This page is updated regularly | Last updated: April 17, 2026
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Community Resources
Clinics at SDRC
Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre (SDRC) hosts a variety of clinics. All clinics are 1 hour in length via Zoom, limited to a maximum of 10 participants (except the SLP clinic which is one-on-one) and include an opportunity for questions and discussion. Eligibility criteria vary.
Some of our clinics are:
– Ask A Behaviour Consultant Clinic (Please check back for the fall dates)
– Ask A Speech Language Pathologist Clinic
– Ask A Service Coordinator “Let’s Talk School” Clinic
– Intake Financial Clinic
– Speech Language Pathology Clinic
Who Can Access Services:
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- Children, youth, and families living with or suspected of having FASD
- Ages: Up to 18 years old, or up to 21 if still attending school
- Must reside in the Waterloo Region
Referral Process:
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- Referrals can be made via Plexus
- Eligible referrers include:
- The individual or their legal guardian
- Extended family members
- Family physicians
- Agencies acting on behalf of the individual/family (with permission)
- Individuals aged 16+ must provide consent if they understand the implications of assessment/treatment
Support Offered:
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- Coordination and guidance from FASD Coordinators
- Resources for caregivers, health professionals, and social service providers
- Information and assistance regarding eligibility and services
Need Help or Have Questions?
Contact the FASD Coordinators at SDRC directly for clarification on eligibility or services for children under 18 at: plexusfasd@sunbeamcommunity.ca
They can also be found on Instagram and Twitter at – @Plexus Fasd Iike, follow, share and connect!
Referrals can be made here: Plexus Referral
sunbeam-centre.ontarionow.ca/self-referral/?aLanguage=
FASD Ontario Webinars
FASD Ontario has a resource page with past webinar recordings that cover a wide variety of topics within FASD including FASD and cannabis, FASD prevention, supporting parents raising children with FASD and more.
www.fasdinfotsaf.ca/webinars.
Recreation and Wellness Programs of SCDS
The team introduces the monthly Recreation and Wellness Calendar of Events, which contains information and details for all group activities at Sunbeam. It can be found on the Sunbeam Community website here:
www.sunbeamcommunity.ca/recreation-wellness-program
These programs are eligible for Passport funding for adults 18 and older, and are also available as fee-for-service options for children aged 12 and up.
For more information and registration, please contact the Recreation & Wellness department via phone: 519-893-6200 (ext. 1211) or email: recreation@sunbeamcommunity.ca
DSO Central West
DSO CWR is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, is one of nine DSO’s in Ontario and is administered by Sunbeam Community and Developmental Services.
What services can you apply for?
There are many different services offered across the province. Some of the services that may be available in your area include:
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- housing supports
- respite for your caregivers
- supports to help you take part in the community
- specialized and clinical supports
- Adult Protective Service Worker Program
- Passport program
Please check their website, www.dsocwr.ca, for more information.
Community Resources
We want to provide an informative resource that will be a useful guide for you. Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre does not necessarily endorse the information contained in this Update. The purpose is to provide information to the community. It is up to the reader to decide what is useful for them. We make every effort to ensure that our information is accurate and relevant. We apologize for any errors or omissions that occur.
AccessOAP
Intake Organization to connect you with autism programs and services available to your family through the Ontario Autism Program.
If you have questions about the New Access-OAP, how to create an account or the Ontario Autism Program visit these websites:
Autism Ontario Calendar of Upcoming Events
Autism Ontario helps all individuals with autism and families in their communities have access to meaningful supports, information, and connections so they are equitably and seamlessly supported across their life course.
www.autismontario.com/events
Groups and Workshops at Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health
Groups and workshops offered by Camino Wellbeing+ Mental Health connect people who share similar goals and experiences to learn about a variety of topics to foster their wellbeing and mental health.
• Just Breathe (9-11 years)
July 9 to Aug 27, 6pm to 7pm
• Trauma Informed Parenting Workshop Series for parents
June 19 and 26, 9:30am to 12pm
• Extinguish Your Fire ((6-8 years)
July 8 to Aug 26, 5pm to 6pm
• Dreamers to Success (10-12 years)
July 8 to Aug 26, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
• Activity-based Wellbeing Group for Newcomer Youth
July 7 to 30, 1 pm to 3 pm
Groups are ongoing sessions, typically meeting weekly for about 8 weeks. Workshops are one-time events focused on specific topics.
Please visit their website at www.caminowellbeing.ca/groups-workshops for details.
