Opal Family Services

Opal is dedicated to developing and offering volunteer-driven support services to families who have a dependent with a disability, so that they may raise their love one(s) in a nurturing home and a community full of opportunities.  In January 1983, a group of 'concerned friends' decided something had to be done to support their friend, a mother of two intellectually disabled boys. This mother was in crisis due to the stress related to caring for her children with disabilities. Thus, a committee was formed to research the need of a relief program for parents who have a child with an intellectual disability. The need proved to be significant as there were no programs of this kind. The committee decided to focus on developing a program that would provide parents “out-of home” relief. Opal Family Services was incorporated as a charitable entity in 1984 as a means of providing respite for parents who have a child or adult dependent with an intellectual disability. Respite is defined as “an interval of rest or relief.” The OPAL name is derived from the opal gemstone, which is the symbol of hope.

Opal has Family Support Workers who offer support and provide access to respite services to 180 families and reach 214 adults and children with disabilities. Family Support Workers meet with families in their home, in the community, in the office, and by telephone to provide support in navigating systems and accessing services for children and adults with disabilities. We offer summer camps and programs, after-school care, as well as a teen group, adult drop-in group, and a caregiver support group.

Teen Group:

Opal offers a teen group every Thursday from 6-8pm at the Nashwaaksis Baptist Church. We also plan several outings throughout the year. Youth aged 12-19 are invited to attend and participate in a variety activities, outings, games, and crafts.

Adult Drop-In Group:

Another program that Opal offers is the Adult Social Group and it runs every Thursday evening from 6-8 at the Nashwaaksis Baptist Church. We invite adults aged 18 and up to attend and organize a variety of activities, outings, games, and crafts. The Adult Social Group is led by Jill, one of the Opal Family Support Workers and supported by a number of dedicated volunteers.

Opal Kids Club:

Opal also offers, Kids Club, an after-school program that runs daily from school dismissal to 5:30pm at 245 Westmorland Street and 104 Edgewood Drive. We invite you to contact our director (Erica Young) for more information regarding registering your youth in our Kids Club. We organize a variety of activities, outings, games and crafts. The Kid Club is led by a number of dedicated employees and supported by volunteers.