Share vision for a community where everyone belongs Community Living Durham North strives to connect people with their goals and passions May is Community Living Month in Ontario and this May is doubly excit- ing with the unveiling of a brand new logo and tagline for the organization. Celebrations included a day with the Blue Jays last Sunday, and the annual Day At The Legislature (May 15th). Community Living Durham North was originally founded in 1967 by a group of parents concerned about the lack of integration for children with intellectual disabilities within the school system. Because the catchment area consist- ed of seven counties and two towns, the name Central Seven was select- ed. Thankfully school integration has changed over the decades; the counties were superseded by Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge Townships and this non-prof- it, charitable organization spread into other service areas. In 1979, the organization began providing adults with sheltered work opportunities and in 1981 started offer- ing residential services (opening its first group home in the area). Three more group homes were quickly added dur- ing the 1990s as institutions across the province closed. The last three such facilities (in Orillia, Ottawa and southwestern Ontario) are slated for closure in 2009 thus complet- ing a cycle in history. “We're welcoming people back into the community,” explains Cathy Parker of Community Living Durham North (CLDN). And new supports for the 175 children, youth and adults are happily provided by 130 full-time, and 90 part- time staff along with 55 volunteers. Through respite services 50 families are currently given a measure of sup- port in the care of a disabled child or adult on a rotating basis. Youth are assisted in their transition from school 32 FOCUS - MAY 2008 to employment or the adult community by facilitators who develop individual- ized plans. Weekly recreational youth groups also meet regularly to fulfill a great social need. Job development through identification of employment goals, assistance with training and help secur- ing a position is an important facet of LDN. “Our job is to assist people in con- necting with their goals and passions within their community,” says Cathy. “And we take it very seriously.” Adult Resource Centers, like the one in Port Perry and one in Uxbridge act as a meeting point and transportation hub for volunteers, part-time employees or recreational participants within the community. Finally, residential support is a vital component. Services offer support and assist adults to live with dignity and participate in the community. These are tailored to meet an individual's specific needs varying from a few hours a week to 24-hour care. The exciting news is that since the fall of 2007, Durham College has offered the opportunity to study at the post-second- ary level yet ata modified pace through the “Community Integration through Cooperative Education” (CICE) pro- gram. This two-year program opens new doors to many Community Access participants. As a Ministry of Community and Social Services funded agency (also affiliated with United Way and sup- ported by private and corporate spon- sors), Community Living Durham North is mandated to provide “support for people with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to live, work and be part of their community.” Cathy, has spent seven years work- ing in the Scugog area after 13 years in Oshawa. “I love a small town and appreciated what was being done here,” she explains. “I especially like becom- ing involved with young families.” more information or to volun- teer, call 905-985-8511. By Barbara Hunt Focus on Scugog focus@observerpub.ca