Supporting People who have an Intellectual Disability • CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-737-3475 • www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
2009
2009 Annual General Meeting & Family Barbecue
SUMMER REVIEW
by Sandy Fielding, Senior Administrative Assistant
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hursday, July 18, 2009 was Community Living York South’s 55th Annual General Meeting and Family Barbecue (I might add that the evening was a great success!). Louis Laskovski, who has been our Kevin G. (foreground) installing Board of Directors Board Chairman for the last two years, conducted the business portion of the evennear future for respite support services. Keith ing and had the pleasure of introducing special brought greetings from our provincial agency— guests Keith Powell, Executive Director from particularly noting the final March 2009 closure Community Living Ontario, and Councillor of institutions in Ontario, a historic event in the David Cohen from the Town of Richmond Hill. history of the developmental services field. David brought greetings from the Town and A highlight of the business meeting was the Councillors, noting that he and another colpresentation of the Community Service Award league would be doing some fundraising in the See AGM & BBQ on Page
Community Living York South’s New Por Lay Shek Resource Center by Cheryl Rennick, Team Supervisor
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ommunity Living York South would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Por Lay Shek for her most generous donation to Community Living York South. The donation will be used to fund a Resource Center, which will include a computer, printer and workstation, to be located at the 101 Edward Avenue location. The Resource Center will be accessible to people receiving services, staff, family, and community members.
The computer will be equipped with Inspiration Software, an exciting, innovative program that utilizes pictures and images. This will be a wonderful tool for people to develop and print their own Person Directed Plans. Por Lay Shek has been a long-time supporter of Community Living York South, providing funding for the Por Lay Shek scholarship program and equipping one of our homes with a much needed bathing table. Please accept our sincere thanks, on behalf of all who will benefit from these contributions, which will continue to make a positive difference in people’s lives for many years to come. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
insiDe THIS ISSUE Strategic Plan Priorities UPDATE . . . . . . . . . 4 Adolescence Workshop Exceeds Expectations . . . . . 7
Summer Camp 2009 . . 8–9 New President’s First Report . . . . . . 3
Laurie’s Farewell . . . . . . 14 COMMUNITY LIVING YORK SOUTH Community Information Line
1-877-737-3475 Providing information and resources for individuals who have an intellectual disability and their families
Executive Director’s Report Don Wilkinson, Executive Director
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hank you for the warm welcome back. After a year away, it has been a pleasure reconnecting with everyone. I am slowly catching up with all the events that have occurred during my absence. The past year has been one of those times when a multitude of events occurred within a compressed period of time. The sudden passing of Gini, Paul, Michael, Rita (people supported by the Community Living York South) and Pat (long-time staff member) in the past year was a shock to everyone and a great loss to our community. My sincere condolences to family and friends. Their unique characters and contributions to the world will live on in our memories. Other significant events that occurred in the past year that will impact my daily work life are Debbie Lewis, Director of Services, and Brenda Crouse, Director of Community Development, leaving the Association. I have worked with Debbie for so many years that I defer stating how many (just to keep our ages confidential of course!). She is
Past President’s Report Louis Laskovski, Past President of the Board of Directors
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am pleased to report that our 55th Annual General Meeting and Family Barbeque, held on June 18th was a success. Thankfully, the weather cooperated; I can’t say the same for the rest of our summer thus far! Our annual meeting gives our members an opportunity to network amongst one another, share ideas and find out more about the “happenings” at Community Living York South and how they can get involved.
a hard working and compassionate person who has dedicated her life to the developmental services field. Debbie led by example. Her personal integrity and diplomacy guided the Association through many critical issues. Debbie was a natural leader, highly respected by her colleagues and by other agencies. Debbie was someone that the families, the people supported, and the staff could depend upon to make the right decision. I thank Debbie for her years of support. As a work confidant, her wise and honest counsel will be dearly missed. Brenda Crouse is also an individual who has committed her work life to the developmental services field. Brenda brought her many skills to the Association, first specializing in working with the business community. Brenda left to work as a case manager for York Support Services Network for many years, returning to us in 2005 to serve as the Director of Community Development. Community Living York South has lost two strong advocates. Best wishes to both Debbie and Brenda in their future endeavours. For all the staff who came together to meet the challenging needs of the Association, a sincere thank you for stepping up. A special thank you to Laurie Thompson for her exemplary leadership during my absence. Thank you to the Board of Directors for their support and to everyone for their kind words. I look forward to once again serving Community Living York South as I have for the past thirty four years.
