Toronto Tasters Club Social Group
2025-04-09 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | East Side Mario’s, 1820 Ogilvie Road, Gloucester, Ontario, K1J 7P4, Canada
For a chance to join the Toronto Tasters Club and connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Nicole Neeson by phone or text at 647-807-4348 to reserve your spot!
DATE: Wednesday, April 9th, 2025,
WHERE: East Side Mario’s 12 Lebovic, Toronto
TIME 6:00PM – 8:00PM
Don’t forget to book your Wheel-Trans HERE

Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid
2025-04-09 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours! Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET. We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together.
Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health. All ages and abilities.
What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca Register Here

Webinar: Navigating Primary Care for Adults with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Navigating Primary Care for Adults with Spina Bifida and HydrocephalusDate & Time: April 10, 2025, 7:00 PM
Join us for an insightful webinar exploring the unique primary care considerations and aging challenges faced by adults living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Learn effective strategies for preventative care, practical self-management tools, and advocacy tips to empower individuals in their healthcare journey.
We’re excited to welcome Sarah Ilori, a Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in specialized care for adults with developmental disabilities and care transitions. Known for her holistic approach to healthcare, Sarah has dedicated her career to addressing the full spectrum of primary care needs for her patients. As a nursing educator, she continues to raise awareness and advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Whether you’re a person living with spina bifida or hydrocephalus, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional, this webinar offers valuable insights and practical guidance. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and enhance your approach to care!
Register now to secure your spot!

SHYNE First Social
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join us first SHYNE meeting for youth and young adults with hydrocephalus or spina bifida to connect socially. Each month, we will have a topic of discussion, plus other fun activities to take part in. If you are between the ages of 16 to 29, sign up today! We look forward to seeing you at our monthly virtual get together. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZpsaZyRuScaz2pj5mnHcYw#/registration

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group
2025-04-15 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Let’s Move Together! Functional Fitness for Everyday Life
Staying active is about more than just exercise—it’s about feeling strong, capable, and connected. Functional fitness helps you and your family maintain mobility, independence, and overall well-being in ways that fit your daily life.
Join our Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group for a friendly and supportive conversation about movement, flexibility, and strength. Share your experiences, learn from others, and pick up practical fitness tips for all abilities. Let’s support each other on this journey to better health! 💙💪
📅 Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group📆 April 15th at 8 PM🔗 Register HERE
We’d love to see you there! 💬✨

Ottawa Tasters Club April 17th
2025-04-17 12:00 - 14:00 | Big Rig, 1980 Ogilvie Road #115, Ottawa, Ontario, K1J 9L3
NEW DATE The Ottawa Taster’s Club will be meeting on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Big Rigg Brewery & Restaurant, 1980 Ogilvie Rd.. Join them for lunch at 1 2:00 PM, for a chance to connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton by phone at 613-698-8173 or by email at maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot

Adult Spina Bifida Support Group
2025-04-17 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💙 Stay Strong, Stay Mobile: Join Our Adult Spina Bifida Support Group! 💙
Maintaining your functional fitness is key to your health, mobility, and overall well-being. But what exactly is functional fitness, and how can it benefit you?
Join our Adult Spina Bifida Support Group to explore how movement, flexibility, and strength can support your daily life. Connect with others, share experiences, and gain practical fitness tips tailored for all abilities! 💪
📅 Next Session: Wednesday, April 17⏰ Time: 5:30 PM EST📍 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/xwxB8dGST7Ohw5foO0GK4Q
Let’s move toward better health, together! 💙 #SpinaBifida #FunctionalFitness #AdaptiveExercise #WellnessForAll #HealthAndMobility #StrongerTogether

Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid
2025-04-23 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Ready to yoga? Sign up for our free sessions with Ingrid Exner, certified yoga teacher & person with lived experience. Expect movements that work for every body, including yours! Sessions run twice a month on Wednesday evening from 7-8 pm ET. We encourage you to turn on your cameras so participants can see each other and experience the session together. Who should attend: Anyone looking for a relaxing activity to help manage stress and improve mental and physical health. All ages and abilities.
What to bring or wear: Loose fitting clothing, a comfortable chair with a flat back and a beverage.
Register HERE
Need more information on these classes? Contact info@hydrocephalus.ca

