Traverse Independence

We want to share a friendly reminder that National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is one week away.

To show our support and commitment to honouring the survivors of residential schools, their families, and Indigenous communities, we encourage everyone to wear an orange shirt on September 30th.

Orange Shirt Day is an opportunity to reflect, learn, and recognize the lasting impacts of residential schools while supporting the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.🧡

September is Concussion Awareness Month🧠

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Education, prevention, and early recognition are key to recovery.

✅ Myth: You must lose consciousness to have a concussion.
✅ Fact: Fewer than 10% of concussions involve loss of consciousness.

Know the signs: headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, sensitivity to light/noise, sleep changes, and mood shifts.

Prevention tips:
• Wear helmets and seatbelts
• Use proper sports techniques
• Strengthen muscles and improve balance
• Remove fall hazards at home
• Protect young children

If you suspect a concussion: Recognize it, get medical attention, and follow a gradual return to activities.

🌍 Waterloo Region Health Services Night 2.0
New to Canada or looking to learn more about local health services? Join us for an evening of information, resources, and community connections.

📅 October 1, 2026
🕕 6:00PM to 8:00PM
📍 KW Multicultural Centre, Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation
Learn about health care access, vaccines, dental care, food supports, and more!

Our clients had an amazing time at Camp Dawn! From rock climbing and sledge hockey with the London Blizzard team to crafts, dancing, and fun caricatures, there was something for everyone to enjoy. 🧗🏒🎨

A big thank you to Meat Kandy for generously donating the food truck, and to everyone who helped make the pool and cabana party such a memorable experience.

The smiles, laughter, and friendships made are memories that will last a lifetime!❤️ Camp Dawn

Traverse Independence is proud to support stronger, more connected communities.🤝

The System Transformation Team (STT) brings together more than 40 organizations, healthcare providers, community partners, and people with lived experience to improve mental health, addictions, and acquired brain injury supports across Waterloo Region.

Together, they are working to make services easier to navigate, better connected, and more responsive to community needs.
Learn more about how collaboration is creating positive change for individuals and families:
safeandwellwr.ca/mental-health-needs/

At Traverse Independence, we celebrate the power of rehabilitation to help individuals regain independence, build confidence, and achieve their personal goals. Rehabilitation is more than recovery. It is about creating opportunities, overcoming challenges, and empowering people to live their best lives.

Today, we recognize the dedication of rehabilitation professionals, caregivers, families, and the individuals whose determination inspires us every day.

Join us in celebrating the life-changing impact of rehabilitation and the strength of those on their journey toward greater independence.

Today is Rehabilitation Day!

OSOT joins organizations across Ontario in recognizing the people, programs, and partnerships that make rehabilitative care possible. We’re proud to celebrate occupational therapists, occupational therapist assistants, and the many rehabilitation professionals who make meaningful participation in everyday life possible.

Materials and information courtesy of the Rehabilitative Care Alliance: https://rehabcarealliance.ca/rehabilitation-day-2026/

Indigenous Health & Cultural Safety

We ask that everyone please consider attending this important and thought-provoking Grand Rounds session with Dr. Nel Wieman, who will explore Indigenous health, cultural safety, and the ongoing impacts of colonization and racism on the mental wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples.

During this session, participants will learn about:
✅ Dispelling preconceived notions and stereotypes
✅ Tools to create culturally safe environments
✅ Contemporary experiences of racism
✅ Practical approaches and tools developed to standardize cultural safety practices across BC.
📅 Wednesday, September 23rd, 2026
🕛 12:00PM - 1:00PM
💻 Microsoft Teams

"It starts with us - creating a healthcare system where everyone belongs."


KW4 OHT Waterloo Regional Health Network - WRHN

🚨 New Team Member Alert!🚨

Everyone, meet Benson! 🐾

This adorable new puppy belongs to our staff: Sarah & Simon and he quickly stole everyone's hearts with his puppy charm, wagging tail, and endless cuteness.

Thanks for stopping by and brightening our day, Benson. We can't wait for your next visit!

Friendly reminder:
Our Opportunity Centre (450 Westheights Dr.) is closed today (Wed. September 9th) for staff development day.