Moncton Community Residences
Moncton Community Residences Inc. (MCRI) believes everyone deserves a safe, welcoming place to connect. Club Shades (officially the Moncton Council for Integrated Recreation) is a member-led, community-based program where youths and adults with developmental challenges build friendships, grow life skills, and take part in fun, meaningful activities. With guidance from trained staff and support from community partners, Club Shades fosters belonging, confidence, and everyday independence.
"It feels like home here."
Club Shades: Inclusive Recreation and Community Connection
Who It Serves
Youth and adults with diverse abilities impacting independence or social inclusion seeking structured daytime and evening engagement, life skill development, and social connection. Those who require 1-1 support will need to be accompanied by their caregiver.
How It Works
At Club Shades, members run the show! A Member Advisory Committee made up of people from the club who meet to talk about what’s working, what’s not, and what new activities we should try. They help decide on changes, new programs, and anything else that affects the club. This way, everyone has a say, and the club always reflects what members want and enjoy. It’s your club - your ideas make it awesome!
Club Shades offers a rotating calendar of daytime and evening activities - things like theme days, dances, bingo, movie nights, karaoke, arts and crafts, music, indoor/outdoor games, gentle exercise, and sensory-friendly options. Members also join workshops on cooking, nutrition, mental wellness, digital safety, first aid basics, and rights education. Outings to local venues and events help members feel connected to the wider community. We’ve watched shy newcomers find their voice - cracking jokes, trying new things, and staying for meals with friends.
Member Requirements
To help Club Shades run smoothly and safely, we ask that participants:- Complete a simple registration (and consent) process.
- Participate in a group environment with respect for others and the space.
- Attend with a caregiver if 1-to-1 support is required.
- Share any relevant health, accessibility, or dietary needs in advance.
- Pre-register for select activities when space is limited.
Fees: Membership is $50 per year. Some off-site activities will require an admission fee to the venue. Additionally, there may be incidental material/activity fees for more substantial events outside the usual schedule.
What’s included in the Membership:- Life Skills Development - workshops, meal preparation, budgeting, etc.
- Recreation & Social Activities - dances, movie nights, holiday celebrations, arts and crafts, etc.
- Health & Wellness Opportunities - activities that support physical and mental well-being.
- Safe, Supportive Environment - a welcoming space where every member is respected,encouraged, and celebrated.
- Food Security - 2 home-cooked meals per week.
Your Role as a Participant
As a Club Shades participant, you bring your interests, energy, and willingness to take part in a friendly group setting. Those who require 1-to-1 support simply attend with their caregiver. Together, we focus on participation, respect, and creating a positive, safe environment where everyone can be themselves.
What MCRI Provides
We’re committed to making participation positive, engaging, and accessible:
- Food Security: Access to nutritious, thoughtfully prepared meals by staff, members, and volunteers.
- Inclusive Recreation: A welcoming calendar of social, creative, and active programs.
- Life Skills & Workshops: Cooking, meal prep, social/communication skills, self-advocacy, and confidence building.
- Wellness Focus: Mindfulness, emotional regulation supports, and a quiet space for reflection or sensory breaks.
- Community Connections: Outings and partnerships that make events and learning more accessible (e.g., local theatres, community groups, food partners, and student-led wellness sessions)
- Safe, Accessible Space: Trained staff and peer mentors, with activities designed for varied abilities.
Getting Started
We’ll walk you through a quick registration, share the current calendar, and help you choose activities that fit your interests. If you attend with a caregiver, we’ll coordinate any details needed to make your first visit smooth and comfortable.
Why Join Club Shades?
- Build Community: Make friends, feel welcome, and belong.
- Grow Confidence: Learn practical skills for everyday independence.
- Support Well-Being: Balance fun with workshops that promote health and safety.
- Feel Included: Take part in local events, volunteering, and community life.
Together, we can create a community where everyone has a real chance to connect and thrive. If you’re in Greater Moncton and want to learn more about Club Shades, submit a few details using the form below. An MCRI team member will be in touch to help you get started.
Get Involved - Share Your Skills, Time, or Resources
Wondering how you can get involved or volunteer with Club Shades? Here are a few different opportunities to join the fun: Have a passion or special skill? Come host a workshop! Whether it’s cooking, art, music, fitness, or something unique, our members love learning from others. Are you a student looking for volunteer hours? We’re a welcoming place to gain experience, meet great people, and make a difference in your community. Are you part of a local business or organization? Partner with us! You can help by providing supplies, resources, or services to make our programs and events even better. Every contribution - big or small - helps Club Shades offer more workshops, courses, and activities for our members.