🧠 Join the Movement to Prioritize Brain Health in Canada
2025-04-27 08:00 - 17:00
Over 10 million Canadians are living with neurological conditions, impacting every aspect of their lives and costing the Canadian economy an estimated $61 billion annually—more than cancer and cardiovascular disease combined.
The last comprehensive study, Mapping Connections, was conducted over a decade ago. With Canada’s aging and diversifying population, and in the wake of the pandemic, it’s imperative to update our understanding of neurological health.
Brain Health Matters, an initiative by Neurological Health Charities Canada, is calling on the federal government to invest in a renewed National Population-level Neurological Health Survey. This updated survey will inform and improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of neurological and mental health conditions, leading to better outcomes for patients and caregivers. ​
Take Action Today:

Visit: brainhealthmatters.ca

Send a Letter: Use our easy tool to email your local candidates, urging them to support this crucial investment.​brainhealthmatters.ca

Your voice can make a difference. Together, we can ensure that brain health is a national priority.​

Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group
2025-04-30 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💙 Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group – April 30 @ 5:30 PM EST 💙
Join us for the Adult Hydrocephalus Support Group on April 30th as we explore Functional Fitness & Exercise for individuals with hydrocephalus and shunts. Learn the do’s and don’ts to stay active, improve your strength, and promote overall well-being—safely. 💪
✅ Understand the importance of functional fitness✅ Learn exercises tailored for people with hydrocephalus✅ Connect with others in the hydrocephalus community
📅 Date: Tuesday, April 30⏰ Time: 5:30 PM EST📍 Register now: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/eTirAPQSTOu2BdyyoJtRqA
Take the first step toward better health and mobility. See you there! 💙 #Hydrocephalus #FunctionalFitness #ShuntSafety #WellnessJourney #AdultSupport #HydroWarrior #MoveBetterLiveBetter

🌦️ SHYNE Session – “Challenges with Weather Changes”
2025-05-01 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
For youth & young adults with hydrocephalus or spina bifida (ages 16 – 29)
Cold snaps, heat waves, humidity swings—weather shifts can trigger headaches, fatigue, shunt discomfort, and mobility hurdles. In this peer‑led SHYNE (Supporting Hydrocephalus & spina bifida Youth Network for Empowerment) meetup, we’ll swap real‑life strategies for things like:

Managing pressure‑related headaches and joint pain

Staying active (and safe) in extreme temperatures

Dressing smart: adaptive clothing and cooling/heating hacks

Mental‑health check‑ins when gloomy weather zaps motivation

🗓 Thursday, May 1 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/DIu2A60nSWyEhbRqv5zv2A
Grab a beverage, log on, and connect with others who “get it.” Let’s tackle weather‑related challenges—together!

🧘 Accessible Chair Yoga for All Ages & Abilities
2025-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Gentle, seated poses to build flexibility, reduce stress, and support overall well‑being—no floor work required!
🗓 Wednesday, May 7 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/nRucoaVWTketVt4FynLmgQ
Join our certified yoga instructor for a one‑hour session designed especially for people with hydrocephalus, spina bifida, mobility challenges, or anyone who prefers to practice from a chair. All you need is a sturdy seat and comfy clothes—no prior experience necessary!
Let’s breathe, stretch, and strengthen—together.

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group Meeting
2025-05-13 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
💤 Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group
Topic: The Importance of Sleep—for Everyone, Including the Chronically Ill Child
Good, restorative sleep is essential to growth, learning, and emotional balance—yet parents of children with hydrocephalus know how challenging consistent rest can be. Join fellow parents to explore and discuss.
🗓 Monday, May 13 • 8‑9 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/2obXSUYJQ8u3ffN68UOrBA
Bring your questions, stories, and practical tips. Together, we’ll help every family member—especially our kids—sleep better and thrive.

