Category: Community

  • Pathways Health Centre for Children: Help for People in Need

    Pathways Health Centre for Children: Help for People in Need

    http://dev.pathwayscentre.org/page/community

    Some websites are destinations in themselves, but others are paths to something else. That’s what the Pathways Health Centre for Children website is: a guide to other resources that people can use when they are in need. If you or someone you know is looking for information on where to find resources for dealing with certain health or developmental issues, this website might be a good place to start.

    Suppose that someone needed access to a children’s hospital or medical services for someone in bad health. The Pathways site has information on all kinds of topics like these. Both the physical and emotional aspects of health are covered on the site, and the focus is on both children and their families.

    Research is the focus of the website, with information on the best treatment and most useful resources. Two of the aspects that the website covers are people who are medically fragile and also a faith-based site called Christian Horizons, which also serves people who have developmental issues. Others deal with treatment centres and other resources, but they all have useful information for people with a variety of needs. Although the organization is based in Sarnia, Ontario, the website includes useful information for people living in other parts of the province.

    Besides the links to various organizations, the website includes information on programs and services available at Pathways, as well as information on the organization and how people can support it, both financially and otherwise. News and events listed at the side of the page give people the chance to learn about arts events, summer programs, and more. Even if the programs themselves are not what you and your family need, something like an art tour or summer camp for children could be a good option.

    Life can be difficult, even without the challenges of a disability in the family. The Pathways Health Centre for Children website attempts to deal with some of these issues by providing information about available programs and services. The website is quite easy to navigate. A history of the organization helps to give a context for the organization, and other information gives useful background information.

    No website can give all possible information for every situation, but the Pathways site does a good job of giving as much information as possible without being cluttered. For people in the Sarnia area and other parts of Ontario, the Pathways site is a good place to check.

  • The Landscape of Accessibility and Accommodation for Students with Disabilities in Canadian Post-Secondary Education

    The Landscape of Accessibility and Accommodation for Students with Disabilities in Canadian Post-Secondary Education

    The National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) has received a grant from the Government of Canada’s Social Development Partnerships Program (SDPP-D), for an important research project: The Landscape of Accessibility and Accommodation for Students with Disabilities in Canadian Post-Secondary Education: 2016 – 2018.
    At this time we seek written submissions from institutional offices/departments/faculties (including, but not limited to, student services and student affairs offices, campus disability groups, access centres and access committees, faculties and disability services offices) that describe best practices and lessons learned from working with students with disabilities. We are looking for details on professional development practices, innovative programming for students with disabilities, success stories, and effective policies and practices. We also want to know about gaps in learning, knowledge and service at the local level. If your school has a model program or service we’d like you to tell us about it.
    Submissions should be no longer than 1,000 words, and be submitted in writing to the NEADS office by email no later than June 30, 2017 to frank.smith@neads.ca with a subject heading The Landscape of Accessibility and Accommodation for Students with Disabilities Submission. Please be advised, submissions may be used by the research team with attribution and permission — unless we are informed that a submission is to be kept confidential and to be used in a general way — in the final report and recommendations of the project.
    This project specifically addresses the SDPP-D Program objective to: “support the development and utilization of effective approaches to address social issues and challenges.” Building on previous NEADS work, including the landmark report of the National Taskforce on the Experience of Graduate Students with Disabilities, Understanding Accessibility in Graduate Education For Students with Disabilities in Canada (2016); Enhancing Accessibility for Disabled Students – A Guide For Service Providers (2012); and, Working Towards a Coordinated National Approach to Services, Accommodations and Policies for Post-Secondary Students With Disabilities (1999), this project will undertake a thorough examination of the current landscape of accessibility, services, accommodations, technical equipment and supports for students with disabilities at publicly-funded post-secondary institutions across Canada.
    The research will occur at the same time as, and is expected to inform, the Government of Canada’s consultation on a new planned accessibility legislation, under the leadership of Minister Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities. Consultations and research on post-secondary access and services are timely and will contribute to the Government of Canada’s emphasis on access to education and training for persons with disabilities, leading to their participation in the competitive labour market.
    “Students with disabilities deserve equal access and opportunity in their schools. In supporting activities that engage and consult students with disabilities, we can make informed decisions on how to make this happen. Ensuring accessibility in post-secondary institutions is a great example of how – together – we are changing the culture around disability and creating a more accessible Canada.” – The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities
    For further information on this project contact:
    Frank Smith
    National Coordinator
    National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS)
    Rm. 514 Unicentre
    Carleton University
    Ottawa, Ontario
    K1S 5B6
    tel. (613) 380-8065 ext. 201

    – See more at:  http://neads.ca/en/about/media/index.php?id=482#sthash.iOL57d2Y.dpuf

  • Easy Start Transition Program at Humber College

    Easy Start Transition Program at Humber College

    Humber Accessible Learning Services is hosting the Easy Start Transition Program on Wednesday, August 16 at North Campus.

