€¦ · DECEMBER 23RD MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Posted December 23rd, 2013 Follow...

DECEMBER 23RD MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted December 23rd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

Only two sleeps to Christmas. I have marvelled this year at how such a joyous time canbe equally a time of gut wrenching stress, hot tempers and frazzled nerves.

I read a book titled Finding Bethlehem amidst the Bedlam. In it the author quotes the prayer of a young girl whose family membersare at each others’ throats: “Forgive us our Christmases as we forgive those who have Christmased against us.” This saying mademe think of almost every cashier I have encountered this week - they have definitely been “Christmased against.” So my missionhas become finding the little glimpses of Christmas joy amid the Christmas chaos.

This past week has offered a lot of moments of joy. The accreditation celebration was a fun-filled afternoon of celebration, laughsand magic. On Monday I got to drive in a completely moonlit night where the snow sparkled and reflected the moon making italmost unnecessary for headlights. I have enjoyed Christmas cards, email messages, greetings and lunches from all directions. I alsolost a friend in a farming accident and was once again reminded that life can be short, and joy in the present is really all we have.

I truly wish everyone a joyful holiday. Take some time to be with those whom you hold most dear; live in the moment and find the“bits of Bethlehem.” Christmas is, after all, a very special holiday. Take time to rest, spend long mornings in your pyjamas andrediscover the happiness that is found in a board game. I love this season when everything winds down to Christmas Day and thenthere is a spirit of renewal in New Year’s Eve. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!Highlights of the past week

The Accreditation Celebration with Juggling J-rod was a wondrous event.

Elm hosted its Christmas Family celebration.

Our lift inspections are done and up-to-date for another year.

We have received so many cards and gifts.

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Sharron continues to get better.

Tammy has spread chocolate joy all over the office.

Elgin team members held an important meeting to make plans and mutually support each other.

The BEST team members again offered welcome and directions at the open house.

We drafted the Accreditation work plan for the four year plan.

We distributed the Board member Christmas gifts.

William, Elm, Elgin, Independent Living and Family Home teams held meetings.

And a shout out goes to …

The staff members and residents of Elm for their extra work and worry.

Gloria, Debra and Melinda for work with many others on a great celebration.

Tammy - thank you so much for sweet treats.

All staff members receiving years of service awards.

Debra for hosting a nice Christmas lunch.

And to everyone for finding and creating Christmas joy.

All the very best of every good thing in the holidays to come.

I am truly grateful for all that you do!

Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive Director

Community Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7Phone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected]

Community Living Haliburton County14 South Street, Box 90Haliburton, OntarioK0M 1S0Phone: (705) 457-2626, ext. 25Fax: (705)-457-9287Email:[email protected]

Read past messages from the Executive Director

December 16, 2013

December 9, 2013

December 2, 2013

November 25, 2013

November 18, 2013

November 11, 2013

November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

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DECEMBER 16TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted December 15th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

This past week I had the pleasure of spending some time learning about,and seeing firsthand, what true wisdom looks like. I love new information, training , reading, sound bites, talking and meetings. I liketo collect the knowledge of others and use what I can in my own life and work.

This week I had the opportunity to spend time with someone who was sharing information that she had gathered at a workshop.The session was great in two ways. First the information was relevant and easy to understand. Second the presenter offered theinformation in a way that made it clear that she did not have all of the answers and was working with the information to make achange in her day-to-day work. As fond as I am of words, too many in a presentation make me uncomfortable and can makepresenters sound like they know it all. This presentation was, however, more informal, from the heart, candid and spoke truly toeveryone present.

To me that is true wisdom and grace: The acknowledgement that no one person has all of the answers and that even those whomay have a lot of knowledge and theory will seldom consistently practice their theories to perfection. Further, wisdom is theunderstanding that more words do not necessarily make for more information.

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Important also was the main message of the presentation. We do not have all of the answers all the time, but relying on thosewho do, supporting those who can carry out the plan and asking questions will move us closer to being great leaders.

Also, important was the clear message that our brain can be the enemy when we are overwhelmed: Keep it under control, beconscious of self-talk and move forward in a solution-driven manner.

Lastly, I was left with this … finally, a mathematical equation I can understand!

Add value to people every day.

Subtract leadership landmines - like pretending to know it all.

Multiply your strengths by developing them.

Divide your weaknesses by delegating to someone stronger in those areas.

Highlights of the past week

December 3rd was a great day for members of the BEST group - thank you to Shirley and Tanya for doing theorganizing.

Members of Illusions participated at the mall presentation on the 3rd.

We raised almost $60 through donations at the Dec 3rd event .

Leslie Martin and Barb Stokes have been promoting Jobs’R'Us at the mall all month long.

We held the Homeshare Christmas party on Monday night and it was a delight - the DJ was stupendous and thedancing was joyous.

We have given our community bulletin board a face lift - check it out in the bathroom hall.

The fire drill on Tuesday went well

Our “cavern of possibilities” - otherwise known as room 123 - has had a good clean up and is ready for next week’scelebration.

Members of the Accreditation Pit Crew is gearing up for next week’s celebration.

The William team hosted a wonderful Christmas dinner on Tuesday night.

The Elgin team hosted a family gathering on Friday night

The Northern Learning Centre in Fenelon Falls held their Christmas luncheon.

The new Elm van is here and not a minute too soon, as the old one has lost its door!

The Resource Consultants - AKA Santa’s helpers - are finishing their work gathering, wrapping and distributing theAngel Tree offerings.

The Day Supports team held their Christmas potluck on Friday.


Rose, Debra, Melinda, Dawn B., Kim G., Gloria C. and Cindy H. for their work taming the cavern and its dustdragons.

Kelly for offering to customize the Santa hats for the BEST group members.

Tim for offering warmth on a chilly fire drill day.

Sarah and Nicole for their recent contract successes.

Krystal from Rest Assure for sponsoring an Angel Tree family.

Resource Consultants - the bulletin board looks wondrous

Jeanette and the RC team members for the last minute draw that raised over $220 for the Angel Tree.

And the winner of the awesome play kitchen - Trisha Fiegehen.

Members of the Illusions and Caren - you brought the house down amid the stressful Christmas shopping season.

Erin for overcoming adversity on Christmas party day.

The Admin team members for donating their $20 Christmas gift to the angel tree.

Nena - get well soon, and thank you for your generous offering.

Terri, Jessica G., Dawn, Gloria and Trevor for a wonderful Christmas dinner.

Tammy, Adam, Laura Lee, Patt and Deanna for a scrumptious holiday feast.

Marnie for “opening” Day Supports every morning as the first one here.


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Cindy, thank you for sharing your knowledge.

Julie J. was successful in her proposal to bring a music program to the Kawartha Lakes for children supported by FamilySupports.

And to everyone for keeping it together during this happy, yet overwhelming, season.






December 9, 2013

December 2, 2013

November 25, 2013

November 18, 2013

November 11, 2013

November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

August 26, 2013

August 12, 2013

August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

July 22, 2013

July 8, 2013

July 1, 2013

June 24, 2013

June 17, 2013

June 10, 2013

June 3, 2013

May 27, 2013

May 20, 2013


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DECEMBER 9TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted December 9th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I heard a great analogy this week about leading with enough freedom to allow people to be themselves, take risks and makechoices.

There is an age-old saying about “giving a person enough rope to hang themselves.” This is a terribly dismal representation for afairly positive practice. What it means is that the person has been given autonomy in whatever they are doing, and that if it allgoes wrong the responsibility will be solely theirs. The saying is usually meant as compliment for an empowering leader, but alsocan mean that a person goes it alone - “sink or swim.”

What I heard this week was this same saying, but modified: ” Offering enough rope to jump freely into the deep end, but stillhaving the attachment if you need the life preserver.” How much more empowering is the idea that I can jump into an idea or planmaking my own decisions and goals, but that not far away there is a lifeline in case I find that I am in over my head.

“When you have reached the end of your rope, tie an knot in it and hang on.” ~Franklin Roosevelt ~Highlights of the past week

Excellent planning day for the management team members!

We all had a great time at the Fenelon Falls Santa Claus Parade!

Elgin held their Family Christmas celebration.

The beautiful angel tree is up and many children are listed as needing an angel.

There is a raffle on the go to raise money for the angel tree.

Our community ReStore held its grand opening.

The Joint Health and Safety Committee members met.

The Accreditation Pit Crew members met and worked on how to keep the joy and celebration alive for the next fouryears.

Independent Living and the Child and Family teams held their regular meetings.

We held interviews for the two Independent Living positions.

Donations of Christmas decorations continue to come in.

Plans for the Accreditation Celebration continue to December 19th.


Candace, for going above and beyond on her night shift to make breakfast and dinner.

Sarah G and Janka, for their work to create the centrepieces for the Elgin Christmas party.

Steve, for a great new saying.

Jessica for holding down the office on Tuesday.

Jeannette - words cannot express how beautiful and generous you gift is for the raffle.

Erin and Charlene for your willingness to step up to the challenge of new roles.

Patt, you were my shining star in the on-call weekend.

Amy, thanks so much for covering “my shift.”

And to everyone for offering lifelines to many.


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DECEMBER 2ND MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted December 2nd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

Years ago I enjoyed a talk by David Hingsburger, during which he told a story of a beautiful blooming hedge of flowering shrubsthat he passed on his way to work. All the blooms were yellow, but then he noticed one bright pink bloom in the middle of thehedge. A crossed pollination or mistaken graft of some kind, nonetheless, David thought its difference beautiful and unique.

On the way home David passed the same hedge and someone was pruning and caring for the plants. David looked for the pinkflower that he had so enjoyed only to find it pruned out. He said that he nearly wept to see that the hedge keeper was onlyinterested in the uniformity that he had planned for and not in the individual beauty of the pink bloom. I am sure that I do noteven have to pass on why he was telling this story. In an article of his that I recently read that he says, “You laugh because we aredifferent, we laugh because you are all the same. Diversity works when difference is celebrated, not tolerated.”

