Inspirations News Podcast Fri, 19 Jun 2026 17:01:51 -0400 http://www.inspirationsnews.com en © 2026 Inspirations News Podcast yes 11d03b39-dee1-51e7-af98-32a71ddfa813 Inspirations Newspaper episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Inspirations Newspaper https://storage.buzzsprout.com/jlfgz1yxotmncyf68w4es0vawdxr?.jpg Inspirations News Podcast http://www.inspirationsnews.com Mark Bergman Small Acts, Big Impact: Beechwood Elementary's Kindness Club Small Acts, Big Impact: Beechwood Elementary's Kindness Club In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we shine a light on something truly special happening at Beechwood Elementary: the Kindness Club. Host Mark Bergman sits down with Special Education Technician Maria Giannoumis and students Sofia, Jade, and Layla to explore how this student-led initiative is helping create a more caring and inclusive school environment.
Through heartfelt stories of friendship, empathy, and personal growth, we hear how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. From building confidence to creating connection, these students show us what it truly means to lead with kindness, one moment, one action at a time.

]]> In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we shine a light on something truly special happening at Beechwood Elementary: the Kindness Club. Host Mark Bergman sits down with Special Education Technician Maria Giannoumis and students Sofia, Jade, and Layla to explore how this student-led initiative is helping create a more caring and inclusive school environment.
Through heartfelt stories of friendship, empathy, and personal growth, we hear how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. From building confidence to creating connection, these students show us what it truly means to lead with kindness, one moment, one action at a time.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-19102752 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400 941 full false Motionball: Building Inclusion Through Sport Motionball: Building Inclusion Through Sport In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we explore the power of sport, community, and inclusion through the lens of Motionball Montreal.
We’re joined by athletes Domenic Morency and Robert Lemieux, who share their personal journeys, the confidence they’ve built through sport, and what being part of Special Olympics Canada means to them. Their stories are a powerful reminder that sport goes far beyond competition—it builds connection, purpose, and pride.
We’re also joined by Event Director at Motion Ball Montreal, Brittany Ladora, and Gina Faga, Domenic’s mother, who offers a heartfelt parent’s perspective on the impact of sport, inclusion, and community support.
Together, this conversation highlights what inclusion truly looks like—and how movements like motionball are helping create a more connected and compassionate community.

]]> In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we explore the power of sport, community, and inclusion through the lens of Motionball Montreal.
We’re joined by athletes Domenic Morency and Robert Lemieux, who share their personal journeys, the confidence they’ve built through sport, and what being part of Special Olympics Canada means to them. Their stories are a powerful reminder that sport goes far beyond competition—it builds connection, purpose, and pride.
We’re also joined by Event Director at Motion Ball Montreal, Brittany Ladora, and Gina Faga, Domenic’s mother, who offers a heartfelt parent’s perspective on the impact of sport, inclusion, and community support.
Together, this conversation highlights what inclusion truly looks like—and how movements like motionball are helping create a more connected and compassionate community.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-19008227 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 1129 full false The Power of Empathy: Voices from the Jackie Fisher Tour The Power of Empathy: Voices from the Jackie Fisher Tour On this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, Mark Bergman sits down with three inspiring keynote speakers from the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour:  Samara O’Gorman, Sara Levitt, and Maryam Ganni.

Each of these remarkable women shares a powerful story of resilience and purpose, using their personal journeys to connect with and inspire today’s younger generation.

Together, they reflect on the moments that shaped their journeys, the impact of sharing their stories with students, and what empathy truly means in today’s world. It’s an honest and uplifting conversation about empathy, resilience, and the power of using your voice to make a difference. 🎙️

]]> On this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, Mark Bergman sits down with three inspiring keynote speakers from the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour:  Samara O’Gorman, Sara Levitt, and Maryam Ganni.

Each of these remarkable women shares a powerful story of resilience and purpose, using their personal journeys to connect with and inspire today’s younger generation.

