Newsletter | Winter 2009 by Community Living York South

Supporting People who have an Intellectual Disability • CALL ToLL-FREE 1-877-737-3475 • www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

2009

Awareness Through Literacy by Brenda Crouse, Director of Community Development

WINTER EDITION

ommunity Living Month is just around the corner. This year, Community Living York South will be taking the message of Inclusion to elementary and secondary schools, and municipal libraries through our “Awareness Through Literacy” campaign. May is Community Living Month across the province of Ontario and every year Community Living York South takes part with other Community Livings to raise awareness about the abilities of people who have an intellectual disability. In past years we celebrated with our May Day Festivals across southern York Region and our ‘On the Road to Inclusion’ Walkathons. It is our hope that you will support “Awareness Through Literacy” so that all people can become fully included in society. What is “Inclusion” and what does that mean to people who have been marginalized by society? Basically inclusion means to be socially included in all aspects of society—everything that you and I have access to should be available to all our citizens. People who have an intellectual disability have the same dreams as the rest of society—to go to school with neighbourhood children, to have the option to further their education, to have friends and loving relationships, to work at real jobs for real pay and contribute as productive citizens. All of us have a bigger dream—to live a meaningful life in a society where differences are accepted and abilities are the focus with the uniqueness of all celebrated. Community Living wants to get this message out and raise awareness throughout our communities across the region, and so… what better way

Inscription in book may not appear exactly as shown. than “Awareness Through Literacy”—inspirational stories in books that parents can read to their children at night. Or a book to help a youth make a friend, or to cope with a bully. Or a tool for a parent to share with a sibling or to help their child through life’s challenging situations. We have generated a comprehensive booklist of over 100 fictional story books to promote in elementary and secondary schools and local municipal libraries—books for siblings and students of all ages; books for children and youth who have an intellectual disability; books on anti-bullying and how to make a friend. There are also inspirational stories depicting children and youth who have a disability in a positive manner that focus on their abilities. So many wonderful stories that will promote awareness through books in libraries across southern York Region! We are also in the process of developing our own Community Living York South books that highlight the different skills and abilities of the people we support. The “World on Canvas” is an art book comprised of the acrylic paintings by our See LITERACY on Page 3

insiDe THIS ISSUE Transit Advocating for Reduced Fares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6

RDSP Changes in Ontario. . . . . . . . 7

In Memoriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Salvation Army Kettle Drive. . . . . . 15 Executive Reports. . . . . . . . . . 2 Women’s Auxiliary . . . . . . . . 9 COMMUNITY LIVING YORK SOUTH Community Information Line

1-877-737-3475 Providing information and resources for individuals who have an intellectual disability and their families

President’s Report Louis Laskovski, President of the Board of Directors

s many of you know, Laurie Thompson has been hired as our Interim Executive Director. Laurie brings with her a wealth of experience and a passion for her job. Many of you who have had the pleasure of getting to know Laurie in the past two months will agree that we are fortunate to have her with us. Laurie has ensured that we remain on track with our day-to-day operations, our Strategic Plan and with the Accreditation process of which Laurie has a considerable amount of experience. I would like to formally welcome Laurie to Community Living York South and thank her for her continued support. For those of you trying to find more information on the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), I encourage you to attend one of the several sessions being offered across southern York Region

Executive Director’s Report Laurie Thompson, Interim Executive Director

would like to start by saying THANK YOU to all the people I have met and worked with over the past two months. I have felt very welcomed, supported and included. For many years I have held a belief and commitment to the inclusion of all people, particularly those who have an intellectual disability. In my 10 year involvement with Ontario’s Community Inclusion Project “It Takes a Village… Where All People Belong”, the guiding definition of inclusion was “the opportunity for people to fully participate in their citizenship”. It was based on the belief and validation that inclusion is not a disability issue rather a societal issue. For us all, if we are asked to participate and contribute we are seen as

by Graeme Treeby from the Special Needs Planning Group and a former director at Community Living York South and Brendan Pooran, a current member of our Board of Directors. The period for 2008 grants and bonds has been extended to March 2, 2009. More information on the RSDP can be found at: hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/disability_issues/disability_savings/index.shtml Please don’t forget to mark your calendar’s for our General Meeting to be held on Thursday March 5th. This is your opportunity to meet your new interim Executive Director, find out more about getting involved, reviewing the progress of the Strategic Plan and asking questions that are important to you. We encourage you all to come out and be an active member in your community. We are currently in the process of reviewing what it means to be a member of Community Living York South. Your input is very valuable. We encourage anyone who is interested in being a part of this to contact Brenda Crouse, Director of Community Development at 905-771-0011 Ext. 227. Lastly, the Women’s Auxiliary “Festival of Crafts” has raised money again this holiday season to assist the people we support. We encourage all to get involved and especially our younger members who may be interested in joining the Women’s Auxiliary.