    ASD Transition Day

    When: Friday, August 18, 2017, 9:30 a.m.

    Where: North Campus (Room J110)

    What: This is an information day specifically for students with Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who are coming to Humber College or The University of Guelph-Humber in Fall 2017.

     On this day you can expect to:

    • Meet other new, like-minded students
    • Get first year survival tips from senior students with ASD
    • Develop a few more strategies for academic and social success
    • Practice using Humber and Guelph-Humber’s online learning systems

    If you would like more information about our services, please contact us: http://www.humber.ca/student-life/swac/contact-us.

    The Easy Start Transition Program is brought to you by Humber Accessible Learning Services.

    Please complete the registration information below. Items marked with an asterisk (*) must be completed in order to submit the registration.

    https://www.humber.ca/student-life/swac/accessible-learning/easy-start/register

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/media/index.php?id=481#sthash.ZGGSsUnW.dpuf

  • Finding Mental Health Refuge at Stella’s Place

    Finding Mental Health Refuge at Stella’s Place

    Depression and anxiety have followed me for years. I have learned how to manage them, but the duo creep in the shadows for myself and many others. As I get older, it has become increasingly difficult to meet new people and seek help. For youth and young adults, it can be hard to find help and like-minded souls amidst hectic schedules. A little centre in Toronto offers an answer to these woes. Stella’s Place, located at 18 Camden Street in the heart of downtown near Spadina Avenue and Adelaide Street West, provides resources and programs for teenagers and young adults with mental health challenges.

    I discovered Stella’s Place through a friend and decided to give them a call. The impetus for this was the ongoing social anxiety I felt while engaging in networking and navigating parties or large groups. I walked into a bright, welcoming centre. People aged 16 to 29 were free to relax near the entrance and use the free Wi-Fi. I met with an intake counsellor who devoted an entire hour to assessing my needs. From there, I was placed in a social anxiety group that has allowed me to have frank discussions about the condition, learn ways to cope with it, and meet new people with whom I can relate.

    Those looking to try out Stella’s Place without a commitment can take advantage of various drop-in services throughout the week. The café space is an ideal starting point. Open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, youth are welcome to have a warm drink, do some work, or meet new people. Evenings offer a chance for you to address a specific issue. You can job search with others on Tuesday evenings. On Wednesday evenings, you can see the walk-in doctor or engage in the arts-based Stella’s Studio.

    Stella’s Place is well-equipped to help with more serious mental health concerns. Peer support counsellors are trained via George Brown College and with the consultation of medical experts. Their policy is that no teenager or young adult seeking help will be turned away. There are intakes required for groups with limited spaces, such as the one for therapeutic support and skills related to social anxiety that I attend. There are also exercise classes conducted in conjunction with the Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre and group devoted to Dialectical Behavioural Therapy skills. Many participants are from Toronto, but parents have driven their children in from as far as Durham and Hamilton. They seek help for mood disorders, mental health crises, health inquiries, and the need to meet like-minded and non-judgmental people.

    The social anxiety group and café space have brought me great comfort and allowed me to meet wonderful people. As an introverted and socially anxious writer living in the big city, I can often feel isolated and unsure of how to fix that. This little building downtown has been a beacon of light and a respite from my struggles. Thanks to Stella’s Place, I feel more hopeful than I have in a long time.

    Sources:

    Cheung, Michelle. “Stella’s Place, Toronto mental health centre, founded by concerned mom.” CBC News. http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/stellas-place-1.3770999

    Stella’s Place. http://stellasplace.ca/

  • NEADS Community Events: June 2017

    NEADS Community Events: June 2017

    Via neads.ca

    Organizer: Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Network

    Title: 18th Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference (2017) Connecting People In Need With Care

    Category: Education

    Location: Ottawa, Ontario

    Date: June 2, 2017 – June 3, 2017

    Web site: http://www.shared-care.ca/conference

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1689#sthash.30hm9KUa.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Canadian Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators

    Title: Navigate The Future: Canadian Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators Conference

    Category: Education

    Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

    Date: June 4, 2017 – June 6, 2017

    Web site: https://www.casfaa.ca/cgi/page.cgi/conference.html

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1778#sthash.qeij0EBX.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Canadian Association for the Prevention of Discrimination and Harassment in Higher Education (CAPDHHE)