Our accreditation journey is going full steam ahead with lots of opportunity for staff to get involved, including attending various training sessions. Pamela Singleton, Quality Assurance Coordinator, is heading up this initiative and would be pleased to speak with anyone who is interested in what this process involves and how you can get involved. Given the sea of change that has occurred at Community Living York South this past year I feel as though we are bidding farewell to someone every few months. In the case of Laurie Thompson, our Interim Executive Director, saying goodbye, many of you will agree, will be difficult. So, we won’t. We’ll simply say thank you, Laurie, for all that you have done. Finally, I would like to welcome and congratulate our new President, Claudio Battaglin, and welcome our newly installed board of directors including our new members Sharron Rowan Toy and Tahir Shafiq. I look forward to another successful year.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
President’s Report Claudio Battaglin President/Chairman of the Board
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his is my first column for the Update Newsletter as President and Chairman of the Board of Directors. I would like to firstly introduce myself for those of you who do not know me. My name is Claudio Battaglin and my history with Community Living York South goes back about 17 years. My first involvement with this movement began when I was in high school. I was looking for a way to contribute to my community so I signed up to be a volunteer for an evening Social Club in Vaughan… from that point on, I was hooked! The people that I got to know have enriched my life. While I came into the Association to “give back”, I do feel that I have equally received. In subsequent years my involvement expanded. Focusing on the youth of our communities, I became a mediator for families in Vaughan, pioneered and ran summer and evening programs, and started Youth Involvement chapters in schools within and beyond our Association boundaries. I also became active in our provincial and national Associations, becoming president of Youth Involvement Ontario and a board member of both Community Living Ontario and the Canadian Association for Community Living. I “took a break” from all my work during my Post Graduate studies. After completing my education and starting a career in marketing, I returned to Community Living York South as a board member, and I am honoured to have been elected President of the Association. The families and people supported by the Association, as well as the staff of Community Living York South, have created a culture of compassionate care and excellence in support and community advocacy that continues to draw me back to being an active member of the Association. I believe that, through our movement, we are not only supporting people with intellectual disabilities, but also supporting the betterment of our communities as a whole. Inclusive communities are better communities. As many of you know, Don Wilkinson has returned to his position of Executive Director. Over 17 years, Don has been an
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
individual I looked up to in this organization. I am delighted to be working with him closely over the next year. Welcome back Don! I do also want to extend a special thank you to Laurie Thompson, who came to Community Living York South mid December as Interim Executive Director. I knew Laurie prior to her “initiation” into our Association, and knew her to be a gifted, passionate and dedicated individual. This was also demonstrated during her stay at York South. Laurie, your support and guidance to the Board assisted us to move through a very unique and difficult year. Your experience, knowledge of Accreditation Outcomes, and your warm, engaging personality allowed you to effectively assume leadership of the Association and turn the challenges we faced into opportunities for growth. Your contribution to the Association will continue to be a solid foundation for our future development. Best wishes Laurie for your future. The Association’s Annual General Meeting and Family Barbecue occurred on June 18th. Approximately three-hundred people attended the meeting and enjoyed the opportunity to elect a new Board of Directors; acknowledge the contribution of board member Phil Lanzarotta (who served six years on the board, four of those years President, and an additional two years as Past President); and pay tribute to the members of the community who have assisted us in making inclusion a reality. In the coming year, the four strategic priorities for the Association will be Accreditation, Accessibility Audit, Succession Planning, and the implementation/training of the AIMS Database. Staff have achieved first quarter objectives. The new act, Services and Supports to Promote the Social Inclusion of Persons with a Developmental Disability 2008, is proceeding through the stages of becoming law. To review the act and Community Living Ontario’s commentary on the Act, please go to this website: www.communitylivingontario.ca. Best wishes for the fall! May it be drier and warmer than our summer.
