Worried about online safety for your loved one(s) but not sure where to start?

Join us on Tuesday, November 26 from 6:30-8pm in the Traszha Macdowall room at Emerald Plaza Public Library located on Merivale Road for a session on social media safety tailored for families with adult loved ones who identify with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Shaniece Martin, a digital literacy instructor at People, Words, and Changes (PWC), will lead the conversation. With a background in psychology, disability studies, and American Sign Language, Shaniece combines her teaching experience with her knowledge of online safety to provide practical tips for secure social media use. Topics will include internet safety, privacy settings, and strategies to protect personal information, all discussed in an engaging and collaborative setting.

Space is limited—register here to secure your spot!

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge for our members (Donations from non-members are welcome).

Have you ever wondered how the arts can be used to tell your story and advocate for change?

Event postponed, new date coming soon.

Join Kim Kilpatrick, a professional storyteller who has been totally blind since birth, for an inspiring evening of stories and conversation.

Kim has been sharing her unique perspective through storytelling since 2001, creating one-woman shows like Flying in the Dark, Raising Stanley / Life with Tulia, Dangerous Touch, and her latest, Put the Dog in the Trunk, which focuses on advocacy.

As a MASC artist and accessibility consultant, Kim has brought her storytelling to schools, communities, and even healthcare settings. In this special event, she’ll share personal stories and offer tips on using storytelling as a powerful tool for advocacy, education, and entertainment.

This in-person event will take place at Les Moulins La Fayette on Thursday, November 7, from 7 to 9 PM. Come listen, learn, and engage in a meaningful discussion about the power of storytelling. Let’s explore how stories can shape our world together!

Space is limited—register here to secure your spot!

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge for our members (Donations from non-members are welcome).

Join us for the Arts Expo on Sunday, November 3rd, from 1-3:30 PM at Glebe Collegiate High School for a unique celebration of inclusivity! Participants will have the opportunity to watch live performances and demonstrations, try a variety of hands-on arts activities, and meet local arts programs, organizations, and businesses offering inclusive opportunities for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. You’ll also have the chance to check out and purchase unique art pieces created by talented artists. Don’t miss this exciting event that brings the community together through the arts!

Registration is by donation. Everyone who donates $20 or more will be entered into a draw to win a special prize.

First register here then to make a donation, simply click the "Donate" button at the top right corner of our webpage or use this link: www.familiesmattercoop.ca/donate

Local arts groups, businesses, community organizations, and service providers looking to showcase their opportunities and artists at the event- Register today

We’re now accepting individual Artist registrations for our Art Market. Showcase and sell your art free of charge and keep 100% of your proceeds! To register, email Jeff at ed@familiesmattercoop.ca by 4 PM on Friday, November 1st.

Thank you to the McKay Cross Foundation for making this event possible.

Are you ready for a cozy, stress-free Fall-themed painting session?

Families Matter Cooperative, in partnership with Sarah Laurie, and in collaboration with Equator Coffee, we invite you to a family-friendly paint night! Join us for a fun and creative social networking event on October 16th from 7-9 PM at Equator Coffee in Westboro. Sarah Laurie, an experienced teacher and community engagement enthusiast, will lead this cozy, stress-free Fall-themed painting session. Everyone will have the chance to create their own unique canvas at their own pace, and you'll take home your masterpiece at the end of the evening. Visit Sarah’s Instagram account at sarahlaurie2023 to learn more about our facilitator.

Sold out—register here to put your name on the waitlist.

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge for our members.

Ready for a day of family fun and horseplay like no other?

Exclusive Opportunity for Families Matter Cooperative Members! Be the first to register for our 'Horsing Around and Picnic Delights' event at TROtt. Secure your family’s participation while spots are available. Discover engaging activities with horses and enjoy a picnic on their scenic farm. Light refreshments provided or bring your own blanket and additional food for a complete picnic experience. Explore nature trails too! Join us on Sunday, June 23rd, from 1pm to 3:30pm at the Therapeutic Riding Association of Ottawa Carleton in Greely. Limited space available, so register now for this exclusive event!

