Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services

Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services, Disability service, 2749 Kingsway Drive, Kitchener, ON.

Dedicated for 65 years (and counting!) to enhancing the quality of life for persons in Waterloo Region living with Autism, or diverse developmental & physical disabilities.

The Hospital Care Program came about when the Sunbeam team recognized that hospital stays could be overwhelming for the ...
11/05/2025

The Hospital Care Program came about when the Sunbeam team recognized that hospital stays could be overwhelming for the individuals we support, especially when familiar support people weren’t available to help communicate and advocate for their needs. By having Sunbeam staff accompany individuals we support while in the hospital, it provides a familiar, reassuring presence which makes a world of difference in improving the hospital stay experience.

It can be challenging for hospital staff to fully understand each person’s preferences, routines, and communication styles. The essential support provided by a Sunbeam staff member helps with improved outcomes and a timely return home.

The Hospital Care Program is an unfunded, collaborative initiative that provides the people we support with a continuity of care, familiarity with home and advocacy when they face a hospital stay.
Every donation will help Sunbeam to ensure that the people they support will never face a hospital stay alone.

Your gift allows our Hospital Care team to be there, offering comfort, communication, and support when it’s needed most.
Donate today and help us continue to bring dignity, safety, and compassion to every bedside.

https://sunbeamcommunity.ca/donate/

Sunbeam’s Recreation & Wellness program is heading to the islands for our next month of activities, and we can’t wait to...
11/03/2025

Sunbeam’s Recreation & Wellness program is heading to the islands for our next month of activities, and we can’t wait to share the sights, sounds, and spirit of Jamaica! 🇯🇲

From lively music and cultural celebrations to themed crafts and wellness activities, we’ll be exploring what makes Jamaica so vibrant and unique. 🌞🎶

We’re bringing the colours, rhythms, and flavours of the Caribbean to life right here at Sunbeam!

Join the fun, sign up for an activity: https://sunbeamcommunity.ca/recreation-and-wellness-events/

Welcome, November! 🍁A new month is here, and with it comes plenty to look forward to at Sunbeam. This November, our Recr...
11/01/2025

Welcome, November! 🍁

A new month is here, and with it comes plenty to look forward to at Sunbeam. This November, our Recreation & Wellness program is taking a trip (no passport required!) as we celebrate the vibrant culture of Jamaica.

Plus, something sweet is on the way… we hope you like cookies!

Stay tuned for details and join us in making this month one filled with community, connection, and a little extra sweetness.

At Sunbeam, home is belonging, safety, and community. Cornridge House, one of Sunbeam’s community group homes in Waterlo...
10/29/2025

At Sunbeam, home is belonging, safety, and community.

Cornridge House, one of Sunbeam’s community group homes in Waterloo Region, has been part of our organization’s story since the 1990s. Like all of our homes, Cornridge was established to move beyond institutional models and into warm, community-based living environments.

Today, residents at Cornridge House are supported to live with dignity, choice, and connection.

Every Sunbeam home is unique, but they all share the same goal: to create spaces where individuals with developmental disabilities and complex needs can thrive, build meaningful friendships, and be a part of the community.

Want to learn more about our Inclusive Living Programs? Visit: https://sunbeamcommunity.ca/inclusive-living-services/ -homes

Finding time for yourself as a caregiver can feel impossible. That’s where Sunbeam’s Children’s Overnight Respite steps ...
10/23/2025

Finding time for yourself as a caregiver can feel impossible. That’s where Sunbeam’s Children’s Overnight Respite steps in, giving kids a safe, enriching stay and families a moment to breathe.

What it looks like:

Short overnight stays filled with trusted care, social activities, and therapeutic support—including seating assessments, Snoezelen room, and the therapy pool.

Options for fun and growth, such as joining in-person or virtual day-programs, scheduled outings, and access to helpful services.

A space where kids can make friends and feel connected, while caregivers recharge with confidence that their child is in caring hands.