COMMUNITY LIVING YORK SOUTH Community Information Line
1-877-737-3475 Providing information and resources for individuals who have an intellectual disability and their families
Strategic Plan Priorities Update Accreditation:
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ver the course of the past year accomplishments have been made throughout the organization. There is a firm foundation in place. • The Rights Review Committee has established its process, a Rights Policy and Procedure has been approved and people are experiencing the due process set in place to remove rights restrictions. • The Internal Rights Review Committee was identified as a process that would respond to the backlog in an effective way for people. Finalizing details to improve implementation of this committee have been identified. • The Quality Assurance Committee revisited their Terms of Reference and is taking on overseeing the implementation of our Social Capital Audit, Satisfaction Survey, review of Policies and Procedures and in general has become fully functional. • A Critical Path has been developed to guide our accreditation journey over the course of the next year. • The position of a Quality Assurance Coordinator has been filled by Pamela Singleton. The purpose of this position is to guide our accreditation process and to continue to create a culture of quality and excellence. • A new Operations Manual has been approved by the board. Further review of the policies and procedures will be conducted over the next year to ensure they comply with the requirements for accreditation and quality services and supports. • New ongoing mandatory training for staff has been instituted. These include: Rights, Abuse, Dignity and Respect, Personal Outcome Measures Training and ongoing Self-Assessment Workshops. • New training has been offered such as: Person Directed Planning, Facilitation and Facilitating Conflict Resolution and Social Capital Training. Several activities will be instituted over the next year as Community Living York South continues in this exciting journey. Accessibility Audit: Like all organizations and public businesses, Community Living York South will be required to comply with the Ontario Accessible Disability Act. To initiate compliance, we will be entering into an Accessibility Audit for all our facilities. A call for proposals is being sent out and will be completed over the next year. Database: Creating a database that enables Community Living York South to track, analyze and utilize information to ensure quality supports and services was identified as one of the top 4 priorities. To
this end, significant progress has been made. The database will be launched in July and computers will be in place at all involved locations to ensure responsiveness to this direction. The steps that have been taken to achieve this include: • Securing the AIMS database • Providing training to personnel to ensure there is capacity to fulfill and utilize the system • Installation of computers at all locations will be completed by the end of June • The launching of the system will occur the first part of June. Not only will this provide the organization with a mechanism to monitor supports and services for the people we support, it will increase our efficiency in communication throughout the organization. This will be a significant step forward in an area that was identified as a key requirement for more effective services and information. This database will enable us to track trends within the organization as well as, provide a mechanism for future budget and strategic direction planning. Succession Planning: Community Living York South, like most organizations and businesses, is in an era where they are impacted by the “baby boomer” reality. In a pro-active strategy, this organization has identified the need to enter into an exercise of exploration to secure its future. Succession planning enables an organization to identify its future needs, develop its ability to respond to personnel and volunteers who will be retiring from the organization and to develop a plan to effectively respond to nurturing new people for the future. The board has agreed to engage a consulting group who will assist us to move into the future. Our succession plan is scheduled for completion by December of this year. This is a very commendable and responsive step that Community Living York South has committed to. Other Strategic Directions: Community Living York South’s strategic plan contains many other elements. Although these four were identified as the priorities for 2009/2010 that occurred through a consultation process with the board, personnel, our self-advocacy committee and other committees within our organization, that does not mean that the other strategies are dormant. The strategies identified in our plan continue to be pursued and priorities for 2010/2011 will also be identified in concert with the stakeholders of our organization. Through this process it was agreed that updates would be provided through quarterly forums. The next one is scheduled for September.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
AGM & BBQ Continued from Page
to the Extended Stay Hotel. This was indeed what partnering with the community is all about (please refer to our last issue of Update for the full story or check it out on our website: www.communitylivingyorksouth.ca). The 2009–2010 Board of Directors were installed by Kevin Greenfield, Vice President of the Self-Advocates Committee (and our Receptionist… the man who always greets you with a big smile when you walk in the front door) with the assistance of Keith Powell. Following the business meeting, everyone was invited to participate in the outdoor barbeque. There was lots of delicious food from grilled chicken, sausage, beef burgers, hot dogs (veggie burgers and veggie hot dogs for the vegetarians) to salads and cold beverages. There was an assortment of cakes and fresh fruit, and Tim Horton’s
î Past Board Presidents Louis L. and Phil L.
î DJ Vince M.
coffee followed the main course. Happy 55th Anniversary, Community Living York South! Many thanks to “Fire It Up” and Peter Anthos for the fabulous barbeque! Also, a big thank you to Vince Manganaro, our D.J., who played lots of great dancing tunes to entertain us throughout the evening. It is a wonderful sight to see our families, young and old, along with their sons/daughters, community agencies, staff and special guests, joining together to participate in our meeting, to celebrate our successes, and hopefully to make new friendships. As the evening was coming to a close and people were leaving, I stood watching people we support still dancing to Vince’s music as it was getting dark. Everyone was very happy… with big smiles on their faces. That’s what it’s all about! See you again next year!
î Community partners from the Extended Stay Deluxe hotel in Vaughan
î Rick Y., Cathy J.
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
î Don W., Louis L.
î Dale C., Cecilia M.