Celebrating diversity is something so close to us in the work we do, but I would challenge that it expands to the entire communityaround us. I challenge that we celebrate each other as different personalities, with diverse strengths … celebrate that we havedifferent styles and opinions … celebrate the co-worker that talks more, laughs often, is a little grumpy or always sees thingsdifferently … celebrate the community we are in with all its members. Take time to enjoy all of those around. None of us needpruning out, but we all need a little celebration to help us be part of the beautiful garden.Highlights of the week

The members of the Board of Directors met.

Plans are laid for the float to be lit up and in the Fenelon Falls Santa Claus parade.

The management team members met.

We hosted the Early Childhood Education Appreciation Night featuring the famous Family Feud game.

The newest part-time staff members completed two evenings of orientation.

Sharon visited Haliburton to help them get set for their compliance.

The epic tree topper votes were cast.

Much work was done taming the IT grave yard in the lower level.

The Angel Tree has many staff members pairing up with children’s names to buy gifts.


Crystal and Kathie for working short on Tuesday.

Jen for switching to Jobs’R'Us with only early morning notice.

Cindy, Steve, Jessica, Marlene and Merla for staying late to help orient the new part-time staff members.

Sharon for helping out in Haliburton and braving the drive.

Patt for being mentioned as the only staff member willing to work whenever needed over the holidays.

Diane for offering to not only present to the Select Committee but for also offering to connect others.

Leslie and Rose for pulling off a great evening celebration.

The Santa Claus Parade float team.

Get well soon, Sharron and Shirley.

And to everyone - you are beautiful in the ways you are different.


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December 2nd Message from the Executive Director « Community Living... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/12/december-2nd-message-from-t...

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Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7

Phone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected]



November 25, 2013

November 18, 2013

November 11, 2013

November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

August 26, 2013

August 12, 2013

August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

July 22, 2013

July 8, 2013

July 1, 2013

June 24, 2013

June 17, 2013

June 10, 2013

June 3, 2013

May 27, 2013

May 20, 2013

May 13, 2013

May 6, 2013

April 29, 2013

April 22, 2013

April 15, 2013

April 8, 2013

April 1, 2013

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NOVEMBER 25TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted November 25th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

“In the end, though, maybe we must all give up trying to pay back the people in this world who sustain our lives. In the end, maybe it’s wiserto surrender before the miraculous scope of human generosity and to just keep saying thank you, forever and sincerely, for as long as we havevoices.” ~Elizabeth Gilbert~

A couple of weeks ago two unrelated colleagues both sent me a great link to a video about gratefulness as a pick-me-up and areminder that no other action is more worthwhile than taking a moment to notice and be grateful for what is all around me.Notice the sky and all its glory, and the faces all around you, the voice in the video compelled me. Perfect timing, as in my new lifeI seem to work at a busier pace. In fact I only have two living houseplants left - which I am sure is an indication of my increaseddemands.

One thing that is great about the busy times are the people that I get to serve and meet, the wonderful community that I amgetting to know better, and the delicious exaltation of reaching a planned out goal like accreditation. The long drives during which Ican do little else,but reflect, dream and sing at the top of my lungs are proving also be great for working things out in my mind andreminding myself of all that I have for which to be grateful.

They say that it has been clinically proven that gratitude increases happiness - not only for the person you may actually say thanksto, but especially for yourself. Even just the thought of things you are grateful for will lift your spirits. I heard a great phrase inHaliburton this week from a partner agency representative - seek out what makes your heart sing. And although my heart singingis probably nothing like the Christmas carols that I have been letting loose on the road between Janetville and Haliburton, I think Iknow what it is to be content and I think I know that gratitude is a state of mind worth striving for. And I think I know that if youare doing what makes your heart sing, you will definitely make the kind of changes and impact for which others will be gratefulHighlights of the past week

BEST group members.

Abuse awareness education took place.

The Life Skills class continues.

Our wonderful float took third place in the Lindsay Santa Claus Parade.

The child and family team members met.

We provided Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training.

Our wonderful Nursing students from Trent presented their project to their peers.

Planning continues for several events - the Fenelon Parade, Child Care Appreciation Night and training with DougCartan for the Management Team.

Our wonderful Christmas tree is up.

Dyson did a complete check of all alarms and fire extinguishers at the office.

Plans for our Accreditation Celebration are underway - December 19, 2 - 5 p.m.

Melinda and Marlene attended the OASIS labour session.

Merla attended the HELMS group meeting to further understand all that is offered.

And a shout out goes to…

JobQuest for being on track to success with ODSP clients.

All applicants for recent job postings.

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Amanda for her great work with respite team and program.

Catulpa staff for a great celebration this week - with cupcakes.

Sharon for agreeing to help Haliburton out.

Barb Brown for making our wonderful tree possible.

Everyone involved in the parade - awesome float and costumes.

And to everyone for embracing and noticing all that there is for which to be grateful.






November 18, 2013

November 11, 2013

November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

August 26, 2013

August 12, 2013

August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

July 22, 2013

July 8, 2013

July 1, 2013

June 24, 2013

June 17, 2013

June 10, 2013

June 3, 2013

May 27, 2013

May 20, 2013


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Follow @CLKLTeresa

You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Last week I wrote about my own personal setbacks and my longing for the smooth ride. What I forgot is that so many peopleread my updates, and many called me. What a beautiful reminder to me that people care, that great people are all around me inboth agencies, and that kindness should be my first language.

I am reminded of the parable of the two wolves. As the story goes, a grandfather said to his grandson - who was angry at a friend- that he too sometimes struggles with anger. It is as if there are two wolves inside me, said the grandfather. One is good and doesno harm. He lives in harmony with all around him and does not take offence when no offence was intended. He will only fightwhen it is right to do so, and in the right way.

But the other wolf, he is full of anger. The littlest thing will set him into a fit of temper. He fights everyone, all the time, for noreason. He cannot think because his anger and hate are so great. It is helpless anger because it will change nothing.

Sometimes is gets difficult to live with these wolves fighting to dominate my spirit, said the grandfather.

The grandson looked intensely at his grandfather and asked - which one will win? The grandfather smiles and then quietlyanswered - “The one I feed.”Highlights of the past week

Kathy was successful in obtaining the overnight contract at Elgin.

We welcome four new part-time staff to our team.

The Applied Medication Course started Thursday and continued on Friday.

Karen celebrated her 40th birthday in style.

Merla met again with the very engaged students at UOIT who are building a database.

The parade is on Sunday and members of the parade committee have worked so hard to create a great float.

The Day Supports team held their regular meeting.

Members of the Management Team met.

Members of the Joint Health and Safety Committee met.

The Boys and Girls Club held a Strategic Planning summit.

The Elgin and William team held their regular meeting.


Cindy for working on the parade and Funspiel in the same week.

The Elm team for a great party.

The entire Parade team for all of their hard work.

Gloria and Anne for working on the Christmas party.

The Day Supports team for planning another wonderful Christmas potluck.

Merla for excellent work with the students who are so computer savvy it is like they are speaking a different language!

Kim for continued work with “Journey to Success” classes.

And to everyone for reminding me last week that we are all in this together.

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For all you do each day, many thanks!





November 11, 2013

November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

August 26, 2013

August 12, 2013

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June 17, 2013

June 10, 2013

June 3, 2013

May 27, 2013

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May 13, 2013

May 6, 2013

April 29, 2013

April 22, 2013

April 15, 2013

April 8, 2013

April 1, 2013

March 25, 2013


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Follow @CLKLTeresa

The highest reward for a person’s toil is not what they get for it, but what they become by it. ~John Ruskin~

Sometimes I worry that I have spent the last ten years thinking - Okay, I am really busy now, but after the next couple weeks itshould be smooth sailing. It seems like no matter how many To Do lists I scratch through, there are more waiting in the wings. Soif I have yet to reach that illusive smooth sailing mode, have I just been wasting my time doing too many things at once, trying tomake time for that ever needed walk with the dog or time for myself, and editing my never done To Do list in a pretty little book? Fair question, and it takes some serous thought - especially after a week like this one, during which I have been faced with someserious setbacks.

I have to say, though, that a lot of living and growing has happened in the time I was waiting to finally be organized, all together andrested. Much has been accomplished, people all around me have achieved great things, and the lives of so many have beenenhanced by the supports that I play a part in offering. Maybe the smooth sailing will never arrive, but I am certainly not theperson that I was when I crafted my first To Do list, and I have done a lot of great things waiting for the next great thing.

Maybe that’s just the way it is. Maybe the wisdom here is that mountain climbing is more about the climbing then putting a littleflag up at the summit. I guess the daily decision to keep climbing in the face of setbacks, challenges and failures is really wherehappiness and growth happens. And perhaps if the day finally comes when we are sailing smoothly to the summit, we will becompelled by all that we have experienced simply to change mountainsides.Highlights of the past week

The Four County Human Resource Committee Leadership Series finished this week.

Teresa Dumas and Donna Gilmour have taken on new challenges.

Don celebrated his 60th birthday in style.

The Halloween Dance was a great success last week.

Sharon and Cindy attended Health & Safety training.

William faces significant challenges, and the team members are working together to tackle them.

We received many good submissions for the wish list.

The new security system is on line, and we have been trained in how to use it.

Child and Family services held their regular meeting.

Residential Primes met.

The Elm team held their regular meeting.

The Part time meeting took place.

Plans for the Santa Claus Parade and the Funspiel are starting to take shape.

And shout out goes to …

Tammy and Adam, for keeping as cool as possible in the face of great adversity.

Laura, for helping out with the policy brief.

All Part-time staff who attended the meeting.

Congrats to Donna and Teresa.

Melinda, for organizing the security training.

Merla, for great support dollar ideas.

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The Santa Claus Parade Committee members for their great ideas.

