In the Mix

By Connie Jia

In an effort to include more people with disabilities in community life, several staff members of Community Living Toronto started The Mix Community Club one year ago. “The inspiration for starting our club came from the lack of social inclusion and integration that people with disabilities experience in mainstream community,” says Jaime E. Castro, club president. “Our name describes it all – we are a place for the whole community to come and ‘mix it up’ socially.”

The club is the only non-profit social club in North America that gives people with disabilities the chance to contribute towards entertainment for all. The club has become very popular, with as many as 300 people – with and without disabilities – attending its events, which include karaoke parties, live shows, games and dances. More to the point, as the club’s website cheers, it’s “the best party in town!”

On the last Friday of every month, the club invites musicians and entertainers to perform for the community. It also organizes annual events, such as exciting Community Idol competitions and Latin and Gospel Fests. Castro says, “You can join the club by simply dropping into one of our events.” Admission is $5, and volunteers and donors are welcome.

The club organizers have also started offering free workshops to other groups, including community living organizations, community clubs, churches, schools, businesses and non-profit organizations, to share its ideas for improving inclusion.
For more information, contact Jaime Castro at 416-439-8813 or visit www.mixcommunity club.com.