Summer Highlights
This summer, Council members have been actively leading and inspiring across the province! In June, they presented to the CLO Board, sharing their experiences in the Train-the-Trainer program and their work on inclusive meeting practices. In July, they brought that same energy and insight to CLO staff during a Learning Circle session. These presentations showcased the Council’s growing leadership and their commitment to empowering self-advocates and organizations alike.
As we look ahead, Council members are preparing for several exciting sessions at the upcoming CLO Conference.
Two Council Members Tie the Knot!
We’re excited to share some heartwarming news — Amber Taylor and Niko Pupella, two valued members of our Council, were married on June 28, 2025!
It was a beautiful day filled with joy, love, and celebration. Chris Beesley and Payal Khazanchi from CLO were honoured to attend and share in this special moment with the couple, along with their family, friends, and community.
Please join us in congratulating Amber and Niko as they begin this exciting new chapter of their lives. We wish them all the happiness in the world and thank them for continuing to inspire us with their warmth and commitment.
Council Members Present to CLO Team
On Wednesday, July 17, during CLO’s Learning Circle, Council members Judy Noonan, Dzidra Halar, and Brianne Taggart delivered a presentation on inclusive meetings to CLO staff.
They spoke about their involvement in the Train-the-Trainer program and the training they’ve provided to organizations and self-advocates. The presentation concluded with an engaging group activity that explored key elements of inclusive meetings.
Their insights showcased the Council’s leadership in fostering inclusion and inspiring others through lived experience. CLO staff expressed their appreciation for the members’ thoughtful contributions and ongoing commitment to advocacy.
Council Members Share Leadership Journey with CLO Board
On Saturday, June 28, Council members Judy Noonan, Dzidra Halar, and Brianne Taggart delivered a thoughtful and engaging presentation to the CLO Board. They provided an overview of the Train-the-Trainer program they participated in this past January, as well as their ongoing training focused on leading inclusive meetings for self-advocates and organizations.
The presentation offered Board members valuable insights into how the Council is building leadership capacity while demonstrating their commitment to sharing their experiences to benefit others. The Train-the-Trainer initiative is designed to empower Council members to become facilitators themselves, ensuring that knowledge, skills, and inclusive practices are shared widely with other self-advocates and organizations.
Board members expressed their appreciation for the Council’s dedication, insight, and the thoughtful approach they bring to advancing inclusion and leadership within the community.
Exciting Upcoming Council Events
The Council is gearing up for several exciting presentations at the upcoming CLO Conference — and you won’t want to miss them!
Council members will share their voices and lived experiences through powerful sessions, including one focused on What Belonging Really Means — a meaningful initiative that highlights the importance of belonging, accessibility, and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities.
In another session, two Council members will join Community Living Toronto’s Influencers in a joint presentation. Together, they’ll share highlights from the Train-the-Trainer program and offer valuable insights on how to make meetings more inclusive.
If you’re attending the CLO Conference, be sure to catch these impactful sessions. It’s a great opportunity to learn directly from Council members who bring lived experience, leadership, and passion to every conversation.
And don’t forget — the Council election will take place at the end of the conference! If you’re a self-advocate and would like to vote, make sure to register in advance to ensure your eligibility.
