Groups and Events Calendar

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Events in February 2024

  • Evening Sharing Space Support Group

    Evening Sharing Space Support Group


    February 1, 2024

    Recognizing the difficulties of attending our current Sharing Space Support Group* for those with employment, enrolled in school or volunteering their time during daytime working hours, BALANCE is pleased to announce a new (evening) Sharing Space Support Group! Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    This group is facilitated by Melanie Marsden, BSW, RSW. With lived experience of blindness, and a registered member of the Alderville First Nation (Ojibwaybear Clan) and (Mohawk Turtle Clan 6 nations Brantford, Ontario) Melanie brings a fresh perspective and will be of particular help to those living with challenges related to intersecting identities. This new group is offered virtually through Zoom, Wednesdays from 6:30 PM -8:30 PM. Also employed full-time during the day, Melanie is an Addiction and Mental Health Counsellor at Anishnawbe Health Toronto and is eager to facilitate our new evening SSSG at BALANCE.

    zoom
  • Musical Theatre Movement Workshop

    Musical Theatre Movement Workshop


    February 5, 2024

    Join us for 60 minutes of toe-tapping, moving and grooving in a dance-based fitness class! We will work every major muscle group and allow for modifications for all levels and abilities. Classic tunes with a musical theatre theme will bring you and your muscles back in time as we show tune it up together! Space are limited! To register, please contact the office at 416-236-1796 ext. 0 or email info@balancefba.org
     

    West Neighbourhood House
    248 Ossington Avenue
    Toronto, Ontario M6J 3A2
    Canada
  • Sharing Space Support Group

    Sharing Space Support Group


    February 6, 2024

    Are you dealing with issues related to living as a blind person in a sighted world? Do you need to receive insight from others going through the same things? Are you wanting to support and share with others dealing with sight loss challenges or challenges imposed by our city and society? We are here to help.

    This group is a year-round, professionally facilitated group counselling for adults who are blind or living with vision loss. Registration opens 3 times/year only. Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    zoom
  • Strength and Stability Class

    Strength and Stability Class


    February 7, 2024

    The class will safely focus on the muscle groups that encourage mobility and support daily living to help promote physical independence. Balance, flexibility and endurance will be incorporated into many of the exercises inherently.

    Four Villages Community Health Centre Bloor West
    1700 Bloor Street West
    Toronto, Ontario M6P 4C3
    Canada
    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar Series

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar Series


    February 7, 2024

    Are you a Newcomer living with blindness or partial sight, and want to learn more about your rights as an adult with a disability living in Ontario?

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a special series for newcomers with visual disabilities regarding Human Rights and Disability in Ontario.

    Title: Human Rights and Disability

    You will learn about:

    • The Ontario Human Rights Code
    • AODA
    • Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation
    • Accommodations in the workplace and
    • Tenant rights.

    About the facilitator: Hibo Warsame is the Youth Worker for the Sankofa Program with CultureLink. Hibo joined the team in 2022 and brought her passion to integrate artistic expression as a form self-care, and to create safe spaces for LGBTQ and racialized youth. Her leadership skills have also contributed to the successful Global Roots program, which fosters intergeneration connections between youth and seniors through community gardening activities.

    Register in advance for the "Human Rights and Disability" webinar.

    zoom
  • Evening Sharing Space Support Group

    Evening Sharing Space Support Group


    February 8, 2024

    Recognizing the difficulties of attending our current Sharing Space Support Group* for those with employment, enrolled in school or volunteering their time during daytime working hours, BALANCE is pleased to announce a new (evening) Sharing Space Support Group! Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    This group is facilitated by Melanie Marsden, BSW, RSW. With lived experience of blindness, and a registered member of the Alderville First Nation (Ojibwaybear Clan) and (Mohawk Turtle Clan 6 nations Brantford, Ontario) Melanie brings a fresh perspective and will be of particular help to those living with challenges related to intersecting identities. This new group is offered virtually through Zoom, Wednesdays from 6:30 PM -8:30 PM. Also employed full-time during the day, Melanie is an Addiction and Mental Health Counsellor at Anishnawbe Health Toronto and is eager to facilitate our new evening SSSG at BALANCE.

    zoom
  • Musical Theatre Movement Workshop

    Musical Theatre Movement Workshop


    February 12, 2024

    Join us for 60 minutes of toe-tapping, moving and grooving in a dance-based fitness class! We will work every major muscle group and allow for modifications for all levels and abilities. Classic tunes with a musical theatre theme will bring you and your muscles back in time as we show tune it up together! Space are limited! To register, please contact the office at 416-236-1796 ext. 0 or email info@balancefba.org
     

    West Neighbourhood House
    248 Ossington Avenue
    Toronto, Ontario M6J 3A2
    Canada
  • Sharing Space Support Group

    Sharing Space Support Group


    February 13, 2024

    Are you dealing with issues related to living as a blind person in a sighted world? Do you need to receive insight from others going through the same things? Are you wanting to support and share with others dealing with sight loss challenges or challenges imposed by our city and society? We are here to help.

