Communty Living North Bay is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Photo by Colby Clarke.
It goes about its business quietly and without fuss, but Community Living North Bay is celebrating its 60th year as a charitable organization.
And it’s needed more now than ever!
With the number of disabilities increasing, there is more call for the services it provides, says Director of Quality and Accountability, Darlene Brooks.
“We are a large organization in North Bay,” Brooks says. “We provide not only support and services to people, but also employment opportunities as well.”
Community Living North Bay is a registered charitable organization that is committed to creating a supportive and accepting community, by providing programs and services for people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
The organization began way back in 1954 after a group of parents envisioned a better quality of life for their children suffering from developmental disabilities.
That year, they formed the association which received its charter as a charitable organization and since has grown into one of the largest and most significant not-for-profit corporations in North Bay.
“We try to offer and create meaningful days,” said Brooks, who has been with the organization for 39 years.
“When you’re a not-for-profit organization funding is limited. It’s just getting our name out there and bringing some awareness to the community so they know we exist and that there is an organization out there who can help people and families who have intellectual disabilities.”
One of the supportive partnerships with Community Living is through the efforts of the Canadore/Nipissing “Best Buddies” chapter.
Student volunteers are paired up with people who have intellectual disabilities, but mutual interests, in hopes of creating long-lasting friendships.
Nipissing University Graduate and Community Living Outreach Facilitator, Alex Frizzle has seen how rewarding it is to spend time helping people who need support.
“I’ve been with the association for the past five years,” Frizzle added. “I can’t think of a better way to spend my day. It’s one of those jobs you get to go to, instead of having to go to, and I think that makes a difference in people’s lives just by putting in a little effort.”
It is efforts from people like Frizzle that have helped Community Living thrive for the last six decades.
Brooks says the effort doesn't’t go un-noticed or unappreciated.
“Celebrating 60 years is huge, I cannot believe it myself!” exclaimed Brooks. “But it certainly isn’t an accomplishment to cherish without the help and support from the community.”
If you are interested in celebrating 60 years with Community Living North Bay, the organization is hosting a community fair on Thursday, September 18th to commemorate its anniversary and recognize the families who started the organization back in 1954.
The fair will feature live music, activities, snacks, and a kid zone as well.
It takes place at F-J Dellandrea Place at 741 Wallace Road between 1 – 5 p.m.
Anyone interested in becoming involved through volunteering or employment can find out more at www.communitylivingnorthbay.org.
