Windsor-Essex Family Network & Resource Centre

The Windsor-Essex Family Network & Resource Centre is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families who have children or other family members living with disabilities. Registered under Business Number 894433507RR0001, the organization operates as a registered charity focused on empowering individuals and families affected by disabilities through information sharing, learning opportunities, mentoring, and community connections[3][5].

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families. It aims to provide emotional and practical support, promote inclusion, and foster a community where people with disabilities belong fully in neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and recreational spaces[2][5].

Activities and Services

Windsor-Essex Family Network offers a variety of programs and services tailored to families navigating the challenges of disability, including:

• Family-to-family linking, mentoring, and peer support to connect families with shared experiences[2][4].
• Workshops, learning seminars, and educational opportunities addressing inclusion, citizenship, school, learning, and other disability-related issues[2][4].
• Creation and distribution of innovative and practical resources to assist families on their journey[2].
• A resource lending library providing access to relevant materials and information[4].
• Advocacy and participation in committees and boards to provide a collective family voice influencing systems and policies[2].
• Collaboration with community partners committed to strengthening families affected by disabilities[2].

Community Impact

As a network of parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends living in Windsor and Essex County, the organization embraces a family-centered approach emphasizing "families helping families." This grassroots support strengthens individuals and their families, fostering empowerment through shared knowledge and mutual encouragement[2][5].

The organization values inclusivity and strives to ensure that people with disabilities are integrated into all aspects of community life. Members engage in volunteerism and advocacy to promote awareness and systemic change[2].

Membership and Advocacy

Windsor-Essex Family Network encourages membership participation to amplify its advocacy efforts. For the first time since 2008, the organization increased its membership fee in 2025 to support its expanding initiatives, while providing bursaries to ensure affordability and inclusiveness[1].

Recognition and Registration

The Windsor-Essex Family Network & Resource Centre is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity, complying with federal regulations to maintain transparency and accountability in its operations[5].

This organization plays a vital role in the Windsor-Essex community by connecting families, providing resources, and advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Its work exemplifies a sustained commitment to building supportive environments where every individual can thrive.