling score at Woodbridge Bowl

î Nicole

onlinenow:www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca �

July and August 2010

During summer, our camp participants

enjoy fun activities in an inclusive setting. Days are filled with vocational op-portunities, arts-and-crafts, singing, exercise, movie-going, recreational activ-ities, and preparing and eating healthy meals—not to mention fun trips to Forsythe Farms, Ontario Place, Canada’s Wonder-land... and so much more!

Summer Camp 2010Feeding the fish at Richmond Green

î Music appreciation with Jessica, Carol, Douglas, Katherine

î Wendy and Ryan

î Matthew, John, Sandra

î Samantha, John, Sandra

î Victoria, Urania

10 CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

A Magical Day for Judy and Patty

by Rochelle Smith, Residential Supervisor

On June 9, 2010, Judy and Patty immersed themselves in the world of Hogwarts School

of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the fictional boarding school from the Harry Potter movies. The ladies attended Harry Potter™: The Exhibition at the On-tario Science Centre, which was on display from April 1 to July 31.

The craftsmanship of over 200 authentic cos-tumes and props from the Harry Potter films was absolutely amazing and true-to-life.

Judy and Patty visited Hagrid’s hut and sat in his massive reading chair. Judy even became a member of Gryffindor house! They entered the

“quidditch” area and tossed a “quaffle”, pulled a “mandrake” and met all the creatures and charac-ters from Harry Potter’s films. They saw Harry’s original wand and eyeglasses and met “Buckbeak”, the giant Acromantula spider.

Both Judy and Patty were awestruck and felt like they were stars in a Harry Potter movie.

Exhibit photos: Hogwarts uniform (top), Quidditch equipment (middle), Hagrid’s Hut (bottom)Images of exhibition costumes and props copyright © 2009 Exhibitgroup/Giltspur. All Rights Reserved. HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © J. K. Rowling

Kenny Rogers: Live Up Close and Personalby Rochelle Smith, Residential Supervisor

On May 6, 2010, road trippers Jean, Jennifer and Mike started bright and early on their

journey to Casino Rama to see Kenny Rogers perform live.

They arrived at the hotel and checked into their deluxe room, enjoying the hot tub, some relaxation by the pool and the room service they ordered before the start of the concert.

At 7:00 pm, Kenny Rogers came on stage and entertained Jenny, Jean, and Mike, who had premier center seats in the fourth row.

“A dream come true,” said Jean.“He was so great,” said Jennifer, who sang all

the words to all his songs!Mike tapped his feet and grooved along to the

music.

î Jean, Mike, Jenniferî Judy, Patty

Community Living York south 2010 Dances

at 101 Edward Ave. in Richmond Hill on the following Saturdays

from 7:00PM to 10:30PM

september 25—Blue Jay’s danceoctober 30—halloween dance

december 11—Christmas dance$3.00 admission includes

Coffee and Cookies; Pop is $0.25

We hope to see you there!

onlinenow:www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca 11

Ted Retiresby Wayne Kitto, Bright Ideas Business Manager

On June 10, Ted Jennings retired from Bright Ideas Custom Packaging. We all shared cake and Ted promised that he

would bring back his current rug hooking project to show the team his progress.

Prior to working at Bright Ideas, Ted worked at a local body shop to provide housekeeping services in the shop and office areas. Due to medical concerns, Ted found that the work setting at Bright Ideas was more suitable to his needs allowing him to sit while working.

Ted was a welcomed addition to the team. He tried his best at all times. Though arthritis in his hands made tasks more difficult as time went on, Ted was able to handle almost all of the projects he worked on.

Ted has decided that it’s time to retire. For a time, he plans to live at home with assistance from a support staff. He then has plans to move to Oakville with his sisters until there is avail-able space in the long-term care facility where his mother is currently living.

The team at Bright Ideas is sad to see Ted leave and we’ll miss him, and we wish him well.Have a great retirement, Ted!

Robert’s 10-year Service Awardby Nancy Ogunniya-Clyke, Community Support Worker

On June 16, 2010, Robert was pre-sented his 10-year service award

from Markham Stouffville Hospital. Magda Rigo, Director of Organizational Development & Community Resour-ces, invited everyone to stand up and give Robert a standing ovation. It was Robert’s finest moment!

Over 300 people cheered loudly at the Crystal Fountain Restaurant on 14th Avenue. The next morning at the hospi-tal you could hear people say Robert is really one of us.

What’s New at Bright Ideasby Wayne Kitto, Bright Ideas Business Manager

In addition to our day-to-day work responsibilities completing packaging projects for our clients, the dedicated team at Bright

Ideas Custom Packaging Inc. participated in a “Community In-volvement” on behalf of United Way of York Region.