To register for any group or workshop, please email groups@caminowellbeing.ca or call 519-743-6333.
Disability and Estate Planning (2026 Annual Update) Webinar
Evening Session: Wednesday, June 24th at 7:00 PM EST
Daytime Session: Thursday, June 25th at 12:00 PM EST
Bring your questions and join Ken and his team as they share key updates on recent and upcoming changes in special needs and disability estate planning.
TOPICS INCLUDE:
• ODSP benefits & increases.
• Canada Disability Benefits
• Disability & Caregiver tax credits
• RDSPs and how they can grow to $700,000
• Wills and Henson Trusts
• Probate Applications
• Lifetime Benefit Trusts for RRIFs
• Guardianships vs. Power of Attorney explained
• Adult dependent survivor pension planning (OMERS, OTPP, OPG, WSIB)
The recorded webcast will be sent to all registrants after the event.
Community Outreach & Needs Assessment Survey Autism & Neurodiversity Family Support Program of Black Afri-Can Youth Organization (BAYO)
Building on the success of their previous Autism Awareness & Family Support Program, BAYO is expanding its efforts through the Autism & Neurodiversity Family Support Program to better support Black and African families raising children with autism, neurodivergent needs, developmental disabilities, and other exceptionalities.
As part of this expansion, BAYO is launching a Community Outreach & Needs Assessment Campaign to better understand community experiences, identify service gaps, measure the impact of our existing programming, and guide the development of future supports and services. They are committed to ensuring that the voices of families help shape the next phase of this growing initiative.
The Community Needs Assessment Survey is now available on the BAYO website at www.bayo.ca, and they are encouraging families, caregivers, and community members to participate and share their experiences.
For more information, please contact BAYO at blackyouthwr.org@gmail.com or visit their website at www.bayo.ca
South West Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC)
SOAHAC has a wonderful line up of programs for children and caregivers with children 0-6.
For more information, please contact at 226-476-3672 or awarren@soahac.on.ca. Check their website: www.soahac.on.ca
New Passport Program Claims Deadline Guide
What’s Changing?
Starting March 31, 2027, there will be a deadline to send your Passport claims for reimbursement.
Know the Deadline
You have 12 months after each fiscal year ends to send in your claims. A fiscal year runs from April 1 of one year to March 31, of the following year – for example, April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026
Example: If you spent money between April 1, 2026 and March 31, 2027, you must send in your claim by March 31, 2028. These claims must be eligible under the passport program.
See the flyer for more information:
Go to https://passportfunding.ca for more information, contact your local passport agency or call 1877-993-8885 ext. 422 for help with filling claims.
Intro to the RDSP
A Webinar offered by P4P (Planning For Partners)
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a made-in-Canada, long-term savings vehicle designed specifically for individuals with disabilities.
What you will learn:
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- An understanding of the RDSP and potential government contributions.
- Knowledge of the latest updates and changes to the RDSP.
- Tips and advice on free resources that can be consulted for additional information.
Wednesday, May 27, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Register Online
Monday, June 29, 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Register Online
School-Issue Parent Support Group of WRFN
This peer-led group provides support, advice and a safe environment for parents who have questions or concerns about school issues affecting their children with special needs. The WRFN (Waterloo Region Family Network) School Issues Support Group meets on the last Wednesday of each month during the school year. For more information, please contact Lisa Cook at lisa.cook@wrfn.info.
Special Education Resource Guide of Community Living Ontario (CLO)
Navigating Special Education in Ontario
A Guide for Students, Parents and Caregivers
This guidebook is intended to provide information for parents, caregivers, and community organizations that support students with disabilities. No matter your role, access to information is key when advocating for students throughout their learning journey.
Please check CLO’s website to see the Special Education Resource Guide
Summer Programs
Registration Dates for Summer Programs are now open!
CAMBRIDGE
• Wednesday, June 17, 7 a.m.- Summer aquatic programs
KITCHENER
• Summer 2026: Tuesday, June 9 at 8:30 a.m.
• Fall 2026: Tuesday, August 18 at 8:30 a.m.
WATERLOO
• June 2 – summer programs and classes
• June 5 – fall sports leagues
• June 16 – swim lessons and leadership
The City of Cambridge
Adapted Programs
Adapted programs are for children with disabilities. These smaller, flexible programs provide higher staff support and connect participants with peers who share similar interests and abilities.
