By Matt Weingarden
A spirit of unity and hope filled St. Mary’s Hall in Maidstone as approximately 150 community leaders, dignitaries, and advocates gathered for the 21st annual Community Living Essex County (CLEC) Mayors’ Luncheon earlier this month. The event, held as part of Community Living Month in Ontario, showcased the region’s commitment to inclusion and the ongoing journey to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can belong.
The gathering brought together mayors, deputy mayors, council members, municipal staff, local police, firefighters, and passionate Community Living board members, staff, and clients from the seven municipalities that make up Essex County. More than just a luncheon, the event served as a rallying point: a place to share CLEC’s vision of celebrating inclusion and inspiring possibilities, and to empower local leaders to create real change.
This year’s theme, “This is Community Living,” set the tone for a program that featured self-advocacy, support for families, and a spotlight on innovative housing solutions such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which are opening doors for people with intellectual disabilities. The luncheon also highlighted CLEC’s employment services, which help connect individuals to meaningful work—fostering dignity, independence, and a true sense of belonging.
“Advocacy has always mattered, because people with intellectual disabilities and their families were often excluded from the table where decisions were made,” said Corey Dalgleish, CLEC’s Executive Director. He urged attendees to consider how, in their roles, they can help ensure no one is left behind—reminding everyone that inclusion is not just a value but a movement that must keep moving.
CLEC’s Manager of Community Relations and Resource Development, Janell Violet Leamington, invited Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald and Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy to share their thoughts.
During several presentations, Tammy Dalgliesh, Manager of Community Living Support, highlighted Career Compass, CLEC’s employment service. Brianne Taggart discussed the New Day program and the vital work of the self-advocacy group. Marilyn Godard represented Ensemble, a program that connects parents facing various situations and challenges.
Liz Raffoul, the Director of Community Living Operations, explained in detail one of their latest projects called Tiny Homes, Big Dreams. CLEC has built three tiny homes on existing CLEC properties and house three individuals in those homes, creating a great feeling of independence and freedom. More tiny homes are in the works. CLEC’s Manager of Planning and Technology Support, Shelbey Pillon, highlighted Respite Supports with a heartfelt family letter praising the weekend and overnight respite services, which greatly benefit families and provide clients with a safe, alternative environment.
CLEC supports more than 750 individuals of all ages and their families, each with their own dreams and goals. The annual Mayors’ Luncheon is not only a celebration, but a call to action for municipal leaders to help break down barriers and build a community where everyone is valued and welcomed.
As dignitaries and advocates mingled and shared stories, the message was clear: the journey to belonging continues, and together, Essex County is charting a path where every voice can be seen, heard, and celebrated.