Registration is full, but you can complete this form today to be placed on the waiting list- Registration Form

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge.

Looking for a fun activity to do on Saturday June 15th, while your loved ones enjoy the dance?

Relax and hang out with us! Parents, caregivers, and siblings are welcome to join us in the room next to the dance. Discover how Families Matter Cooperative connects you with resources, support, and a network of connections. Enjoy optional art activities, complimentary coffee, tea, treats, and a chance to win a prize.

Feel free to drop in, or reserve your spot in the parent group by registering here

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge

Are you a parent, caregiver, or self-advocate looking to deepen your understanding of the job market and find the support needed to secure meaningful employment ?

Join us for a dynamic knowledge-sharing session on the evolving employment landscape. Gain invaluable insights from Linda Simpson, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Performance Plus Rehabilitative Care, as she shares her expertise in placing and supporting individuals in achieving their career goals. Save the date, June 11th, 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM at the Sunnyside Library, Room 1B. Hosted by Families Matter Coop, this event promises to be an enriching opportunity for learning and networking. Don't miss out. 

Don't miss this opportunity to broaden your understanding of the employment landscape and discover how PPRC is helping people find meaningful employment.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- Registration Form

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge for participants.

Looking for a fun activity to do on Saturday May 18th, while your loved one’s enjoy the dance?

Relax and hangout with us! While your loved one’s dance with WAVE Ottawa, discover how Families Matter Cooperative connects you with resources, connections, and support. Join us in the room next to the dance for optional art activities and complimentary coffee, tea, treats, and a chance to win a prize.

To reserve your spot in the parent group, please register here

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge

Join us for an evening of community and play at our Annual General Meeting and Trivia Night!

📅 Date: Thursday, March 21st

🕖 Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

📍 Location: Tail Gators, 1642 Merivale Road

Following the AGM meeting, we have a fun-filled, family-friendly trivia activity planned. Exciting prizes await to be won! The trivia entry is by donation.

Secure your spot today by registering here! Let's come together and have a blast.

Looking for a fun activity to do on Saturday night, while expanding your network?

Unlock the power of community at our Families Matter Networking Night! While your loved ones are enjoying the dance at Dovercourt Recreation Centre this Saturday night, come discover how Families Matter Cooperative connects you with valuable resources, meaningful connections, and supports. It's a night for parents, siblings, and caregivers to build meaningful connections. Come join us in the adjacent room and enjoy a free Bob Ross colouring activity, coffee, tea, and treats, and a chance to win a door prize!

To reserve your spot in the parent group, please complete this registration form- Registration Form

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge

Housing, just one piece of the puzzle: A panel discussion on navigating new opportunities for optimal advantage

Join us for an engaging panel discussion on housing, where we explore new opportunities for optimal advantage in the ever-evolving housing landscape. The event will take place at the Nepean Centrepointe Library in Room 1B on February 29, 2024, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Moderator: To be announced

Panelists:

• Mike Bulthuis: Ottawa Community Land Trust

• Jean-Francois Bérubé: Private builder and investor

• Olivia Thomas: Housing Navigator, Developmental Services Ontario Eastern Region (DSOER)

• Janelle and Isabelle Bata: Advocates

Event Schedule:

• 7:00 pm: Doors open and panel introductions

• 7:15 pm: Moderated panel discussion

• 8:00 pm: Audience questions and large group discussion

• 8:30 pm: Networking

• 9:00 pm: Event concludes

To reserve your spot and ensure your family's participation, please register through the Developmental Services Ontario Eastern Region (DSOER) Registration Form here.

We extend our gratitude to the Ontario Caregiver Organization for their generous funding, making this initiative possible.

Looking for a fun activity to do on Saturday night, while expanding your network?