Tanya and the BEST team members for their December 3rd activity plans.

Steve, it was quite a week with on-call.

And to everyone for climbing without ceasing, and growing in the journey.






November 4, 2013

October 28, 2013

October 21, 2013

October 14, 2013

October 7, 2013

September 30, 2013

September 23, 2013

September 16, 2013

September 9, 2013

September 2, 2013

August 26, 2013

August 12, 2013

August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

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July 8, 2013

July 1, 2013

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June 10, 2013

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May 27, 2013

May 20, 2013

May 13, 2013

May 6, 2013

April 29, 2013

April 22, 2013


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Follow @CLKLTeresa

What a week - snow, rain, ghouls, goblins and great things!

At about Burnt River - on my drive to Haliburton via the 121 - there is a garage under construction. It is really just a concrete padwith stud walls around. It has no roof or any other elements. It is really just a start, but each time I go by I see this family’s vehiclesparked carefully in the bays of their future garage. On Wednesday morning there was a small amount of snow and the vehicles inthe garage-to-be were carefully parked between the studded walls with no roof. Part of me thought - really, what’s the point ofthat?

I guess maybe the family has decided to make their goal a reality in the tried and tested method of “fake it until you make it” - orthey have a dream of a garage and they are going to keep the dream alive by using it to its fullest despite the lack of completion. Inany case, I guess part of me admires their dedication to the dream. I will probably think of these brave folks each time I decide toembark on a new challenge.

You can wait for the entire garage - pad, walls, shingles, siding, stereo, door opener and lights. You can put things off untileverything is perfect.

Or, you can park the car in the garage the minute you have it staked out and let the finishing touches be added as you go. You mayfind yourself more covered in snow on certain mornings the second way, but you will enjoy the dream more in the long run.Sometimes you can find more to enjoy by jumping right in and working out the details as you go - or in this case “parking right in.”Highlights of the past week

The Home Share Conference at Deerhurst was a total success, and all who attended enjoyed what was shared.

Halloween lunch - so much fun and great costumes!

Safety Sam - safety tips, great costume and candy - I am still in love.

We continued with interviews for Part-time.


Don’s birthday party invites went out.

Two Board members had a tour.

Cindy shared her Simply Lead training at the Circle.

Wish list ideas were sent in.


Gloria for her idea of Halloween fun.

Jessica Golzlin for all of the extra preparation for the board meeting.

Anne and her team members for an excellent conference.

Merla, Marlene and Debra for their orientation for the Board members.

Dawn B for having Halloween spirit all week.

Nena for her role in the fire drills.

Nicole and Sarah for what you add to the Independent Living team.

Caren for great art for FOCUS in the front hall.

And to everyone for dreaming big and not waiting for the roof…

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October 28, 2013

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OCTOBER 28TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted October 28th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

Last Friday I had the pleasure of joining the Child Care Conference (It’s Child Play and It Matters) for the afternoon and evening.The Conference is truly one of my favourite annual events. It is a time to just enjoy the company of many partners in the childcare community and to see first hand the impact and respect that the members of the Resource Team have in all corners of theCity of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton. I sat at the speakers table where I was totally out of my depth discussing thephilosophical dimensions of a child’s development - but it was fascinating to gain a better understanding.

The key note speaker was Lenore Skenazy, a columnist who was thrust into the spotlight when she mentioned in her weeklycolumn that her nine-year-old son had been allowed to take the New York Subway on his own. She has since dedicated much ofher time to spreading the message that we need to world proof children rather than trying to child proof the world. She pointedout that we “bubble wrap” our kids for several reasons:

The media now makes every worst case scenario all over the world a headline, which creates an environment where itseems like it is happening often.

Everything has now become an expert opinion: From how to prepare food to how to hug, parents are constantly on theirguard to avoid mistakes.

The environment of safety product overload and threat of litigation makes it so difficult to simply “follow your heart” asparents.

Lenore had a table cover product to show that crowd, which was a little bit like disposable place mats for children, and shepointed out that the packaging indicated that it would keep children safe from germs, dirt and harsh cleaning products. What elsecan be found on a table top if all three things are harmful? Apparently lives hang in the balance until this product can be found.

It was a great night, and Lenore’s presentation was both thought-provoking and hilarious. Huge thanks to Leslie, Rose and theircommittee and team for a wonderful experience.


Board members Shirley and Darla gave up their Saturday to attend the Four County Board Development day atElmhirst.

Soup’s On raised almost $300 for the United Way, and crowned a new soup champion in the Independent Livingteam.

The BEST group members met this week.

The Rights Commission members met.

The Resource Consultants met with members of the Infant Development Team at the Boys and Girls Club,further solidifying the now seamless process of intake and transfer between our two programs.

The Response team members met.

We are holding our Halloween Dance tomorrow.

There is a Board Meeting and Annual Orientation today.

People all over Community Living Kawartha Lakes breathed a sigh of relief and welcomed the chance to reconnectwithout the demands of upcoming reviews.


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Amanda English and Jen MacDonald for completing Applied Behaviour Analysis Certificate work.

Jessica Golzlin for all of her work in scheduling challenges this week.

Melinda for completing her first week of On-Call.

Darla and Shirley for giving up a Saturday and representing Community Living Kawartha Lakes.

Dawn for her work in taking over the Northern Learning Centre.

Tanya for dance preparations and taking over the BEST group.

And to everyone for learning, and partnering, all over this community.






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OCTOBER 21ST MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR


Follow @CLKLTeresa

My favourite childhood story was about a donkey and, arguably now that I look back some of the illustrations are weird and thestory is rather repetitive, but hey it was the seventies. The main theme of the story was that the donkey was trying to make hislong ears look less awkward. He tried letting them hang down, pushed to the front, flat our the sides and so on - withtroublesome and, sometimes painful, consequences. All of the other barnyard animals were trying to tell him how best to wear hisears, which inevitably is exactly how those particular animals had their ears. Finally a little bird says to the donkey, “You are adonkey - so proudly wear you ears as they were meant to be.” And of course in the end, the donkey realizes that he is beautifuljust as he is.

This week has been a little like this favourite bedtime story. I think that for a long time we have been comparing ourselves toother agencies and feeling that we are “wearing our ears” in some lesser fashion than the crowd. If only we could have the fancyears that other agencies have, or the highly polished ears that other groups partner with, or splashy full colour ads about our ears… then we would measure up.

I am still in numb shock over the whirlwind of accreditation this week. The interviews and the pouring over our agency wasrelentless, but much was learned. And in the end, it was just as the story should be - we are exactly who we should be. We do notneed to seek out a better path gleaned from the agencies around us - Community Living Kawartha Lakes is on its own path and isdoing excellent work. I love these ears!!Highlights of the past week

The trolley took up residence, but kicked off its long stay with a delightful tour of the town for the FOCUS and Pit Crewteams.

The Children’s Conference kicked off - so much planning and excitement finally coming to fruition!

We held our Soup’s On fundraiser on Friday.

Planning is underway for our Halloween Dance on October 29th.

Joint Health and Safety Committee members met this week.

Amanda and Jessica Geary both received word that they obtained contracts.

Compliance Actions were completed and submitted.

Jessica and Melinda shared their learning at the Training Circle.

And of course, accreditation validators did their work.


Nena, Gloria C and Julie J for participating in the Training Circle.

The FOCUS team of Celine, Janeen, David, Joanne and Sara - thank you for your hard work.

The Accreditation Pit Crew - Leah, Erin, Jessica N., Seamus, Sharon, Rose and Merla - you have done so much hard workand shown so much creativity - we truly thank you.

And to all of us - our ears are beautiful just the way they are.



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Thanksgiving is a wondrous time for appreciating autumn beauty, a bountiful harvest, family, friends, blessings and very important tome - as most people know - pie. It seems strange to have this holiday right in the middle of so much activity in both agencies. Community Living Kawartha Lakes is busy pulling out all the final stops to wow the Accreditation reviewers next week, while atthe same time following up on outstanding items from last week’s Compliance review. The poor photocopier groans under theweight of our collective printing and copying.

Similarly in Haliburton the Board has purchased a dream in Victoria Street School, a two-story school built in 1924 that will now bethe home base for Community Living Haliburton County’s activities long into the future. Plans for the move and the renovationsabound amid a backdrop of intensive Individual Support Plan development and coordination. Both Community Living KawarthaLakes and Community Living Haliburton County are in high gear and right smack in the middle is this holiday of thanks andreflection.

I think the timing is perfect. “To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to livegratitude is to touch Heaven.” ~Johannes A. Gaertner~

In all of the work that we are doing, we are building on what others did before us and we are preparing for the future that liesahead. In taking this long weekend to live a moment in gratitude for all we have is perfect. The pilgrims said to have startedThanksgiving as a tradition faced death at every corner, harsh conditions, bleak circumstances and really uncomfortable beds andshoes. Yet these early settlers took the time to give thanks.

Take some time to remember, to be still, to be thankful and to rest from the flurry of work and activity. This is a great holiday- Iwish you much happiness and much pie.Highlights of the past week

Merla and the Pit Crew have become a travelling road show of Accreditation Jeopardy as a last effort to getinformation and awareness out.

Sharon, Merla and the entire management team have prepared literally thousands of documents for the reviewteam to peruse.

Thirty staff members completed and submitted the FOCUS word search.

Follow-up from compliance continues in all programs that were reviewed.

Resource Consultants received excellent feedback on their delivery of Me, My Baby, Our World in partnership withthe Ontario Early Years Centre.

Walks at noon have spontaneously started at the office - what a great way to spend a break.

Management team members met.

Cindy has been on-call and, as many will know, shifts have been hard to fill.

Seamus and Marlene have been doing interviews.

Members of the Finance Committee of the Board met.


Erin for her help with med packages.

Angelia - congratulations on your new opportunity.

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Joan - you were overwhelmed, but got your compliance work done in record time.

Darla for all of your work this week to get ready for Accreditation.

