Community Living Fort Erie celebrating in May with several events
April 25, 2025 at 4:37 AM
“Community Living Month is a time to celebrate inclusion, raise awareness, and affirm that everyone deserves to live with dignity, choice, and belonging.”
May is Community Living month and this was how Community Living Fort Erie executive director Sandy Leemet summarized the local events and initiatives taking place.
Fort Erie will join communities across Ontario in highlighting the importance of inclusion and the contributions of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
“This month is important because it promotes awareness and understanding, celebrates diversity and reminds people with intellectual challenges and their families that they are heard and supported in the fight for equal rights, dignity and choice,” said Leemet.
On April 28, self-advocate Austin Kienitz will appear before council to formally request that May be proclaimed as Community Living Month in Fort Erie.
This annual declaration aligns with a province-wide initiative that promotes awareness, inclusion, and community participation for people of all abilities.
The town has supported this declaration for many years, says a news release from Community Living Fort Erie about what’s planned in May.
Community Living flag raising at town hall in 2024. Credit: Community Living Fort Erie | FacebookA flag-raising ceremony will take place on April 29 at 9 a.m. at town hall, followed by a celebratory breakfast open to the community, which will be held at Community Living Fort Erie’s headquarters at 615 Industrial Drive.
There will also be a volunteer appreciation dinner on April 30 at Greater Fort Erie Secondary School’s Pomegranate Restaurant.
A number of volunteer contributions will be recognized.
The Peace Bridge will be illuminated in blue and green, the official Community Living colours, from dusk on April 30 to dawn on May 1.
Niagara Falls is also expected to be lit on the evening of May 1.
May 8 will be McHappy Day at the McDonald’s on Garrison Road and Community Living Fort Erie will receive half of the proceeds to support summer camp programs hosted by the organization.
Community Living Fort Erie, which has been around since 1957, currently supports 220 individuals and their families.
Tickets expected to sell fast for Community Living’s Caribbean Christmas fundraiser
Construction at Sugarbowl Park nearing completion
Masquerade at Evermore Charcuterie to raise funds for neighbours
About The Author
Kris Dubé
Kris is a veteran journalist who has worked in Niagara for close to 20 years. He is also a lifelong resident of Fort Erie, a place he plans to call home and raise his family for many more years.
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