During the past several months we created relationships with new customers as well as community members.

HostingtheUnitedWayofYorkRegion’s“DayofCaring”

In May, we hosted the “Day of Caring”, an opportunity that happens twice a year, linking community agencies and employee groups who want to volunteer with not-for-profit organizations in a ‘hands-on’ way.

Volunteers from Vertex Customer Management joined us in our regular workday tasks. The day went extremely well and our volun-teers told us that they’d had a great time working with the Bright Ideas team… and we enjoyed working with them!

NewClientRelationships

The team at Bright Ideas has had a steady workflow throughout most of the year.

We have been working with long-standing customers: Neupac Resources in California and Synnex Canada Ltd. (synnex.ca) in Guelph to destroy expired Norton Anti-virus software products. We hope to expand the scope of our services to include other pro-prietary software like QuickBooks.

Though our workload decreased somewhat during the month of June, in the interim we were very fortunate to add two new clients to our customer roster: Perspectis and Lord Magee.

Perspectis manufactures 3 wellness products in the “Body Ryzm” line: The Neck Vitalizer, The Back Vitalizer and Dr. Hamilton Hall Belt back support system. We received our first project shipment in June and are hoping that this is the beginning of a long-lived re-lationship. A special thank you to Foundations Coordinator Karen Penton for connecting us to Perspectis.

Lord Magee is a local graphic design and marketing firm located down the street from us on Edward Avenue, specializing in advertising and promotional services. Thus far, we have completed two projects with Lord Magee.

Here at Bright Ideas, we took a two-week summer break from July 26 to August 8 to spend with family and friends. We hope that you all had a great summer and enjoyed time spent with your own loved ones.

1� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

Family�Networking��Task�Groups�Poem

Are you tired of support groupsWhere all you do is ventMeanwhile your children languishAnd you are in torment?

Put your passion into actionJoin one task group out of fourCreate opportunities for your childBy opening up a door

If isolation is a concern,Then Social Groups’ for youActivities will be organized,So children will have something to do.

Should you require day programs?Day Options Group is the oneLearn about co-operativesWhere children will be safe and have fun.

Join Fundraising Task GroupIf you have the flairAnd help create programs,That presently aren’t there

Employment/Advocacy Group is criticalIf we want our children to beSettled and fulfilledAnd living independently.

We are a dynamic group of parentsWho put words into actionWe encourage you to join a groupAnd find some satisfaction

by Heather Resnick, a parentJuly 8, 2010

by Pamela Singleton, Quality Assurance Coordinator

The countdown is ON! Community Living York South is participating in the Accreditation process with FOCUS

(focusaccreditation.ca). The target date to receive certification is July 2011.

FOCUS believes in 5 cornerstones of high quality services:Person Centered Services – includes rights and personal freedoms, planning

Effective Governance and Leadership – includes finances and risk management

A Learning Culture – includes community partnerships and continuous learning

Inclusive and Flexible Services – includes services during the day

Comprehensive Structures and Processes – includes health, safety and wellness

FOCUS inspires others to “Climb Mount Possible”! It does this by fostering a learning culture within organizations. A learning organization:

works with its members to build structural and cultural sup-port for continuous learning

values positive change and adaptation and encourages on-going improvement

continuously improves supports provided to people receiv-ing services and to those who are providing those services

I invite everyone to join the climb. Many of the initiatives that we have started to meet the standards with the Council for Quality and Leadership Canada will facilitate and assist us to expedite our certification process with FOCUS.

Meet you at the top!

“A handful of pine seed will cover mountains with the green majesty of forest. I too, will set my face to the wind and throw my handful of seed on high.” —William Sharp

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Put Your Passion into Action An invitation to join the new Parent Networking Groupby Heather Resnick, a parent

If you are tired of support groups where all you do is vent, but nothing happens to truly benefit your children, then put your

passion into action and join groups of dynamic parents who are on a mission to make effective changes.

As a result of increasing requests from parents, Community Living York South recently invited all families to form a Parent Net-working Groups to share ideas, create options for family members, pursue advocacy and investigate funding opportunities.

Parents can choose from one of four existing smaller work-ing groups, who meet as often as they feel necessary. The working groups are currently divided into social groups, day options, fund-raising and employment/advocacy.

Ideas from the working groups are brought to the main group once a month to update the larger group, to seek help in imple-menting suggested ideas, if necessary, and to listen to progressive speakers talk on the issues that are most important to you.

