Like all young people, youth with special needs need a place to hang out, be themselves and connect with friends.

A new social group in Alliston provides that kids of opportunity for youth and young adults of varying abilities from ages 16-29.  

The most recent event was a games night. Everyone was excited to be together and had loads of fun! The impact of the group was made clear when we discussed it with the attendees. When asked about how his friends with disabilities were different from his other friends, John (an attendee) told us this.

"Well, they are friendlier. Sometimes my other friends are friendly too; but sometimes they are not".

John then commented that his friends with disabilities are always friendly, welcoming, and include everyone. John agreed that It seems that sometimes people without disabilities have things they can teach people with disabilities; but people with disabilities also have important things to teach those without them too.

Parents of these young people had identified the need to build strong social connections during the years that can extend from teens into young adulthood as youth transition out of high school and into adult programs and services. In partnership with Children’s Treatment Network (CTN) and Catulpa and supported by Community Living Association for South Simcoe (CLASS) there are plans to make these monthly events vary in the types of activities that the youth can participate in together, with the goal being opportunities to make friends, stay connected in the community and have fun!


To sign up for our next youth event or to learn about all of our events for families, kids and youth, visit our events calendar. For more information contact Debbie Bushby, Alliston Area Local Team Facilitator, dbushby@ctnsy.ca.