valued. The citizens Community Living York South supports are no different. My personal belief is that every person has value and has something to contribute. I, therefore, work from an “abilities” focus not only for the people we support but for our staff, families, volunteers and community partners. Over the past two months it has become very evident that this organization is continually striving to do more, improve, to find creative and innovative ways to increase peoples’ abilities. This is the cornerstone of an organization which is endeavouring to create a Culture of Excellence and Quality Life. I look forward to continuing my involvement, over the next few months, as we move forward with Community Living York South’s Strategic Plan and your Accreditation Journey which are very exciting. In the interest of “inclusion”, I have an open door policy, so feel free to drop in at anytime at 101 Edward Avenue or contact me at 905-884-9110 Ext. 224 or email me @ lthompson@communitylivingyorksouth.ca. Thank you once again for inviting me.

Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009

Social Inclusion for All by Leslie Geddes, Team Supervisor

$999

is the monthly rate per single person on Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and this must cover rent, food and all personal expenses. This limited income is prohibitive to purchasing a bus pass, which has now risen to $105 monthly. Many people supported through Community Living York South want to gain work experience and also contribute to their community in volunteer placements. Of course, like the rest of us, people want to attend their Place of Worship, access businesses and services—including banks and grocery stores, visit their friends and family, and enjoy the variety of community events and resources that we are so fortunate to have. There are so many eloquent words that speak to the richness of a community being contingent on a true inclusion of each of its citizens. In a very real sense, when we exclude a segment of our community, we deny ourselves and our children the benefit of a society where we each would long to belong. It has been a privilege to work with people who have an intellectual disability over these past ten years. They have facilitated tremendous personal growth and have certainly expanded my heart and my horizons, with infinite patience, individual gifts and generosity of spirit. I sincerely hope that our Transit Committee will show the leadership of their counterparts in Durham County. Issuing an Access Pass for people with disabilities on ODSP, at the rate of a Senior Fare Pass, will be a concrete contribution to providing access to a community

Literacy Continued from Page resident artists. A young woman who writes and illustrates her own moving short stories and fictional books will also be available. Caricatures based on the Creative Theatre Performers will debut as the ‘Xtreme 7’ super heroes in book format with motivating story lines and drawings by the Stroke of Art. We hope that you will participate and pledge a book to a school library or donate a book to your local municipal library with an inscription from your family. Stay tuned for this info to soon be available on our Community Living York South website and local office locations! With book readings by authors and local personalities in local libraries, Community Living will be at both school and local libraries across southern York Region in May to raise awareness. Look for us with a variety of books on display and come out to get your Community Living bookmark! “Awareness Through Literacy” is an important initiative for people who have an intellectual disability because of the many

online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

The Freedom to Go Where I Choose by Stephanie Lam, summer camper

“L

ast summer I travelled on the YRT by myself. A staff from my camp showed me the route from home to the camp. After a few times, I was able to take the YRT on my own. I enjoyed taking the YRT—it was comfortable and the signs helped me to know where the stops are. I am looking forward to travelling on the YRT again.

”

that will be so very enhanced by their active participation and presence. “Inclusion works to the advantage of everyone. We all have things to learn and we all have something to teach.”

—Helen Henderson, Columnist http://www.thestar.com/living/article/276141

“Inclusion means the inclusion of all, not the inclusion of all who are like me.”

—John Fisher, Trinity College

“A community that excludes even one of its members is no community at all.”

—Dan Wilkins, poet and motivational speaker

“The fundamental law of human beings is inter-dependence. A person is a person through other persons.” —Archbishop Desmond Tutu

stories that are available about the abilities of people. My cousin, Diana, was diagnosed with an intellectual disability at a time when the only option was institutionalization. Doctors told my Aunt and Uncle that she would never be able to take care of herself or learn to read. Thank you, Aunt Jenny, and all parents for having the courage and vision to go against the grain. Diana not only could take care of herself, she learned to paint by numbers and to read, becoming an avid reader. Diana shared her favourite books with me, and I learned the love of reading because of my cousin. From this simple exchange of books, I developed a passion for reading that has extended into adulthood. Reading was her passion and this was the gift that she gave to me. This campaign is in memory of my cousin and all people whose skills have been underestimated by society. I will be donating our art book, “The World on Canvas”, in memory of my cousin and her love of painting and reading. I hope that you also will honour someone you love with a book donation. Please call us @ 1-877-737-3475 if you would like to find out how to get involved or how to pledge a book. Help us to raise ‘Awareness Through Literacy’ and change our community, one person at a time.