Together, they reflect on the moments that shaped their journeys, the impact of sharing their stories with students, and what empathy truly means in today’s world. It’s an honest and uplifting conversation about empathy, resilience, and the power of using your voice to make a difference. 🎙️

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-18816726 Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400 1197 full false Opening Doors to Independence: The Vision Behind Les Colocs de l’Ouest Opening Doors to Independence: The Vision Behind Les Colocs de l’Ouest In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we highlight Les Colocs de l’Ouest, a first-of-its-kind non-profit housing project in Montreal’s West Island. The initiative is creating 11 adapted apartments for young adults on the autism spectrum, offering not only a place to live, but a supportive environment that encourages independence and belonging.

The project is sponsored by la Fondation Autisme et Toit, which supports adapted housing initiatives across Montreal with a shared mission of promoting inclusion, respect, and quality of life.

Joining host Mark Bergman, are Jean-Rémi Mayrand, President and Co-Founder of Les Colocs de l’Ouest, whose son Lucas will be moving in soon, and Basil Favis, Chair of the Parents’ Committee, along with his son Christopher, who will also be among the first residents. Together, they share the vision and personal stories behind this impactful project.

Join them for their Valentine's Day 2026 Supper & Show Fundraising event! Details here: https://shorturl.at/5TKqs

]]> In this episode of the Inspirations News Podcast, we highlight Les Colocs de l’Ouest, a first-of-its-kind non-profit housing project in Montreal’s West Island. The initiative is creating 11 adapted apartments for young adults on the autism spectrum, offering not only a place to live, but a supportive environment that encourages independence and belonging.

The project is sponsored by la Fondation Autisme et Toit, which supports adapted housing initiatives across Montreal with a shared mission of promoting inclusion, respect, and quality of life.

Joining host Mark Bergman, are Jean-Rémi Mayrand, President and Co-Founder of Les Colocs de l’Ouest, whose son Lucas will be moving in soon, and Basil Favis, Chair of the Parents’ Committee, along with his son Christopher, who will also be among the first residents. Together, they share the vision and personal stories behind this impactful project.

Join them for their Valentine's Day 2026 Supper & Show Fundraising event! Details here: https://shorturl.at/5TKqs

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-18508896 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:00:00 -0500 1551 full false Mobility Cup Montréal: Sailing Without Barriers Mobility Cup Montréal: Sailing Without Barriers From August 25 to 29, Montréal welcomes the Mobility Cup—Canada’s international regatta for sailors with disabilities. Hosted this year at the Pointe-Claire Yacht Club, in partnership with the Association Québécoise de voile adaptée (AQVA), the event showcases not only competitive sailing but also resilience, independence, and the belief that anyone can sail.

In this episode, we’re joined by Paula Stone, Vice President of AQVA, who has been championing adaptive sailing for nearly three decades, and Marc Villeneuve, a longtime AQVA member and experienced Mobility Cup participant. Together, they share stories of the life-changing impact of adaptive sailing, and the camaraderie that defines the Mobility Cup.

Whether you’re a sailor, a sports fan, or simply curious about the power of inclusion, this conversation will leave you inspired—and maybe even ready to set sail yourself!

]]> From August 25 to 29, Montréal welcomes the Mobility Cup—Canada’s international regatta for sailors with disabilities. Hosted this year at the Pointe-Claire Yacht Club, in partnership with the Association Québécoise de voile adaptée (AQVA), the event showcases not only competitive sailing but also resilience, independence, and the belief that anyone can sail.

In this episode, we’re joined by Paula Stone, Vice President of AQVA, who has been championing adaptive sailing for nearly three decades, and Marc Villeneuve, a longtime AQVA member and experienced Mobility Cup participant. Together, they share stories of the life-changing impact of adaptive sailing, and the camaraderie that defines the Mobility Cup.

Whether you’re a sailor, a sports fan, or simply curious about the power of inclusion, this conversation will leave you inspired—and maybe even ready to set sail yourself!

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-17679623 Sat, 16 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0400 938 full false Drawing Connection: The Story Behind Ben’s Animals Drawing Connection: The Story Behind Ben’s Animals In this special episode, we explore Ben’s Animals, a stunning new documentary premiering June 28 on CBC and CBC Gem at 8pm. The film follows 23-year-old Ben Lachapelle, an autistic artist and passionate environmentalist whose deep connection to animals and nature shapes his powerful artwork—and his voice.