Unlock the power of community at our Families Matter Networking Night! While your loved ones are enjoying the dance at Dovercourt Recreation Centre this Saturday night, come discover how Families Matter Cooperative connects you with valuable resources, meaningful connections, and supports. It's a night for parents, siblings, and caregivers to build meaningful connections. Come join us in the adjacent room and enjoy a free Bob Ross colouring activity, coffee, tea, and treats, and a chance to win a door prize!

To reserve your spot in the parent group, please complete this registration form- Registration Form

Thank you to the Ottawa Community Foundation for making this family networking event free of charge

Want to broaden your understanding of the employment landscape and discover how LiveWorkPlay is actively shaping the future?

Join us on Thursday, February 8th, from 7-8:15pm at the Carlingwood Public Library for an engaging workshop led by Jen Broad and Laura Lobay, Workplace Inclusion Specialists at LiveWorkPlay. Together we will explore the evolving employment landscape, and gain valuable insights from LiveWorkPlay's wealth of experience in successfully placing and supporting individuals in their employment goals and career aspirations.

Jen and Laura will share invaluable lessons learned, shedding light on both the challenges faced and the triumphs achieved. Be inspired by success stories that have not only shaped LiveWorkPlay's journey but have also paved the way for future endeavors.

Don't miss this opportunity to broaden your understanding of the employment landscape and discover how LiveWorkPlay is actively shaping the future!

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- Registration Form

Thank you to the McKay Cross Foundation for making this opportunity free of charge for participants.

Want to explore the necessity of planning post-high school, and identify the keys to a simple blueprint for a smoother transition?

In partnership with the Ottawa Independent Living Resource Centre, join us on Monday, January 15th, 7-9 pm, at the Ottawa Independent Living Resource Centre (214 Montreal Rd, Suite 401) for a networking workshop with Stephanie King, Ottawa School Board educator. Together we will explore essential areas for families and individuals with developmental disabilities post-high school:

1.      Navigating the System: How to ensure you qualify and can access ministry supports

2.      Planning: why it is necessary 

3.      Work and Educational Opportunities

4.      Community Participation and Programs

Don't miss this chance to gain valuable insights and connect with like-minded individuals.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- Registration Form

Thank you to the McKay Cross Foundation for making this opportunity free of charge for participants.

Want to gain insights and considerations for maximizing your tax filling, especially for individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities?

Join us on Tuesday, December 12, 6:45-8:15pm at Sunnyside Public Library for a special evening of family networking and knowledge sharing! Vania Karam, Families Matter Coop board member, will guide us through essential tips for the upcoming tax season. Gain insights and considerations, especially tailored for individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities. Let's connect, learn, and prepare together!

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- Registration Form

Thank you to the McKay Cross Foundation for making this opportunity free of charge for participants.

Are you seeking valuable insights and information on friendship, love, and sexuality?

Look no further! Families Matter Cooperative proudly presents "The Hot Stove on Friendship, Love, and Sexuality" – an extraordinary networking and knowledge exchange experience that you simply cannot miss!

Discover the secrets to meaningful connections and relationships. Designed for parents, siblings, caregivers, and self-advocates interested in relationship, social, and sexuality education services for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Connect with community leaders and experts, engage in open discussions, and gain valuable insights. Embrace the power of knowledge and support in an inclusive and empowering atmosphere.

Here are the event details:

Date: Wednesday, August 16th,  2023

Where: Equator Coffee  (412 Churchill Ave. N.)

Program Schedule: Doors open/Registration at 6:45pm, The Hot Stove from 7:00-8:00pm, Networking from 8:00-8:30pm

 Activity details: Moderated by FMC, "The Hot Stove” will be entertaining and informative. Panelists will include Laura Rogal-Black, Jennifer Currie, and Georgina Varelas-Stapper, and Sarah Laurie.

Do you have a burning question you want answered? Please send us your questions in advance and we will try to include them in the program.