We Can’t Afford to Leave Anyone Behind Presentation by Patrick Cronin, Spokesperson, Self Advocates Council for Community Living York South

“G

ood morning Transit Committee members. My name is Patrick Cronin. I am here to ask you to make York Region a community that helps people like me. I am a member of Markham Unionville Support Team, (MUST). It is a group of friends, who help me live better in the community. I am also supported by Community Living York South. “I have a job at Surface Mount Technology Centre (SMTC) in Markham. I take the Markham bus to and from work. I buy a monthly pass for $95.00. This is almost two days pay for me. I do not get any money from the government. This is a lot of money for me, but for some of my friends $95 is more than three week’s pay. I do not live with my parents. My parents are old. I share an apartment with someone through Community Living. “Many of my friends take the York Region bus and they are doing worse than me because my parents buy me food, clothes and treats. These friends do not smile as often as I do. They are sad because they cannot get on the bus just to go to the mall to walk around. They can only use the bus if they have to go to the doctor or other important things. That is no fun. “Sometimes the staff at Community Living would like to take people like me to activities, but my friends do not have extra money to take the bus. When I take the bus down to visit my sister in Toronto, the person with me does not pay so I split the bus fare with her. “My mom tells me there are other busses in other cities very close to York Region that give people like me a cheaper fare. They pay only $38.00. Can you help us and make a difference? We won’t have to sit in our apartments all the time. “Can York Region be like other places and help people like me? Thank you for listening to my presentation.” In 2004 Premier McGuinty said: “For all of us to reach our full potential as a Province, we need to ensure that all Ontarians can reach their full potential as individuals. We can’t afford to leave anyone behind. This is why our goal is full inclusion of Ontarians with a disability in all areas of society.” This statement made by the Premier takes us one step closer for citizens with a disability in York Region should the Transit Committee make discounted fares a reality for this special group of citizens. Recognizing that the current cost of transit isolates people with disabilities from their community, Markham Unionville Support Team and the Self Advocates Council for Community Living York South, respectfully request that York Region Transit lower costs for people with disabilities on low fixed incomes, so they may travel and participate in their community. People with disabilities want to contribute and participate in their community.

People with disabilities on Ontario Disability Support Plan (ODSP) are unable to afford the cost of public transit in York Region. Bus Passes cost $95 monthly and are expected to increase to $105 in the New Year for YR Transit. A single person with a disability receiving ODSP is entitled to a maximum of $999 per month to cover all their living expenses including rent, food, clothing and personal needs. People with disabilities desperately need affordable transit to be able to travel to access • Friends and Family • Places of Employment • Medical Professionals and Health Care • Volunteer Placements and Work Experience Programs • Places of Worship • Community Events and Resources • Social and Recreational Opportunities • Banks, Grocery Stores, Libraries, Hair Dressers and other businesses and services that operate in the Region of York Durham Region Transit supports people with disabilities by issuing a monthly Access Pass at the same rate as the Senior Citizen Monthly Transit Pass: Durham Transit Adult Pass

York Region Transit

$95.00

95.00

Senior

38.00

42.00

Access Pass – People with Disabilities on ODSP

38.00

None

Other regions have Low Income Applications for Special Transit Rates in line with Statistics Canada income statistics Other Considerations Easily available models of operation from Durham, Peterborough, Guelph, Ottawa and Kingston. Any shortfall due to decrease in revenue could be off set by increase in number of new riders. If the net result is a decrease in revenue, could this short fall be compensated by The Ministry of Community & Social Services? Partnership with Community Living and other Disability Support organizations for distribution of monthly pass. We hope that York Region Transit will act to make this fast growing region an inclusive community. Both of the undersigned would be honoured, to serve on a working committee, to achieve this significant goal. For further information contact: Shirley Cronin, Chair Leslie Geddes, Team Supervisor MUST Community Living York South 905-477-3705 905-884-9110 ext 696 shirleycronin@yahoo.com lgeddes@ysacl.on.ca

Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009

Photograph © Josh Andercheck (transit.toronto.on.ca)

