Blind River council has approved a proclamation to declare May, “Community Living Algoma Awareness Month.”
The proclamation was approved by full council following a presentation by Craig Holmes representing Community Living Algoma (CLA) and as a member of the Council of Community Living Algoma. The non-profit organization has worked in the Algoma region for about 68 years.
“We are a group of individuals who speak out for change, advocating for others and ourselves within CLA and the community of Algoma. Community Living Algoma is a non-profit, charitable organization committed to the full inclusion and citizenship of people with intellectual disabilities,” Holmes told council at its virtual meeting Monday evening.
“Now in its 68th year of operation, it provides services and supports to over 720 children and adults in the District of Algoma. Community Living Awareness Month is also being recognized by Hornepayne, Wawa, Elliot Lake and Sault Ste. Marie. We’re honoured to share this recognition with you.”
Community Living Algoma has provided supports and services to people with intellectual disabilities and their families in the Town of Blind River and surrounding district since 1954, and provides services to 333 adults and 388 children.
Community Living Algoma’s goal is that people with intellectual disabilities have every opportunity to participate fully in our community with dignity, independence and acceptance; and Community Living Algoma works with Blind River volunteers and other stakeholder groups and organizations to promote citizenship for people with intellectual disabilities so they have the rights and responsibilities, and the opportunities that come with belonging, participating and contributing as a valued member in society.
Community Living Algoma Awareness Month is a provincewide initiative created to celebrate the values of community living, which are inclusion, equality and respect.
Council unanimously approved the proclamation.