OACAO Community Spirit Award to Ursa Major

By Paul Forman

Having existed for a little over two years now, Kingsville’s Ursa Major Learning Support Centre has been formally recognized by the Older Adult Centres’ Association of Ontario for all of their exceptional efforts that have enhanced the lives of local older adults and adults with disabilities.

Nominated by the Kingsville Community Centre for the Community Spirit Award, Program Director Kim DeYong had only great things to say about the winning organization.

“Ursa Major stands out for its unwavering advocacy and services, demonstrating a deep understanding of accessibility needs,” said DeYong. “Through their impactful initiatives, Ursa Major has made a profound difference in the lives of those they serve. They have created a supportive, vibrant community where older adults and adults with disabilities can form lasting relationships and experience a stronger sense of belonging.”

“Winning the award was such a surprise,” said Ursa Major’s Executive Director Vanessa Young-Tome. “It has a lot of meaning for us as people from all angles supported us, including parents, businesses, community partners and the town itself. By assisting with many social events, our members have received such a sense of pride by being seen and heard, and by being part of something bigger.”

With their work skills Little Bear Cafe scheduled to close on December 23, Young-Tome indicated that the support centre is looking to expand further into the community and are seeking out businesses that can help their members enhance their competencies. 

“We’re asking for help so that our members can improve their social skills and build upon becoming more independent,” she said.