Advocacy for Reduced Transit

in York Region by Leslie Geddes, Team Supervisor December 11, 2008—Deputation to Request Reduced Transit Fares for Persons with Disabilities to the York Region Transit Committee at the York Region Administrative Building in Newmarket. atrick Cronin, member of the Self Advocates Council, read a prepared speech on behalf of the Council and the Markham Unionville Support Team (MUST) group, to ask York Region to reduce the cost of transit for people with disabilities on low incomes. Patrick’s mother, Shirley Cronin, is the Chair of the MUST group and has written to Town of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti to advocate for reduced fares. Mayor Scarpitti directed her to the next meeting of the Regional Transit Committee. Our Self Advocates Council was very enthusiastic about being part of a Deputation supporting this initiative and resolved at their November meeting to show their support and partnership. Delegates from Community Living York South were Patrick Cronin, who spoke on behalf of the Markham Unionville Support Team and the Self Advocates Council, STAR, for Community Living York South; Lloyd Chafe, Chair of Self Advocates Council; Shirley Cronin, parent and Chair of the Markham Unionville Support Team; Doug Cronin, parent and member of the Markham Unionville Support Team; Leslie Geddes, Team Supervisor at Community Living York South and staff support to Self Advocates Council; Wendy LeBlanc, Supervisor of our Richmond Hill Supported Independent Living

online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

(SIL) Program; Brian Murphy, member of the Self Advocates Council; Robert Murphy, member of the Self Advocates Council; Fatima Najibzadeh, Supervisor of our Markham Supported Independent Living Program; Trevor Reid, Self Advocate and supported through Markham SIL; Sharron Rowan Toy, member of the Self Advocates Council; and Dan Shannon, Self Advocate and supported through Markham SIL. Patrick was a terrific ambassador with his well rehearsed speech. All of the delegates who represented people with disabilities, by taking time out from their jobs and daily lives, and supporting this initiative, showed themselves to be committed and encouraging advocates. The Committee received our Deputation and Report and designated it to staff to study and return with a report early in the New Year. We will notify everyone with developments and meeting dates. On behalf of Wendy, Fatima and myself, please accept our expression of the honour that we felt in participating in this endeavour. Thank you to Mrs. Cronin for initiating this action with her letter to the Mayor for the Town of Markham. This is just a beginning for our advocacy as we build on extending outward advocacy through the Self Advocates Council. Look for great things to come in 2009! The Self Advocates will be hosting an Open Meeting for people receiving services in February so get involved!

Intellectually Disabled Battle Bus Fares

fare could have on the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

by Simone Joseph

Point A to B

Originally published in The Georgina Advocate (January 22, 2009) loyd Chafe has gone without a York Region Transit bus pass for more a year. But this is not by choice. “The price has gone up and up,” he said. The 35-year-old Markham man has an intellectual disability and cannot afford the $105 monthly fee coming out of his meager Ontario Disability Support Program allowance. “There are people who want to go places that cannot go because they have to pay $3.25,” said Mr. Chafe, chairman of the board of directors for Community Living York South’s Self Advocates Council, a group of people with intellectual disabilities who advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. “The government should help us out,” he said. Mr. Chafe lives in a subsidized Markham apartment and pays $410 per month in rent. He receives $1,040 from the Ontario Disability Support Program per month, he said. Instead of using a monthly pass, he pays $3.25 per ride but dislikes this solution because it means he has to go to his destination and stay there unless he wants to pay again. But, Mr. Chafe’s situation may change. York Region staff are researching the idea of introducing reduced fares for people with intellectual disabilities. This refers to anyone with a below normal IQ, including those with conditions such as Down Syndrome or in some cases, autism. Patrick Cronin, who has an intellectual disability, made the case for reduced fares at a York Region Council transit committee meeting in December. “Many of my friends take the York Region bus and they are doing worse than me because my parents buy me food, clothes and treats,” Mr. Cronin, 37, said in his presentation. “They are sad because they cannot get on the bus just to go to the mall to walk around. They can only use the bus if they have to go to the doctor or other important things. That is no fun...Can you help us and make a difference? We won’t have to sit in our apartments all the time. Can York Region be like other places and help people like me?” Buying a monthly pass is equivalent to two days’ pay for Mr. Cronin, a spokesperson for the Markham Unionville Support Team, a volunteer group of family and friends, which advocates and supports people with intellectual disabilities. The monthly pass, which increased from $95 to $105 in the New Year, is a lot of money for him but for some of his friends, it is equivalent to more than three week’s pay, said Mr. Cronin, who is also a member of the Self Advocates Council. People with intellectual disabilities often take on volunteer or low-paying jobs for the experience. Mr. Cronin’s mother, Shirley, knows full well the impact a reduced