Ottawa Tasters Club: May
2025-05-15 12:00 - 14:00 | Rockin’s Johnny’s Diner, 1309 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7L3
This month’s lunch will be held at a favorite place, Rockin Johnny’s Diner, 1309 Carling Ave. To join the Ottawa Tasters Club & connect with others living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton at 613-698-8173 or maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot!

🧘 Accessible Chair Yoga for All Ages & Abilities
2025-05-21 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Gentle, seated poses to improve flexibility, calm the mind, and support overall wellness—no floor work required.
🗓 Wednesday, May 21 • 7 – 8 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Wpifs5jVSLOIGm_23rN93A
Whether you live with hydrocephalus, spina bifida, mobility challenges, or simply prefer a chair‑based practice, this one‑hour class is for you. Bring a sturdy seat, wear comfy clothes, and join our certified instructor for a relaxing, inclusive session—no prior yoga experience necessary!
Let’s breathe, stretch, and strengthen—together.

💤 Adult Spina Bifida Support Group
2025-05-22 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Topic: The Importance of Sleep—Are You Sleep Deprived?
Quality sleep fuels your immune system, mood, cognition, and overall well‑being. But chronic pain, mobility challenges, or nighttime catheter routines can steal precious rest. In this discussion‑focused session, we will share experiences and tips to getting a better nights sleep.
🗓 Thursday, May 22 • 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/stWfs2ktQ9W5pijDfOPkkQ
Let’s trade stories, troubleshoot challenges, and help each other reclaim a good night’s sleep!

Ottawa Tasters Club Thursday, June 19th
2025-05-28 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday, June 19, 2025 Chuck’s Roadhouse 1100 Baxter Road Lunch: 12:00 PM To join the Ottawa Tasters Club & connect with others living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Mary Dufton at 613-698-8173 or maryjdufton@gmail.com to reserve your spot!

💤 Adult Hydrocephalus & NPH Support Group
2025-05-28 17:30 - 19:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Topic: The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep—More Vital Than You Think!
Sleep impacts everything from cognition and mood to shunt function and balance. If you’re feeling foggy, fatigued, or simply unsure how much rest you truly need, this session is for you. Together we’ll explore:
🗓 Wednesday, May 28 • 5:30 – 7:00 PM ET
💻 Free Zoom registration: us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/pru7FAMJRQe1IXZF6NX5AQ
Join us to swap ideas, support one another, and start sleeping better—because you deserve real, restorative rest.

Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️✨ Join us on June 4 at 7:00 PM
2025-06-04 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Free Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️✨ Join us on June 4 at 7:00 PM for a relaxing and inclusive session designed for all abilities. Don’t miss out—register here! 💻🪑 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/YgB23IjxQ3a1gAGwK5ExEw
#AccessibleYoga #ChairYoga #InclusiveWellness #YogaForAll #RelaxAndUnwind #MindfulMovement #YogaCommunity #AdaptiveYoga #WellnessForEveryone #GentleYoga #HydrocephalusSupport #SpinaBifidaSupport #RelaxTogether #YogaJourney #SupportAndCommunity #IngridYoga #FreeYoga #InclusiveWellness #AccessibleWellness #YogaJoy #NormalPressureHydrocephalus #NPHSupport #NPHAwareness #HydrocephalusAwareness #SpinaBifidaAwareness #YogaForHydrocephalus #YogaForSpinaBifida #EmpowerEachOther #YogaForEveryone