Dagmar and Gloria for your dedication to fish and their well-being.

Everyone working at the group homes to keep them spotless and organized.

And to everyone for working like mad, but still taking some time to give thanks, be grateful, live in gratitude and enjoy pie.

For all that you do every day, I am truly grateful.





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Follow @CLKLTeresa

I have been calling these times at Community Living Kawartha Lakes the one-two punch - Compliance review and Accreditationvalidation both in one month. Joking aside it is a whirlwind of activity.

I have long decided that if you look closely you will always find things that you want to do better and this is definitely happening allover our agency right now. Overall I am proud to share that the Compliance Officer did say yesterday that we have an “excellentagency.” Of course, we are not in compliance but we have our work plan and 10 days to rectify a number of issues. I knowthat this is doable because I have seen what we can accomplish as a team.

In preparing for Accreditation I have spent time reviewing the operational goals that I set in May, and I am overwhelmed at howmuch has been accomplished in such a short time. At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) Mr. Bob Fitch, a founding member,remarked that we seem to be an agency on the move. From excellent ISP’s to Safety Sam, all around me I see improvement andcommitment to our vision.

My hat goes off to everyone who has lost sleep, poured over files, worked into the night, cleaned like we were going to performsurgery in the group homes, and went above and beyond in the last two weeks. All this work will lend tp a great foundation forthe validation that is coming up next.

“We do not become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it is not as dreadful as it appeared,discovering we the strength to stare it down.” Eleanor RooseveltHighlights of the past week

Sharon, with her trolley of binders, represented all MCSS funded agencies expertly in travelling with the complianceteam and pointing them in the right direction for information.

The Community Living Kawartha Lakes art class members entered the Lindsay Art Gallery’s Inspiration ArtExhibit and took first place.

Welcome back to Deanna!

Plans are shaping up for the first ever Provincial Home Share Conference - Anne and Joan are both heavily involved.

Work continues on all Domains, gathering the burden of proof for each standard.

Members of the Board of Directors met on Monday.

The Children’s conference is definitely in full planning mode for Oct. 18th and 19th.

We unveiled our intake folders with information about Community Living Kawartha Lakes and its programs.


Christy, Erin and Gloria for tireless efforts to help a colleague.

Steve for unwavering support and guidance to his team and the Children’s program.

Jessica Geary for cleaning everywhere and everything.

Elm and Elgin staff who worked so hard and then did not have an inspection- your work makes everything better and itis appreciated.

Yvette, Scott, Ian, Kelly, Christine, Sonya and Caren - congratulations on winning the Art Gallery prize.

Tanya for excellent work encouraging someone back to school.

Neil for taking the rural transit bus for the first time.

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Melinda - welcome to your new position.

Tammy and Dwight our thoughts are with you.

Sharon for unstinting dedication to excellence in the details with compliance.

And to everyone - you are all my heroes, one step at a time.

With much thanks and appreciation for all that you do.





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SEPTEMBER 30TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted September 30th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

‘Tis the season for Annual General Meetings (AGMs). Haliburton’s was on the 12th. Then, this week was the pinnacle, with myattending two partner AGM’s as well as the Kawartha Lakes Annual General Meeting on Wednesday.

Some would argue that the AGM is all business and a rather dry event. However, I think it is a celebration and a time to connectwith members, reflect on a year of accomplishments and set direction for the coming year. The AGM is a time to pay tribute tothe journey rather than all the destinations we have arrived at and are planning to go.

At the North Hastings Community Integration Association AGM, the entertainment was great - featuring the “Shadow Gang”performing shadow puppet acts to stories and music. At one point in the performance, an individual proudly held up a sign thatread “Your difference makes a difference.”

Now, it may have been the long drive that I had after the meeting, but I really let that statement sink into my bones: Thedifferences that make up my personality and abilities actually makes a difference in the world around me. Further, the differencethat some would label a deficiency or disability makes a difference in the community around us. “Your difference makes a difference”-or to put another way - from the Resource Consultants wall - “If we are all thinking the same way, none of us is really thinking.”

I know that we espouse a philosophy of inclusion, but it is important to be reminded that inclusion is not just about accepting thepeople who we support into meaningful community activity, but it is truly accepting all people, opinions, abilities, quirks and physicalskills as making a difference in improving and creating our communities.

“Your difference, makes a difference” every day, in the work that you do and in the paths that you create for people and in thecommunity. Highlights of the past week

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) was an excellent night with a special guest from Community Living Ontario -Keith Dee.

An excellent performance by members of Illusions and the Lindsay Little Theatre Youth performers brought thehouse down!

The Accreditation pit crew wowed the crowd with an excellent video featuring a special guest we all know riding shotgun in the race car.

The AGM committee members did excellent work preparing an “up scale” silent auction that raised almost $600 inone night.

Every corner of the agency continues to prepare for compliance next week.

We announced Job Quest as the grand prize winner in the Accreditation Challenge - great work and creativity by allteams!

The Rights Commission members met and reviewed restrictions and Behaviour Support Plans.

The last Cruise Night fundraiser was held in support of United Way.

The Respite team members held their regular meeting.

The Early Childhood Resource team members held their regular meeting, gearing up for a great school year

Plans continue for the children’s conference.

Advertising went out for the Soups On annual fundraiser on October 18th.

Children’s Community Planning Table members reconvened today, after the summer break.

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The Memory Committee tribute was noticed by all AGM attendees and really added to a special celebration.

And a shout out goes to …Nena and Steve for covering the last cruise night.

Merla and Angelia, who are back to work this week.

Sharon and the AGM Committee members for an excellent night.

Anne for buying out almost the entire silent auction.

Jim and Noreen Prop for ceramics donations and fresh produce this week.

Keith Dee for his greetings at, and attendance of, our AGM.

All staff members who attended the AGM - your support is noticed and appreciated.

Seamus, Miranda and the entire Pit Crew for an excellent video and loads of creativity.

BEST group members for greeting and helping out at the AGM.

And to everyone for the difference that you make every day.






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SEPTEMBER 23RD MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted September 23rd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I have had a very full week at Community Living Ontario’s (CLO) 60th Annual Conference here in London. The conference a greatplace to hear about what many other agencies are trying, doing, creating and celebrating. The formal sessions and informal chatsare so helpful and informative.

Yesterday I listened to Doug Cartan speak about values-based management and what he said really resonated with me. Dougchallenges us to ask ourselves this: “What did you do last week? If you do that same thing next week will it bring the agency closer to itsmission and vision?”

How powerful is the idea that every day matters, and that a mission is not some far off vision that looks nice on the letterhead.Instead, our mission actually permeates all that we do, every day, from haircuts to public speaking. Doug challenges us to makeour mission matter every day.

At the conference, I met many self-advocates and parents - and, of course, I again had the pleasure of enjoying the annual dancethat starts long before the lights go down in the ballroom, everyone is so anxious to celebrate and boogie. Joy rising!Highlights of the week

The BEST advocates group members met.

Dawn began her new position with Independent Living.

All teams continue to work on compliance.

The Rights stuff members held their first meeting after the break.

The children’s team members worked to complete the package for Domain 16.

The Training Circle met for the Autism Spectrum Disorder & Mental Health presentation.

Jamie and Dawn received the news that they were the successful applicants for the Independent Living primeposition.

A posting for Elgin came out.


Mary Anne for reaching her 25-year milestone - thank you so much for your dedication and commitment.

Welcome back, Merla.

Tanya, Jessica and Gloria for their Training Circle offerings.

Sharon for finding the time during all of the work of compliance and AGM planning to clean in 123.

And to everyone for making our mission more than just a piece of print.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7

Community Living Haliburton County14 South Street, Box 90Haliburton, OntarioK0M 1S0

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In the past weeks an anonymous, hateful letter received by the mother of a teenaged boy with Autism has been circulated. SalAmenta, a parent and Community Living Ontario Board member, sent a letter to the editor in response to the terrible incident.Here is an excerpt from his letter.

These folks, our neighbours, need to be told that since Canada signed on to UN declarations on the rights of children and persons withdisabilities, they have rights to education and social inclusion; “wild” children must not to be expelled into the “woods.”

Indeed, these people need to hear that when parents choose to live in the community with their children, this is good not just for them, butalso for all of us as we learn to be our “brother’s keeper.”

All persons have dignity, including those with disabilities, and so are entitled to freedom from abuse as well as freedom to reach their potential.

They need to recognize we are born utterly dependent on others, live a heartbeat away from catastrophic accident or illness and, if lucky, diein loving arms.

Like many parents, this mother thinks her children are “normal,” but life’s lessons may yet change her heart, so they must not forget theirfamily is spared only by God or fate from what they consider “defects.”

Yes, they are responsible for their own children, but our regard for future generations makes this a collective responsibility too.

So, we need to convince this woman, and anyone who shares her sentiments, that we accept people who are “different” and that we supporttheir caregivers. Only then can we celebrate the uniqueness so essential to the diversity that enriches Canada.

~ Salvatore (Sal) Amenta ~

SourceHighlights of the past week

Dagmar was the successful applicant for the Elgin Overnight position.

The United Way interagency meeting was held.

Habitat for Humanity announced at the meeting that they are opening a ReStore in Lindsay.

Our own Shirley and Lynda were asked to speak at the United Way Kick-off Breakfast.

The Accreditation Pit Crew is definitely ramping up their efforts

Planning continues for our Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Community Living Haliburton & County held their AGM.

Independent Living and the Child and Family Support teams held their regular meetings.

The Residential primes held their regular meeting with Seamus.

We’re all working hard to prepare for compliance.


Welcome back, Dana and Jessica Geary.

Shirley has reached the incredible milestone of 25 years with Community Living Kawartha Lakes - thank you so much forall of your great ideas, dedication and commitment to dreams, Shirley!

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Marlene for editing the Annual Report in a tight turn around.

Angelia - welcome back - we have missed you.

