Kidsability

Due to travels and all the catching up that goes along with returning from a trip, I'm 2 days behind on my postings! I guess I'll need to add 2 bonus posts before the end of the year in order to truly be the #365ofgood project!

Today's post looks at Kidsability who support children and youth "with a wide range of complex special needs to realize their full potential." With locations in Cambridge, Guelph, Fergus, Kitchener and Waterloo, Kidsability offer services to nearly 8,000 local children each year. As an early childhood educator I have had the opportunity to work alongside Kidsability staff, therapists, and volunteers and have had an up close look at the amazing support this organization provides to our community.
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Unfortunately, like so many social services that rely on government funding in order to run many of their programs, Kidsability is laying off another 20-25 staff by January. This is in addition to the 9 already laid off earlier this year. These particular positions are from their autism services and are due to the Ontario government's cuts to autism services in this province. Again, as someone who has spent over 2 decades in the field of early education, it's discouraging to see such important community supports viewed as 'inefficiencies'. Whether you have a child on the autism spectrum or not, we all benefit when each child receives the best care that supports their growth and care. You can read more about the funding cuts announcement here.

KidsAbility "embraces and respects all types of diversity. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. Committed to creating positive space within our organization, at KidsAbility we welcome clients, families, volunteers, staff, and community partners from all ethnic and social backgrounds." Learn more about the services that Kidsability offers as well as how you can support their work. 

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