HELMS (Health, Energy, Learning, Motivation thru Sports) is a collaborative project between the Ministry of Health's Healthy Communities Fund and six local agencies.  The purpose of HELMS is to connect individuals with developmental disabilities with community sports programs that they would not otherwise be able to access and to promote healthy living choices.

Community Living Quinte West has partnered with Community Visions and Networking, Pathways to Independence, Plainfield Community Homes, Community Living Campbellford/Brighton, and the YMCA to access community programs such as skiing, horse back riding, sailing, and "Y" activities. 

People attending the "Y"  are enthusiastic about having access to the pools, the exercise equipment, and the gym.  There are approximately 90 individuals and their support staff attending activities at the "Y" in Trenton, Belleville, and Brighton. 

Skiing at Batawa Ski Hill has just finished.  In seven weeks 17 individuals, most of whom had never been on skis before, learned the basics of how to walk on skis, how to stop, and how to snowplow down the slopes.  All of the skiers received their first level skills pins, some their second level pins and one even earned his third level pin.  Everyone was disappointed that the snow season was over but faces lit up when they were told the program would run again next year. 

We are anticipating sailing out on the Bay of Quinte with Quinte SailAbility.  We are planning two days of sailing for approximately 24 individuals. If there are openings some individuals will be signed up to take sailing lessons.  There is also a rumour that we may be able to offer golf.  The summer is heating up.