Social skills, independence focus of new centre in Kingsville

By Mark Ribble

A new not-for-profit organization in Kingsville is providing much needed support for adults with disabilities.

Ursa Major Learning Services and Center opened in October in the Kingsville Community Church on Division Road and so far they’ve been able to share their programs with over a dozen clients on a regular basis.

It truly is a family endeavour, run by Michael Tome and his wife Vanessa Young-Tome and Vanessa’s brother Mitchell Young.

The trio have years of experience with Michael being a former Special Education teacher, Vanessa a certified PSW and Mitchell with experience in other private respite settings.

Their motto is “Brave as Bears”, which lends itself to the Ursa Major concept — the constellation that literally translates to “greater bear”.

They provide educational programming for adults living with disabilities in Essex County and some of that includes crafts, games and social skills programs that allow their clients to work towards independence. They also go on social trips such as the movies.

The centre is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm.

On Wednesday, February 1, Ursa Major was busy with four clients — Justine, Joe, Daniel and Cameron — all of whom were excited to be there.

“I like it here,” said Joe. “It’s fun and I love these guys.”

Justine was just as happy to be there. “I’m having fun here,” she added.

While Cameron was a little shy to talk to the newspaper, Daniel told us he was also having a good time.

For Vanessa, it’s a joy to come to work every day.

“I came from long-term care, so this is really different and very rewarding,” she said. “Our mayor said it best last week when he said we’re building a community within a community.”

Vanessa, Michael and Mitchell are grateful for the Kingsville Community Church, which also houses the Kingsville Community Centre and indicated that their clients can take advantage of any of the activities going on at the Community Centre.

Joe particularly likes the café.

“They have great coffee,” he said with the biggest smile you could imagine.

Ursa Major also does a monthly market, where the clients can sell some of their own creations.

“We want to foster that entrepreneurial spirit,” said Michael. “Joe does bead art and Justine has some looming items she sells.”

The trio says they are filling a need in Kingsville and that they are really enjoying what they are doing.

“I thoroughly enjoy doing what I’m doing,” says Mitchell.

They are holding a Valentine’s Dance fundraiser complete with DJ and decorations on February 10 at the Kingsville Arena and tickets are going fast.

If you’d like to find out more about their programs or the upcoming dance, visit their website at www.umlsc.org or give them a call at 226-7050755.

Ursa Major was busy with four clients on Wednesday, February 1. Standing in the back are Michael Tome, Daniel (client), Mitchell Young and Vanessa Young-Tome. Seated are clients Justine, Cameron and Joe. SUN photo