• Sunblast & Imagination Station: An inclusive summer day camp for children ages 4–12 with exceptionalities, offering outdoor activities, games, sensory play, and arts and crafts. Programs run daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are led by trained inclusion facilitators with a reduced staff-to-camper ratio of 1:4.
• Adaptive Sport Fundamentals: This registered adapted program helps participants develop fundamental movement skills—such as running, throwing, catching, and jumping—through structured sports and low organized games. Classes are modified for all abilities and are open to participants ages 6–12 and 13–20.
• Adapted Leisure Swim offers a fun, supportive, and supervised open swim for children, youth, and adults with diverse abilities. This sensory-friendly environment features no music and whistles used only in emergencies. The diving board, spa, and sauna are available, with two lanes open for lap swimming. See our Swim Schedules page for more details.
The City of Kitchener
This summer, families will experience a refreshed camp model designed to create more engaging, age appropriate experiences for every child. Camps will now be organized by birth year, allowing staff to plan activities that match each group’s developmental stage and interests. Together, these changes support stronger peer connections, more meaningful activities, and a better overall camp experience for kids of all ages.
• Little Explorers (born 2020-2021)
• Junior Explorers (born in 2017-2019)
• Adventure Camp (born in 2014-2016)
• Swim Everyday Camp (born in 2013-2018)
• Specialty Camps (born in 2013-2019)
Inclusion Camp (for children and youth with disabilities)
All camps are built around participants’ interests. Campers will enjoy games, guest speakers, crafts, and swimming, while building friendships, developing life skills, and growing in confidence in a fun, supportive, and accessible environment.
Explorers
Age: 5-8 years
Week available: July 20-24, 2026
Location: Williamsburg Community Centre
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (no before/after care)
Cost: $180.40
Explorers is a summer camp designed for children ages 5 to 8 who have a special need and/or disability and do not require one-to-one support.
This program offers a fun, structured, and inclusive camp experience filled with engaging activities, including arts, sensory play, sports, games, and nature exploration.
With a low staff-to-participant ratio, Explorers provides a supportive environment that is responsive to each child’s sensory, emotional, and physical needs. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where campers can build confidence, make connections, and enjoy a safe summer full of meaningful experiences.
Youth Sense – Inclusive camp
Weeks available: July 27-31 and August 4-7 (short week)
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (no before/after care)
Age: 9-14 years
Location: Williamsburg Community Centre
Cost: $180.40 (short week $144.32)
Youth Sense is a summer camp program specifically developed for participants with a special need and/or disability who do not require one-to-one support.
This camp is for youth who thrive in a camp environment with a variety of activities, including arts, sports, games, guest speakers, and nature. The “staff to participant” ratio is low, allowing for increased opportunities to create a supportive camp environment that meets the sensory, emotional, and physical needs of the participants. Participants will get the opportunity to help design the activities and our staff are specifically trained to work in a supportive camp environment.
It’s all about YOUth camp
Weeks available: August 17-31 and August 24-28
Age: 13-17 years
Location: Stanley Park Community Centre
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (no before/after care)
Cost: $180.40
It’s All About YOUth Camp is designed for youth ages 13-17 with a special need and/or disability. Campers will participate in a variety of activities, including sports, crafts, and cooperative games, in a supportive camp environment that meets participants’ sensory, emotional, and physical needs. Activities are designed with the interests and abilities of participants and will encourage building friendships, social skills and life skills.
Links to Community Workshops and Activity Guides Summer 2026
Splash Pads in Waterloo Region
There are splash pads and water play areas in different parks and other areas all around Waterloo Region. Most are open daily and free to use whereas some of these are fully accessible.
Here are the lists of splash pads and accessible splash pads:
Cambridge
Riverside Park Address: 49 King St W, Cambridge, 519-740-4681
Churchill Park, 200 Christopher Dr, Cambridge, 519-740-4681
Soper Park, 120 Shade St, Cambridge, 519-740-4681 ext. 4214
Kitchener
Kitchener’s splash pads open May 29. They will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Ten splashpads and water play features in Kitchener:
• Breithaupt Park, 806 Union Street, 519-741-2502
• Carl Zehr Square, 200 King Street West (open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
• Centreville Chicopee, 141 Morgan Avenue, 519-741-2490
• Doon Pioneer Park, 150 Pioneer Drive, 519-741-2641
• Kingsdale, 78 Wilson Avenue, 519-741-2540
• McLennan Park, 901 Ottawa Street South
• RBJ Schlegel Park, 1664 Huron Road
• Vanier Park water play feature, 335 Vanier Drive, 519-741-2345
• Victoria Park, Courtland Avenue West, 519-741-2345
The splash pad at Chander Mowat Community Centre is currently under construction. Check back for more information on when it will reopen.