Seamus and the Pit Crew for some awesome creativity.

Congrats to Steve on the marriage of Luke this past weekend.

Continue to get well Merla, Mary Anne, Debbie, April and Kim.

And to everyone for continued to commitment to celebrating uniqueness and difference as the key to richness.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive Director




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Building on last week I have been reflecting on my two years as Executive Director and how much I have grown and beenchallenged. I have been so lucky to be surrounded by people who are professional, caring and willing to walk beside me each day.Here’s what I have learned from the staff with whom I’ve had the pleasure to work.

Your passion can be your job and the world is a better place for it.

Prune juice stains can be removed.

Hearts can be broken by the loss of someone supported.

The power of thoughts , prayers and unstinting support can move mountains.

In the face of grave danger - or even bed bugs - the strong will overcome.

The power of positive intervention can move mountains.

The words “never,” “can’t” and “hopeless” simply do not exist.

Hearts can be mended with the smile of an individual supported.

Good support extends to the cat.

Chocolate is a cure for almost anything.

In crisis - miracles can happen.

Everyone deserves a shout out for something every day.

Everyone wants to do great things and have them noticed.

Helping someone dream big makes your own dreams stronger.

When reversing to carefully avoid the tree always make sure there is not a boulder in front of the tree.

Quitting time is often just a suggestion.

The creation of text messaging has made the dedicated completely unstoppable.

The heart and soul of our business is built on hearts and souls.

I am working with the best teams in the province.

Highlights for the past week

The one-two punch called “agency compliance” was delivered and our teams are set to rise to the challenge.

The first Training Circle event took place on the topic of Fierce Conversations.

Leslie says that registrations are rolling in for the 5th Annual Child Care Conference - It’s Child Play & It Matters.

The Accreditation Pit Crew members are ramping it up and have begun to meet weekly in preparation.

Annual General Meeting plans continue to develop.

Gloria has submitted a proposal for a great partnership around computer training.

Sharon has taken the lead for compliance and has already coordinated several planning meetings.

Many of our children started back to school, high school, college and university.


Jessica for coming to the rescue on the weekend, helping someone who was locked out of their apartment.

Sharon for rising to the challenge, and then rising some more.

Patt and Lisa for a warm greeting every morning and great work with John and David.

Our thoughts are with Steve, Tammy and Merla.

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Elm team members for rearranging an entire afternoon to offer the van to Tim, who needed to attend an appointmentwith someone.

Gloria for awesome creativity and drive to find funds.

Melinda and Nena for the extra work while Debra is off on vacation.


Sincerely,





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SEPTEMBER 2ND MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted September 2nd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

This week marked an important milestone - my 2nd anniversary as Executive Director of Community Living Kawartha Lakes. Nowworking for two agencies committed to making lives better, I feel that I have learned so much more than I have taught. In walkingalongside families and adults living in the community I have learned:

In the face of adversity, perseverance and courage will win the day.

Laughter is better than tears, but laughter through tears is downright healing.

If music is playing, dance!

When trouble looms, seek out a friend.

When you are asked to greet - take it seriously.

Dream big and do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

Seek a circle of friends who will stick by you no matter what.

Accept praise.

Rather than complain - celebrate a clear mammogram as cause for community rejoicing.

Smile and cheer.

Exercise rights.

Make miraculous support happen by being creative - no matter for what amount of money you are approved.

Love unconditionally.

Celebrate the small things.

Treat a microphone as an invitation.

Take great pride in your work.

Love honestly and ferociously.

Seek the ability in all people and dismiss no one.


Members of the Board met on Monday to a full quorum for a summer meeting.

Members of the Board approved the financial audit statements.

Orientation team members met.

The Accreditation Pit Crew announced this week’s winner and set up the next challenge.

We announced the Training Circle participants for September.

Audit and TPAR were completed and submitted.

We held planning meeting for the Annual General Meeting.

The William team members met.

We held a wonderful baby shower for Jamie and baby Oleson.

Many people enjoyed one final week of vacation.

Dana obtained a contract at Elm.

We announced many part-time assignments.


Seamus, for attacking the task of creating communication videos for each individual and for nearing completion.

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Sharon, for her enthusiasm and organization of the training circle.

Kirby, for literally completing tasks almost before there are requested - and helping members of the Memory Committee.

Justin, Justine, Jessica, Amanda, Amy K and Josh - thank you so much for your help over the weekend in filling gapsand assisting other houses.

Grace for excellent work on several Elm videos.

Teresa D. for professionalism and commitment in a tough situation.

Jessica Golzlin for the do-over of the September schedule at the last minute.

Merla, you are in our thoughts and prayers as you recover from surgery.

And to everyone for taking each day as an opportunity to learn and do better.


Sincerely,





August 26, 2013

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March 25, 2013

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AUGUST 26TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted August 26th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I spent three days in Haliburton this week and, as I have said before, it is a beautiful place tospend time during the summer months.

Part of my time this week has been spent looking for history. A few of the staff have commented about history being lost. So hereis what I have found…

Like so many other associations, Haliburton began as a group of parents and concerned citizens gathering to address the need fora school where developmentally disabled children could attend and learn. In April of 1961, the Haliburton and District Associationwas formed and in November of that same year, received it Charter. The first school was opened January 2, 1962 at the UnitedChurch of Haliburton. From this beginning the agency has evolved into a crucial part of the Haliburton community.

There are many who say that we have to not only honour these inclusion pioneers of the past, but learn from them as well. It iswith their same sort of determination and spirit that we now have to take a look at how we can do things differently. “Doingthings differently” was a leap of faith for Haliburton in 1961 and for Lindsay in 1960 - families and neighbours wanting somethingbetter.

It is time for another leap of faith. It is estimated that 20 thousand adults in Ontario receive no funding or service. These familiesare struggling to find ways to support their loved ones and keep their families together. It would seem to me that we are beingfaced again with a challenge. Having built our dreams, programs and supports on the shoulders of our founders, I know that thewill, determination and imagination is still there.Highlights of the past week

Natasha successfully obtained the Elgin contract.

Marlene and Seamus conducted all of the interviews for the Elgin position.

Our auditor was here all week to finish up her review.

William had a team meeting.

The annual status forms are due - please sign and send back.

Kim Eade has moved on - thank you for the memories and the great weekend outings!


Nova for her help in filling Thursday’s shift.

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Trevor for answering the SOS on Friday.

Barb for her home baking, preserves and willingness to fill out last minute wine bottle orders from Haliburton.

Yvette and Amy for a rice pudding delivery that was still warm.

Welcome back on Monday to Lisa B.

From the solution box - to Cindy - thank you for being a supportive supervisor and for having passion for the people wesupport.

James for saving me from locking my keys in my trunk.

And to all of us, honouring the past by carving out a great future.


Sincerely,





August 12, 2013

August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

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2 of 3 11/02/2015 1:39 PM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

The good old summer time! I have been camping this week with my family. As camping tripsusually are, this one has been a combination of improvisation, bug spray, fun, laughs and - in the case of this year - a tornadowarning.

It is a scary thing to be under a metal poled tarp beside a trailer, reading on Twitter that people in your area should seek shelter. Iwas following Twitter - my only source of information - all afternoon. Being outside, I was also watching the clouds, the wind andthe changing patterns. I was completely up-to-the-minute tracking the developments of the storm that for a few minutes seemedset to be a tornado right over the campground.

My brother lives a few kilometres from where we were camping. Having small children, he was watching a children’s channel andhad no idea that anything was going on. When the storm finally hit I was completely informed and my brother was caughtoff-guard.

I was ready and informed, but due to my circumstances ended up soaked to the skin, scared and freezing. My brother ended upstartled by the violence of the storm, and had to contend with a destroyed gazebo.

You could look at this as situation as another example of the challenges of planning in the work we do. We work to providesupports and information, but often circumstances and factors out of the agency’s control will derail an entire plan. Or, in othercases, minimal information and planning can offer success and room to build more success. We just need to keep moving towardthe goals set, creating as many supports as we can and, at the end of the day, roll with the punches or - in my case - roll withstanding soaked under the shelter bailing water off the roof and praying that my entire family doesn’t get swept away to the land ofOz!Highlights of the week

We had a conference call with FOCUS Executive Director, Janeen, and all systems are go for our fall validation.

Everyone that needed to had their passports updated at Elm.

Plans are being made for an awesome presentation at the Annual General Meeting by the Full Throttle AccreditationPit Crew.

Adam has agreed to a shift change to make sure that the William crew get to the Blue Jays game - thank you, Adam.

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Safety Sam sent out another great safety message and link, and is contemplating packing his bags to become a presenterat a Public Sector Health and Safety Association event.

Merla attended an intense train-the-trainer session at the Ontario Fire College this week.

William team members held their meeting.

The Day Supports team held their planning day away at the United Way office.


Natasha for volunteering to attend the Rama concert this weekend.

Terri and Jen for all of their effort scrambling to get doctor’s orders signed on a Friday Afternoon.

The Investors Group Matching Gift program for their donation of $500 and Cathy, whose gift was matched.

Welcome to the world Olsen, and congratulations to Jamie.

Kirby for keeping our building in good repair and being so creative whenever we have ideas for improvement.

Mike P - thanks so much for bringing the suggestion of the bike rack to my attention - a great idea.

And to everyone weathering frequent storms- you are making it happen.


Sincerely,





August 5, 2013

July 29, 2013

July 22, 2013

July 8, 2013

July 1, 2013

June 24, 2013

June 17, 2013

June 10, 2013

June 3, 2013

May 27, 2013

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April 22, 2013

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April 8, 2013

April 1, 2013


2 of 3 11/02/2015 1:38 PM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

I love my job. I work with great people at two wondrous agencies, and I get to be a partof all the great things that happen.

I like sending these updates to let everyone know about the highlights across the agency. I especially like the connecting that I getto do behind the scenes each week. This week was a jam-packed adventure.