In Memoriam Remembering Michael Snider adapted from the eulogy by Janine Bell
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rom the moment I met Michael I knew that we would get along just fine. It wasn’t an exceptional meeting—at first—but I soon came to find out that there is no one who knew him that was unaffected by his jovial ways. On that first day, I rang the doorbell of his home and waited patiently. Within moments I heard a voice from within the house saying “Uh-oh… door.” As the door flew open and the quick movements of the opener afforded me a glimpse only of his back as he walked away. I introduced myself as he continued into the home, following him until he sat down and crossed his legs, dangling them with a slow, soothing rhythm. This was the first time I was able to see Michael’s face. He had a smile that you just couldn’t resist in returning—the biggest smile I’d ever seen… and with large blue eyes to match. His cheerful expression gave me the feeling that I’d made his day by just showing up. What a self-esteem booster! Michael approached all things in life in the same way—with heart, delightedly putting his whole self into everything. That first morning with him, his request for breakfast was for “nice white eggs, nice yellow eggs, crust toast, yellow butter, rice crispies, nice cold milk, white sugar,…” and the list went on and on, ending each food item was requested with his famous head nod, finger point, and his memorable phrase, “Pretty soon… pretty soon.” This same enthusiasm surrounded any conversation involving his family members. When asked who was in his family he would list everyone off with gusto: “Mommy, daddy, Linda, Valerie, David, Caroline…” and, of course, he’d finish it off with “Michael Snider.” This was an accomplishment he was very proud of. As an avid singer, Michael’s repertoire included Happy Birthday, Micheal, Row Your Boat Ashore, and Blue Kicki Mouse (which was most people’s favourite). Each and every tune he sang concluded with the addition of his personalized lyrics, “Yeah, Michael Snider. Heh. Good job, Michael.” As much as his cheerful temperament boosted the selfesteem of those around him, Michael, in his wisdom, knew when he needed to give himself a pat on the back. Michael loved everyone he met without condition and was not reserved in expressing that… which made him easy to love.
When his housemates Kevin, Jacob and Gabe were not around he’d always inquire when they would be returning, and in true Michael style, during their absence from the home he would helpfully return their belongings left around the house back to their rooms. Every once in while, we would catch them all having a pillow fight in the living room; the sound of their laughter filling the house. He had a real soft spot for them. Though nothing was openly expressed amongst them, it was apparent that they had love for one another. Michael took everything in stride and enjoyed the little things in life. Recently, Michael and Kevin went camping and I was witness to the way that Michael just liked to relax. He drank his pop (Pepsi was his favourite) while lounging by the pool and sang songs with guitar accompaniment by the campfire while he played drums on the bottom of my shoe. His time spent in camping leisure appeared to be done without a care in the world. I think, with everything else, those who were fortunate to have known him can truly say that he was put on this earth so that we could learn these lessons from him: love life, lover others, and appreciate every moment—and do it all with a smile on your face. Michael, you will be missed, but not forgotten. From all those who you opened your life to: we love you always and are glad you blessed our lives.
Remembering Pat Sabourin
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at Sabourin began working for Community Living York South on June 12, 1975—34 years ago. For the past 10 years, Pat provided employment experience support to a group of people through a partnership with Markham Stouffville Hospital. Through her years of experience, sensitivity and passion, Pat was a mentor to many staff members, as well as being an ardent supporter of public education and awareness in issues relating to rights, abuse and sexuality. She was a founding staff of our annual Celebration of Life held each year in October. Pat is greatly missed by all people whose lives she touched while working at Community Living York South.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
Adolescence Workshop Exceeds Expectations by Sandy H., a parent
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very Saturday from May 23, 2009 to June 27, 2009 my daughter and I, along with seven other families, participated in Community Living York South’s “Adolescence: What Are The Challenges?” parent-and-child workshop in partnership with York Support Services Network and Behaviour Management Services of York and Simcoe. Intended for youth aged 12 to 18, the six-week workshop covered both life and social skills with facilitator Susan Ludwig-Goharriz, B. Sc., R.N., a Sexuality Education Consultant. To support each week’s session, Community Living York South and York Support Services Network provided staff representatives. Nisha Bedi represented Community Living York South. I was amazed at the content presented and all the visuals that Susan used to teach this material. She not only had the full attention of the youth… but the parents as well! It was acknowledged many times by the parents in particular that we were all learning things we did not know
“Accept, Choose, & Take Action” Drop-in Social Support Group ages 18–28 An opportunity for youth to meet and discuss issues surrounding: • Self-esteem • Stress management • Self-motivation
Tuesdays from 4:00p.m.–6:00p.m. Starting September 2009 For location and more information, contact: Dee Manikam, Foundations Coordinator (Richmond Hill) Telephone: 905-884-9110, Voicemail 604 “I like the group because I can speak my mind and have a chance to meet friends” —Adam Z. “I learned more about friendships, and got to hang out with my friends” —Sharon A.