Waterloo
Waterloo Splash pads are open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer months.
• Waterloo Park splash pad – open June 1 to Labour Day
• Albert McCormick Community Centre splash pad – open June 1 to Labour Day
• Eastbridge Green splash pad –open June 3 to Labour Day
• Blue Beech Park splash pad – opening date to be announced
Only Waterloo Park splash pad has changing rooms.
Most splash pads have shaded seating nearby, but be prepared for sun.
Accessible Splash Pads & Parks in Waterloo Region RBJ Schlegel Park
1664 Huron Road
This modern facility features a fully secured, gated splash pad area with dedicated overhead shade structures. The adjacent playground features a partially rubberized play surface, a ramped structure, an at-grade accessible merry-go-round, tactile music stations, and inclusive saucer and adaptive swing seats. It also features accessible, universal, gender-neutral washrooms.
Waterloo Park West Splash Pad
Located off Father David Bauer Drive, this newer water play area features flush, zero-beach-entry water elements geared to all ages. The perimeter offers excellent accessible amenities, including a shade sail over a section of the pad, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, and a dedicated facility building with two universal, accessible washroom stall.
Splash Circle at The Boardwalk
235 The Boardwalk
An excellent choice for sensory-safe play, featuring a cushioned foam ground surface rather than standard concrete. The area has flat, zero-step entry, plenty of shaded seating, and two fully accessible public washrooms right by the play area.
Wilmot Splash Pad
Baden, ON
Located at the Wilmot Recreation Complex, this massive 2,800-square-foot outdoor water facility is explicitly designed to be fully wheelchair accessible. The property features wide concrete pathways, an adjacent barrier-free inclusive playground with musical elements, and accessible indoor/outdoor washroom facilities.
Bolender Park Splash Pad
Elmira, ON
This large, recently constructed park features flat, open-concept concrete water play areas safe for walking toddlers and wheeled mobility devices alike. The adjoining playground features a soft, protective foam base instead of traditional woodchips or sand, alongside accessible parking and public washrooms.
Summer Programs At Parents for Community Living (Passport Funding Eligible)
544 Bridgeport Rd., East, Kitchener
Boxing Fitness Group
Mondays 1:30 pm to 2:15 pm
This is an energizing and inclusive boxing workout designed for all abilities. A variety of boxing combinations to boost your heart rate, improve coordination, and build confidence – all while having a great time. Instructor Courtney Hughes, owner of MoveMEANT for All, specializes in inclusive fitness training for individuals with exceptional needs.
Baking (Mondays) and Cooking (Fridays) Groups
10 am to 12 pm:
A hands-on group focused on building confidence and independence in the kitchen and learning simple cooking and baking skills. Take home what you make.
Email maryannel@pclkw.org or sign up at https://mycommunityhub.ca
Youth Exploring Possibilities (YEP)
YEP Social at KWHabilitation
YEP at KW Habilitation offers classes and activities for youth aged 13-25. Classes and activities are designed to be engaging, interactive, and developed to meet the learning needs of young people with developmental disabilities.
Please note:
• All fees are covered in the cost of every activity. This includes GRT tickets, admissions to activities, supplies, and any food and beverages being offered.
• For youth under 18, YEP can be paid for by
Special Services at Home (SSAH) funding. For youth 18+, YEP can be paid for using Passport funding.
If program fees are preventing you from joining a KWH activity, fee assistance may be available.
Please contact: Amy Haynes, Supervisor of Community of Supports at KW Habilitation. 519-744-6307 ext. 1252
Belwood Lodge and Camp Registration
Belwood Lodge & Camp is a summer camp for children, youth, and adults with intellectual disabilities. Located in Belwood, Ontario, this camp offers an amazing and unique opportunity for individuals from age 7+. Camp offerings include adaptive and accessible activities such as swimming in an accessible pool, arts and crafts, sports, outdoor skills, drama games, talent shows, and dances, supported by enthusiastic counsellors and an on-site nurse. One-, two-, and three-week sessions are available, and the program is passport funding friendly. Registration and additional information are available by visiting belwoodlodgeandcamp.com, emailing office@belwoodlodgeandcamp.com, or calling 519-843-1211.
To better serve our community, we have moved to an online format in the fall of 2025.