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CVNQuinte (Community Visions & Networking Quinte), a long-standing leader in supporting adults with developmental disabilities across the Quinte Region, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Services with a Twist campaign. This exciting initiative aims to raise funds for innovative new services and will culminate in a Grande Finale celebration on March 15th at the Empire Theatre, featuring the world-renowned Famous People Players – Twist and Shout.

Founded in 1974, Famous People Players is an inspiring, non-profit musical theatre company that showcases black light puppetry performed by adults with developmental disabilities. In this visually stunning art form, performers dressed in black manipulate fluorescent puppets, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates ability and creativity.

Addressing a Growing Need

In Ontario, more than 50,000 adults with developmental disabilities remain on waitlists for essential services. Shockingly, approximately 3,000 new applicants join the list each year, yet only one-third receive the support they need. CVNQuinte is determined to respond to this growing demand by introducing a new and exciting program—CVNQuinte ADVENTURES.

Introducing CVNQuinte ADVENTURES

CVNQuinte ADVENTURES offers themed retreat experiences for adults with developmental disabilities, providing a much-needed opportunity to step away from their usual environments. Unlike traditional respite programs focused solely on family relief, CVNQuinte ADVENTURES prioritizes the interests and passions of adults, creating spaces for fun, learning, and connection.

These retreats will feature themes such as:

• Fishing trips
• Crafting workshops
• Food tours
• Festivals and cultural events
• Sports outings

Each adventure is designed to promote personal growth, friendship, and joy. It’s a chance for individuals to share meaningful experiences with peers, discover new interests, and take a break from their daily routines.

“For many adults with developmental disabilities, vacations or time away are not an option,” says CVNQuinte Executive Director Terri Korkush. “We wanted to flip the script. With CVNQuinte ADVENTURES, the focus is on providing enriching experiences tailored to the person, not just relief for families. It’s about them—their passions, their joy, and their right to experience something special.”

How You Can Help

The Services with a Twist campaign seeks to raise funds to bring CVNQuinte ADVENTURES to life and expand services for those in need. Every donation made will directly support adults with developmental disabilities, ensuring they have access to enriching, joyful, and meaningful experiences.

Your generosity will help turn a fishing trip, a food tour, or a crafting retreat into a reality for someone who may never have had the chance before. Together, we can enhance the quality of life for the people served by CVNQuinte and offer new opportunities for connection and growth.

Join Us at the Grande Finale

Mark your calendars for March 15th! Join us at the Empire Theatre for an unforgettable evening with Famous People Players – Twist and Shout. This family-friendly event will showcase the talents and creativity of a world-class theatre group while celebrating abilities and inclusion.

About CVNQuinte

Nestled in the heart of the Quinte Region, CVNQuinte has been a cornerstone of support since 1978, empowering adults with developmental disabilities—many of whom are deaf, hard of hearing, or face communication challenges. From its humble beginnings as a home for eight individuals, CVNQuinte now serves over 90 people across Belleville, Trenton, and surrounding areas, offering flexible, person-centered support tailored to individual needs.

Make a Difference Today

Your donation to the Services with a Twist campaign can make an immediate impact. Help us bring CVNQuinte ADVENTURES to life and create opportunities for joy, connection, and exploration.