Our History.
The ICHA began in 1977 at Glengarda School when Egidio Novelletto started a soccer program for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The association was granted charitable status on July 22, 1987. Since then, the ICHA has added a number of new recreational programs, including social activities designed to integrate our members into the community. The ICHA Valentine’s Day, Halloween and Christmas dinners are filled with friendship, dancing, great food and lots of fun. In addition to the soccer program, track and field, bocce ball, floor hockey and basketball have been added to meet the needs of these special individuals. These programs are currently run year-round out of the Novelletto Rosati Complex on various weekday evenings. Our members participate in many out-of-town soccer tournaments during the summer and have traveled across Ontario and through parts of the United States.
Today the ICHA is one of the largest organizations of its kind in Ontario. Our social members range in age from 10 to over 50, with the average age of 25. Membership is open to all people with a physical or intellectual disability in Windsor and Essex County. The word “Italian” in our name reflects the ethnic background of our founding members and recognizes their generous contributions and the commitment they’ve given to our organization over the years. In October of 2002, the ICHA opened the Novelletto Rosati Complex with the intent of providing a safe place for all people with a physical and/or intellectual disability in our community. Through the generosity of all levels of government and the support of local businesses and individuals, the ICHA has continued to grow.