    Title: 2017 CAPDHHE/ACPDHMES National Conference

    Category: Education

    Location: Ottawa, Ontario

    Date: June 7, 2017 – June 9, 2017

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1732#sthash.Bm3Fprzd.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Canadian Association of College and University Student Services

    Title: Canadian Association of College and University Student Services – Our Past/Our Future

    Category: Education

    Location: Ottawa, Ontario

    Date: June 11, 2017 – June 14, 2017

    Web site: http://www.cacuss.ca/conference/

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1779#sthash.RFbOZf7c.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Canadian Association of College and University Student Services

    Title: Our Past, Our Future – 2017 Conference of College and University Student Services (CACUSS) – Ottawa

    Category: Education

    Location: Ottawa, Ontario

    Date: June 11, 2017 – June 14, 2017

    Web site: http://www.cacuss.ca/conference/

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1640#sthash.JIgaSYvA.dpuf

  • Bank of Canada’s Scholarship and Work Placement

    Bank of Canada’s Scholarship and Work Placement

    Via Neads.ca

    The Bank of Canada’s Scholarship and Work Placement Program is designed to assist students with disabilities and Indigenous students in furthering their education and to encourage them to take an interest in the work performed by the Bank of Canada. These annual $4,000 scholarships and work placement opportunities reflect the Bank’s commitment to the diversity of people and ideas and our desire to further enhance our diverse and inclusive work environment.

    The application period for the 2017-2018 scholarships is now open. For more information, please consult the

    brochure http://www.bankofcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/scholarship-work-placement-program.pdf

    The Bank of Canada works with Indspire to manage the scholarship and work placement application process for Indigenous students. To apply, please consult their website.

    To apply for a scholarship:

    Students with disabilities

    http://clients.njoyn.com/cl2/xweb/Xweb.asp?tbtoken=YFxdQhoXCBlwYQNxTSBSCFNLcRFEcFdVcEgjVlt%2FE2VfLEMaWjYSBxd1cQkbUhVQQHYqWA%3D%3D&chk=dFlbQBJe&CLID=60296&page=jobdetails&JobID=J0417-0724&brid=160761&lang=1

    Indigenous students

    Contact:

    Scholarship@bankofcanada.ca

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/media/index.php?id=475#sthash.Cr6HNhd3.dpuf

  • NEADS Events: May 2017- Mark your Calendars!

    NEADS Events: May 2017- Mark your Calendars!

    Via neads.ca

    Organizer: Humber College

    Title: Transition to Work Event: Employment Success for People with Disabilities

    Category: Employment

    Location: Toronto, Ontario

    Date: May 2, 2017

    Web site: http://transitiontowork.eventbrite.ca

    Description: You are invited to our first annual Transition-To-Work Event for students with disabilities!

    The goal is to provide you with knowledge and skills to help you make a successful transition into the workforce.

    You can also connect with various community organizations that provide employment services for people with disabilities.

    See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1772#sthash.qtFy0kjT.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Accessibility Services at University of Toronto

    Title: University of Toronto – Accessibility Services Presents: Transition

    Category: Employmen

    Location: Toronto, Ontario

    Date: May 15, 2017

    Web site: https://www.studentlife.utoronto.ca/as/transition-day-registration

    Description:  Accessibility Services at University of Toronto, St. George campus, is offering an informative session for educators and community partners, supporting high school students with disabilities. The event – Transition Day – will provide you with information and resources that will help inform students and their parents about the transition process from high school to university.

    See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1767#sthash.URr4Fwwb.dpuf

     

    Organizer: The Disability Resource Network of British Columbia

    Title: The Disability Resource Network of British Columbia for Post-Secondary Education 34th Annual Conference

    Category: Education

    Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

    Date: May 23, 2017 – May 24, 2017

    Web site: http://www.drnbc.org/annualconference.php

    Description: The Disability Resource Network of British Columbia

    for Post-Secondary Education 34th Annual Conference,

    Where to Next?: Navigating Post-Secondary Transitions.

    See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1686#sthash.a9Axdy2b.dpuf

     

    Organizer: Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA)

    Title: 2017 Canadian Hard of Hearing Association (CHHA) Conference

    Category: Education

    Location: Sidney, British Columbia

    Date: May 25, 2017 – May 27, 2017

    Web site: www.chha.ca/conference

    Description: Call for Workshop Proposals:

    2017 CHHA National Conference

    The 2017 CHHA National Conference will be held May 25-27, 2017 at the Mary Winspear Centre (located at 2243 Beacon Ave W, Sidney, BC, V8L 1W9) in Sidney, British Columbia.