We speak with Ben, his mother Julie Lachapelle, award-winning filmmaker Evan Beloff, and composer Steven Atme, who take us behind the scenes of the documentary. Together, they reflect on the healing power of creativity, the journey of neurodivergence, and the bond between a mother and son navigating the world—through art.

Whether you’re an artist, parent, educator, or advocate, this episode is a celebration of inclusion, imagination, and the courage to be seen.

]]> In this special episode, we explore Ben’s Animals, a stunning new documentary premiering June 28 on CBC and CBC Gem at 8pm. The film follows 23-year-old Ben Lachapelle, an autistic artist and passionate environmentalist whose deep connection to animals and nature shapes his powerful artwork—and his voice.

We speak with Ben, his mother Julie Lachapelle, award-winning filmmaker Evan Beloff, and composer Steven Atme, who take us behind the scenes of the documentary. Together, they reflect on the healing power of creativity, the journey of neurodivergence, and the bond between a mother and son navigating the world—through art.

Whether you’re an artist, parent, educator, or advocate, this episode is a celebration of inclusion, imagination, and the courage to be seen.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-17366081 Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0400 912 full false Luca ‘Lazylegz’ Patuelli: Where Others See Limits, He Sees Potential Luca ‘Lazylegz’ Patuelli: Where Others See Limits, He Sees Potential In celebration of  la semaine québécoise des personnes handicapées, we’re joined by internationally acclaimed breakdancer, motivational speaker, and disability advocate Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli. Luca reflects on this year’s theme — “When we only see the difference, we lose sight of potential."

From defying expectations on the dance floor to empowering youth through his “No excuses, no limits” philosophy, Luca shares his powerful journey of turning perceived limitations into strengths, and what it really means to see the person, not just the difference.

Whether you’re a fan of dance, advocacy, or stories that shift your mindset, this episode will move you — literally and figuratively!

]]> In celebration of  la semaine québécoise des personnes handicapées, we’re joined by internationally acclaimed breakdancer, motivational speaker, and disability advocate Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli. Luca reflects on this year’s theme — “When we only see the difference, we lose sight of potential."

From defying expectations on the dance floor to empowering youth through his “No excuses, no limits” philosophy, Luca shares his powerful journey of turning perceived limitations into strengths, and what it really means to see the person, not just the difference.

Whether you’re a fan of dance, advocacy, or stories that shift your mindset, this episode will move you — literally and figuratively!

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-17267280 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0400 716 full false Beyond the Menu: St-Hubert Restaurants and Giant Steps Make Dining More Accessible Beyond the Menu: St-Hubert Restaurants and Giant Steps Make Dining More Accessible On this episode, we’re exploring a game-changing initiative at St-Hubert restaurants that’s transforming the dining experience for the autism community. With the help of Giant Steps, St-Hubert is setting a new standard in the restaurant industry with sensory-friendly spaces, comprehensive staff training, and a commitment to inclusive hiring.  

Joining host Mark Bergman to discuss this initiative are Josée Vaillancourt, Director of Communications for The St-Hubert Group and Director of the St-Hubert Foundation, Alex Duquette, a St-Hubert franchise owner (Des Laurentides) in Laval, and Alain Bessette, Inclusive Employment Initiatives Manager at Giant Steps.  

How did this collaboration come to life? What does an inclusive dining experience look like? And how is St-Hubert ensuring accessibility in both its restaurants and workforce? We’ll dive into all of it in this insightful conversation about the future of inclusivity in the restaurant industry.

]]> On this episode, we’re exploring a game-changing initiative at St-Hubert restaurants that’s transforming the dining experience for the autism community. With the help of Giant Steps, St-Hubert is setting a new standard in the restaurant industry with sensory-friendly spaces, comprehensive staff training, and a commitment to inclusive hiring.  

Joining host Mark Bergman to discuss this initiative are Josée Vaillancourt, Director of Communications for The St-Hubert Group and Director of the St-Hubert Foundation, Alex Duquette, a St-Hubert franchise owner (Des Laurentides) in Laval, and Alain Bessette, Inclusive Employment Initiatives Manager at Giant Steps.  

How did this collaboration come to life? What does an inclusive dining experience look like? And how is St-Hubert ensuring accessibility in both its restaurants and workforce? We’ll dive into all of it in this insightful conversation about the future of inclusivity in the restaurant industry.