2nd Annual Celebrate Live Dream Walk, Wheel or Run 2km/5km June 8th, 2025
2025-06-08 09:30 - 14:00 | Downsview Park, Toronto, 70 Canuck Ave, North York, Ontario, M3K 2C5, Canada
Celebrate Live Dream Walk – June 8, 2025 | Downsview Park, Toronto
Following last year’s incredible success, Hydrocephalus Canada is thrilled to bring back the Celebrate Live Dream Walk—our 2km/5km walk, wheel, or run dedicated to raising awareness and support for the hydrocephalus and spina bifida communities across Canada!
This event is more than just a walk; it’s a powerful movement uniting individuals, families, and advocates in celebration of resilience, hope, and community. Because of YOU—our amazing participants and supporters—last year’s event made a lasting impact, and we can’t wait to do it all over again!
We are also excited to continue our partnership with the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation (DMRF) Canada—a national neurological health charity that shares our vision of raising funds and awareness while supporting individuals impacted by these complex conditions. Together, we are amplifying our impact, creating a stronger voice, and building a more inclusive future.
All proceeds from the walk help Hydrocephalus Canada continue providing essential programs, services, and resources for people at every stage of life—from children and families to adults and seniors.
Join us on June 8th at Downsview Park! Stay tuned for registration details and get ready to Celebrate, Live, and Dream with us once again.
See you at the finish line! 🚶‍♀️💙🎉

Toronto Taster's Club
2025-06-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Jack Astor’s, 1900 The Queensway, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9C 5H5, Canada
Join the Toronto Tasters Club for a delightful evening of great food and conversation, especially for people with hydrocephalus and spina bifida! 🍽️✨ Meet us at Jack Astor’s (1900 The Queensway) on Wednesday, June 11, from 6:00-8:00 PM. Let’s connect and enjoy an accessible, fun dining experience together! Please RSVP to Nicole Neeson at 647-807-4348 (call or text). 🌟
#TorontoTastersClub #HydrocephalusSupport #SpinaBifidaSupport #InclusiveEvents #CommunityGathering #AccessibleDining #MeetAndEat #SupportAndCommunity #HydrocephalusAwareness #SpinaBifidaAwareness #EnjoyTogether #DiningWithFriends #SocialSupport

3nd Annual Celebrate Live Dream Walk, Wheel or Run 2km/5km June 14th, 2026
2025-06-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Downsview Park, Toronto, 70 Canuck Ave, North York, Ontario, M3K 2C5, Canada
Celebrate Live Dream Walk – Sunday, June 14, 2026 | Downsview Park, Toronto
Looking for a family-friendly summer event in Toronto or a meaningful 5K run or 2K walk in the GTA? Join Hydrocephalus Canada for the Celebrate Live Dream Walk, Wheel or Run 2026 at beautiful Downsview Park, one of Toronto’s top outdoor summer event destinations.
After last year’s incredible turnout, we’re thrilled to welcome families, runners, walkers, wheelchair users, teams, and community supporters from across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area back together for a day of movement, connection, and impact.
More than just a charity walk or run, this event brings together individuals and families affected by hydrocephalus and spina bifida, along with supporters, athletes, and community champions committed to building awareness and support across Canada.
We are also proud to continue our partnership with DMRF Canada, strengthening our collective impact for people living with neurological conditions and creating a more inclusive future for all.
Whether you’re:
• Searching for things to do in Toronto with kids this summer,• Training for upcoming Toronto races or fall marathons,• Looking for a summer 5K run or charity walk in Toronto, or• Wanting to support a meaningful local cause,
the Celebrate Live Dream Walk offers a welcoming, accessible route for participants of all ages and abilities.
Funds raised help Hydrocephalus Canada continue delivering essential programs, resources, and support services for children, youth, adults, and families nationwide.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Downsview Park in Toronto, and get ready to Celebrate, Live, and Dream with us.
Registration details coming soon — gather your friends, family, coworkers, or run club and join us at the starting line.
See you at the finish line!

Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group- Vacation Planning- Planning The Best and Most Accessible Vacation for You and Your Family.
2025-06-17 20:00 - 21:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join the Hydrocephalus Parent Support Group for an exciting Vacation Planning session! 🌟 Let’s plan the best and most accessible vacation for you and your family! 🌴✨ Happening June 17 at 8:00 PM—register now! 🧳💻 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/U5fB5U9ZTCi2QY2tp77WIw

Free Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️ Join us on June 18 at 7:00 PM
2025-06-18 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Free Accessible Chair Yoga with Ingrid Yoga! 🧘‍♀️✨ Join us on June 18 at 7:00 PM for a relaxing and inclusive session designed for all abilities. Let’s unwind and connect—register now! 💻🪑 https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/F6wCgRHDRci6SZowtvaBeA
#AccessibleYoga #ChairYoga #InclusiveWellness #YogaForAll #RelaxAndUnwind #MindfulMovement #YogaCommunity #AdaptiveYoga #WellnessForEveryone #GentleYoga #HydrocephalusSupport #SpinaBifidaSupport #RelaxTogether #YogaJourney #SupportAndCommunity #IngridYoga #FreeYoga #InclusiveWellness #AccessibleWellness #YogaJoy #NormalPressureHydrocephalus #NPHSupport #NPHAwareness #HydrocephalusAwareness #SpinaBifidaAwareness #YogaForHydrocephalus #YogaForSpinaBifida #EmpowerEachOther #YogaForEveryone

Adult Spina Bifida Group- Planning Your Enjoyable and Accessible Vacations, Tips and Tools
2025-06-19 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join the Adult Spina Bifida Group for a relaxing and informative session on planning your enjoyable and accessible vacations. 🌿✈️ Discover helpful tips and tools to make your travels easier and more fulfilling! Join us on June 19 at 5:30 PM. 🗓️💻 Sign up here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/TPs_GrZXQx-EpvRmQo-kHA.
#SpinaBifidaSupport #AccessibleTravel #VacationPlanning #AdultSpinaBifida #TravelTips #InclusiveTravel #RelaxAndExplore #VacationGoals #TravelTogether #TravelCommunity #AccessibleVacations #SpinaBifidaAwareness #TravelForAll #RelaxingGetaways #TravelJoy #TravelSmart #VacationDreams #ExploreTogether #SupportAndCommunity #EmpowerEachOther

Adult Hydrocephalus and NPH Support Group - Tips On Planning An Affordable, Accessible and Enjoyable Vacation
2025-06-25 17:30 - 18:30 | ONLINE via ZOOM
Join the Adult Hydrocephalus and NPH Support Group for a helpful and inspiring session! 🌟 We’ll be sharing practical tips on how to plan an affordable, accessible, and enjoyable vacation any time of the year. 🗺️✨ Don’t miss out—June 25 at 5:30 PM! 🧳💻 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tzozeh88TaGbOQPFbr2-cQ
#HydrocephalusSupport #NPHAwareness #AccessibleTravel #VacationPlanning #AffordableGetaways #InclusiveTravel #HydroSupportGroup #TravelTips #RelaxAndExplore #VacationForAll #AccessibleAdventures #SupportAndCommunity #TravelTogether #EmpowerEachOther #AdultHydrocephalus #TravelGoals #ExploreTogether #VacationDreams #InclusiveVacations #HydrocephalusAwareness #NPHCommunity #VacationJoy

S.H.I.N.E Summer Vacation and Road Trips! Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 7-8PM EST
2025-06-26 19:00 - 20:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
S.H.I.N.E Summer Vacation and Road Trips! ☀️🚗 Join us as we discuss travel tips, packing essentials, and share memorable vacation and trip experiences, all tailored to living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. We’ve started updating the planning document, so bring your ideas! 📝 Happening Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 7-8PM EST. A social program for youth and young adults with SBH—let’s plan, share, and connect! 🌟 Register Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/AKwI5IApQdmlFMAxmy3AFA
#SpinaBBifidaSupport #HydrocephalusSupport #YouthPrograms #YoungAdultsWithSBH #SummerTravel #RoadTripReady #InclusiveTravel #AccessibleAdventures #PackingTips #TravelWithSBH #MemorableTrips #SupportAndCommunity #SummerVibes #TravelTogether #EmpowerEachOther #VacationGoals #SHINEProgram

Ottawa Taster's Club July
2025-07-24 12:00 - 14:00
Ottawa Tasters Club Lunch – has been CANCELLED for July.