    See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1633#sthash.vh48SsFy.dpuf

     

    Organizer: University of Guelph

    Title: Guelph Accessibility Conference 2017

    Category: Education

    Location: Guelph, Ontario

    Date: May 30, 2017 – May 31, 2017

    Web site: http://accessconf.ca/sessions/

    Description: Guelph Accessibility Conference 2017 – Becoming A Catalyst for Inclusion

    Sessions 2017 – The Accessibility Conference

    See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1777#sthash.gawDHKWm.dpuf

  • DramaWay: A Way for Everyone to Experience the Creative Arts

    DramaWay: A Way for Everyone to Experience the Creative Arts

    The creative arts have a profound impact on us all. Whether you are artist or audience, whether it is a song, dance, or movie, the arts stir emotions in such a way that cannot be duplicated. All ages and cultures are enriched by it. For those with special needs, creating art presents practical challenges. Having a creative outlet is important for us all, and is something that should be available to every person. An organization in Toronto is ensuring that is the case.

    Six years ago, I was looking to gain teaching experience through volunteer work. I discovered DramaWay (dramaway.com), a centre providing arts programs at various locations around the city of Toronto. These classes specialize in participants with special needs. There are a variety of creative arts courses for students to try. Those itching to get moving can try RhythmWorks, which looks at movement, musicality, and performance. Original choreography is implemented and practiced weekly. If music piques your interest, SingingWorks is taught by independent vocalists and professional performers who spend the time needed with participants to address their individual needs. The weekly classes lead up to an Open Class Presentation for family and friends to watch. These programs are available for anyone aged 14 and older.

    For those with a love for drama, DramaWorks engages people in a variety of drama games. I was mainly involved in this group, which meets weekly to prepare for a grand final production. That year, we performed together at Nathan Philips Square. It was a surprisingly complex production, and I will never forget the talks I had with the family and friends of the special needs students. They were teary-eyed and overjoyed. I discovered just how much these classes meant to those students. Thanks to their weekly sessions, they had been performing better at school, were more engaged at home, and were noticeably happier overall in their lives.

    The classes are always structured to remain focused on the participants’ abilities and not the challenges they face. Students are able to tackle parody and complex shows, allowing for a full display of their wit, energy, and skills. In 2013, the DramaWorks class prepared a presentation of Snow White’s Ever After, an original sequel to the fairy tale that also incorporated issues pertaining to the environment and labour. The performers spent weeks learning the choreography, lines, songs, and staging to bring the show to life. From my time there, I saw how much the story and themes meant to the students as they prepared and finalized the show they would be performing. They wanted to prove just how talented they are to their friends, family, and themselves. During more emotionally draining classes, the instructors were always ready to provide pep talks and emotional support as needed. Through all the ups and downs, the process was a display of the human spirit and of how seemingly overwhelming obstacles can be overcome.

    DramaWay has been using the creative arts to enrich the lives of youth with special needs since 1999. What started as a small program with five participants has grown to 14 programs throughout the Greater Toronto Area. They operate out of various schools and community centres. Those looking to enroll in classes or volunteer themselves can do so through their website. I look back on my time there and cannot help but smile. It helped me see the universal power of the creative arts.

    Sources

    Council of Ontario Drama and Dance Educators. “DramaWay’s Annual Youth and Adult’s with Special Needs Multi-Arts Showcase 2013.” http://code.on.ca/blog/dramaways-annual-youth-and-adults-special-needs-multi-arts-showcase-2013

    DramaWay. http://dramaway.com/

  • Open Meeting of the Student For Barrier-Free Access (SBA) Anti-Sexual Violence Committee

    Open Meeting of the Student For Barrier-Free Access (SBA) Anti-Sexual Violence Committee

    Via www.neads.ca

    Join the SBA Anti-Sexual Violence Committee for a discussion on U of T’s new Sexual Violence Policy, and the University’s goals for the education and prevention of sexual violence.

    The Expert Panel on Education and Prevention of Sexual Violence at U of T is currently holding consultations to gather student feedback and recommendations on their sexual violence education and training program on campus. Come join us in discussing the content that you would like to see the Expert Panel prioritize.

    Some of the questions we would like to address include:

    1. What is the SV Policy?
    2. Why was it created?
    3. What would members want to see prioritized in the University’s sexual violence education and prevention training modules?
    4. What would meaningful support for disabled and mad survivors of violence look like in areas of sexual violence education and training on campus?

