Parent Share is a collaborative group of parents and staff offered in partnership by Community Living Toronto (CLTO) and WoodGreen, supporting families of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The group provides a safe, welcoming space for parents and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and support one another.

Alongside conversations about helpful topics such as programs and services, funding sources, and building healthy relationships, parents share the struggles, joys, and triumphs of raising children of all ages.

While guest presentations are offered occasionally, the group intentionally offers a space for connection and peer learning. Parents play an active role in deciding the topics that are explored, with support from group facilitators and staff. Over time, the group has benefited from shared planning guided by Person-Directed Planning principles, participated in interagency initiatives such as a Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) fair.

The connections formed during each session extend well beyond the walls of the community centre. A special bond develops when parents are able to speak openly with others who truly understand their experiences. As one parent frequently shares:
“The Parent Share group is a place where I can come and sing, dance, share, or just be quiet as my mood allows. It is a place where I know people truly understand.”

Sibshops provide opportunities for brothers and sisters of children with special needs to obtain peer-to-peer support and education in an informal fun setting. Our sibling workshops are geared to children ages 8 to 12 with mentoring opportunities for older siblings, ages 14 to 16. The workshops are designed to engage the children in fun themed activities while addressing the unique issues that children who have siblings with special needs encounter at home, school and while participating in extra-curricular activities.

Each workshop includes a snack/meal, along with a lot of fun and interactive games and activities. The Sibshops are theme based to help create an engaging and relaxed atmosphere for participating children. Past Sibshops have had themes such as Pirates, Safari, Tropical Vacation, and Celebrity Day. Activities have included scavenger hunts, team puzzle solving, role playing, and there is always a craft that goes along with our theme.  During meal time and activities we incorporate time for the children to get to know each other, share experiences and offer each other advice and support.

For more information about Sibshops, please contact Hannah Ertl, at hannah.ertl@cltoronto.ca or by phone at 437-231-3503

Moms Supporting Moms is a peer support group for mothers of children with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities of any age. The group meets both online and in person, offering flexible ways to connect with other mothers who understand the unique responsibilities many moms have.

This group provides a safe, non-judgemental space to share experiences, talk openly about challenges and successes, and build meaningful connections with others who truly get it. Whether you want to listen, share, or simply be present, you are welcome here.

Contact Hannah Ertl at Hannah.ertl@cltoronto.ca or 437-231-3503

Dads Supporting Dads is an in-person peer support group for fathers of children on the autism spectrum or with a developmental and/or intellectual disability of any age. The group meets at various locations across the city, offering fathers the opportunity to connect face-to-face, share experiences, and support one another in a welcoming and informal setting.

If you’re interested in meeting other dads who understand the journey, Community Living Toronto’s Dads Supporting Dads group is here for you.

Contact Tom Gaspar at tom.gaspar@cltoronto.ca or 437-688-1139. 

Click here for more info.