CAFFI Community Support Network makes merry

December 4, 2025 · 0 Comments

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

This past weekend, Caledon Area Families for Inclusion (CAFFI) Community Support Network held their third annual Christmas Holiday Social.

The Community Support Network focuses on creating social connections for families while advocating for children and adults with differing abilities in Caledon, with a particular focus on the transition to adulthood.The Network welcomed both families, and the holiday season, with games, crafts, movies, music, and a special visit from both Mr. and Mrs. Claus, who added to the lineup of entertainment for the families.

Mike Brunetto, with the Community Support Network, shared that participation continues to grow, welcoming new families and strengthening existing relationships.

“Our network’s annual Christmas event continues to remind us that we are slowly but surely reaching the hearts of families that have similar challenges, and coming together has now become a traditional celebration,” says Brunetto.

Their leadership team plans and advocates “tirelessly”, he says, and extends a heartfelt thank you to the extended families and volunteers who help make these events successful and memorable.

“On the advocacy side, we have come a long way in advancing our partnerships with local businesses, community services, and partners in education. Our gratitude is extended to our Council members for their ongoing support and recognition”.

The Community Support Network, in partnerships, shares a vision that includes a daytime recreational and life skills program designed for young adults 18+ who are preparing to transition out of the school system and into the community.

Brunetto shares that these efforts aim to prioritize those with complex and exceptional support needs, “a gap in the community for quite some time.”

“There are evolving connections that we are developing with the Town Parks and Recreation, to pilot some of these ideas, that actually prioritize and augment services to those who have multiple exceptionalities. By doing so, we strengthen our subject matter expertise, creating community living that strives to leave no one behind.”

Another aspect of the celebration this weekend, Brunetto shared, was to raise awareness of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd.

This observance aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.

“We are working to model this as a community in a cohesive manner,” says Brunetto. “It’s also an honorable deed for everyone, not for some. We are very fortunate, given there is already so much goodness that so many people and organizations do in our community to build on.”

He shared that from the caregiver and parent perspective, they continue to “open the door to those invested in this journey, to join the conversation, where our families can devote their time and commitment in supporting one another.”

To learn more on how to join the conversation and upcoming events, visit the website at www.cafficonnect .ca