]]> Buzzsprout-16911760 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1074 full false 🎶Celebrating Inclusion Through Music: The Shira Choir’s Inspiring Journey 🎶Celebrating Inclusion Through Music: The Shira Choir’s Inspiring Journey February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM), a time to celebrate the power of inclusion. This episode highlights the Shira Choir, a beloved Montreal choir that gives neurodivergent singers a space to shine.

Join us as we explore the choir’s impact, its growth, and the joy of music with:
🎵 Reverend Hazan Daniel Benlolo – Co-founder & Choir Director
🎵 Rebecca Bensimon – Choir Volunteer
🎵 Choir Participants – Yosef Robinson, Adena Schnarch & Robert Lemieux

Listen in for inspiring stories and find out how music creates a more inclusive world! 🎧

]]> February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM), a time to celebrate the power of inclusion. This episode highlights the Shira Choir, a beloved Montreal choir that gives neurodivergent singers a space to shine.

Join us as we explore the choir’s impact, its growth, and the joy of music with:
🎵 Reverend Hazan Daniel Benlolo – Co-founder & Choir Director
🎵 Rebecca Bensimon – Choir Volunteer
🎵 Choir Participants – Yosef Robinson, Adena Schnarch & Robert Lemieux

Listen in for inspiring stories and find out how music creates a more inclusive world! 🎧

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-16638986 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:00:00 -0500 1392 full false DisTheDis: Redefining Ability with Alessia's Journey DisTheDis: Redefining Ability with Alessia's Journey Meet Alessia Iglio, the inspiring force behind the DisTheDis movement. Diagnosed with dyspraxia and on the autism spectrum, she’s turned her personal challenges into a mission to redefine what it means to live with a disability. In this episode, Alessia and her dad Pietro share her journey of resilience and how she’s empowering others to see ability where others may see limits. Join us for a powerful conversation about overcoming adversity, changing perceptions, and embracing the power of ability.

]]> Meet Alessia Iglio, the inspiring force behind the DisTheDis movement. Diagnosed with dyspraxia and on the autism spectrum, she’s turned her personal challenges into a mission to redefine what it means to live with a disability. In this episode, Alessia and her dad Pietro share her journey of resilience and how she’s empowering others to see ability where others may see limits. Join us for a powerful conversation about overcoming adversity, changing perceptions, and embracing the power of ability.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-15762989 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0400 1008 full false Celebrating Neurodiverse Creativity at the Imagine Festival Celebrating Neurodiverse Creativity at the Imagine Festival Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of the Imagine Festival, happening on August 4th at the Dunany Country Club. Presented by 4 Korners, this inclusive, free arts and family-fun festival celebrates autistic and neurodiverse creativity, showcasing artists of varying abilities while offering fun for the entire family.

In this episode, we talk to one of the featured artists, Zach Reisman from Zach Designs, along with his mom Lorri Benedik. Zach shares his journey into the world of art, his experiences at the festival, and the joy he finds in creating.

We'll also be chatting with Jaime Bisaillon, the Neurodiversity Program Manager at 4 Korners. Jaime provides insight into the mission of 4 Korners and the goals of the Imagine Festival, emphasizing the importance of celebrating and supporting neurodiverse talent.

Tune in to hear about the inspiration behind the festival, the amazing artists involved, and what you can expect when you attend this fantastic event. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming episode that highlights the beauty of neurodiverse creativity and community spirit.


]]> Join us as we dive into the vibrant world of the Imagine Festival, happening on August 4th at the Dunany Country Club. Presented by 4 Korners, this inclusive, free arts and family-fun festival celebrates autistic and neurodiverse creativity, showcasing artists of varying abilities while offering fun for the entire family.

In this episode, we talk to one of the featured artists, Zach Reisman from Zach Designs, along with his mom Lorri Benedik. Zach shares his journey into the world of art, his experiences at the festival, and the joy he finds in creating.

We'll also be chatting with Jaime Bisaillon, the Neurodiversity Program Manager at 4 Korners. Jaime provides insight into the mission of 4 Korners and the goals of the Imagine Festival, emphasizing the importance of celebrating and supporting neurodiverse talent.