🚀 Registration for FUTURES Fall 2025 Cohorts are open!
2025-08-12 08:00 - 2025-08-31 17:00 | ONLINE via ZOOM
🚀 Registration for FUTURES Fall 2025 Cohorts are open!
How do you invest in yourself? How do you build meaningful connections?
How do you impact your community? How do you shape the future?
FUTURES supports Disabled, Deaf, Neurodivergent, and equity-deserving
folks aged 18 – 30 as they answer these questions for themselves.
FUTURES is a three-month experience where you will join a cohort of
like-minded individuals making an impact. You’ll be a part of weekly
programming featuring creative workshops, guest speakers, facilitated
discussions, mentorship, game nights, and good old fashion hang-outs.
FUTURES empowers you to explore your identity, grow as a leader, and
build lasting connections.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Toronto – Fall 2025
Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
Program: September 15 – December 12, 2025
Virtual – Fall 2025
This program requires a weekly commitment of attending programming
for 3 hours per week (in person or virtual) and independent work up to 2
hours per week.
This is where it starts. Together.
Spaces are limited, register for FUTURES today:
studio.accessnow.com/futures

FUTURES Curriculum and Program Overview
FUTURES is a weekly program that supports Disabled,
Neurodivergent, and equity-deserving folks aged 18 –
30 to explore their identities, build community, and
take meaningful action. Through creative workshops,
mentorship, and community engagement,
participants develop a deeper sense of self, connect
with peers and leaders, and work together on projects
that create social change.
The program is grounded in three core pillars:
1. Self-Identity (Weeks 1–5)
This phase supports participants in exploring who they
are, how their experiences shape them, and how to show
up safely and authentically in various experiences.
Example Activity:
Found Poetry and Found Self Portrait: Cohort members
used various found media (books, magazines,
newspapers) and art supplies (paper, scissors, glue,
markers, photos) to create poetry and portraits that
reflect who they are and what they want their cohort to
know about them.
2. Community (Weeks 6–11)
This phase supports participants as they learn how to
build safer communities, explore what Disability and
Neurodivergent communities look and feel like in their
area, and strengthen the community of the cohort itself.
Example Activity:
Guest Speaker Series – Local Disabled and
Neurodivergent folks working in community spaces will
join session to talk about themselves, their history and
approach to community building, and the lessons they’ve
learned along the way. Participants will have the
opportunity to ask direct questions to each guest
speaker.
3. Social Impact (Weeks 12–15)
This phase supports participants as they learn how to
plan, design, and build actions that create sustainable
social impact. Participants will work independently and
collaborate on real-world projects aimed at social
change.
Example Activity:
Map Missions – Cohort members will work with the
AccessNow team to access map a specific area of their
neighborhood or the neighborhood of the AccessNow
offices. Participants will use their lived experiences,
community learnings, and cohort support to mobilize
knowledge about accessible, and inaccessible, spaces.
Activation Project
Throughout FUTURES, participants work on an Activation
Project – an initiative that reflects an issue they care
about. Whether it’s creating an awareness campaign,
designing accessible resources, or planning an event, the
project is a way to make real change inspired and driven
by each participants’ identity, passions, and strengths.
1-on-1 Mentorship
Each participant is paired with a mentor who brings lived
experience or professional knowledge in Disability
advocacy, the arts, community organizing, education,
and more. The mentors offer guidance, encouragement,
and a safe space to grow – helping to build confidence
and future pathways beyond the program.
FUTURES is a space for discovery, empowerment,
and impact—where young people are celebrated as
leaders of today and tomorrow.

Toronto's Taster's Club August
2025-08-13 18:00 - 20:00
Join Nicole on Wednesday August 13th, Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse, 1672 Eglinton Avenue East (at Warden) For more information about joining the Toronto Tasters Club and connect and socialize with other individuals living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus. RSVP to Nicole Neeson by phone or text at 647-807-4348 to reserve your spot!