Tuesday saw the opening of the The Warehouse at the Boys and Girls Club. The Warehouse is a state of the art facility where youngpeople can hang out, learn, record music, use a kitchen, commune around a harvest table and have access to the Rogers Room,where computers and technology await. The atmosphere at The Warehouse was contagious and I was so proud of our communitypartner and the hard work its Foundation has been doing over the years.

Boys and Girls Club Executive Director, Scott Robertson, used a wonderful quote in his speech at the opening: “It’s easier to buildstrong children than to repair broken men.” (Fredrick Douglass). I know that this community is ahead of the curve in theircommitment to building strong children.

Wednesday night was a celebration night with the United Way, and a group was invited to cruise on the Kawartha Spirit. Again itwas a fabulous night to spend some time celebrating our community and its commitment to building a better life for all of itscitizens. I met great people and got to explore our lakes of the Kawarthas.

Lastly, yesterday I had an engaging lunch with the new CEO of Community Living Ontario (CLO), Chris Beesley. I found Chris to bea man who is up to the challenge of our sector and its diversity. He has a son with a developmental disability, and is keen to get toknow the 122 member agencies of CLO. He asked pointed questions, and seemed to really consider the answers. I am lookingforward to watching how the federation grows and develops in his leadership. It’s a great job.Highlights of the past week

We held the yard sale on Saturday, and many bargains were had by the many community members who attended. Theyard sale raised over $700!

We had a wonderful surprise visit from Janet D. with the BOB FM “Bob Mobile” at the yard sale.

Laura has made the transition to the new Family Supports position and has moved offices

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Merla couriered our entire package for review to FOCUS Accreditation - that’s a big step!

We published our first newsletter under Sharon’s supervision right on time. It went out to the masses on August 1st -260 mailed!

Vacations continue in every program - many a thank you to the staff members left behind who are keeping the kingdomrunning!

Residential Primes had their regular meeting with Seamus.

The Residential team held their quarterly meeting.

The Part-time team met and had a great meeting over pizza.

The A&W Cruise continues with William taking their turn this week selling tickets for United Way.

Merla took a vanload of the donated women’s clothing to Haliburton and set up at the Community LivingHaliburton County office. Many appreciated women took items home.

We are getting out the invitation to our Annual General Meeting (AGM) - we posted it on our website, sent it out byemail and are in the process of publishing it in the newspaper.

Chris Beesley took the time to mark our AGM date in his calendar.

And a shout out go to …

Marlene for taking the time to relieve the server of about 3,000 old email messages.

Caren, Scott, Michael and Melinda for lugging the yard sale items up from the basement.

Merla, Debra, Diane, Sharon, Seamus, Austin, Marlene, Pat, Sarah and Scott for giving time on a Saturday tomake the yard sale a success.

Welcome Dawn and Jeannette to our Resource Consultant team.

Huge thanks to Josh for taking the time to teach and advise his co-workers at the part-time meeting.

Cindy H. - your talents with the newsletter are appreciated far and wide.

The Jobs’R'Us team for fast and efficient putting together of the newsletter mail out.

The Accreditation Pit Crew - you are amazing and your hard work shows all over the agency.

Merla - awesome work - big accomplishment this week - many more to come.

And to everyone for all the great jobs you are doing in every corner of this community.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes Suite 200, 205 McLaughlinRoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7Phone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax:(705) 328-0495Email:Email: [email protected]

Community Living Haliburton County14 South Street, Box90Haliburton, OntarioK0M 1S0Phone: (705) 457-2626, ext.25Fax: (705)-457-9287Email: [email protected]


July 29, 2013

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May 20, 2013

August 5th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kaw... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/08/august-5th-message-from-the-...

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JULY 8TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted July 8th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

We’ve had another glorious week of hot weather and summer sunshine. I want tocomplain about the heat sometimes, but I always stop myself - it won’t be here long so I am going to enjoy it.

This week a lot of work was done in Haliburton about person-centred thinking. We all know this theory and practice, but alsowell know that the work, mandate, schedule and funding get in the way sometimes. It is important that the pressures only get inthe way of the supports, not in setting the goals.

This was a long discussion this week. We, as support workers, need to work on experiences and knowledge to help people dreambig. If all of the supports needed cannot be found right away, it will still be on record that the dream/goal exists and we cancontinue to make connections that move toward it.

The other story that I have been telling in talking about planning is my convertible experience. I have been driving for almost 24years; in all that time I have thought convertible cars to be windy, a little pretentious and definitely not for me. On what was Ibasing this judgment? I guess on old movies, driving long distances with the windows down, and knowing that it just would not bemy style. All that changed on a sunny afternoon in Ottawa when I spent hours touring with the top down in a convertible withfriends. I loved it. Now despite all of my preconceived objections, owning a convertible is on my bucket list.

I think that, for me, this story reminds that as planners and support staff we need to make sure that decision and plans areinformed by experiences and knowledge. There is always room for creativity, new experiences - and a tour of the tulip festival withhair blowing in the wind - in order to support excellence in planning goals.Highlights of the past week

Wayne was able to attend the Alice Cooper concert - awesome!

Haliburton County held their open house and showed their great agency off to the community.

Canada Day was a great celebration here in Lindsay.

Managers began their book club, reading Fierce Conversations.

The Beer Bash was set, then rescheduled - however, there was still a very special guest at Elgin.

Cindy and Anne moved their offices to the main floor and Home Share staff moved into Cindy’s.

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Residential had their regular joint meetings,

Many folks are taking holidays and enjoying time away.


Tammy for her part in making dreams come true, inviting “Elvis” to Elgin

Patt for taking time on her day off to make the gardens at Wilson look wonderful.

Kathy for escorting a huge fan to the Alice Cooper concert - we’re not worthy.

Cindy for taking on the scheduling this week with Jess off.

Amanda and her respite team for facing a challenging weekend and meeting the challenge with skill and professionalism.

Cindy James - welcome back!

Independent Living staff members for keeping cool under the flood conditions.

Melinda, Debra, Natasha and Nena for saving me from my car load of equipment - much thanks.

And to everyone for planning to plan with the top down.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7Phone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email:Email: [email protected]

Community Living Haliburton County14 South Street, Box 90Haliburton, OntarioK0M 1S0Phone: (705) 457-2626, ext. 25Fax: (705)-457-9287Email: [email protected]


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2 of 3 11/02/2015 1:36 PM

JULY 1ST MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted July 1st, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

The summer is finally here and you will not hear me complain about the heat, as I know thatit will be gone away before I know it.

I had a delightful experience this week at the Job Quest Visioning Day. First, the location was second to none - not even the finestresort - a riverside oasis with walking paths and beautiful outdoor decks and seating.

Second, I spent the day with people dedicated to their jobs, the philosophy of inclusion and the value of all participation in thecommunity.

So much accomplishment was celebrated including the changing of lives, gainful employment, connection to services, and life skillslearning. On the banks of the river the team members summed up their work with a new program mission statement: Job Questempowers people to maximize their unique potential through development of skills, supports and connections.”

I heard the story of a shy young woman who, through the work of Job Quest, has learned to say ‘no’ when she feels that herfriends are taking advantage of her. No small accomplishment for any of us, but a huge example of the holistic support that JobQuest offers to our community. I loved being there, am excited about all of the plans, and know that dreams will come true.

“To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.” - Anatole FranceHighlights of the past week

We held our monthly part-time meeting.


The Management team members met on Tuesday.

Job Quest held their planning day, lead by Anne.

Day Supports, William and Elgin held their regular meetings.

The Rights Commission members met.

The last of the CPR and First Aid training sessions were held.

Bonnie’s retirement party was held Thursday night and it was a wonderful meeting place.

The date for the Yard Sale is set for July 27th - start cleaning out and donating!

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Laura in taking on a new challenge with Family Supports.

Jessica N. and Sarah G. in their new roles with Independent Living.

Bonnie - congratulations and blessings for the journey.

Grace King - in retiring from the Board - thank you for all you have offered - you leave Community Living Kawartha Lakesbetter than where you found it.

Anne - excellent leadership and planning for the visioning day.

Kim, you have a beautiful home and atmosphere.

Merla - congratulations and hope the wedding is wonderful.

Sharon for taking on the Yard Sale - you rock!

Jessica N. for grace under creepy crawly pressure.

Mary Ann wonderful to see you - get well soon.

Julie, Steve and Mary Lynn for an excellent retirement party and power point presentation of memories.

Kim E. for taking the supportive and proactive approach by offering early extra support for the weekend.

Gloria for leadership and support in the Elgin team.

And everyone for vision, passion and interest and unfailing belief in plans


Sincerely,




June 24, 2013

June 17, 2013

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2 of 3 11/02/2015 1:33 PM

JUNE 24TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted June 23rd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I read an article about a phenomenon called “entrainment,” discovered by a Dutchscientist in the 1600’s. The discovery was that a number of swinging pendulums mounted on a wall will always, and without fail,begin to swing in unison. No change to speed, time started or placement changes the outcome - they will always go back tounison.

It seems to me that this is also true of us as people. It seems to me that when working side by side on the same project, we willquickly get into a groove with each other in unison. So if the main vibe is positive, we all become optimistic and hopeful. In thesame way, when the general tone turns to despair and disgruntlement - quickly all pendulums fall into place. If you consciously candecide how to set the pendulums in the room, swinging toward optimism is my choice every time - saves on Tylenol for one thing!Highlights of the past week

The Bark Lake Camp trip was a huge success - huge thanks to Christy, Tanya and Tim.

The trip to the Canoe Museum was great fun and supported our neighbour agency.

Independent Living team members had their regular meeting.

Resource Consultants had their regular meeting.

Mini-golf was on Wednesday - tonnes of fun!

Cindy took part in a Poverty Forum with other residents of the City of Kawartha Lakes.

BEST- the self-advocates advisory members - met and started work on their brochure.