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
before… and we were surprised how well our children were able to grasp some of the complex, unique, and difficult issues presented. Dealing with personal feelings as well as dealing with people around you were two key themes presented in the content of the sessions. Susan stressed to the group that it was okay to feel the way you do as long as you were able to apply the “private,” “public,” and “caution” rules. It was so encouraging to see how well all the youth were able to process the information given by Susan, discuss it in the group setting, and apply their learning to situations in everyday life… and then make the socially acceptable/appropriate choices in connection to “private,” “public,” and “caution” rules learned. Each week a new social and/or life skill (such as clothing, body parts, behaviour and conversations) were given to parents and their children. Susan then involved all the participants in discussing their appropriateness in relation to these useful rules. The youth also learned valuable life and social skills addressing relationships and what makes a good relationship—it is important that our personal relationships are mutual and fair, and leave us feeling joyful and safe. Susan affirmed that it is important to acknowledge our own feelings as well as the feelings of others, since a good relationship is one in which you are accepted for who you are. Susan encouraged every participant to be open-minded and welcomed any and all questions. Those who may have been reserved to voice their concerns in the group, were given the opportunity to privately write it down and place it in a “question box” at the end of each session; the concern would be addressed in a following session. It was very interesting to hear some of the concerns our children have: “When do you know when someone really likes you?”, “When do you know that your relationship is ready for the next step?” People struggle with these questions everyday… and our children were eager to know how to deal with them appropriately. Over the course of the six weeks, it was so nice to see how the parents and children connected… and the anticipation to attend the next session. I still remember my daughter telling me at the beginning of the first session we attended, “I am only trying this out and I don’t think I will come back.” Needless to say, she had such a great time that the following week she could not wait to come back! This was probably something that many of us did not expect when we started this workshop but were very grateful to see so many networking opportunities. I am so pleased to share that a new support group among these youths and parents has been established. Many of the comments I have made above, also reflect the feelings of the other parents who attended the workshop. We all are hoping and looking forward to possibly a “Part 2” workshop of this nature.
Soaking up the Sun @ Community Living York South’s î Jonathan L., Matthew C.
î Camp group visiting CDI Computers Inc.
î Mahteal H. î Julian A., Stephanie C.
î Dwayne D.
î Brittney
î Volunteer, Jenthryx M., Gajen P.
î Jake K.
î David R., Gajen P., Umesh P., Matthew C.
î Carol M.; Leo C., Gajen P., Sara G., Carrie C.
î David R., Ernest Y.
î Colin D., Shabri S.
î Jonathan L., Gawtham S.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
Photographers: Anuree t Randhawa, Sara Glazer, Shabri Sharma
î Sara G., Volunteer
Summer Camps F rom July 6 to August 28 children and youth, ages 6 through 21, enjoy fun activities in an inclusive summer camp setting.
î Umesh P.
After days filled with arts-and-crafts, singing, exercise, movie-going, recreational activities, and preparing and eating healthy meals—not to mention fun trips to Canada’s Wonderland, Medieval Times, Burd’s Fishing, the Canadian National Exhibition… and so much more! Our summer campers had this to say:
“Thank you, mommy, for sending me to camp. I love it!” —Brittney H., Richmond Hill “I like camp. Camp is fun… taking the bus is fun. I like the activities—swimming, soccer, and ping pong.” —Danny L., Markham “We went to a lot of field trips; my favourite one was to Frankie Tomatto’s. We also learned how to make computers at CDI Computers Inc. I have also learned how to buy groceries and make lunch.” —Gajen P.
î Camp group visiting the Markham Museum
“Camp is good. We play games and go swimming. I like the field trips.” —Douglas T., Markham “I am having fun; this is the best! Going to Wonderland I had a blast!” —Han N., Vaughan “My favourite things about summer camp are going to the park and taking the bus!” —Julian A., Richmond Hill
î Stephanie C., David R., Leo C., Douglas T.
“I like to hang out with my friends. The [camp staff] are funny and I like to come here everyday.” —Nathaniel V., Vaughan
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
“I like camp. I like swimming … I’m having fun.” —Nathan C., Vaughan
“My favourite part about camp is the dancing and the music.” —Stephanie C., Richmond Hill “I am having lots of fun. I love to hang out with my friends.” —Steve N., Vaughan The outreach team, our summer staff and all of our campers would like to sincerely thank:
CDI Computers in Markham (www.cdicomputers.com; 130 South Town Centre Boulevard, Markham) for the special camp trip to their site, their attentiveness to our camp group, the opportunity for learning, and their generous donation to our summer camp.
