It’s hard to imagine what life in Parry Sound and area would be like without Community Living.
It’s astonishing to imagine that our society once banished those with mental disabilities to far-off institutions when today, Community Living clients are such important members of our community.
These residents have become welcome contributors. As well as being employees, they have become friends, neighbours and volunteers. The patience and perseverance of Community Living staff over a relatively short amount of time has created a change in attitude, and a better understanding of how people of all walks of life, or varying levels of ability and accomplishment, can not only live together in harmony, but productively.
In our community, we’ve celebrated the success stories of residents guided by Community Living.
We’ve cheered athletic accomplishments, artistic endeavours and community initiatives – from one man’s annual roadside cleanup efforts to the community garden project’s success, to name a couple.
Families are together. Brothers, sisters and parents can avoid the anguish that came with the terrible isolation family members faced in those sterile institutions. And society has become a better place because of the return we get for our social investment. That return comes in the form of smiles, proud moments, a few tears and in those everlasting friendships.
This is a 50-year accomplishment well worth celebrating. That’s why the North Star and area businesses are helping Community Living mark the occasion this week.
And here’s to another 50 years of success, compassion and growth for Community Living in Parry Sound.
We look forward to more laughter, more tears and more friendships.