Everyone's invited to CLA's big 70th anniversary bash

You're invited to line up for Community Living Algoma's 70th anniversary barbecue this week.

The event takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 21 at the Roberta Bondar Tent Pavilion. 

Admission, food and entertainment is free. The first 70 people, as a tie-in to the 70th anniversary, will receive a special anniversary T-shirt.

For more information, see the press release below: 

When the burgers start flipping at Community Living Algoma’s 70th Anniversary Community BBQ, John Policicchio (Executive Director, CLA) is hoping there is a line-up.

“There is nothing I’d like to see more than a strong showing of community members coming to join us in celebrating our 70 years of effort towards inclusion and citizenship, of people with developmental disabilities,” says Policicchio. “This BBQ is our way of thanking our community, and area businesses, for their on-going support and there is nothing more inclusive than having a meal together.”

The 70th Anniversary Community BBQ takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Roberta Bondar Tent Pavilion on Wednesday, August 21. Admission, food and entertainment is free! The first 70 people, as a tie-in to the 70th anniversary, will receive a special anniversary t-shirt.

In order to ensure all can attend, price is no barrier to joining in as the event is free – which includes food, music, dancing, balloons and games – thanks to sponsorship by Maximus Rose Living Benefits Inc. This leading benefits brokerage provides innovative benefit services to CLA and is a strong supporter of community engagement.

"At Maximus Rose, we believe in the power of collaboration to create lasting, positive change in our communities. Partnering with Community Living Algoma is especially meaningful to us because we share a commitment to empowering individuals and fostering inclusivity. Our relationship is more than just support; it’s a collaborative effort where we uplift each other,” says Tony Fasulo, Chief Executive Officer, Maximus Rose. “We choose our partners carefully, looking for those who are dedicated to making a meaningful impact, just like CLA. Together, we work hand-in-hand to build a brighter future, ensuring our combined efforts resonate with our shared values of integrity, collaboration, and community."

The Community BBQ further builds on other recent 70th Anniversary events which recently included an inaugural flag-raising at the Civic Centre and an Awareness Walk. This year has operated under the theme of ‘Authentic Inclusion’ where citizenship is a key focus of the awareness campaign.

The Community Living movement, in Algoma, was founded in 1954 by families who were committed to ensuring that their loved ones had a place not only in the community but as active citizens in the community. Over the years, CLA has seen support, for people with intellectual disabilities evolve from congregate settings to more person-centred and individualized approaches.

Community Living Algoma provides supports and services to more than 546 people in the Algoma District who have intellectual disabilities or are on the autism spectrum. Community Living Algoma is committed to the advancement of a community in which all people are recognized as full citizens; achieve personal dignity; enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of independence and are supported to reach their full potential.