Is a new resource, on line,  that a colleague of mine from Community Living Ontario was talking about when we were together last week for an educational session. Although based in Toronto, there are some great resources on this web page. It is broken down into Kids/Youth/Adults/Seniors tabs, then again into topics/articles/news under each tab.Each section has visuals and a directory of resources.  A lot of really good information, sessions, fact sheets, visuals that can be downloaded. Spend some time and check it out. I think you will be impressed. 

http://connectability.ca/en/

Please watch Stella Young's TED talk. 

" I'm not your inspiration, thank you very much" 

Stella Young is a comedian and journalist who happens to go about her day in a wheelchair — a fact that doesn’t, she’d like to make clear, automatically turn her into a noble inspiration to all humanity. In this very funny talk, Young breaks down society's habit of turning disabled people into “inspiration porn.”

Ready, Willing and Able, Volume 4, Issue 2

CACL in partnership with CASDA is pleased to release Volume 4, Issue 2 of the newsletter for the Ready, Willing and Able (RWA) initiative, which profiles employment success stories from across Canada.  Stories that illustrate and demonstrate the fact that regardless of label or perceived level of disability, adults with developmental disabilities can participate in and contribute to the labour market within this country.  RWA works by scaling up proven methods that are active in communities throughout the country and that are demonstrating positive impact on employment of people with intellectual disabilities. It recognizes that there are approximately 500,000 working age adults with developmental disabilities who with targeted support, community investment and employer leadership could join the labour force at rates similar to other Canadians.
Download the most recent issue of Ready, Willing and Able here or visit the RWA web site at http://readywillingable.ca to find out more about the initiative, - See more at: http://www.cacl.ca/news-stories/blog/ready-willing-and-able-volume-4-issue-2#sthash.9PpzRCY5.dpuf

http://www.cacl.ca/news-stories/blog/ready-willing-and-able-volume-4-issue-2

Register now for a webinar next week 10/29: Technology Updates - Gadgets for ASD http://bit.ly/1wrkL8j

Updates on the use of technology - focusing on 'apps' for iPads and other devices - to improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD. Session will include an overview of various tools that are available to enhance functional communication skills, provide visual supports for learning, and tools to support daily living.

Thanks to: Autism Research Institute

SENSORY PROCESSING ISSUES ARE VERY REAL, AND NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IN ORDER FOR KIDS SYSTEMS TO BE ABLE TO PROCESS WHAT IS HAPPENING. 

There are some good tips within the highlighted parts of each picture, that link you to more information. Clear & concise, I like it! 

Are kids with sensory processing issues just being difficult? Here are 4 common myths about sensory processing issues and the facts that debunk them.

https://www.understood.org/en/learning-attention-issues/child-learning-disabilities/sensory-processing-issues/5-common-myths-about-sensory-processing-issues?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=understoodorg#slide-1

Tara McCallan, is the founder of Happy Soul Project, that I have mentioned  here before. This is part of her work, that she is also doing for families. Today, I am grateful for her, and all she is doing for families and children who can use a little act of kindness.
Check out the clip from Global Toronto:

A great video that was written by 

Dave Hingsburger called:
" I  Saw Someone Today"

Dave works tirelessly to raise awareness. This also showcases the power of families. Take the time to watch.

I found this link on the Canadian Down Syndrome Society page, what a great theatre group out of Cape Breton!! What a great showcase of talent, inclusion and community. Best of luck Grooming WeirdBeard! hope I can see you sometime!

Hey Canada!  
If you have the time today, we think you should check out this documentary from our friends at WeirdBeard Troupe Society. You may recognize a few people in it! #SeeTheAbility

Listen to a post that i found from CBC radio:
http://www.cbc.ca/informationmorningcb/2014/09/26/grooming-weirdbeard-documentary/

There is a link in this information to the documentary around the creation of the play.
http://us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=51af809588129d6b773d66a6b&id=5a0917c02a

"12 things I wish I'd known about being a special needs parent"

One of our family leaders came across this article. I am sure many of us will have had very similar experiences and feelings that are listed here. Important to remember, you are not alone, there are many families who are walking a similar path, feel your joys and challenges, and would like to connect. We encourage you to share your stories with us. We are here to support, encourage, connect and hopefully provides resources you may need. 

http://www.ellenstumbo.com/12-things-being-a-special-needs-parent/

New Resource - Free Monthly Webinar

Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute Inc. Presents

Free Understanding Mental Illness Webinar

Each month CTRI offers a complimentary webinar.

This month's webinar is for anyone seeking a better understanding of the complexities that surround mental illness. Statistics show that at least one in five people will experience a mental illness at some time in their life. While common, understanding the signs and symptoms related to mental illness can be confusing and overwhelming. A general overview of common adult mental illnesses and their symptoms, causes and treatments will be reviewed.

Public Workshop in Charlottetown:

Trauma – Strategies for Resolving the Impact of Post Traumatic Stress

November 5-6

Public Workshops in Moncton:

Anxiety – Practical Intervention Strategies

October 23

Depression – Practical Intervention Strategies

October 24

Family Violence – Working Towards Solutions

December 9-10

For more information on our workshops and webinars, please visit

www.ctrinstitute.com

info@ctrinstitute.com

(204) 452-9199

Tim Hortons model the tip of the iceberg for hiring people with disabilities

With the launch of Canadian Business SenseAbility, an organization that will train companies how to hire disabled employees, we look at the worker who inspired the movement

Mark Wafer, is a owner of 6 Tim Horton outlets in Ontario, who hires persons with disabilities. He is raising awareness for his fellow business owners of the opportunities. Read a story that was recently in The Star newspaper.

http://www.thestar.com/life/health_wellness/2014/09/16/tim_hortons_model_the_tip_of_the_iceberg_for_hiring_people_with_disabilities.html