    This group is a year-round, professionally facilitated group counselling for adults who are blind or living with vision loss. Registration opens 3 times/year only. Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    zoom
  • Strength and Stability Class

    Strength and Stability Class


    February 14, 2024

    The class will safely focus on the muscle groups that encourage mobility and support daily living to help promote physical independence. Balance, flexibility and endurance will be incorporated into many of the exercises inherently.

    Four Villages Community Health Centre Bloor West
    1700 Bloor Street West
    Toronto, Ontario M6P 4C3
    Canada
    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar: Settlement services and basic needs services for people with disabilities in Ontario

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar: Settlement services and basic needs services for people with disabilities in Ontario


    February 14, 2024

    Are you a Newcomer living with blindness or partial sight, and want to learn more about your rights as an adult with a disability living in Ontario?

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a special series for newcomers with visual disabilities regarding Human Rights and Disability in Ontario.

    Title: Settlement services and basic needs services for people with disabilities in Ontario

    In the second of the series you will learn about The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and how do I apply?

    • Income Support.
    • Employment Support.
    • Ontario Disability Support Program health and disability benefits.
    • Wheel-Trans.
    • Coverage for assistive devices
    • What school supports are available for my child?
    • Financial aid options for college or university students with disabilities.

    About the Facilitator: Yuliia Sydorenko is a Settlement Worker within the Settlement Workers in Schools program (SWIS). Yuliia is committed and dedicated in providing newcomers youth, students and families across TDSB and TCDSB schools with the appropriate information that will help with their transition into Canada.  She informs youth and families on subjects like navigating the school system, housing, employment, health and child care. Yuliia holds a Bachelors Degree in Law.

    Register in advance for the “Settlement Services and Basic Needs Services for People with Disabilities in Ontario” webinar.

    zoom

    More information

  • Evening Sharing Space Support Group

    Evening Sharing Space Support Group


    February 15, 2024

    Recognizing the difficulties of attending our current Sharing Space Support Group* for those with employment, enrolled in school or volunteering their time during daytime working hours, BALANCE is pleased to announce a new (evening) Sharing Space Support Group! Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    This group is facilitated by Melanie Marsden, BSW, RSW. With lived experience of blindness, and a registered member of the Alderville First Nation (Ojibwaybear Clan) and (Mohawk Turtle Clan 6 nations Brantford, Ontario) Melanie brings a fresh perspective and will be of particular help to those living with challenges related to intersecting identities. This new group is offered virtually through Zoom, Wednesdays from 6:30 PM -8:30 PM. Also employed full-time during the day, Melanie is an Addiction and Mental Health Counsellor at Anishnawbe Health Toronto and is eager to facilitate our new evening SSSG at BALANCE.

    zoom
  • Sharing Space Support Group

    Sharing Space Support Group


    February 20, 2024

    Are you dealing with issues related to living as a blind person in a sighted world? Do you need to receive insight from others going through the same things? Are you wanting to support and share with others dealing with sight loss challenges or challenges imposed by our city and society? We are here to help.

    This group is a year-round, professionally facilitated group counselling for adults who are blind or living with vision loss. Registration opens 3 times/year only. Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    zoom
  • Strength and Stability Class

    Strength and Stability Class


    February 21, 2024

    The class will safely focus on the muscle groups that encourage mobility and support daily living to help promote physical independence. Balance, flexibility and endurance will be incorporated into many of the exercises inherently.

    Four Villages Community Health Centre Bloor West
    1700 Bloor Street West
    Toronto, Ontario M6P 4C3
    Canada
    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar Series

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar Series


    February 21, 2024

    Are you a Newcomer living with blindness or partial sight, and want to learn more about your rights as an adult with a disability living in Ontario?

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a special series for newcomers with visual disabilities regarding Human Rights and Disability in Ontario.

    Title: How technology can support people with disabilities:

    • In this presentation, we will discuss the ways technology, apps, and tools can enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. With the help of innovative solutions, we can create a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone.

