ABOUT THE FOUNDER
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Aside from being a parent to Kaleb, a severely disabled 5 year-old boy with complex medical needs, Julie Rubin is also a dynamic advocate and catalyst for change within the Alberta disabilities community. The isolation and loneliness experienced through disability parenting led Julie to organize a highly acclaimed Disability Mothers Retreat back in 2020. Following this success, she furthered her community commitment in 2021 by founding the Canadian Centre for Development (formerly known as SMILE Therapy for Kids), a therapeutic centre for children with disabilities. Since its founding CCD has helped hundreds of children from all over Alberta and beyond.
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In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the disability community, Julie Rubin was honored as one of Calgary's Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Magazine in 2023.
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ABOUT US
Welcome to Kaleb's Friends, a heartfelt initiative born out of the pressing need for enhanced support for children with disabilities. Recognizing the gaps in supports in Alberta's systems concerning essential therapeutic services like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding therapy, as well as crucial areas such as equipment, home and vehicle adaptations, and childcare, we embarked on a mission to bridge these gaps.
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At Kaleb's Friends, we serve as a steadfast pillar of support for families, engaging in fundraising endeavors and participating in community programming to assist those in need.
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Allocation of funds is overseen by an impartial committee, and applications from families are accepted without prejudice.
Our unique perspective sets us apart – founded by a parent intimately acquainted with the challenges of raising a child with a disability. We empathize with families' struggles and are dedicated to easing their physical, emotional and financial lives. Through our efforts, we aim to empower families, enabling them to better navigate the obstacles they face while nurturing their children's livelihood. At Kaleb's Friends, we are not just an organization; we are a compassionate community committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and their families.
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