Who We Are
Parenting is full of challenges and rewards. The demands on families with children who have disabilities or special needs are even greater. The situation has not been anticipated and requires a great deal of time and energy, way beyond "normal" parenting.
Ensemble was established by parents who have shared this experience. It is an independent and parent directed resource for families that have children with disabilities and for related professionals. Our
mission is to strengthen the knowledge of families in supporting other families and that the community will be welcoming and accessible to our children. Our
vision is that families will feel less isolated and alone and that they will be encouraged by others.
What We Do
We offer a continuum of support from the beginning of diagnosis through to adulthood. Our website,
ensembleunderstands.com is a way to offer helpful tips and free tools such as "how to" booklets and guides to help families along their journey. Families and related professionals will find up to date information, blogs and an on-line forum to share ideas all at the ease of their fingertips, anytime, anywhere.
Ensemble facilitates parent to parent connections so that parents and caregivers can learn from one another and our parent to parent outreach includes families from all cultures. Our seminars for parents and our staff training workshops have been described as the most practical and useful information ever offered.
We ensure that family leadership is valued within organizations and community for decision-making and policy development.
Every Spring we offer our
Annual Family Giveaway where families can receive items such as gift certificates for community recreation, music therapy, movie tickets, summer camps and other fun activities for children to enjoy in their communities.
Partnerships
Ensemble truly values its partnerships with community. We believe that with families and professionals working together, the outcomes for our sons and daughters are favourable and positive.
Each year we honour our community partners with our annual "Community Partnership Award" to recognize organizations and community members who truly value the leadership of families.
How Can You Help?
Funding for Ensemble is limited. We receive a very small amount of support from Community Living Essex County for basic operating expenses. Ensemble relies on project grants and donations to support the majority of our work. You can support us with a donation to Community Living Essex County and direct it specifically to Ensemble. As a registered charity and non-profit agency, income tax receipts are issued for charitable donations, including In Memoriam donations, monthly and annual donations.
For more information contact The Ensemble Team:
Lisa Raffoul and Jackie Barraco
(519) 776-6486, Ext. 225
372 Talbot Street North
Essex, Ontario. N8M 2W4
