Michael Jacques named new Board President of Community Living Ontario

At the September 2021 AGM of Community Living Ontario Michael was elected President of the organization that assists over 100 agencies in the province of Ontario. He is the youngest president and the first president with lived experiences, as he has an intellectually disability and autism, in the 68 years of the organization. Authentic inclusion is very important to Michael so he will continue to work to ensure that people with an intellectually disabilities will be included in their communities. 

Vote for me to present at SXSW EDU

I need your vote! My sister entered me into a conference SXSW EDU. It’s an annual event that fosters innovation and learning within the education industry. I’d really like the opportunity to share my story as an author with disabilities who is advocating for a more inclusive world. And this must start in our schools. http://panelpicker.sxsw.com/vote/107719

Here's My Book...in French!

I wanted to have my book in another language. So Here’s My Book...in French! You can purchase it on the Apple Book store for $5.99. Enjoy. 

Je voulais que mon livre soit disponible dans une autre langue. Alors... Voici mon livre... en français! Vous pouvez l'acheter sur Apple Books pour 5,99 $. Bonne lecture!

Citizen of the Year Celebration

It was a packed house at the Old Town Hall in Fonthill to celebrate this remarkable achievement for Michael Jacques. He was overwhelmed by the support and recognition. It is clear Michael has made tremendous connections to people in his community and evident that he is making positive change in our world. It was an evening he will never forget. Read Michael acceptance speech here.

2019 Fonthill Citizen of the Year

The Fonthill and District Kinsmen have selected Michael Jacques as their 2019 Citizen of the Year. This is a huge honour and recognition for Michael and he will continue to share his story and perspective with the world to make positive change. “Michael’s courage, determination and commitment to volunteering makes our community a better place,” the Kinsmen’s Kevin Twomey said. “His passion to help others makes our world a better place and motivates us ordinary people to do more.” Read Full Article >

The Globe and Mail

On Saturday Feb 1st Michael was featured in the Globe and Mail. He was interviewed about his journey and success so far. Michael appreciate these opportunities as it helps to get his story in front of more people. The article also highlights the collaboration with his sister and the design of the book as the article appears in the Arts section of the Globe and Mail. Read Article >

Return to CHCH

Michael and his sister Kaila, were invited back to CHCH Morning Live in Hamilton to share some exciting updates. Annette Hamm is always interested in hearing what is next for Michael and getting the latest news. Michael spoke about the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, being appointed on MACSE which advises the Minister of Education on matters related to Special Education in schools and how many books he’s sold. It’s always wonderful visiting CHCH – everyone is very welcoming and supportive. Watch Interview >

Queen’s Commonwealth Trust

Michael was presented the opportunity to be featured on the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust (QCT) website. This international platform, organized through the British Royal Family, recognizes young adults making positive changes in their community. Michael’s story is shared amongst other change makers around the world.

Appointed to Minister’s Advisory Council on Special Education

Michael was recently appointed by the Education Minister to MACSE (Minister’s Advisory Council on Special Education.) It's a provincial council that advises the Minister on matters related to special education. This is another opportunity for Michael to share his voice and perspective with individuals that can make positive changes in Ontario.

Special Olympics Gala Limitless

Michael and his sister were invited to the Limitless Gala. The evening was shared with corporate and community leaders, Olympians, Celebrities, volunteers, and of course Special Olympic athletes. Michael gave a speech about what it means to be a Sobeys employee and Special Olympic athlete, as Sobeys was the sponsor for this years event. Michael met some remarkable people including the founder of Special Olympics Canada Dr. Frank Hayden, the Governor General of Canada Julie Payette, and the President of TSN Stewart Johnston, amongst many other amazing people. Watch Michael’s speech > 

DesignThinkers Conference

Michael and Kaila were invited to DesignThinkers, Canada’s largest graphic design conference. This was an amazing opportunity for Michael to get in front of a different kind of crowd. Michael was thrilled to share the stage with his big sister, who designed his book, because he knew this was a dream of hers. Michael was asked to select the charity for the conference, which he gladly put forth Special Olympics Canada. It was one of the largest crowds Michael has presented too. It was a very “cool and different” conference as Michael would say. Watch the presentation >

Niagara Coverage

In December, Michael was featured in the St. Catharines Standard and The Welland Tribune. He shared an update on his journey and expressed his gratitude. He also highlighted his recent international recognition. Michael is looking forward to 2020 and has been overwhelmed with the positive responses he is receiving while sharing his story.

Student Letters in the Mail

Michael usually only posts about news and events but he was so touched by a class of students that he wanted to share; Michael received many letters in the mail from St. George Catholic School in Crystal Beach. He learned they had been reading his book in their class and they wanted to write to Michael. The students even drew little pictures beside paragraphs to help Michael read their notes. Michael later surprised the students with a visit and thanked them for their kindness. Michael’s favourite audience is students because he hopes no child feels left out in school like he often did.

Laurier University – Might Hawks

In November Michael was asked to attend Laurier University as a guest speaker for a program called Mighty Hawks. Michael shared his story to university students who want to make a difference for people with challenges, specifically Might Hawks emphasizes that a developmental disability does not define the scope of one’s abilities. Michael is very fortunate to learn about these awesome students doing great work and was honoured to present.

OCASE (Ontario Council of Administrators of Special Education)

Michael spent the afternoon with Special Education staff with OCASE. These individuals work extremely hard for students with special education needs in their school boards. Michael was reminded of the great staff that worked with him when he was a student. Their support and encouragement motivated Michael to get his Secondary School diploma. 

Hopewell Children’s Homes

Michael spent two days in Guelph sharing his story/book with staff of Hopewell Children's Homes. The staff of this organization enthusiastically welcomed Michael to their professional development days. Great questions and many laughs were heard during his presentation. Before leaving the event they took a group picture. 

PenFinancial

On November 11, Michael spoke to the staff of PenFinancial, a truly local Credit Union, as part of their professional development day. Their commitment to the niagara community and support to individuals like Michael is very evident. Two of their branches reached out to Michael to sell his book. 

Aptus (Treatment Centre for Complex Disabilities)

Michael was the keynote speaker at the Aptus Treatment Centre for Complex Disabilities AGM in November . They were celebrating 40 years and Michael had a great opportunity to share his story/book with clients as well as staff. His presentation was well received and many questions were asked of Michael. 

Stamford Lioness Club’s Fall Rally

The Stamford Lioness Club held their Fall Rally in Niagara Falls and Michael had the opportunity to be the keynote speaker. The woman enjoyed Michael’s story and wanted to know more about his journey by asking thoughtful questions. They were very well prepared because at the end of the event they presented Michael with his most favourite pie…. Apple!  

Family Support Workers of Ontario Conference

Michael was in Collingwood presenting at the "Family Support Workers of Ontario" Conference. He enjoys speaking with workers who directly work with individuals who have challenges. It was a support staff that saw the potential in Michael and encouraged him to get his Secondary School Diploma.