“They (people with intellectual disabilities) are not looking at highend entertainment. They are just looking at going from point A to point B to see friends or go to the mall or go for coffee. They cannot even do that,” Ms Cronin said. “It is about time that Markham does something about this. If Durham Region can do this, why can’t we?’ People who were already isolated by the disability and discrimination are now more isolated without a way to get around, she said. “It means they are less able to participate in the community as full citizens.” While the cost of living has gone up, the disability income has not gone up at the same rate, according to Leslie Geddes, a team supervisor with Community Living York South, which supports people with intellectual disabilities. She believes the high cost of a monthly pass restricts her clients’ freedom. Community Living York South, which serves people with intellectual disabilities, has 23 residential homes. The organization reaches out to hundreds of people who don’t have direct services. It serves between 800 and 1,000 families with intellectual disabilities in Richmond Hill, Markham and Stouffville, Vaughan and Thornhill. Ms Geddes pointed out that other regions, such as Durham, have a decreased fare option. Durham Transit has a $38 access pass for people with disabilities who receive Ontario Disability Support Program income. A service such as Mobility Plus, York Region’s accessible public transit service for people with disabilities, is not a solution because you have to be going to a regularly scheduled activity rather than a spontaneous event and it is open to people with physical disabilities. Ms Geddes has also found it difficult to get her clients signed on with the service, she said. “We have a hard time getting people to qualify,” she said. Since Mr. Cronin’s presentation to the transit committee, the issue has been referred back to York Region staff to research. Following the presentation, York Region Council said it would form a subcommittee (that Ms Cronin could be part of) to look into the possibility of introducing a discount/reduced fare for people with disabilities. An interview with a York Region Transit executive, on the topic of a reduced fare for the intellectually disabled, would not be useful since there is little information to be released currently, according to Kim MacGillivray, a York Region spokesperson. “It (the discounted fare) is under review,” she said. York Region Council’s transit, community services and housing departments are researching the possible approaches to see if this is something we can do, she said. Staff will report back to York Region’s transit committee in late spring, likely April or May. Reprinted with the permission of The Georgina Advocate. http://www.yorkregion.com/article/87008

Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009

Registered Disability Savings Plan Exempt in Ontario

March 2nd Deadline for 2008 Grant and Bond Submission! by Graeme Treeby, Special Needs Planning Group

major stumbling block for people with disabilities in Ontario has been removed. On November 30, 2008, the McGuinty Government announced that changes were being made to the social assistance programs that will make both Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) assets and RDSP withdrawals fully exempt from affecting ODSP benefits. Ontario has followed the lead of other provinces in ensuring that participation in the RDSP will not negatively impact on provincial social assistance programs. The RDSP’s purpose is to assist families in accumulating money, tax deferred, to support the future needs of children and adults with disabilities. The plan was well received by many but its major stumbling block initially was that an RDSP would eliminate a person’s entitlement to the Ontario Disability Support Program. The recent announcement means that people in Ontario who qualify for the Disability Tax Credit are now able to be the beneficiary of the RDSP without losing their entitlement to ODSP benefits. On December 17, 2008, the Bank of Montreal announced that they have an RDSP application form available as of December 22, 2008. You can call the investment centre if you wish and they will make arrangements to fax or email the application to you. You can then mail or fax the completed application back to them. The plan can hold all the same investments as an RRSP, i.e. GICs, mutual funds, savings accounts, etc.

New Deadline Means RDSPs Could Actually Help by Helen Henderson Originally published in the Toronto Star (January 17, 2009) amilies coping with disabilities are used to fighting through thick and thin. So they are unlikely to be surprised by the irony that a move to help them build a more secure future kicks in during the thinnest economic times Canadians have seen in many years. Back in 2007, when the country’s future looked a tad rosier, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty promised to introduce a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). Family and friends would be able to contribute a lifetime total of up to $200,000 toward the long-term financial security of Canadians with “severe” disabilities, Flaherty announced. Grants and bonds would be available annually to help build contributions and families with no cash at all to spare would be given assistance even if they couldn’t afford to contribute. But even without the souring economy, there was the proverbial fly in the ointment. When the disability savings plan finally came into effect on Dec.

online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

Unfortunately BMO is the only option available to families at the time of writing of this article. That is not to say that they may not be a good choice, but I always like to have more than one option. Early in 2009, there should be several other financial institutions in Ontario with plans available. We at the Special Needs Planning Group will be in a position of offering personalized service to those of you who wish to wait until these other options become available or for those who choose to switch plans if a better option for your family comes along. Deadlines for your submission for the 2008 Grants and Bonds are due by March 2nd, 2009. Most people need not panic due to the short time frame available to qualify. Only those people with disabilities who are over 29 years of age stand to lose 1 year of grants and bonds from the Federal Government if they delay establishing the plan until 2009. Others will be able to collect the full 20 years of grants even if they start their RDSP in 2009. In addition, the government has the option not to pay the 2008 grants and bonds until June 2010 and so the earnings from 2008 grants and bonds may not be an issue. This message has been brought to you by Graeme Treeby and The Special Needs Planning Group, your RDSP Centre. For further information about the RDSP, copy the following link into your browser to view our RDSP information newsletter: www.specialneedsplanning.ca/NEWSLETTER%20FEB%202008.pdf