Other details: We will offer a separate area for family members who would prefer a quiet space to read, colour, or socialize.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- space is limited.

The Hot Stove is free of charge for FMC members, and $10 for non-members.

Families Matter Coop brings you a family friendly trivia night. Purchase your ticket today and join us on Wednesday, August 2 at Tail Gators. Event starts at 6pm for those wanting to network and enjoy Tail Gators classic menu of food and drink (food and drink not included in the ticket price). Trivia starts at 6:30pm, with many prizes to be won. Everyone who registers is entered into a draw for 4 Ottawa 67’s Hockey Club game tickets by OSEG

Thank you to our featured prize sponsors: Scavenger Hunts by Let’s Roam, Gift Cards by Fire House Subs, , Pizza Hut coupons by FMI Group, Movie tickets and refreshments by Landmark Cinemas, Long & McQuade/Kanata, Cinnaholic Bakery/Kanata, Jason Dunkerley

Purchase your tickets here: Trivia Night — Families Matter Co-op

What does independent living look like and what services are available for adults who identify with a developmental/intellectual disability to support their goals?

Come join us on Wednesday, June 21 from 6:30-8pm at 214 Montreal Rd., Suite 401. Facilitated by Georgina Varelas-Strapper, Executive Director of the Ottawa Independent Living Resource Centre (OILRC). Together we will explore the topic of independent living and learn what programs and services OILRC has to offer you and your loved ones.

If your adult loved one is not interested in joining the discussion, no worries we’ve got you covered, OILRC will also lead a social activity during this reconnect time.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- space is limited.

The Reconnect Series is free of charge for OILRC and FMC members, and $20 for non-members.

Come join us on Saturday, June 10th from 8pm to midnight at the Rainbow Bistro for a live concert and fundraiser with Dead Pennies and Sons of Buckingham. All proceeds are in support of Family Matters Coop. Tickets are available at:

https://therainbow.ca/event/5043431/634711069/dead-pennies-and-sons-of-buckingham

For almost 10 years the Dead Pennies have been trafficking in classic rock/rhythm-and-blues favourites, and The SoB’s will deliver some great rock and roll to kick the evening off.

We look forward to seeing you there, and feel free to bring your friends and family.

Calling on all jobseekers and families seeking information about the future of employment

The Ottawa Independent Living Resource Centre and Families Matter Cooperative are excited to invite you to a unique networking and knowledge exchange event called “The Hot Stove on Employment”.

This interactive event is designed to offer parents, siblings, caregivers, and self-advocates access to agencies providing employment supports and services, as well new knowledge, and information on the future of employment for persons who identify with an intellectual or developmental disability. Here are the event details:

Date: Thursday, June 8th, 2023

Where: Heartwood House (404 McArthur Road)

Program Schedule: 6:45pm: Registration, 7-8:00pm: The Hot Stove, 8:00-8:30pm: Networking

 Activity details: Moderated by (To be confirmed), the "The Hot Stove" is designed to be entertaining and informative. Panelists (To be announced) will include ODSN member agencies with employment supports and services.

Do you have a burning question you want answered? Please send us your questions in advance and we will try to include them in the program.

Other details: We will offer a separate area for family members who would prefer a quiet space to read, play games or socialize. This space will be run by OILRC. Limited space available- register early.

If your adult loved one is not interested in joining the discussion, no worries we’ve got you covered, OILRC will also lead a social activity during the moderated panel discussion time.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- space is limited.

The Hot Stove is free of charge for OILRC and FMC members, and $20 for non-members.

Are you struggling to find or maintain your connection with the individuals who provide support/respite services for adults who identify with a developmental/intellectual disability?

Facilitated by Claire Maxwell, Managing Director with DSW Co-operative, together we will learn what to consider and what to look for when hiring a support person. We will also discuss how to take care of those relationships, as well explore new creative solutions to access, like shared worker concepts.