Elgin and Elm both had their day-away meetings.

Joint Health and Safety Committee members met.

Kim’s life skills class finished today with a smudging ceremony.

The Children’s Services Council and United Way held their AGMs at Kennedy Place.

Elgin recertified their CPI with Yvonne.


Seamus for leading and planning three day-away meetings in less than one week’s time.

All staff involved with the mini-golf trip - I am told that the crowd was exhausted and excited.

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Christy, Tanya and Tim - the overnight trips are a huge commitment - thank you.

Congratulations to Tanya for embarking on a new adventure.

To Jessica for reaching the five-year milestone for scheduling - that equates to about 345,000 voice messages left for reliefstaff.

Cindy for her work with the Olymp-nic - it is a great partnership and a great opportunity to do the chicken polka.

To Safety Sam - I have a secret crush- good looks and a passion for health and safety.

Anne, Sharon, Merla and Cindy for a last minute clean-up of the cavern for the United Way meeting.

Mike Perry, from our Board of Directors, for stepping up as the United Way campaign co-chair.

And to everyone for setting the pendulums to swing toward success!


Sincerely,




June 17, 2013

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2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:39 AM


Posted June 17th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I cannot believe another week has gone by, time is so short in June.

I live on a side road that meets Highway 35 on a hill. You can see about 200 metres south on the highway at the intersection.Sometimes in the time that it takes to turn on to the highway, a car will come over the hill and have to slow down.

Twice in the last month or so when I turn on, I have had a car speed up behind me, pass and then the driver shake a fist at me forbeing in the way.

I have to admit the first time, and maybe even the second, I felt admonished and that I needed to be more vigilant at that corner. Iactually internalized the road rage behaviour and thought about making a modification to my driving habits and - in fact - changingthe intersection that I take to get to the highway. I was ready to modify my behaviour - thus her behaviour intervention ofshaking a fist at me had started to work.

Then yesterday, I made the left turn onto the highway the way I do every morning and many other times and I recognized the carspeeding up to me. I said “wait for it” to my kids and then burst out laughing when the angry fist appeared. I cannot even explainwhy I had such a different reaction, but yesterday it just seems so outrageously comical that this driver is such a predictable, angryspeed demon who clearly travels at the same time as me.

It seems to me that this experience offers some insight into how we sometimes offer the same intervention for years and years. Is it not reasonable to expect that, just like me and the angry fist, the intervention may suddenly have a completely different effect- even if it worked for a while. I am careful at the corner, but I’ve got to be honest - if we meet again I am pretty sure it will crackme up.Highlights for the week

Our trip to the Toronto Zoo was a great day, with great weather.

Lynda has been busy with beautiful flowers in her garden box at the United Way and at William.

Shirley continues to send out great updates to staff about William.

William took part in specialized CPI training.

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1 of 3 11/02/2015 10:37 AM

Jamie Brown was successful in obtaining a full-time contract.

Julie is trying a brand new role until December.

The Poker Run was a huge success - 98 riders, $4100 in sponsorships, 60 prize donors - and the winner of the grandprize donated $200 back!

Elgin had their day away.

We held the annual Olymp-nic.

Members of the accreditation team are still working hard - a date has been set for our review - October 15th.

Last night we celebrated the Raising the Bar achievements of the Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton Community - fun washad with games and good food.

Community Living Kawartha Lakes was awarded silver level accreditation through Raising the Bar and PlatinumProfessional Development for the team members individually.


Marlene and Debra, who worked through 212 entries for payroll - more than double the regular amount.

Cindy H., for artistic flare and scrap booking ability.

Erin, for doing good work despite overwhelming computer issues.

Sharon - excellent poker run coordination.

Lisa S. - excellent work on orienting Gerry at William.

Leslie and Rose, for organizing an awesome night of fun for the child care staff of our communities.

Sharon, Gloria, Jen N., Merla, Debra, Melinda, Gerry, Karen Hughes, Chris Nealon, Heather Nealon andDarla - thanks so much for volunteering your own time to the poker run and its preparation.

For an awesome dance night that is still being raved about in Haliburton - Tanya, Tammy, Caren, Melinda and Gloria.

And to everyone for finding the balance between successful intervention and hilarious road rage.


Sincerely,




June 10, 2013

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Posted June 10th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

It is a fascinating experience to see an agency again for the first time. I spent all of lastweek in Halibrton and met dozens of wonderful people. I toured the town, tried many local restaurants, and got to know many ofthe individuals supported here.

It is amazing to me that by immersing myself in another agency I am seeing my own through a different lens. It is amazing to mehow much working from the inside dulls the senses to how much great work and spirit is happen ing every day. We are faced withtrials, triumphs, sadness and joy every week, but the one true thing my cleared eyes see is the way that we communicate andsupport each other through it all.Highlights of the past week

We sent out membership cards to the members who have signed on for this year.

We implemented a Memorandum of Understanding for the Partnership with the Boys and Girls Club InfantDevelopment program.

Day Supports has begun a great new partnership in the dog walking department with Adelaide Place.

We have again agreed to be a partner with Food For Kids in their grant application.

We have purchased park passes for the agency.

We posted Medication Administration Do’s and Don’ts for all programs.

Independent Living staff members had their regular meeting.

Melinda, Debra, Diane and Darla received the Accessibility Award at Town Hall.

We held the Spring Fling dance for the United Way; much much fun was had by guests from Kawartha Lakes,Haliburton and Port Perry.


Sharon the new mail merge master.

Erin, for well-prepared Rights information.

Jessica G, Kim G, Lesley and Grace, for winning a prize for best costume and finishing the Race for Kids.

Mary Lynn, for covering the phones.

Bonnie, who has made the decision to retire - we will miss her energy, creativity, commitment and great cooking!

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1 of 3 11/02/2015 10:37 AM

Cindy H. for blowing away the competition with great videos.

We hold up Ken and each other.

Thanks for all you do, I am seeing it again for the first time.

Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, OntarioK9V 0K7

Phone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email:Email: [email protected]

Community Living Haliburton County14 South Street, Box 90Haliburton, OntarioK0M 1S0

Phone: (705) 457-2626, ext. 25Fax: (705)-457-9287Email: [email protected]


June 3, 2013

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January 7, 2013

To read more past messages (2011 & 2012) from the Executive Director, Teresa Jordan, please click here.

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2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:37 AM

JUNE 3RD MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted June 2nd, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I have always known that my great grandmother’s name was Emma. I have a muddy old pictureof her in her senior years, wearing a housedress in front of a barn, standing a full four feet away from my great grandfather besideher.

This photo was the sum total of my experience of my great grandmother until about 18 months ago. In the past months I havereceived two bundles of family history and photos. I now have pictures of Emma from when she was a girl, and at different stagesof life to her senior years.

I have pictures where she is standing close to, and even holding hands with, my great grandfather. I have copies of letters, her willand some of her cards. I have had the opportunity to get more of a glimpse of Emmiline Florence Fallis, no longer an aged ancestorbut now a real person with a life story.

I had made assumptions about the person in the muddy picture - she was plain, hard working, not very in love with the man besideher. These assumptions were based on no real fact, just on an impression from a copy of an old picture. Now I have a morecomplete picture … this vibrant, strong, affectionate woman was there all along, but I did not see her.

It is proven that we see things from our own reference point, that what we visually take in we then match to a catalogue of files inour brain which become our perceptions. In this way the power of understanding someone’s story and getting a fuller picture isvital for us to have a real relationship. In the work we do we must work hard to get the fuller picture, put aside perceptions, andsearch for a broader lens - then we can build a future story together and work toward meaningful choice, planning and power.Highlights for the past week

William’s Garden Gallery is set to launch - watch for details.

The dance is almost here, with more than 20 people planning to come from out of town to boogie down.

Ken remains in hospital and is in all our thoughts.

Part-time team members met on Wednesday.

Many staff attended the Bridges out of Poverty training.

Poker Run preparations led the burning of midnight oil, but all was ready for a great day Saturday.

We submitted 0ur application for the Donner Award.

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Residential and Job Quest meetings took place.

We mailed membership cards.

The Management team members met.

CPR and First Aid training continues for many staff members.


Leslie Martin for being a volunteer who is dedicated, hard working and has offered so much to the Day Supportsprogram - including yummy treats!

Darla Kennedy - your tireless work for the Poker Run and as Chair are so appreciated.

Sharon, Gloria and Jen - midnight is a lonely dark hour to give to Poker Run preparation.

Cindy, for all of your scheduling, and for the part-time staff members who have worked over and over again - many thanks.

And to everyone working to plan a future story and goals with meaning each and every day.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

May 27, 2013

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June 3rd Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kawa... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/06/june-3rd-message-from-the-ex...

2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:36 AM

MAY 27TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted May 26th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

At the recent OASIS conference I heard a man speak who did not have arms. He wasborn without arms and had learned from infancy how to adapt to his set of circumstances.

Alvin Law was an incredible speaker who wove his life story around an inspirational message about ability. He began by sharinghow his birth family could not face his needs, and how his adoptive family worked hard to face the challenge, making it up as theywent along. He talked about his abilities - he plays the piano and the drums - and discussed his full life. He perched on a stool andused his feet to comb his hair, all the while staying completely balanced.

Then Alvin told the crowd that he could comfortably sit in this position for up to an hour using his core muscles to move his legsand keep his balance and yet, “you call me disabled,” he questioned. Or are we all able in different ways and not able in differentways?

Alvin does things differently as a result of having a different body from mine, but am I more able? Alvin is also clear that he hasgiven up the anger and the resentment for the way society wants to label him. Now he challenges audiences around the world tosee ability, find joy and seek truth.Highlights for the past week

We welcome the new staff members who participated in two evenings of orientation this week.

The Rights Commission members met this week.

Independent Living team members held their regular meeting.

A group of race fans went to the Peterborough Raceway.

Roxie lived her dream by attending the Charlie Pride concert.