1, 2008, it was another three weeks—Dec. 22, to be exact—before BMO Bank of Montreal billed itself as the first bank to offer it alongside Ottawa’s new tax-free savings accounts and the more familiar Registered Education Savings Plans and Registered Retirement Savings Plans. With the holiday season in full swing, families had precious little time to get it together if they wanted to be eligible for the 2008 grants and bonds. Something had to be done—and it was. The application period for 2008 RDSP grants and bonds has been extended through March 2 this year. Just one of a number of refreshing signals that, when it comes to disability savings plans, both Ottawa and Queen’s Park are laying aside traditional one-upmanship to help families struggling to cope. Contributions to RDSPs are not tax-deductible but they will not be counted as income for the people with disabilities they are designed to help. That’s a huge step forward, because both the feds and the provinces have a long history of clawing back any additional money scraped together to try to make life a little easier for disabled people. See RDSP on Page

RDSP Continued from Page If parents try to contribute to the living expenses of disabled offspring in Ontario, for example, an equal amount is immediately deducted from support payments. The absolute maximum disability support payment in this province is now $1,020 a month. Most people get far less. So a disabled son or daughter struggling to get by on, say, $700 a month in support payments would simply see that cut to $600 if mom and dad managed to kick in $100. Money conferred through a disability savings plan, however, will be treated differently, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by advocates who have fought long and hard to bring about change. The move was welcomed by the Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network, the not-for-profit group that has led the battle for an RDSP. And Community Living Ontario issued a news release as soon as the news was out. “Clawback exemptions are a positive step in reducing poverty experienced by people who have an intellectual disability,” it said. Added Gordon Kyle, director of social policy and government relations: “We see the exemptions as a positive first step in reducing the poverty experienced by the majority of Ontarians who have an intellectual disability.”

We can only hope that this is the start of a new wave of co-operation in which the needs of the most vulnerable people are finally recognized as more important than political brinksmanship. Once someone is deemed eligible for an RDSP, anyone can put money into the fund up to the $200,000 lifetime maximum. Contributions are not limited to family members. Depending on the contributions and the income of the beneficiary’s family, Ottawa may offer a grant of up to $3 for every $1 contributed, up to a maximum of $3,500 a year. Contributions made on or before March 2, 2009 will be considered for 2008 grants. Some families also may be eligible for a Canada Disability Savings Bond. That means Ottawa could contribute up to $1,000 annually to an RDSP, even if a family itself could not afford contributions. For more information, see: hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/ disability_issues/disability_savings/index.shtml www.rdsp.com Another site is www.plan.ca Reprinted with the permission of Helen Henderson, a freelance writer whose column appears Saturdays. helenhenderson@sympatico.ca http://www.thestar.com/article/570403

Book now.

Currently accepting bookings until June 30, 2009.

For more info or to book a weekend, call

1-877-737-3475

Prepare a Life Plan for Your Son or Daughter’s Future Now! If you would like to start to plan for your future, give us call and we can help you to prepare for a time when you are unable to care for your son or daughter.

For information, please contact Kula Kulasegaram, Community Support Coordinator 905-771-0011 vm 703 We can also provide you with general information on a Henson Trust, estate planning or RDSPs.

Call us at 1-877-737-3475

Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009

Many Hearts and Many Hands … with Many Friendships by Barb Eldridge, Women’s Auxiliary

he Women’s Auxiliary (WA) began with 20 members in 1962 when government funding was not as available as it is today. Approximately half of our members were mothers of a son or daughter with an intellectual disability and the rest were our friends—friendships that have lasted a lifetime. Our goal was not just fundraising. It was to ultimately improve the quality of life for all people supported by Community Living, and to assure parents and caregivers a continuance of caring when we were no longer around. The thought of “what will happen to my son or daughter when I am gone?” has always been a haunting concern for parents then and parents now—not much has really changed over the years. Five of our original members are still very active and the remainder of our members are our long-term volunteers who come out to help with the events that we continue to hold. At first, the Women’s Auxiliary provided an annual cash donation to Community Living York South from our many fundraising projects run throughout the year. But, the women then decided they wanted to help in a more direct way. Now Community Living York South presents them with “a wish list” each year and the WA decide how many of those wishes they can fulfill! We have held a variety of fundraisers over the years. One in par-

