In this episode, we're delving into the Galileo Adult Center's Social Integration Work Preparation Program, a beacon of hope for students! Join Nancy Leopardi, Ruby Ipekian, and Erica Farina, along with their teacher Luciana Franceschini, as they share their empowering journey. Discover how this program not only prepared them for their work stages, but also empowered them to thrive within it. From essential skills to workplace dynamics, their stories highlight the transformative impact of support, understanding, and opportunity ..read more

This episode spotlights the inspiring art exhibition featured at the 3rd annual JDAIM vernissage, a collaborative effort between Ometz, L’Annexe, and the Cummings Centre.  Host Mark Bergman leads an engaging conversation with two talented artists, Sarah Aspler and Benny Wark, exploring the profound ways in which art shapes their lives and serves as a vehicle for self-expression. Lanya McClintock, manager of L’Annexe, will join us to introduce our guests. We'll delve into the diverse stories and perspectives behind the artwork on display, celebrating the transformative power of creativity ..read more

The I Can Dream Theatre is back!! Our guests share their experiences of not being together as a group for three long years and the joyous reunion that fueled the creation of this magnificent production. Listen in as Gabriel and Ainslie open up about the profound role that acting plays in their lives and how the stage becomes a canvas for self-expression. Director Ada Masciarelli, provides insights into the creative process and the collaborative spirit that defines I Can Dream Theatre. Join us for a conversation about the power of theatre, the camaraderie that fuels creativity, and the magic ..read more

We'll talk about the Technology Recycling Social Participation Program at the Huntingdon Adult Education Centre. Students  are fixing up old laptops and tablets with issues like broken hardware or outdated software. They're either taking them apart or finding clever ways to make them work like new. Leading the charge are two awesome teachers, Kathleen Hacken and Michael Werenchuk. Michael, who teaches SIS, joins us on the podcast, along with two of his students, Stephanie Latreille and Jeremy Caron ..read more

Discover the heartwarming vision behind Café Soleil, a coffee shop that's making a real difference in the community. Host Mark Bergman talks with with Maia Cooper, Executive Director of JEM Workshop, Sara Levy, Job Coach at JEM, and Elaine Katzefman, a Café Soleil team member. They discuss the importance of inclusivity, employment opportunities, and the impact this initiative has on the community. Join us for an inspiring conversation about Café Soleil's mission to brew inclusion, one cup at a time ..read more

BullyingCanada is holding its first-ever Musicians Rock Against Bullying night on Thursday November 9 at 7 pm at Macallan’s Pub in Dorval. Five bands will each perform a personalized setlist of cover songs during the night. All revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships will go to BullyingCanada. A 50/50 draw and a silent auction will also be held at the event. Tickets are available for $50 at bullyingcanada.ca/rock. A tax receipt will be issued.   ..read more

A new collaboration between the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) and Special Olympics Quebec was established this year, led by the Centre of Excellence for the Physically, Intellectually and Multi-Challenged (CoE PIM), the EMSB’s department of Student Services and department of Educational Services. On this episode, Mark Bergman will chat with Sarah Lynch -  Special Education Consultant at the EMSB, John Caboto Academy student Christopher Reynel Mora who took part in the Olympiad day, teacher Alba Cano-Juarez and Madeleine Sinclair from Special Olympics Quebec. Enjoy ..read more

On this episode we introduce you to Alink Foundation, a nonprofit community organization in Montreal, Quebec — a group of families and supporters joined by a common bond. Their mission is to: enhance the health and well-being of our adult children provide them with opportunities to participate as valued members of society, develop in them a sense of belonging and help them live meaningful and dignified lives build with them an inclusive community—that is, one in which they live, work and socialize along with the rest of the community, not segregated from others. Mark Bergman chats with Alink ..read more

"From Strength to Strength", the 2nd annual multigenerational art exhibition in honour of JDAIM, featured diverse artists from L'Annexe: the Ometz Centre for Young Adults, Ometz, the Cummings Centre, Alink, Moishe House Montreal, the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA, and more! On this episode we'll talk to two featured artists: Kessem Vaknin and Abram Friedland. As well as Lanya McClintock -  the Manager of L’Annexe ..read more

From what started as a program to keep special needs adults busy during the pandemic, Power Buddies MTL has grown into an unstoppable group of superheroes. Power Buddies MTL offers group activities in person and on zoom giving everyone the opportunity to communicate, make new friends, and sharpen social skills. Through their interactive program, our activities improve the body, and mind. In this episode, Mark Bergman chats with founders Muhan Patel, Ghida Monla and Petros Lazanis. As well as Power Buddies members Dayna Wiseman & Ariel Mechaly ..read more