(www.inhouse.ca; 1625 Flint Road, Toronto) for their generous donation to the Markham summer camp. The following community members have donated funds to sponsor those whose families are not able to afford camp fees: Alexander F., Toronto Ernest L., Richmond Hill Jean B., Toronto Jonathan B., Toronto Laurie B., Toronto Sophia Y., Unionville
Peace Tree Day by Ritu Bhasin, Community Support Coordinator
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Big Help
from Small Hearts
Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco, who has been the event’s host for many years. Community Living York South has had the honour of being an active committee member for the past 4 years and has utilized the opportunity to reach out to people and families who may not be aware of Community Living York South’s supports and services for people who have an intellectual disability. Over 500 people attended this event which provided an afternoon of fun and excitement; festivities included a performance from Errol Lee and activities like henna, Earth Rangers, Chinese line dancing and much, much more. We look forward to being a part of this wonderful event next year. Find out how you can get involved at www.peacetreeday. com
Dear Community Living York South, My name is Ernest Leung and I just recently celebrated my 11th birthday. îW illiam Forcina, Andrew Lamb, Ernest Leung, Simon Broer, Jacob Beckerman, Justin Wong (seated), and Harrison Barford (seated) Instead of presents, I asked my friends if they could donate some money to send a kid to the Community Living York South camp. From my understanding, you need $175 to send 1 kid to your camp. Together, my friends and I raised over $175. We raised $295! That was way over what I thought we were going to raise. I want to thank all my friends, Justin, Harrison, William, Andrew, Jacob, and Simon, who made my wish come true!
Photographer: Marianna Fong-Leung
n June 1, 2009 Community Living York South participated in the annual Peace Tree Day celebration event. The Peace Tree Day is recognized internationally. In 2006, Mayor David Miller of the City of Toronto and Michael Di Biase of the City of Vaughan proclaimed Peace Tree Day, a new festival for children and families of every culture and faith to celebrate peace and diversity together. The following year, York Region, York Region District School Board, York Region Catholic District School Board, York Regional Police and the City of Windsor proclaimed Peace Tree Day on June 1st. In Ontario, celebrations have been held in Stouffville, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Windsor, and Hamilton through the participation of many schools, camps and hospitals. The spirit of Peace Tree Day encourages people to take pride in their heritage while learning about the different cultures that surround them. This year’s event was hosted by Vaughan Ward 4
Yours Truly, Ernest Leung
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Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
Celebrating 11 Years of May Day in Whitchurch-Stouffville
Photographer: Kula Kulasegaram
î Shankavi G.
î Cecila M. with guitar
î Stouffville Firefighters by Silvia De Abreu, Team Supervisor
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n Saturday, May 2, 2009, the community of WhitchurchStouffville was welcomed to an afternoon of family fun hosted by Community Living York South at Latcham Hall. Since 1998, on the first Saturday in May, Community Living York South has invited families to not only partake in food, fun and entertainment but to come together in celebration of the abilities and diversity of the community as we work towards a community in which all people belong. Children were greeted by Belle and Princess as they ventured through the hall. This year’s event featured an exotic animal showcase by Zoo Tek, whereby children and adults alike had the opportunity to interact with creatures like lizards, snakes, a rabbit, and a tarantula. The children then had the pleasure of participating in a book reading; Laurie Thompson read “Sorry” (by Trudy Ludwig and Maurie J. Manning) to a group of captivated youngsters. At the end of the story children were given books which were kindly donated by a community member. Teddy bears in need of a “check-up” were welcomed to the booth for our second annual Teddy Bear Clinic with our empathetic plush toy medic, Rochelle Smith, who is also our First Aid trainer. The Clinic was, once again, a success.
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
Children and guests enjoyed the craft table activities which included making a May Day gnome with the innovative use of a 2 litre pop bottle, and a games table organized by a Stouffville church group. At the end of the day, children took home coloring kits to continue their fun and creativity. The day’s events also included artists Rick Y., Len M. and Cecilia M. showing their art work in the form of art cards that were also available for sale. And as always, our event would not have been complete without our traditional May Pole dance. Special thanks go to: The Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 459) for their generous monetary donation; Margaret King, owner of the Tim Horton’s (5534 Main Street West), for the donation of coffee and supplies; Howard Cooper, owner of McDonald’s (28 Sandiford Drive), for providing the orange pop; Jon M., James W., Mike J., and Jeff M. from the Stouffville Fire Department for barbequing; our Master of Ceremonies Kevin Greenfield; John Swartz, our DJ; Kitty H. and her mom for coordinating the balloon station; and especially all the Community Living York South staff, self-advocates and family members who came together to make this event a success. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, May 1st, 2010 as we celebrate our 12th May Day in Stouffville.
