We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
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Autism and Mental Health Series
Webinar Presentation
Autistic People and the COVID-19 Pandemic: What Have We Learned So Far?
Thursday, April 27, 2023, 12:00-1:00 PM EDT
Dr. Liz Pellicano, Professor of Autism Research at University College London joins us for the latest in a series of monthly interactive workshops where we discuss different topics that are important to Autistic adults. The webinars are designed and hosted by Autistic adults; all are welcome. View our flyer.
For a full list of upcoming events, visit the Autism & Mental Health Webpage.
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Webinar Presentation
"All teach – all learn”: Lessons learned about mental health and developmental disabilities during the pandemic
Tuesday, March 28th 2:00-3:00 PM EDT
Presented by the Disability Health Equity Research Network, with guest speaker, Dr. Yona Lunsky, Director of the Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre and the Health Care Access Research and Developmental Disabilities Program (H-CARDD) at the Center for Addiction and Mental Health.
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Research Study Recruitment
Autistic Adults and the Experience of Psychedelics
Are you Autistic and over 18 years old? We want to hear about your experiences with psychedelics.
This research study wants to learn about the perception, opinions, and knowledge of autistic adults about psychedelics, and whether they have used them in the past.
Participation involves filling out a 20-30 minute online survey. Click here to go to the survey.
For more information, email or call us:
[email protected]
+1 416-535-8501 ext. 32817
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Virtual Workshop
Direct Support Professionals in Developmental Services
New Workshop starts April 4th!
Are you a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in developmental services? Join our free virtual workshop, offered over three 2-hour sessions, to learn about Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) strategies. This workshop aims to support the well-being of DSPs and is part of a research study to help us to learn more about how to best support the well-being of staff in the sector.
Dates and Times:1. Mar 28 from 6:30-7:00 PM (Orientation) 2. Apr 4 from 6:30-8:30 PM 3. Apr 11 from 6:30-8:30 PM 4. May 9 from 6:30-8:30 PM
Interested? Please complete the expression of interest form by clicking here.
Contact us for more information at [email protected]
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Virtual Mindfulness Group
Leaders and Management Professionals in Developmental Services
Starts March 28th!
Are you a leader or management professional in developmental services? Join our free 6-week Canada-wide virtual mindfulness program, led by Sue Hutton, a mindfulness teacher with 40 years of experience. This program is supported by the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence.
Every Tuesday, Mar 28th to May 2nd, 2023, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm EDT
This program is also part of the Cultivating Community Wellness Initiative. View our flyer.
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Volunteer Opportunity
Caregiver Engagement Network
Join the Azrieli Caregiver Engagement Network! Open to all caregivers (siblings, parents, grandparents) of loved ones 18 years and older with a developmental disability.
Next meeting: Thursday, March 23rd, 12:00-1:00 PM EDT
Click here for more information.
Questions? Email [email protected]
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New Research
Survey on Siblings of Adults with Disabilities
Are you a Canadian Developmental Services Organization?
Please take 10 minutes to complete a survey on how your organization includes the siblings of people with developmental disabilities in the programs and services offered. The survey is part of a research study by Siblings Canada and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
Share this flyer with the person at your agency who has the most contact with the families of people with disabilities (primarily siblings) or is most familiar with the support offered to families.
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Immigration Partnership and partners are delighted to announce the launch of the 2022 Waterloo Region Migration Film Festival (WRMFF)! The goal of WRMFF is to pave the way for greater discussion around migration and relocation, by creating safe spaces for respectful interaction and dialogues.
Everyone is invited to WRMFF! The festival will take place online and in person. It will run for 18 days starting December 1 and run to December 18, International Migrants Day.
In addition to showcasing a diverse spectrum of films, the festival offers post-screening conversations with filmmakers and writers, and our local celebrities, as well as Q&A sessions.
Start your new year learning with LEG UP Winter Session 2023, which runs from January 9 to March 17, 2023. Click here to see the Flyer of all available winter classes.
Registration opens December 9, 2022. Click here to register.
Breakaway Passport Services is a unique, person-centered approach to providing
people with meaningful, engaging, Passport-approved activities. Click here to see a flyer with more details or click here to visit the website.
Coffee Club is a drop-in group for individuals 16 and older who are looking to build community through planned social activities.
Here are the dates for our next events:
Monday, December 12, 7-8 P. M. WEATHER-PERMITTING: We will be enjoying the Wonders of Winter in Waterloo Park. I am still working on if we can find somewhere to walk for coffee afterwards.
Monday, December 19, 6:45-8:45 P. M. Swiss Chalet 560 Fairway Rd S, Kitchener, ON, Please note the difference in time as the restaurant closes at 9 P. M.
To sign up or for more details, contact Carmen Sutherland at 519 500-7153 or [email protected].
