For many people with disabilities their family is their only link to the community and act as their main source of emotional support and advocacy. This reality is one that may leave people with disabilities at risk of social isolation if anything were to happen to the family members they have grown to depend upon. Lifetime Networks aims to ensure that, in addition to their immediate family, people with disabilities have a community of caring friends in their lives.

Lifetime Networks works with individuals with disabilities (focus persons) and their families to create a personal support network. A personal support network is a group of caring, dedicated individuals who are committed to creating a good life for the person with a disability. Networks are made up of unpaid friends, members of the community, and family who are motivated to be involved through friendship.

Lifetime Networks hires a trained professional community connector to lead in the development of the support network. The community connector’s main role is to initiate and encourage the development of supportive relationships between the focus person and members of his or her community. In addition to this the community connector organizes and leads network meetings and encourages communication within the network.

Although the main function of Lifetime Networks is building support networks, Lifetime Networks also offers:

Educational Workshops

• Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning
• Beyond Graduation
• Registered Disability Savings Plan Information

Social Events

• Dances
• Baseball Games
• CBC Tours

If you would like to learn more about Lifetime Network please contact:

Ann Harrison
613-761-9522, ext. 248
aharrison@citizenadvocacy.org