ticular, which has always been a big success, was our annual garage sale. Sadly, we held our last one this past spring. Due to the enormous amount of work and a lot of physical labour, we do not have the energy or help we need to carry on with this fundraiser. Our main fundraiser now is our annual bazaar—“The Festival of Crafts”—where we offer many wonderful handcrafted items, most of them one of a kind. Our food table is renowned for the tempting baked goods, much of which is packaged for gift giving. This past November, we held our annual “Festival of Crafts” bazaar on November 15th at Community Living York South’s main office location at 101 Edward Avenue in Richmond Hill. The money we raise goes to improve programs for our family member and yours. This year’s Festival of Crafts is on November 21, 2009 (details to follow). We are looking for a younger generation of mothers and friends to help carry on the tradition of so many years ago. These are hard economic times that are affecting all of us—but not so much different than in 1962 when there were no opportunities for our sons and daughters. This is where our journey began—now it is up to you. If you or a friend or another “crafter” that would be interested in becoming part of long standing and successful tradition, and friendships, please call 905-771-0011, extension 227. Please help the tradition to carry on.

In Memoriam In memory of Rita Buta Alva Teixeira March 20, 1972–December 16, 2008 On behalf of Marnie Gilbert, Katie Lewis, and Rosie Ionadi

e think that God had a special plan for Rita from (L to R) Rita, Andreia the very start. We truly believe that Rita was an angelic soul, who, in her brief time on earth, taught each of us many valuable lessons. But her simplest lesson was to laugh, love and live, because today is a gift and tomorrow is uncertain. Rita was special—she lit up every room she entered. Her huge smile was infectious; her laughter, contagious. People were drawn to Rita’s warmth and fun loving personality. There was no sense in trying to be the center of attention when you spent time with Rita because that was her spot.

online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca

Any good time that involved music and dancing was Rita’s favorite time!! When the music was “cranked”, Rita would let out a giggle, toss her head back and start to groove. Rita was sociable and had so many dear friends. She was a “girly girl” and oh how she loved a good gossip!! So many secrets you kept Rita! Rita, we could certainly write a book about all of the adventures we have shared… cottage trips and bug bites, camping in torrential rains, our famous “backyard parties,” laughter and friendship… the memories are endless. Rita, on behalf of each of us who loved you, it was a privilege to be your friend. God Bless You—each of us is a better person for having known you. “A butterfly lands beside us like a sunbeam. And for a brief moment, its glory and beauty belong to our world. But then it flies again. And though we wished it could have stayed, We feel lucky to have seen it.”

Season for Giving by Lisa Kelba, Team Supervisor

udos to Corrine Longo, Jeffrey Bannister, Joseph Vecchiarelli, Linda McCormick and their compassionate support staff!! For 2008, they were very active volunteers for the Newmarket Humane Society and during the Christmas season, their actions reflected the true meaning of “community”. Throughout the month of December, these dedicated animal advocates worked diligently to collect much needed items for their furry friends at the local Humane Society. The group collected food, blankets, toys, dishes and pet carriers. They also collected donations of money which will be used to purchase medical equipment including an ultra sound machine and defibrillator that is so needed by the Humane Society. This generous team delivered their gifts as they volunteered the week prior to Christmas. Thank you and congratulations to each of you for your outstanding efforts and “giving back” to our community!!

Supporting Those Less Fortunate in Aurora by Pamela Singleton, Team Supervisor

his holiday season, Vern Wilcox, a resident of Aurora, gathered up unwrapped gifts to donate to the WalMart Toy Drive in Aurora. Some toys that were not distributed for the Children’s Christmas party were donated to York Central Hospital’s Pediatric Unit. Vern also gathered non-perishable food donations for the Aurora food bank. Thank you, Vern, for giving so much to the community that you are a part of.

Community Living York South 2009 Dances

Summer camp 2009 Saturday, March 14 St. Patrick’s Day Dance for Special Olympics Saturday, April 18 Spring Dance Saturday, June 20

Summer Dance

Saturday, September 26

Blue Jay’s Dance

Saturday, October 31

Halloween Dance

Saturday, December 12

Christmas Dance

We hope to see you there!

Ages 6–21 | 9:30AM–3:30PM daily M e m b e r s $ 1 7 5 . 0 0/ we e k * | N o n - m e m b e r s $ 192.50/week*

To Register* In Markham: Cheri Evans In Richmond Hill: Anita Leung In Vaughan: Ritu Bhasin

905-771-0011 Voicemail 640 905-771-0011 Voicemail 267 905-771-0011 Voicemail 523

* P L E A S E S P E A K T O YO U R C O O R D I N AT O R if in need of one -to - one suppor t; additional fe e a p p l i e s. G e n e ra l I n q u i r i e s : 1 - 8 7 7 - 7 3 7 - 3 4 7 5 To vo l u n te e r, p l e a se ca l l t h e co o rd i n a to r ( a b ove ) in your area.

Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009

Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Drive

Salvation Army Kettles Collect More Than Goal

by Pamela Singleton, Team Supervisor

Adam Mc Lean, Staff Writer

n behalf of Community Living York South, Kim Dickenson, Margaret Diceman, Allison Arthur, Kevin Harrington, Len Miller, John Swartz and Margaret Chafe volunteered their time in support of the Salvation Army’s “Partners Against Poverty” Christmas Kettle Drive. The group managed a donation station at the LCBO located Leslie Street and Major Mackenzie Drive. Thank you to all those who participated and supported this important community initiative. The Kettle Drive raised $109,000, which was 22% higher than last year! The Salvation Army has since recognized Community Living York South as a community partner in the fight against poverty.

Richmond Hill, January 15, 2009—Though the economic ‘war’ rages on, one battle against poverty in Richmond Hill has been won thanks to the many Richmond Hill residents who donated to the Salvation Army 2008 Christmas Kettle Campaign. Filled to the brim with generous donations and help from volunteers, the kettles from ten sites across Richmond Hill collected $109,000. The Salvation Army volunteers rang the kettle bells across town from Nov. 21 to Dec. 24 and despite these times of economic hardship, residents responded generously, increasing the donation dollar figure by 22 per cent over last year’s kettle results. Initial fundraising goals for the 2008 campaign were set a $100,000, a mark that was looked upon as wishful thinking, even by those involved. But, the generosity of residents and the compassion of those willing to take action for those people who are less fortunate, exceeded expectations once again. “We were a little worried going into the holiday season,” admitted Kim Morrison, Salvation Army Richmond Hill coordinator for community and family services. “The money we raise through the kettles becomes our community outreach budget for the year and with the poor economy, the demand on our services is higher than ever.” And though Ms Morrison and some of her colleagues had their fingers crossed as they set up shop in Hillcrest Mall, supermarkets and outside beer and liquor stores, she noted the level of generosity shown came as no real surprise. “Richmond Hill is a generous and socially-conscious community. I think those who donate realize that people who are marginalized need help. “Yes, it is a little scary right now for all of us, but there are people who have an already bad situation compounded by what is taking place financially,” Ms Morrison added. Expressing gratitude not only to those shoppers who donated funds, Ms Morrison was adamant that those who gave their time to help the Salvation Army man kettle stations don’t fully realize their impact. With ten kettle stations in operation, the Salvation Army reached out to community groups to help with thinly-spread staff who couldn’t possibly cover such requirements on their own. Groups you might have seen collecting across Richmond Hill, on behalf of the Army include; Richmond Hill Community Church, Sunrise of Richmond Hill, Community Living York South, Maple Community Church, The Royal Canadian Legion, Oak Ridges Lions Club, Hand in Hand, Richmond Hill Food Bank, i2 Technologies, Helpmate, Creation Technologies, York Singles and The Curtain Club Theatre. “Their support will enable us to continue to provide anti-poverty programs for children, families and individuals in 2009. Their generosity of time has made a difference to so many people in Richmond Hill, they don’t realize it,” Ms Morrison said. Last year the Salvation Army provided support to more than 300 families in Richmond Hill. Aside from Christmas gifts and dinners for needy families, money raised by Salvation Army kettles goes to crisis intervention, sponsors children to attend camps, provides recreation programs for children from low-income families and provides emergency clothing and furniture. To find out more about The Salvation Army Richmond Hill and the services they provide call 905-737-0496.

î Kevin, Silvia

î Alison î Pamela, Kim

î John, Cheryl

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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 905-771-0011 or by checking the box above. is generously sponsored by Update is published by Community Living York South 101 Edward Avenue Richmond Hill, ON L4C 5E5 Editorial Team Brenda Crouse, Director of Community Development Sarita Wiggan, Editorial Staff Barb Evans, Editorial Volunteer Hero Aban, Layout & Design Opinions 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

of York Region of York Region

Board of Directors Louis Laskovski (President) Wayne Maxwell (Treasurer) Phil Lanzarotta (Past President) Claudio Battaglin (1st Vice President) Peter Sen (2nd Vice President)

Cristian Mandachescu (Board Secretary) Lloyd Chafe Mariana Chu Mazahair Dhirani Shirley Ho

Ed Law Alex Lee Brendon Pooran Vera Power Subhash Sharma Janet Tsao

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.

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Community Living York South UPDATE • Winter 2009