Celebrating Community Inclusion for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Released on October 14, 2014

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed October as Community Living Month.  This celebration is in recognition of the efforts of the staff and volunteers of the Saskatchewan Association for Community Living (SACL) in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.

“What was once a grassroots organization, based in Saskatoon, has grown into an organization that is widespread across many communities in our province,” Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said.  “Our government commends SACL for the work they do advocating for people with intellectual disabilities to be valued and included in their communities.”

“The SACL thanks the Government of Saskatchewan for proclaiming October Community Living Month,” SACL President Gloria Mahussier said.  “Community Living Month is about celebrating inclusion and inviting individuals into our community.  For individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families, the SACL provides support, facilitates employment, guides transition planning, connects families and empowers youth.”

Community inclusion is a priority area for the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy, which is scheduled to be released in the winter/spring of 2015.  The Strategy is expected to include a number of recommendations to support the inclusion of people who experience disabilities. 

“Our government appreciates opportunities to collaborate with SACL to address issues related to community inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities,” Harpauer said.  “SACL is one of many organizations helping to make Saskatchewan the best place in Canada to live for people 
with disabilities.”

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For more information, contact:

Brennen Schmidt
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brennen.schmidt@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-519-9702

Travis Neufeld
SACL
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-955-3344 Ext: 128
Email: travis.neufeld@sacl.org