For more information about the Parent Networking groups and upcoming meetings, please call Community Living York South at 1-877-737-3475 (toll-free) / 905-884-9110 (local) and speak to either:

• Cathy Johnston, Team SupervisorPhone extension: 380Email: cjohnston@communitylivingyorksouth.ca; or• Ritu Singarayer, Community Support CoordinatorPhone voicemail: 523Email: rsingarayer@communitylivingyorksouth.ca

1� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

7200 Markham Rd., Markham905-471-5751

28 Sandiford Dr., Stouffville905-642-1689

mcdonalds.com

Spice Route Cuisine

10520 Yonge St., Richmond Hill905-508-7474starbucks.ca

1568 Bayview Ave., Toronto416-485-1568

segar.ca

6055 Steeles Ave. E, Toronto416-335-7775

pooranivilaas.ca

200 Bullock Dr., Markham905-294-4922

loblaws.ca

Lionel’s Farm11714 McCowan Rd., Markham

lionelsfarm.com

Behaviour Management Services of York and Simcoe

yorkcentral.on.ca

FIREFIGHTERS OFYORK REGION

Dr. Nageswary Muraleetharan6055 Steeles Ave. E., Toronto

416-626-6161

6055 Steeles Ave. E, Toronto

416-754-3736

Jim Tatti8 Weldrick Rd. W, Richmond Hill

905-883-4922

5640 Tomken Rd., Mississauuga905-290-1714

180 Bullock Dr., Markham905-201-2363

Mississauga Erin Mills Lions Clubmississaugalions.com

Whitchurch-StouffvilleFire Department

15400 Hwy. 48, Stouffville

yssn.ca

5534 Main St., Stouffville905-642-6680

timhortons.com

The Stouffville Legion12278 Ninth Line, Stoufville

9th Line & 14th Ave., Markham416-738-9297

capricornstar@gmail.com

fsyr.ca

Markham Rd. & 14th Ave. Wood-bine Rd. & Hwy. 7

costco.ca

9590 McCowan Rd., Toronto416-298-BABU

babudelivery.ca

Mirella and Dave416-738-9297

astrokeofart.ca

MarkhamDiscountPharmacy

Ankur6055 Steeles Ave. E, Toronto

416-297-4999

Update newsletter sponsor

Thank you to all of this year’s sponsors whose support has assisted

in creating opportunities.

onlinenow:www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca 1�

Giveusacall

Reminder: In an effort to streamline our telephone system, we have made 1-877-737-3475 (formerly our Community Informa-tion Line) the phone number for our Richmond Hill office at 101 Edward Avenue. Regardless of whether you call our local or our long distance number, you will now be greeted with a friendly message to self-direct calls before reaching our team at recep-tion. We are currently exploring how to unify all our offices under one phone number.

QualitySupportsandServices

In consultation with other development service organizations in Ontario, our Quality Assurance Coordinator has introduced members of the direct service and outreach teams to FOCUS Accreditation (focusaccreditation.ca) in response to the dis-solution of CQL Canada. As we move towards the target of becoming accredited within 1 year, FOCUS will meet with staff members for an orientation session this fall. Community Living York South values the accreditation process as it ensures that we are providing a standard of service to the people and families that we support.Self-esteem groups for youth and young adults living in the community continue in Markham and Richmond Hill. For more information contact:

In Markham: Karen Penton – 905-294-4971, extension 48In Richmond Hill: Dee Manikam, 1-877-737-3475 or 905-884-9110, voicemail 604

We value your input and want to be responsive to the needs of our stakeholders. Do you have a complaint or suggestion that we should know about? Let us know: 1-877-737-3475 (toll-free) or 905-844-9110 (local) at voicemail 799.

Advocatesspeakout

The Council (formerly the Self-Advocates Council) has new members and welcomes a new President, Jackie.The Leaders of the Future friendship group meets regularly on Thursdays from 4:30–5:30 p.m. in our Markham office (144 Main Street North, Markham) to develop The Vision newsletter

“for people with a disability by people who have a disability”. The second issue of The Vision has been included as an insert. Keep up-to-date and visit their site: http://bit.ly/lotfclub

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CommunityInvolvement

Upcoming:Parent Networking group (see page 13): Are you inter-ested in meeting with other parents to share resources and develop support networks? For information on on-going meeting dates, call us at 1-877-737-3475 (toll-free) or 905-884-9110 (local) and speak to: Anita: voicemail 267; Cathy: extension 380; or Ritu: voicemail 523

Parent Support group: Need a listening ear? Join other par-ents to share experiences. For more information on on-going meetings, call us at 1-877-737-3475 (toll-free) or 905-884-9110 (local) and speak to: Cheri: voicemail 640 Dee: voicemail 604

FunFair & BBQ: September 22, 2010. An exciting kick-off to the United Way of York Region’s 2010 donation campaign. Free admission; activities, games, food (see page 2 ad)Festival of Crafts: November 13, 2010 @ 9AM-2PM; 101 Edward Avenue, Richmond Hill. One-of-a kind gift items and homemade baked goods just in time for the holi-days (see page 5).

