$134,900 OTF Grant to Support Summer Programming for Teens

September 4, 2024

OWEN SOUND – MPP Rick Byers met with the team at Community Living Owen Sound & District last Thursday to hear about the impact of the group’s 18-month, $134,900 Resilient Communities Fund grant that it received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in early 2023.  The funds were used to provide much needed summer programming to youth aged 13 to 17 with developmental disabilities, a population which is greatly underserved.

“Congratulations to Community Living Owen Sound & District on your success in receiving the Resilient Communities Fund grant,” said Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Rick Byers. “Your programs are a great success and are making a big difference with our local teens.”

The objective of Community Living’s summer program was to provide opportunities for teens to re-engage and participate in activities in their communities following the prolonged period of social isolation and loss of routines as a result of the pandemic. The OTF grant allowed the for activity filled summer programming for teens with developmental disabilities during the summer of 2023 and this summer as well. Each day brought new adventures and opportunities to connect, including yoga in the park, beach days, local market, successful lemonade stand for local charity and much more. The summer program wrapped up with a lively talent show from the teens.

“This grant allowed a very underserved population of teens to experience the joys and connections summer activities provide within our community, all while being supported and encouraged by an excellent summer support team,” said Jeffrey Adisam, COO at Community Living Owen Sound & District.

Community Living Owen Sound & District is celebrating 70 years of assisting people with developmental needs to live, work, and participate fully in the community as valued partners. With services and supports for infants, children, adults, and families, our goal is to be a positive influence in shaping our community where all people have the opportunity to live out their hopes and dreams, regardless of differences in intellectual or other abilities. 

Community Living Owen Sound and District (CLOSD) is a leading organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Owen Sound and surrounding area. Established in 1954, our mission is to promote and support the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of community life. Our vision is a community where everyone belongs and where every person is valued for their contributions.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.