May is Community Living Month

By: Liz Dadson May 15, 2015 1849

May is Community Living Month and there have been numerous activities going on to increase awareness of this organization in Kincardine and area.

Representatives attended council meetings in Kincardine and Huron-Kinloss, bringing treats and requesting the municipalities fly the Community Living flag.

In Huron-Kinloss, Adam Dunlop told council that May is celebrated across Ontario as Community Living Month.

"Community Living of Kincardine and District thanks the Township of Huron-Kinloss for its ongoing support and commitment to creating an inclusive and caring community where all people belong and have equal opportunity to participate," he said. "By flying the Community Living flag, Huron-Kinloss will promote the values of inclusiveness as we celebrate the achievements and contributions of all individuals regardless of ability."

Huron-Kinloss mayor Mitch Twolan said the township would be happy to fly the Community Living flag throughout the month of May.

In Kincardine, Allan Moore of Community Living presented the same speech to council, and mayor Anne Eadie said the municipality would be honoured to fly the flag in support of the organization.

Meanwhile, Kincardine resident Ashley Shultz and a group of her friends, raised $1,600 for Community Living at a Polar Bear Dip event, held on her birthday, May 8. The group jumped off the pier at the Kincardine Harbour, into the frigid water of Lake Huron.

Shultz said that over the years she has had the opportunity to work with Adam Dunlop at the Bruce Steakhouse, and has made new friends with members of that group, particularly those in assisted living.

"Being independent and knowing the cost and hardships that come with it, I want to help people to participate fully in the life of the community while exploring personal goals and ambitions as well as to pursue their dreams and passions by alleviating part of the financial burden," she said. "There is nothing more I want for my birthday than to give back and put a smile on someone else's face as so many of you have done year after year."

And Glenis Vardy, Nicole Vardy and Marshall Patterson presented a cheque for $3,531.12 to Community Living, proceeds from the second annual Kincardine Health and Wellness Fair, held April 19. Forty-seven vendors took part in the event.