Why it matters:
Respite isn’t just relief, it’s renewal. For children with developmental or medically fragile needs, it’s a chance to explore, connect, and thrive. For caregivers, it’s a rare and valuable pause.

For referral information:
Call (519) 741-1121 or email respite@sunbeamcommunity.ca to learn more.

This month, we're excited to shine the spotlight on someone who brings a whole lot of heart, history, and personality to...
10/22/2025

This month, we're excited to shine the spotlight on someone who brings a whole lot of heart, history, and personality to our community. Jim, a proud Newfoundlander who has been a part of Sunbeam for an incredible 36 years!

Jim was born on Bell Island, Newfoundland, and although he now resides in the Champlain home, his roots are still deeply tied to the East Coast. A true Newfoundlander at heart, Jim proudly shares his passion for Newfoundland culture. Whether it’s the food, the music, or the stories, he always lights up when talking about his beloved province.

One of Jim’s all-time favourite musical artists is Harry Hibbs, a Newfoundland legend known for his lively accordion tunes. You can often catch Jim humming along to classic Newfoundland songs.

When he’s not reminiscing about Newfoundland, Jim loves to go antique shopping, especially when there's a chance to find a hidden gem for his impressive beer bottle collection.

His favourite is Labatt’s Blue, of course! Jim’s room is decorated with a variety of beer bottles, and he’s also an avid collector of beer-branded memorabilia, including t-shirts, bottle caps, openers, and even artwork.

Jim’s love for all things beer-related doesn’t stop at collecting. He’s also incredibly curious about how it’s made. He loves touring different breweries, and some of his favourite visits include the Labatt’s Brewery in London, Willibald Farm Distillery and Brewery in Ayr, and London Brewing. Whether it’s learning about the ingredients, seeing the brewing equipment in action, or chatting with the staff, Jim is always excited to dive into the craft and science behind beer-making.

Another fun fact? Jim is a huge fan of Irving Oil! Whether it’s a product, a sign, or a collectible, Jim proudly shows his admiration for this iconic East Coast brand.

And here’s a unique fact that perfectly captures Jim’s love for Newfoundland: he wears two watches! One set to the time here in Ontario, and the other set to Newfoundland time. That way, he always feels connected to home, no matter where he is.

Jim’s passion for his heritage, his dedication to his hobbies, and his warm spirit make him a treasured member of the Sunbeam Community.

Staff Spotlight: Meet Sirri! Sirri joined Sunbeam just over six months ago as a Community Living Aide (CLA). In her role...
10/20/2025

Staff Spotlight: Meet Sirri!

Sirri joined Sunbeam just over six months ago as a Community Living Aide (CLA). In her role, she supports daily routines like meals, grooming, appointments, and goal-setting, always with compassion and care.

What does she enjoy most?

“The deep sense of purpose that comes from helping individuals live more independently while feeling supported.”

One highlight for Sirri was a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium.

“One of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve had as a Community Living Aide at Sunbeam was during our outing to Ripley's Aquarium. For two of the individuals I support, it was their very first visit—and the sheer joy they expressed made the entire day magical.

From the moment we stepped inside, they were smiling, gleefully laughing. They were completely captivated by the vibrant jellyfish, giggled at the playful movement of the big fish, and stood wide-eyed in front of the massive shark tunnel, pointing, and giggling every time a shark swam overhead.

What made it more special was seeing them engage with the environment in ways they hadn’t before pointing, sharing their reactions with others, and radiating pure happiness. It was a beautiful reminder of how powerful shared experiences can be in building confidence, social connection, and emotional well-being.

Today at Ripley's Aquarium wasn’t just a fun outing; it was a celebration of growth, joy, and the moments that make this work so deeply rewarding.”

Outside of work, Sirri is an explorer at heart. She is a beach lover, road trip enthusiast, and someone who loves meeting new people and discovering hidden gems.