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A Melody: “Excellence” by Pamela Singleton, Quality Assurance Coordinator
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s an organization, we have been talking a lot about creating and nurturing a culture of “excellence”. But what does this really mean? What does “excellence” look like? How will we know when we get there? Well, I wonder if creating a culture of excellence is very similar to the coming together of an orchestra: a variety of instruments and musicians performing a lovely melody that reverberates for all to hear and embrace. Specifically: The instruments, much like policies and practices, must be gently nurtured so that they will, in essence, work effectively to create beautiful music. The music sheet or score, is like a path or a story, that outlines how to get from the beginning to the end. It identifies what needs to happen, when things need to happen, and who needs to “play.” Then there are the musicians—the people (team members, people receiving services, families etc.). They must be passionate and committed to what they are doing in order to shine. The conductor of the orchestra, usually known for their eccentricity and their unruly hairstyle, must support and facilitate the progression of the overall performance. This may include supporting the musicians in ways that respect their individual preferences, tending to the whims of the instruments, and improvising the sheet music, to name a few. These concepts are perhaps not unlike the role of the quality assurance coordinator. BUT… For the orchestra to perform impeccably on opening night, these components must all work in concert with one another. If they do not: The instruments will be silenced without their players; The music scores will fade and become crumpled without readers who can interpret them; The sound stage will be empty when no one is inspired to attend. So, like an orchestra, all parts must be truly present for the music to flow and dance harmoniously. One might speculate then, that a culture of excellence is like the harmonious performance of a fine orchestra: We will practice. We will create and review. We will challenge what exists. We will improvise. And, at the end, we will know when we have made beautiful music together.
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Community Partnerships by Pamela Singleton, Quality Assurance Coordinator
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very year, a group of volunteers from Eli Lilly have enthusiastically partnered with Community Living York South, taking on any opportunity that might be available to support and enhance quality services. To that end, the volunteers provide assistance to people with projects and, in doing so, provide opportunities for community awareness and partnership building. On May 20, 2009, Community Living York South welcomed five eager volunteers who generously donated their time and resources to work in partnership with the ladies living at one of our homes in Richmond Hill. Armed with flowers, shovels, and dirt, to name a few, the volunteers supported Andrea, Tamika and Josie in planting a lovely garden at the front of their home, as well as establishing some flower pots for the back deck area of the home. At lunchtime, everyone enjoyed a healthy meal and shared thoughts about their experience working together. Thanks go to the following people for their contributions and participation that day: From Eli Lilly: Dave K. Mark P. Nashreen S. Stacey S. Valerie S. A sincere thanks to the support team and the women living at the home in Richmond Hill for making this opportunity possible as well: Andrea S. Josie M. Nancy C. Tamika A. Tracey V.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
The Spring Gala Fundraising Dinner by Anita Leung, Community Support Coordinator
n May 3, 2009, a group of Grade 10–12 students from the Peoples Christian Academy (374 Sheppard Avenue East) hosted the “Spring Gala” with the proceeds donated to Community Living York South. This event, which took place at the beautiful Spring Rolls restaurant—a major sponsor of the event—in the Sheppard Centre (Yonge Street & Sheppard Avenue), was part of a project through their business class. The students expertly planned and organized, promoted and sold tickets with the assistance of our Outreach team. On the day of the event, students served smoothies to guests, managed a silent auction and representatives from the student body emceed. Over 120 guests attended and were treated to good food, presentations and music provided by an in-house band. Money raised through ticket sales and the silent auction, to benefit Community Living York South respite support services, exceeded $2,000. A special thank you to all students and staff from the Peoples Christian Academy for generously using your time, talents and resources to enrich the community!
Photographer: Iris Lee Soha
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Day of Caring by Pamela Singleton, Quality Assurance Coordinator
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he Day of Caring® is organized by United Way of York Region twice a year (usually in the spring and the fall) to link corporate volunteers to not-forprofit organizations to provide assistance with projects and to provide opportunities for awareness. On May 13, 2009, Community Living York South participated in the United Way of York Region’s bi-annual Day of Caring®. The youth in our Foundations Services group were linked to volunteers from Vertex Business Services (http://www. vertexgroup.com/na). Both
groups worked together throughout the day in cooking, scrapbooking and flower arrangements. Each activity benefitted the entire group by day’s end. At lunch time, everyone enjoyed the hearty, healthy meal at tables beautifully set with flowers and everyone contributed to the creation of the memory book which captured the spirit of the day—illustrating the message of the value of cooperation.
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
In the afternoon, everyone took a leisurely walk to a local bowling alley and celebrated the morning’s achievements through some healthy competition! Thanks go to Debra D., Grace H., Lynn P., Nimira J., Ria M., Silvana S., Tony T., and Wayne J. from Vertex Business Services for their contributions and participation that day.