    Students for Barrier-free Access is a student-led disability justice organization that has been actively advocating for a more inclusive Sexual Violence policy and Centre for Sexual Violence Support and Education at the University of Toronto. We are committed to working towards ending campus rape culture.

    Please note that while this event is open to all disabled and mad survivors of violence, we seek to centre the voices and experiences of Black, Indigenous and POC disabled and mad survivors. We ask that event attendees be mindful of the space that they are taking in the discussion and support the collective in creating a respectful and meaningful community dialogue.

    Date: Tuesday April 4th, 2017

    Location: Room 702, (246 Bloor Street West, Social Work Building)

    Time: 5pm – 7pm

    Access Info: Wheelchair accessible building. Accessible, gender-neutral washroom on same floor as event. TTC tokens available. Please arrive scent-free. Snacks including vegan and gluten-free options will be served.

    If you require ASL or Live Captioning to participate in this event, or if you have any other access needs, please contact Nadia at sba.advocacycoordinator@gmail.com by Thursday March 30, 2017. – See more at: http://www.neads.ca/en/about/events/index.php?id=1780#sthash.u0z1Xq69.dpuf

    – See more at: http://neads.ca/en/about/media/index.php?id=470#sthash.c0mJA92i.dpuf

  • The Mind Matters: How to Take Care of Your Emotional Wellbeing During Post-Secondary.

    The Mind Matters: How to Take Care of Your Emotional Wellbeing During Post-Secondary.

    We have all heard about the potential side-effects post-secondary may have on our physical health. Discussions about maintaining healthy eating habits along with regular physical exercise are something we have been taught since elementary school. Warnings such as the infamous freshman fifteen have reminded us about the consequences that arise when we neglect our physical health. However, what is often not discussed is the toll post-secondary may have on your emotional health, and why it is every bit as necessary to keep your brain in as good of health as your body. Let’s open up the conversation about mental wellbeing in post-secondary, and talk about some different ways you can maintain and improve the state of your mental health during this academic journey.

    Take time for yourself…Seriously!

    Trust me, I get it! When you have papers, final exams and projects piling up, there doesn’t appear to be much time to concern yourself with your mental well-being. While a strong focus on academics is very important in post-secondary, it’s important to remember you can’t perform at your best if your mental state isn’t at its best. Think of it like driving a car. Getting to your destination may be the most important item on your list, but without proper maintenance your car won’t function properly and you won’t be getting very far! The same is true with your mental health. Taking a twenty-minute study break to simply listen to music, read, or go for a walk allows your mind to unwind, and will be more beneficial than trying push your brain past its limits! Find a calming activity you enjoy and make time for it daily, even during midterm season!

    Have something on your mind? Talk about it.

    Talking about your emotions isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s taking charge of your emotional wellbeing. Bottling up your thoughts and emotions takes a severe toll on your mental state, and results in more stress that no one needs to be burdened with. If something is bothering you, or if you just simply need to talk don’t hesitate to speak to someone you trust. After all, that’s what friends are for!

    Get some rest.

    We have all had those late-night study sessions where we’ve stayed up until 2 a.m. trying to finish a paper. While there may be no escaping a couple of late nights here and there, it’s important to get more sleep than you miss. Your brain needs an adequate amount of sleep each night to recharge, and function properly the next day. Young adults between the ages of 18-25 require seven to nine hours of sleep. A lack of sleep may result in a lack of alertness, an impaired memory, irritability and a lesser quality of life the following day. 

    Only take on what you can handle.

    Taking on too much at a time can result in excessive stress, causing a strain on your mental wellbeing. Try delegating tasks by their level of importance, or break assignments up into smaller, more manageable chunks in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

    Ask for help.

    Sometimes, the weight of the world can be too heavy for one person to carry, even for a superhero like you. If you are struggling with your mental health, reaching out to a trusted friend or family member is an excellent way to begin the conversation about your emotional wellbeing. You may also seek out your post-secondary institutions counseling services for free, professional help in regards to your mental well-being. You can find more information on your institutions available counselling services on your institutional website, or ask a representative at your help services office.

    Remember…you aren’t alone!

    Many other post-secondary students are going through a very similar journey as you are. This means you have an exceptionally large group of people who can not only relate to your struggles, but who also understand the importance of supporting one another. Try considering joining a support group or club at your post-secondary institution, where you may lean on and support other students just like you.

    Sources Used :

    https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/how-to-mental-health

    https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2015/09/happens-body-dont-get-enough-sleep/