Achieve Therapy Centre’s winter group therapy programs are designed for low-support youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who would benefit from structured opportunities to build communication skills, social confidence, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and independence.

These groups are facilitated by a team of speech-language pathologists (SLP), occupational therapists OT), communication disorders assistants, and occupational therapy assistants.

All programs are eligible for Ontario Autism Program (OAP) funding, and may also be reimbursable through extended health insurance under SLP/OT services.

Programming highlights include:

• Craft and connect (8-12 years old & 13+)
• DnD adventures club (Grade 7+)
• Game explorers (8-12 years old & 13+)
• Move and tell (5-7 years old)
• Girls connect (12+)
• Let’s get cooking (12-13 years old & 14+)

For questions and registration please contact groups@achievetherapycentre.com

Join DSO Eastern Region Housing Navigators for a FREE virtual discussion with Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa on Tuesday, January 20 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (EST).

Topics covered will include:

• Benefits of the Affordable Homeownership Program, and how to qualify and apply
• Blended mortgages
• Two new upcoming projects in the Ottawa area

This session is open to people with a developmental disability, their family members and/or support networks, and developmental services professionals in Ontario.

To learn more and register, visit the DSO website.

Sonshine Families has made updates to their respite space, in order to ensure the space is safe for individuals using wheelchairs, and to ensure accessibility for all participants.

Improvements include:

• Main floor bedroom doorway widened for easier access
• Renovated accessible washroom located next to the bedroom
• Front entrance ramp addition

For additional information about the Sonshine Families respite program, please contact Margo Babe (margobabe@sonshinefamilies.ca)

Teens and parents are invited to attend CHEO’s two-part Transition to Adulthood webinar series, to assist in the planning and preparation required to make for a successful transition for youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

February 13, 2026 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. – Part 1

• Challenges facing youth, and ideas on how to promote independence

February 20, 2026 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. – Part 2

• Tips for what makes for a good transition to adulthood, including samples for completing paperwork andavailable resources.

To learn more, and to register for the session, visit: Foundational Family Services – CHEO

Attend Autism Ontario’s FREE Journey to Adulthood Webinar (Dec. 10)

Caregivers of people transitioning to adulthood can attend Autism Ontario’s FREE Journey to Adulthood Webinar, on Wednesday, December 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to learn more about adult services, funding, supports, and key dates for applying for adult services.

Learn about:

• Consent, capacity, decision-making
• Post-secondary education
• Employment
• Community engagement

To learn more, and to register for the session, visit: Journey to Adulthood Overview | Autism Ontario

CBC has launched Disability Life, a dedicated hub showcasing their coverage of news, sports, culture, content, and perspectives for and about Canadians with disabilities.

Visit CBC News | Disability & Accessibility for more!

St. Pius X C. H. S. is celebrating over 50 years of bringing individuals with special needs and students together!

Join the fun at the FREE St. Pius X C.H.S. Christmas ATC Dance on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 1481 Fisher Ave.

Snacks and drinks will be provided, and holiday themed outfits are encouraged.

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. – Floor hockey

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. – Dance

For any questions, please contact Brad Boucher at brad.boucher@ocsb.ca