Amigos in the Community

The Community Program is for adults (aged 18+) with or without disabilities who are facing barriers to inclusion. Participants are welcome to join in monthly group activities, hosted by Heads Up for Inclusion. Through these gatherings,Β connections are made in the community, andΒ lasting relationships are built.

Our Community Values

We know that disability rights benefit everyone; disability rights are human rights.

We believe that people with and without disabilities can form mutually fulfilling and lasting friendships.

We understand that our differences are what make us strong and what they should be centered and celebrated.

The Benefits

Connect with others, and build lasting friendships based on mutual respect, common interests, and shared values.

Develop confidence, communication and social skills in an inclusive, accessible and supportive environment.

Belong to a community that celebrates difference, belonging and connection.

Young adults with barriers to inclusion benefit from relationships opportunities with peers in their community.

Young adults who would like to to take on a leadership role by connecting with peers learn that their efforts do make a difference in creating inclusive places!

It’s fun and accessible!

Community Amigos Program Events

Monthly Friday Gatherings

LIVE MUSIC NIGHT ✨🎀
Heads Up for Inclusion & the Community Amigos are bringing the vibes with a FREE live music evening featuring the incredibly talented Brennon Wasson! 🎸
Brennon is a long-standing local legend in the Peterborough music scene β€” known for his rich vocals and soulful acoustic guitar, this is a performance that will NOT disappoint. πŸ™Œ
πŸ“… Friday, March 20th, 2026
πŸ“ 270 Braidwood Avenue, Peterborough
πŸ•” 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Plus enjoy 🍹 mocktails, 🍿 snacks & πŸŽ‰ fun activities!
Come out and celebrate community, inclusion, and incredible music. Bring a friend β€” the more the merrier! πŸ’™
Supported by the Alternatives Community Program Services

E-mail our Programs Coordinators if you would like to join the fun with our Community Program

Art Series: Belonging Landscapes

Join us in sharing a creative space for people with and without disabilities to explore self-belonging and friendship through landscape and collage.

We are hosting a four-week art series at 175 George St. N., run by Em Farquhar-Barrie, from 4:00pm – 6:00pm. The sessions will run every Monday, from March 9th to March 30th.

Belonging Landscapes is a four-week art series exploring self-belonging and friendship through landscape and collage. Each session invites participants to create a new artwork rooted in reflection, symbolism, and gentle affirmation, while engaging in light collaborative moments that build steady, respectful connection. Em’s approach centers process over perfection, emotional safety, and the belief that friendship can grow through shared creative space.

The events are free to join, but registration is required.
Please contact us by phone or e-mail to register:

Phone: 705-876-0383

About the Facilitator: Em Farquhar-Barrie

Em Farquhar-Barrie (they/them) is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Nogojiwanong (Peterborough). Their mixed-media landscapes explore transformation, identity, and the connection between earth and spirit. A Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate from York University, Em holds a certificate in Cultural and Artistic Practices for Environmental and Social Justice. Em exhibits across Ontario and facilitates creative workshops that invite exploration, accessibility, and meaningful connection.

You can also follow Em’s art practice on Instagram @emfarbar

β€œ[Cody] broke down walls that he built up."

"Walls that were built from his peers who would treat him like he was β€œspecial” and ignore him or the ones who were downright mean. He let Peter [Connector] in and it has been nothing short of amazing.” - Gina Keller
Two young men with arms wrapped around each other are standing and smiling at the camera. They are standing on a bright blue basket ball court. Trees and residential buildings are seen in the background.
Peter & Cody

Matt & Kevin

“I am proud to say that I am a Connector in the Amigos program and have personally seen the difference the program makes in people’s lives. Heads up for Inclusion is an organization that does not only help individuals, but challenges expectations on what is possible for people with barriers. The experience of being involved with HUI is a constant reminder that a barrier is not a limitation, only a challenge to overcome.” –Β  Matt, Community Connector

Julia & Lydia

“My time as a community connector for the Amigos program has been rewarding and pleasant in many different ways. From the first visit I had with my amigo match Lydia, we had an immediate connection and could relate to many different things. During bus rides, we play games asking each other questions [and] Through this game we realized we both enjoy reading, watching some of the same movies and shows, spending time with our siblings and shopping! So far we have had trips to a painting class, mall, movie theatre and buffet lunch together and each visit we had a lot of fun and learned a lot about each other. I enjoy helping Lydia do things such as ride the city bus and practice skills for public transportation and prepare her to fully order for herself at restaurants and donut shops.” –Julia, Community Connector

Khidir's & his first fish

“What is amazing to hear is all the “firsts” that Khidir has been able to experience with a friend as a result of the program. Both Khidir and Calvin played Frisbee golf for the first time in July and really enjoyed it! Calvin took Khidir fishing and he caught his very first fish! We are proud to be partnered with New Canadians Centre and Fleming College.” – “Khidir’s story, published in the Fall 2017 Amigos Newsletter​

young male holds up first ever caught fish

Interested in joining our Community Amigos Program?

Amigo Connectors
Program participants can develop skills such as interpersonal communication, an empathetic understanding of others, employable skills, and expanded community awareness.

Amigos
Amigos mentees can develop a wide range of skills that can be taken with them into their adult life. Mentees can expect to gain confidence, independence, communication skills, learn vital transition-related skills, build friendships, and have fun!
Β 
Heads Up for Inclusion Community program seeks volunteers to make meaningful IMPACT in their community. You can also volunteer online with our portal community!

Have a question? Email us:

blake_kauer@headsupforinclusion.ca

laura_lombardi@headsupforinclusion.ca