Previous:Our Annual General Meeting and Family BBQ (see page 3)Summer camps for youth and young adults in Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan (see pages 8–9)Seniors Month in June (see page 5)

Keepup-to-date

Agency and community events, information and resources are available through a “news feed” available for anyone to sign up by email, blog reader or mobile device. Subscribe by visiting communitylivingyorksouth.ca/outreach and clicking on the

“News to Your Inbox” mail icon. You can also find buttons to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or join our Tyze network!

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What’s happening in and around Community Living York South

1� CommunityLivingYorkSouthUPDATE•SummerReview2010

We receive 80% of our funding from the Ministry of Community and Social Services for our core services. Through grants, fundraising and our membership, we are able to provide community outreach. From the United Way of York Region we provide outreach through our Community Support program and community development and fundraising through the Trillium Foundation of Ontario. We are governed by a Board of Directors elected by the membership.

Noi riceviamo l’ 80% dei fondi dal Ministro della communita’ e dal servizio sociali per i vostri servizi principali. Attraserso varie sovvenzione, i dovatori, varie fondi racolti e i nostri membri, possiamo attendate le provesioni alla conimunita’. Da Unita Way di York Regimi, siamo in grado di provvedere l’attentavtivo della programma supporto della communita’ e di svillupare and racolti fondi dat Trillium Foundation di Ontario. La nostra coumita’ e’ governata da un comitarto di direttori eletti dai membri.

☐ YES! I would like to support COmmunITy LIvIng yORk SOuTh to help people who have an intellectual disability to live, learn, work and participate in our community by Becoming A Member!

Enclosed is my gift* of: ☐ $10 Senior ☐ $20 for 2 Seniors ☐ $20 Single Membership☐ $35 Family Membership ☐ $100 Corporate Membership

☐ I would like to use ☐ VISA ☐ Master Card • Cardholder Name:

Account # ☐☐☐☐·☐☐☐☐·☐☐☐☐·☐☐☐☐ Expiry date ☐☐/☐☐☐ Please find my cheque/money order enclosed payable to ‘Community Living york South’☐ Please remove my name from the mailing list

Full Name (Please Print):

Address: Postal Code:

Province: Telephone #:

Email Address:

Charitable # 10822 6556 RR0001 * Tax receipts will automatically be issued for donations of $10 or more.

PRIVACY POLICY: At Community Living York South we appreciate your support and we treat your personal information with respect. We do not trade your personal information. The information you provide to us will be used to keep you informed of events and fundraising opportunities in support of Community Living York South. If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, simply contact us by phone at 1-877-737-3475 or by checking the box above.

ADverTise wiTH usBusiness card-sized ad (3.5" × 2")

$425.00 two years/6 issues $250.00 one year/3 issues $100.00 one issue only

FORMOREINFORMATIONCallSARITA@905-884-9110,ext.705

Let people know you support Community Living York South!

Update is published by Community Living York South101 Edward AvenueRichmond Hill, ON L4C 5E5Editorial TeamEditor-in-Chief: Don Wilkinson, Managing Editor: Sarita Wiggan, Writer’s Editor: Sandy Fielding, Volunteer Editor: Barb Evans, Staff Writers: Kula Kulasegaram,

Cathy Johnston, Leslie Geddes, Pamela Singleton, Rahe Richards

Distribution Support: Mona Craig, Barb Eldridge, Kevin Greenfield, Ron Gumbs

Layout & Design: Hero AbanOpinions expressed in Update are not necessarily the views of Community Living York South or the editors.Letters to the editor, comments, and unsolicited articles are welcomed and should be sent to the editors

It is easy to Contact Us:

Mail the completed form to us at

101 Edward Avenue Richmond Hill, ON L4C 5E5

Call us at 905-771-0011, or

Fax the completed form to 905-737-3284

Claudio Battaglin (President)Louis Laskovski (Past President)Peter Sen

(1st Vice President)Brendon Pooran

(2nd Vice President)

Ed Law (Treasurer)Vera Power (Board Secretary)Lloyd ChafeMariana ChuMazahair DhiraniShirley Ho

Cristian MandachescuTahir ShafiqJanet TsaoSharron Rowan Toy

Board of Directors

is generously sponsored by of York Region

of York Region

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det ai ls at communit yl iv ing york south.c a