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Laurie’s Farewell
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ince mid-December 2008, Laurie Thompson has served as our Interim Executive Director, and has played a key role in navigating the organization through the waters of our Accreditation Journey. With Laurie at the helm, we have gone through many changes and have been enriched through the experiences. As we steer forward, we are thankful for the leadership and spirit of openness that Laurie has brought to Community Living York South, and we will endeavour to continue along the passage to which we have set our course—always working to provide the best possible supports and services to the people and families that are a part of our community. “Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes, a farewell is necessary before you can meet again and meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.” —Richard Bach
Community Living York South 2009 Dances î Laurie Thompson
î Don W., Laurie T., Saturday, September 26
Blue Jay’s Dance
Saturday, October 31
Halloween Dance
Saturday, December 12
Christmas Dance
We hope to see you there! î Laurie T., Kevin H.
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î Jan M., Sandy F., Laurie T., Alison A., Anna L.
Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009
PhotograPher: Kula Kulasegaram
Blair A., Sandy F.
Senior Social Tea
Photographer: Kula Kulasegaram
by Kula Kulasegaram
Happy Birthday, Esther! by Mona Craig
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n Friday, June 28, with 26 people in attendance, Community living York South hosted our 1st Annual Senior Social Tea held at the very cozy Richmond Hill Heritage Centre. This event was intended to provide social forum in which to present information and resources relating to life planning. All participants received a useful life planning tool. Community Living York South provided this great opportunity for senior families to find out more about the types of supports and services we currently offer to their sons and daughters. Everyone enjoyed the tea and desserts provided by the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre while chatting and networking with the other parents outside on the patio that overlooks the gardens. There are plans to meet in Markham in October for another Senior Social Tea in partnership with Markham Unionville Support Team (MUST). If you would like to be part of that event—to attend or to assist with organizing— please call: Kula Kulasegaram Community Support Coordinator Telephone: 905-771-0011 Voicemail 703 Email: kkulasegaram@communitylivingyorksouth.ca
online now : www.CommunityLivingYorkSouth.ca
î Esther Jennings, Ted Jennings
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sther Jennings celebrated her 90th birthday on August 9 with her family and friends. Esther is a founding member of the Women’s Auxiliary and a lifetime member of Community Living York South.
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PRIVACY POLICY: At Community Living York South we appreciate your support and we treat your personal information with respect. We do not trade your personal information. The information you provide to us will be used to keep you informed of events and fundraising opportunities in support of Community Living York South. If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, simply contact us by phone at 905-771-0011 or by checking the box above. is generously sponsored by Update is published by Community Living York South 101 Edward Avenue Richmond Hill, ON L4C 5E5 Editorial Team Editor-in-Chief: Don Wilkinson, Assistant Editor: Doug Parks, Managing Editor: Sarita Wiggan, Writer’s Editor: Sandy Fielding, Volunteer Editor: Barb Evans, Staff Writers: Kula Kulasegaram, Cathy Johnston Distribution Support: Mona Craig, Barb Eldridge, Kevin Greenfield, Ron Gumbs Layout & Design: Hero Aban Opinions expressed in Update are not necessarily the views of Community Living York South or the editors. Letters to the editor, comments, and unsolicited articles are welcomed and should be sent to the editors
of York Region of York Region
Board of Directors Claudio Battaglin (President) Louis Laskovski (Past President) Peter Sen (1st Vice President) Brendon Pooran (2nd Vice President)
Ed Law (Treasurer) Vera Power (Board Secretary) Lloyd Chafe Mariana Chu Mazahair Dhirani Shirley Ho
Alex Lee Cristian Mandachescu Tahir Shafiq Janet Tsao Sharron Rowan Toy
We receive 80% of our funding from the Ministry of Community and Social Services for our core services. Through grants, fundraising and our membership, we are able to provide community outreach. From the United Way of York Region we provide outreach through our Community Support program and community development and fundraising through the Trillium Foundation of Ontario. We are governed by a Board of Directors elected by the membership. Noi riceviamo l’ 80% dei fondi dal Ministro della communita’ e dal servizio sociali per i vostri servizi principali. Attraserso varie sovvenzione, i dovatori, varie fondi racolti e i nostri membri, possiamo attendate le provesioni alla conimunita’. Da Unita Way di York Regimi, siamo in grado di provvedere l’attentavtivo della programma supporto della communita’ e di svillupare and racolti fondi dat Trillium Foundation di Ontario. La nostra coumita’ e’ governata da un comitarto di direttori eletti dai membri.
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Community Living York South UPDATE • Summer 2009