August 18, 2022

For Immediate Release

Centre for Community Inclusion Block Party
Bringing Community Together Through Partnerships

(Edmonton, Alberta): Saturday, August 20, 2022 celebrates the community partnership between Winnifred Stewart, ABC Head Start Society, and Community Options with a neighborhood block party. The event will be located at 11130 131 Street from 11:00 am – 2:00pm and will feature family activities, music, food and entertainment.  The Block Party is a free event for anyone attending, and over 200 guests are expected throughout the day.

During this fun family-friendly event, the organizations will unveil their new sign, signifying the official renaming of the Winnifred Stewart Building built in 1953 – formerly the Winnifred Stewart School for Children with Developmental Disabilities, to the Centre for Community Inclusion – A Winnifred Stewart Collective.

The renaming of the building celebrates the comprehensive services offered to people with disabilities that are now provided within it’s walls, while honouring the rich history of Winnifred Stewart and the impact the organization, and it’s founder (and namesake) had throughout Alberta and beyond.

From its origins as the first school for children with development disabilities in Canada, Winnifred Stewart has been supporting adults and families in the Edmonton region for over 69 years.  Today, Winnifred Stewart provides home supports, community recreation and employment and volunteer opportunities to over 200 adults with diverse abilities.  

Over the past 37 years, ABC Head Start Society has grown from a single location serving 10 children and families to a comprehensive family support, early learning and community program, working with over 1500 families each calendar year at various locations through the Capital Region. 

Community Options believes in offering children and families an inclusive experience to develop their full potential, regardless of their abilities. For over 40 years, they have been supporting the diverse learning needs of children and families through provision of high quality, inclusive early childhood education, early intervention, childcare, family supports and community initiatives. 

The partnership and co-location have helped enhance the diversity and available resources to families and individuals, but more importantly, better integration of lifelong supports for Albertans and Edmontonians with diverse abilities. It allows for collaboration in funding opportunities and increased efficiencies for all three organizations.

Guests interested in attending can RSVP at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/centre-for-community-inclusion-block-party-tickets-323499605027

Media inquiries may be directed to:

Candace Smallwood

Director of Fund Development & Communications

Winnifred Stewart Association

11130 131 Street

Edmonton, AB T5M 1C1

T. 780-453-6707 ext. 246

E. CandaceS@wsaf.ca

Jamie Cordobaa

Fund Development Manager

ABC Head Start Society