We’re so grateful for the positivity and dedication Sirri brings to the Sunbeam community! 💛

Join us for FASD Fundamentals for Caregivers!A full day of interactive learning for parents and caregivers who live in t...
10/17/2025

Join us for FASD Fundamentals for Caregivers!

A full day of interactive learning for parents and caregivers who live in the Waterloo Region.

Learn how FASD impacts the brain and body, what it looks like in everyday life, and how to build accommodations for success at home and in the community.

📅 Tuesday, October 28, 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
💻 Virtual session — link provided upon registration

Register here: https://bit.ly/4qgeDj5

Hospital visits and stays are often a reality for the people we support, and they can be stressful for families to navig...
10/16/2025

Hospital visits and stays are often a reality for the people we support, and they can be stressful for families to navigate.

Parents and caregivers juggle work, other children, and daily responsibilities, and it’s not always possible to be present for every appointment or overnight hospital stay.

That’s where Sunbeam’s Hospital Care Program makes a difference. Our trusted Direct Support Professionals work alongside hospital staff and families, ensuring that individuals always have someone by their side who knows their needs, routines, and preferences.

Together, we bring comfort, safety, and advocacy into the hospital setting, so care is not only medical but also personal, dignified, and reassuring.

Learn more about our program and how you can support here: https://sunbeamcommunity.ca/sunbeam-hospital-care-program/

Client Feature: Meet Matt! ✨Matt joined our Youth Service Coordination program in April 2025, and he’s been making an im...
10/15/2025

Client Feature: Meet Matt! ✨

Matt joined our Youth Service Coordination program in April 2025, and he’s been making an impression ever since!

Full of character and always up for a good laugh, Matt loves being social and connecting with people in the Waterloo Region. This summer, he even showcased his passion for crocheting and knitting with his very own vendor stand at local festivals.

When he’s not crafting, you’ll often find Matt enjoying a cup of coffee, indulging in ice cream (not together, don’t worry), or spending Sundays at church.

Matt is also a proud advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community (q***r and still here) and for people with disabilities, always standing tall in who he is and inspiring others to do the same.

We’re so proud to celebrate Matt and the joy he brings to Sunbeam and our community! 💜

Are you or someone you support interested in learning more about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)?Join us f...
10/14/2025

Are you or someone you support interested in learning more about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)?

Join us for a free virtual presentation with speaker Jacqueline Fagan as part of our Speaker Series.

🗓 Thursday, October 23, 2025
🕛 12:00 – 1:30 PM
💻 Live on Zoom

We’ll cover:
-Updates to the ODSP application process
-Benefits and financial supports
-Understanding board & lodging vs. basic needs and shelter allowance
-Asset limits, gifts, and employment
-And more!

Register before October 21st
Online: www.sdrc.ca/workshops-and-training

Or contact us 519-741-1121 ext. 2201
Email: r.khanam@sunbeamcommunity.ca

We’re excited to introduce Jessica Bondy, a recent addition to Sunbeam’s Board of Directors!Jessica is the Chief Operati...
10/14/2025

We’re excited to introduce Jessica Bondy, a recent addition to Sunbeam’s Board of Directors!

Jessica is the Chief Operating Officer at Bondy & Associates, a government affairs and management consulting firm here in Waterloo Region. With deep expertise in operations, systems thinking, and team development, Jessica brings valuable insight to her role on the board.

Her career journey has spanned leadership in both the non-profit and education sectors, including serving as Executive Director at Oak Bridge Academy, Housing Director at House of Friendship, and over a decade in student services at the University of Waterloo.

Jessica’s contributions to the community and leadership have been recognized nationally and locally. She is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal and the University of Waterloo Alumni Achievement Award.

Passionate about health, education, and community systems, Jessica is eager to help advance Sunbeam’s mission and strengthen support for individuals and families across our region.

Thank you, Jessica, for your commitment to our Sunbeam family!

Address

2749 Kingsway Drive
Kitchener, ON
N2C1A7

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+15198936200

Website

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