Community Living Ontario Foundation / La Fondation de la vie communautaire de l'Ontario

Community Living Ontario Foundation, also known as La Fondation de la vie communautaire de l'Ontario, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families across Ontario. Registered under the business number 811724756RR0001, the organization operates as a provincial association committed to fostering inclusive communities where individuals with intellectual disabilities belong, are valued, and have the freedom to live the life they choose.

History and Background

Community Living Ontario has a legacy of over 70 years in advocacy and support for people with intellectual disabilities. It collaborates closely with 124 local agencies across the province, collectively advocating for more than 250,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. The organization is part of a broader national movement through its affiliation with Inclusion Canada, a federation representing 13 provincial and territorial associations, as well as over 300 local associations nationwide. This affiliation extends its reach and impact beyond Ontario, contributing to inclusion and human rights efforts across Canada and internationally through Inclusion International.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Community Living Ontario Foundation centers on advocating with people who have intellectual disabilities, their families, and member organizations to create inclusive communities across Ontario. The organization aims to promote full participation, inclusion, and citizenship of people with intellectual disabilities.

Its vision is a society where every person with an intellectual disability belongs, is valued, and has the freedom to live the life they choose, ensuring equal rights and opportunities for growth and inclusion.

Organizational Structure

Community Living Ontario is governed by a board of directors and supported by a council, guiding its policy, advocacy, and strategic direction. The foundation maintains transparency through publicly available annual reports and strategic plans. It upholds diversity, equity, and inclusion as core principles, reflected in its policies and community engagement.

Activities and Programs

The Foundation provides resources, education, awareness, and advocacy services aimed at empowering people with intellectual disabilities. By working in partnership with local agencies and families, Community Living Ontario promotes community participation and combats social exclusion.

It is actively involved in advancing policies that support the rights and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities, thereby contributing to a more inclusive Ontario.

Affiliations and Partnerships

As part of a nationwide network through Inclusion Canada, Community Living Ontario collaborates to advance inclusion and human rights at local, provincial, territorial, and national levels. It is also connected internationally via Inclusion International, reinforcing its commitment to global advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities.

Impact

Through its advocacy, Community Living Ontario plays a pivotal role in shaping public policy and public opinion to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Its work supports a broad community and strengthens the inclusive fabric of society in Ontario.

This article reflects the foundation’s key roles, collaborative efforts, and steadfast commitment to the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities within Canadian society.

[1] https://communitylivingontario.ca [2] https://communitylivingontario.ca/about/ [3] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-811724756RR0001 [4] https://www.centralwesthealthline.ca/displayservice.aspx?id=35433 [5] https://cltoronto.ca/about-us/