Tune in to hear about the inspiration behind the festival, the amazing artists involved, and what you can expect when you attend this fantastic event. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming episode that highlights the beauty of neurodiverse creativity and community spirit.


]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-15468422 Wed, 24 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400 794 full false The Story Behind Pigeon dans le Parc The Story Behind Pigeon dans le Parc What an incredible day at the grand opening of Pigeon dans le Parc in Hampstead Park! Listen, as Eve Rochman, Founding Director of Zera Café, Jonathan Dresner, owner of Pigeon Café, and Matthew Flanz, who works at Pigeon dans le Parc, chat with Mark Bergman about the café’s mission to blend great coffee with meaningful employment for neurodivergent adults. 

]]> What an incredible day at the grand opening of Pigeon dans le Parc in Hampstead Park! Listen, as Eve Rochman, Founding Director of Zera Café, Jonathan Dresner, owner of Pigeon Café, and Matthew Flanz, who works at Pigeon dans le Parc, chat with Mark Bergman about the café’s mission to blend great coffee with meaningful employment for neurodivergent adults. 

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-15372875 Sun, 07 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0400 446 full false Empowered Employment: Galileo's Social Integration Work Preparation Program! Empowered Employment: Galileo's Social Integration Work Preparation Program! 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.

]]> 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.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-14722598 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0400 1022 full false Canvas of Diversity: Exploring Artistic Expression at the JDAIM Vernissage. Canvas of Diversity: Exploring Artistic Expression at the JDAIM Vernissage. 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 and fostering meaningful connections!
Enjoy!

]]> 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 and fostering meaningful connections!
Enjoy!

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-14625946 Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:00:00 -0500 904 full false Back on Stage: The Return of I Can Dream Theatre with 'THE GODFATHER'S Wonderful Life'! Back on Stage: The Return of I Can Dream Theatre with 'THE GODFATHER'S Wonderful Life'! 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 of expressing oneself through acting.

]]> 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 of expressing oneself through acting.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-14407814 Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0500 980 full false Transforming Old Tech into Learning Tools with Huntingdon Adult Education Centre Transforming Old Tech into Learning Tools with Huntingdon Adult Education Centre 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.

]]> 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.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-14114535 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0500 923 full false Brewing Inclusion: The Café Soleil Story Brewing Inclusion: The Café Soleil Story 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.

]]> 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.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-13883145 Tue, 31 Oct 2023 14:00:00 -0400 1152 full false Musicians Rock Against Bullying! Musicians Rock Against Bullying! 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.  

]]> 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.  

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-13613268 Mon, 18 Sep 2023 14:00:00 -0400 699 full false First collaboration between the EMSB and Special Olympics Quebec! First collaboration between the EMSB and Special Olympics Quebec! 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!

]]> 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!

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-13118370 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:00:00 -0400 883 full false Life skills programs for young adults with neurodiverse challenges. Life skills programs for young adults with neurodiverse challenges. 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's President and Chair - Harriet Sugar Miller, Program Manager Matthew Selvin , and Adam Kleen - a participant who is directly receiving services from the foundation.

Enjoy!

]]> 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's President and Chair - Harriet Sugar Miller, Program Manager Matthew Selvin , and Adam Kleen - a participant who is directly receiving services from the foundation.

Enjoy!

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-12675771 Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1368 full false Meet two incredibly talented artists! Meet two incredibly talented artists! "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.

]]> "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.

]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-12291295 Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:00:00 -0500 1229 full false Discover Power Buddies MTL! Discover Power Buddies MTL! 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



]]> 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



]]> Inspirations Newspaper Buzzsprout-12156575 Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500 1229 full false Accessible Comedy in Montreal Accessible Comedy in Montreal Hear Entendre Quebec have announced the much anticipated return of their fully accessible comedy show Access Comedy, taking place on September 25th over at the Paradox Theatre. During this podcast, host Mark Bergman will talk to Executive Director Heidy Wager and comedian Abby Stonehouse about the show, and what accessibility looks like in 2022.

]]> Hear Entendre Quebec have announced the much anticipated return of their fully accessible comedy show Access Comedy, taking place on September 25th over at the Paradox Theatre. During this podcast, host Mark Bergman will talk to Executive Director Heidy Wager and comedian Abby Stonehouse about the show, and what accessibility looks like in 2022.

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