United Way Supports Community Living January 2018 update

Community Living Timmins Integration Communitaire is proud of our partnership with United Way as their generous continual support allows our individuals to live life to the fullest. Below is 2018 in review for activities that they assisted us with:

Bear Country

At the end of August, two individuals and I went on a camping trip. We had been planning for and counting down the days to our outdoor adventure with excitement! Finally, the day arrived; we loaded up and made our way to Kettle Lakes.

The cabin featured a fireplace, a bar fridge and counter space; it was within a short walk of a water tap and an outhouse. The rain subsided as we settled in comfortably, ate supper, and started a little fire. We were determined to make this a trip to remember. We spent our first night socializing in the cabin, playing cards, and snacking on junk food. It was a rainy night, but we were warm and safe in our cabin.

The individuals woke up to a hot cup of coffee on a rainy morning. We enjoyed fresh waffles and fruit before setting out on our adventure. We made our way to the Visitor Centre, where the staff taught us about wildlife. The interactive displays at the centre really captured their attention. We continued on, following our map, and explored “Bear Country.” We drove to lakes, got to know our surroundings, and spotted a beaver, loons, birds, and chipmunks.

During our trip, I modeled, encouraged, and supported the individuals to be independent. They were proud to barbecue their meals, start and stoke their fires, and explore their campsite. Seeing their friendship grow during this trip was rewarding.

I have learnt so much from this experience: to face my insecurities, to not take things too seriously, and to foster and maintain a positive atmosphere. Most of all, I learnt that I absolutely love what I do! This trip allowed me to build a stronger rapport with each individual. We had a blast. The guys still talk about this trip; they look forward to their next! Thank you United Way for making this possible.

Francine St-Denis, RCA

Trip to Dream Acres

Living in Northern Ontario gives us all kinds of opportunities that others may not get a chance to do. One of these activities is a trip to Dream Acres home of the Alpaca’s. Robert, Lise and Tammy went on an afternoon visit to the farm where they were able to learn about Alpaca’s, feed them, and make new friends. This trip was made possible with funding from the United Way. On behalf of those in attendance, thank you United Way!!

Trip to Cedar Meadows

Timmins is full of fun things to do and one of the activities that our individuals love to do is a trip to Cedar Meadows. Located right in the center of Timmins, Cedar Meadows boasts an interactive animal retreat that has animals such as elk, bison, moose, deer and geese. new friend being fed[/caption]With funding from United Way our group was able to go for a horse drawn adventure where they interacted with the animals. They even had a hitchhiker join them as a young elk followed them along the path and they were able to stop and feed him. Thank you United Way for making this possible.