    About the Facilitator: Emmy Mwambigija is a dedicated social worker with over 15 years working with people in this field. She is passionate about her work and currently assisting newcomers in their job search. She likes to meet new people, plan events and explore different destinations. She has a BA Sociology and Social Service Worker Certificate. She possesses a solid a foundation in understanding societal dynamics and offering essential support.

    Register in advance for “How Technology can support people with disabilities” webinar.

    zoom

    More information

  • Evening Sharing Space Support Group

    Evening Sharing Space Support Group


    February 22, 2024

    Recognizing the difficulties of attending our current Sharing Space Support Group* for those with employment, enrolled in school or volunteering their time during daytime working hours, BALANCE is pleased to announce a new (evening) Sharing Space Support Group! Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    This group is facilitated by Melanie Marsden, BSW, RSW. With lived experience of blindness, and a registered member of the Alderville First Nation (Ojibwaybear Clan) and (Mohawk Turtle Clan 6 nations Brantford, Ontario) Melanie brings a fresh perspective and will be of particular help to those living with challenges related to intersecting identities. This new group is offered virtually through Zoom, Wednesdays from 6:30 PM -8:30 PM. Also employed full-time during the day, Melanie is an Addiction and Mental Health Counsellor at Anishnawbe Health Toronto and is eager to facilitate our new evening SSSG at BALANCE.

    zoom
  • Sharing Space Support Group

    Sharing Space Support Group


    February 27, 2024

    Are you dealing with issues related to living as a blind person in a sighted world? Do you need to receive insight from others going through the same things? Are you wanting to support and share with others dealing with sight loss challenges or challenges imposed by our city and society? We are here to help.

    This group is a year-round, professionally facilitated group counselling for adults who are blind or living with vision loss. Registration opens 3 times/year only. Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    zoom
  • Strength and Stability Class

    Strength and Stability Class


    February 28, 2024

    The class will safely focus on the muscle groups that encourage mobility and support daily living to help promote physical independence. Balance, flexibility and endurance will be incorporated into many of the exercises inherently.

    Four Villages Community Health Centre Bloor West
    1700 Bloor Street West
    Toronto, Ontario M6P 4C3
    Canada
    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar: Financial Supports Available for Visual Impairment

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a Special Webinar: Financial Supports Available for Visual Impairment


    February 28, 2024

    Are you a Newcomer living with blindness or partial sight, and want to learn more about your rights as an adult with a disability living in Ontario?

    BALANCE for Blind Adults and CultureLink Present a special series for newcomers with visual disabilities regarding Human Rights and Disability in Ontario.

    Title: Financial Supports Available for Visual Impairment

    • In this presentation, we’ll explore the assistance options for visually impaired individuals, encompassing but not limited to financial resources, discounts, and concessions. Additionally, we will delve into various free resources readily accessible across Canada.

    About the Facilitator: Victor Gomes has been working with CultureLink for about 17 years. Being an immigrant Victor has found his passion in working in the non-profit sector where he finds himself most comfortable helping and working with people. Prior to moving to Canada he has been working in the fields of helping underprivileged people in the community. Victor works with the Community Connections Mentorship Program of Culturelink, helping newcomers build and develop their network and social capital in the new country they call home. Within CCMP Victor currently works in the field of Career Mentoring and Citizenship Education Mentoring programs.

    Register for the “Financial Supports Available for Visual Impairment” webinar.

    zoom

    More information

  • Evening Sharing Space Support Group

    Evening Sharing Space Support Group


    February 29, 2024

    Recognizing the difficulties of attending our current Sharing Space Support Group* for those with employment, enrolled in school or volunteering their time during daytime working hours, BALANCE is pleased to announce a new (evening) Sharing Space Support Group! Together, the group addresses life changes and challenges specifically for blind people, in a safe and supportive group experience.

    This group is facilitated by Melanie Marsden, BSW, RSW. With lived experience of blindness, and a registered member of the Alderville First Nation (Ojibwaybear Clan) and (Mohawk Turtle Clan 6 nations Brantford, Ontario) Melanie brings a fresh perspective and will be of particular help to those living with challenges related to intersecting identities. This new group is offered virtually through Zoom, Wednesdays from 6:30 PM -8:30 PM. Also employed full-time during the day, Melanie is an Addiction and Mental Health Counsellor at Anishnawbe Health Toronto and is eager to facilitate our new evening SSSG at BALANCE.

    zoom