OIFN believes “in reflective practice and shared learning through a Community of Practice that engages people with disabilities, family members and/or loved ones, independent facilitators, and other allies, in a collaborative approach, to co-create knowledge and reflect deeply on principles and practice.” 

Though we initially imagined an in-person gathering in spring 2020 to aid that practice, this year has presented many changes in the world as we know it. OIFN regrouped after the COVID-19 outbreak, deciding to bring people together virtually. This Reflective Practice ...

Michael Nedolin, from a mid-sized eastern Ontario community, illuminates the universal quest for community and belonging. Michael shares his journey of exploring and connecting his passions with opportunities that his facilitator unearthed in his community.

Michael, at age 24, tells of his experience of building connections and relationships that started with his passion for tropical plants, animals, and Spanish music. His facilitator Emily began imagining local opportunities where Michael’s strengths would be valued and his passions supported. Emily succeeded in making ...

Marty West, 38, living in a small rural Ontario community, shares his path of self-determination in creating significant changes in his life. Marty’s journey has taken him from living in a nursing home to living independently in a supportive community.

It was early June 2015 when Diane, an independent facilitator from Facile met Marty at the Nursing Home. Marty shared that he was on every possible waiting list for group living in the region. Diane asked the question, “What are you ...

Danielle, Emily and Connie Snider, three adult sisters living in a mid-size urban Ontario community, share their path of transition in creating a successful move to living independently together in an apartment in the same neighborhood as their parents. This is a journey about three siblings and their parents, which began two years ago and expanded to extended family and friends during the last 6 months prior to their May 2016 move. Independent Facilitation was paramount in this transition process.

Finding ...

Isaac Esperanza, 21, lives in a small rural Ontario community withhis family. Together with his parents, Angel and Marie, and his independent facilitator, Belinda, they share the experience of renewed hope and building new community life with enhanced connections, increased confidence, and expanded interests.

The Esperanza family expressed their hope of growing more shared family interests and activities while enriching enjoyment and connections with one another and the community. Building a new connection and collaborative relationship with their facilitator Belinda helped ...