If your adult loved one is not interested in joining the discussion, no worries we’ve got you covered, Liz Van Kooy from DSW Co-operative will lead an art activity during this reconnect time.

***Event postponed***

The Reconnect Series is free of charge for FMC members and DSW Co-operative families, and $20 for non-members.

Want to join a camp or participate in recreational activities this summer but not sure what's out there?

Come join us on Thursday, May 25 from 7-8:15pm at Hintonburg Community Centre (1064 Wellington Street West) to learn more. Facilitated by Christina McCormick, Coordinator, Inclusive Recreation Portfolio with the City of Ottawa's Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services, together we will explore and navigate what's available through the City of Ottawa for adults who identify with a developmental and intellectual disability.

To reserve your families spot, please complete this registration form today- Registration closed

The Reconnect Series is free of charge for FMC members, and $10 for non-members.

Hosted by WAVE Ottawa, the next Friends & Family Inclusive Dance (for ages 16+) is scheduled for Saturday, April 15th. While your loved ones are dancing and socializing, FMC will host an informal parent/caregiver group in the main lobby upstairs. The dance entry fee: $5.00, slice of pizza: $3.00, drinks: $1.00, parent group: free of charge. Contact: Caitlin at cbooth@dovercourt.org to register.

Would you like to join a small group of parents, caregivers, and self-advocates to help plan and coordinate Social activities for adults with developmental disabilities to meet new people and explore new friendships?

If you would like to help build a more supportive and inclusive future, we need you. Families Matter Coop is coordinating a small group to create, plan, and coordinate social activities for adults with developmental disabilities to meet and connect with other people.

The next planning meeting will take place virtually on Tuesday, March 21st from 6:30pm to 7:30pm.

Space is limited, register here today to make change happen in a meaningful way for you and your loved ones.

Please complete this three question survey in advance of our meeting: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MKJW5JB

This opportunity is made possible with the support from the Ontario Caregiver Organization.

Would you like to join a small group of parents, caregivers, and self-advocates to help plan and coordinate a peer support group on friendship & dating for adults with developmental disabilities?

If you would like to build a more supportive and inclusive future, we need you. Families Matter Coop is coordinating a small group to create, plan, and coordinate a peer support group on friendship and dating.

The next planning meeting will take place virtually on Tuesday, February 21st from 6:30pm to 7:45pm.

It’s not too late to join, but there’s only a couple of spots left, register here today to secure your spot to make change happen in a meaningful way for you and your loved ones.

This opportunity is made possible with the support from the Ontario Caregiver Organization.

Would you like to join a small group of parents, caregivers, and self-advocates to help plan and coordinate a sexuality education activity/workshop?

If you would like to help build a more supportive and inclusive future, we need you. Families Matter Coop is coordinating a small group to create, plan, and coordinate a sexuality education activity/workshop for adults with developmental disabilities and their families.

The next planning meeting will take place virtually on Thursday, February 16th from 6:30pm to 7:45pm.

Space is limited, register here today to make change happen in a meaningful way for you and your loved ones.

This opportunity is made possible with the support from the Ontario Caregiver Organization.

Come join our Annual General Meeting and a dialog on the future of FMC learning and sharing activities and topics.

When: Wednesday, January 18 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm

Where: Zoom (the Zoom link will be distributed the day before the event)

In the second part of the AGM, Families Matter Cooperative staff and board members will facilitate a group discussion on "How FMC can be more responsive to our member needs". Together, we will explore what types of activities and topics we'd like to tackle in 2023.

Please register with Jeff Bond at ed@familiesmattercoop.ca

We look forward to seeing you soon.

WAVE Ottawa is hosting a special holiday Inclusive Dance (for ages 16+) Saturday, December 17th. In partnership with Families Matter Cooperative, we will offer an informal family group while your loved ones are dancing and socializing. The dance entry fee: $5.00, slice of pizza: $3.00, drinks: $1.00, parent group: free of charge. Contact: Caitlin at cbooth@dovercourt.org to register.