Jen Dawe is stepping out and trying a brand new role at Jobs’R'Us.

Natasha was the successful candidate for the Day Supports position.

Steve and his team welcomed Pam Mussen from the Ministry of Children & Youth Services for a tour and discussion.

At the DSN (Developmental Services Network) level, two new task forces are being set up - one for labour relationsand one for community supports.

The DSN Children’s Table is rejuvenating work to make transition planning more consistent across the four counties.

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Jessica G. for really taking charge of the two nights of orientation.

Merla for helping out with orientation on a really bad day .

Sharon for preparing excellent binders for new staff.

Shirley for agreeing last minute to escort Roxie to her dream concert.

Welcome to new volunteers: Don, Sarah, Eileen and Bob.

Thanks to Dave Woodall for offering his insights.

Elm team members for piecing it together despite the lack of wheels.

And to everyone for seeing ability first, finding joy in our inabilities and building from there.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

May 20th, 2013

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Follow @CLKLTeresa

Last week Debra was in London and saw an amazing sight while sitting in TimHortons. She watched a man in a wheelchair - with no verbal communication and limited upper body mobility - order his coffee,pay with a Tim’s card and enjoy the coffee sitting outside in the sun.

The man was well known to the staff members at Tim Hortons - they knew his order, called him by name and knew where hekept the card to pay. This gentleman was completely independent and connected to his local donut shop hang out - just like therest of us.

As this man sat in the sun, staff members and patrons stopped to chat. There was no support worker in sight.

While this is an extraordinary good news story, it should not be extraordinary, really. Tim Hortons is the universal language for “Iam Canadian, I am hooked on caffeine and sugar.” What could be more inclusive?

For me this is a story that makes me smile and makes me reflect on a question - do we sometimes offer support before we letsomeone try things on their own? When I was in Ottawa I met a woman in the bathroom who was in a wheelchair and she simplysaid, “Hello, can you help me with this door?”

Many passionate people say that the support is in the community it just needs to be sought out, nurtured and celebrated - a greatmission to be reminded of during Community Living Month.Highlights of the past week

Community Living Kawartha Lakes welcomes new staff members: Jessica Brillinger, Christine Gimblett, Amy Kerr, LauraLee, Nova McWhaw and Gerry Overhoff.

Cindy took part in an awesome leadership day in Peterborough.

First Aid and CPR training continues for many staff members.

Joint Health and Safety committee members meet today.

Day Supports, William and Elm team members held their regular meetings.

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1 of 3 11/02/2015 10:35 AM

Illusions met and did a special session at Elm.

Database for community participation hours information session was held.

We submitted the Fourth Quarter financials.

Sharon is working hard to prepare for the Orientation of new part-time staff.

Merla attended three days of Heath & Safety Certification training this week.

The first meeting for the ‘Olymp-nic’ was held.

We welcomed Don Hudson as our new Administrative volunteer for Mondays.

Many managers are working hard on P & P updates.

The Accreditation Full Throttle challenge continues.

Community Living Kawartha Lakes has been honoured with the City of Kawartha Lakes Accessibility AwarenessRecognition Award in the category of Outstanding Contribution by a Community Group.


Tim for freely offering support in the battle of the bugs.

Tracey for stepping up and becoming a student mentor.

The entire Day Supports team for supportive, creative and intentional team effort.

From Yvette to Illusions - thank you so much for coming to Elm when the van was out of service so that I couldparticipate.

Welcome back Jen H-D.

Lisa S for taking the time to offer feedback to Marlene.

Get well soon, Jane Ann and Denise.

Debra for tireless work on the fourth quarter statements.

Cochrane Property Maintenance for donating time and resources in April to keep us safe in the bad weather - thanksso much.

Jessica N and Christy for emptying several recycle bins from the lunch room and neighbouring offices.

Independent Living for awesome magazines in the lunch room.

And to everyone for holding fast to the dream of true community for everyone.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected]


May 13th, 2013

May 6th, 2013

April 29th, 2013


2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:35 AM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

I am in beautiful Ottawa this week at the OASIS (Ontario Agencies SupportingIndividuals with Special Needs) conference, experiencing great speakers, good sessions and a terrific opportunity to network andgather information. Many great ideas are being talked about each day.

I am spending time with Executive Directors and managers from other agencies, and the conversation often swings to partnershipand collaboration. We all know that partnership and collaboration are crucial to our mutual sustainability in a climate of fiscalrestraint and budget freeze.

In that spirit I am delighted to announce that Community Living Kawartha Lakes is entering into a partnership agreement withCommunity Living Haliburton County. Community Living Haliburton County has recently advertised for a part-time ExecutiveDirector (ED) and in answer, the Community Living Kawartha Lakes Board and I offered the idea of a shared ED for the twoagencies.

Beginning next week I will be spending time getting to know the individuals, staff members and programs of Community LivingHaliburton County. After a period of intense orientation, I will begin to spend one day per week in the Haliburton.

At all times I will strive to represent both agencies in the communities, the Region and the Province. I will be accessible to all staffby email, all week long.

This arrangement is an exciting first step toward further partnership and sharing of resources. This exciting endeavour will furtherbuild on the partnerships we have already built, and work we have already done, with Haliburton - including Job Quest, HomeShare, the Early Learning Quality Initiative and children’s planning. Great things are in store for both of our agencies.

Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.~Henry Ford~Highlights for the past week

Independent Living team members and Resource Consultants held their regular meetings.

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1 of 3 11/02/2015 10:34 AM

The Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) community breakfast was held

Our first full fire drill was executed at Kennedy Place.

The ATV Poker Run planning is gearing up - do not forget to spread the word!

Elm held their regular meeting.

Bonnie has been asked to participate on the Central East Region Tri-Ministry Integrated Transition Planning,representing our Region.

We finalized plans with Haliburton.

The Accreditation Full Throttle competition continues.

The Human Resources department was overwhelmed all week with postings and job changes - thank you to Marlenefor all of the hard work.

Adam has transferred to William temporarily


Natasha - the team at William thanks you for your work and support over the last few weeks.

Nena - excellent work as Fire Drill Captain.

Jamie and Tanya - thank you so much for completing the work that Jane Ann started for Full Throttle.

Cindy J. - thank you for what you added to Community Living Kawartha Lakes while you were here.

Debra, who received a shout out from City of Kawartha Lakes Food for Kids for support and help throughout theduration of the Trillium Grant.

Sharon, who has gathered over $3,500 in sponsorship for the ATV Poker Run - awesome!

Lesley from the Independent Living and Day Supports teams - for creating a great system for recording trip and programregistration that is easily accessible for all staff members and can be updated by anybody. This encourages team work andkeeps things simple and precise.

And to everyone as we work toward our strategic direction of partnership and collaboration together.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes

Suite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

May 6, 2013

April 29th, 2013

April 22nd, 2013

April 15th, 2013

April 8th, 2013

April 1st, 2013

March 25th, 2013

March 18th, 2013

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March 4th, 2013

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013


2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:34 AM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

I am writing to you today from the shore of Lake of Bays in Muskoka where the sun isshining and the lake looks like a sheet of glass. On the reading list this week was David Suzuki’s The Legacy.

As many things do, this book gave surprising insight about planning and connection. The first intriguing fact was about Argon - thisis an inert gas that is in the air we breath. In other words, it passes in and out of our lungs but remains unchanged.

Argon has remained unchanged for the duration of life on earth. So take a deep breath - one percent of the air you inhale is Argon, and it is unchanged since the dinosaurs breathed it in.

Besides being really cool, this bit of trivia reminded me of the connection to a finite earth that all creatures share. It seems biguntil you have a conversation where four names are mentioned. It is inevitable that if you talk about four people at random, atleast one of the four will have a connection with the person to whom you are speaking.

The second statement Suzuki makes throughout his “last lecture” styled book is that planning has become short-term. Elders ofFirst Nation tribes are said to have contemplated the effect that any decision would have on the next seven generations. Now welive in the moment, and Suzuki makes a strong case for the fact that we make decisions every day that will have dire consequencesfor our grandchildren in terms of the environment.Highlights of the past week

We have so many staff members here at Community Living Kawartha Lakes, right now, who are battling cancer - ourthoughts are with all.

Jane Ann, Candace, Cindy J. and Marilyn are all trying out new contracts or assignments.

Grace K is the newest member of the Elm permanent team.

Darla was a guest at the Community Living Haliburton County Board of Directors meeting.

Marlene and Jessica continue the process of the spring hiring of new part time staff.

Many management staff members have diligently reviewed the Practices & Procedures as part of the annual reviewplan.

The Accreditation Pit Crew continues to meet weekly.

Regular meetings were held by the Home Share and Day Supports teams.

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We saw the clean hand-over of all files and duties from Sharon to Seamus.

We created a volunteer database for future communication and tracking.

Shirley and the William team have signed up to manage a community garden box at the United Way office.


Donna, Irene, Trevor, Nicole and Lisa S. for help last week to on-call.

Marlene for excellent work on several Practices & Procedures.

Anne and the Home Share team members for taking on extra work.

Get well soon, Denise.

And to everyone. We share the same Argon and the same long-term goals for an Ontario and a world with no wait listsand true inclusion that benefits generations to come.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes


April 29th, 2013

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May 6th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kawar... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/05/may-6th-message-from-the-exe...

2 of 3 11/02/2015 10:33 AM

APRIL 29TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted April 28th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

These halls are echoing with the sound of screeching tires, blaring car horns andüber-competitive teams racing toward the checkered flag. Accreditation Full Throttle is under way, and some teams are all in. It is awonderful concept in marketing and I know that several teams are gaining a great understanding of the accreditation process andstandards. Race on!

Kathie Snow spoke at last year’s Community Living Ontario Annual Conference and is a passionate advocate for the idea that“disability is natural.” She believes that if we continue to see disabilities as “special” and “different,” we are held back in our aim fora completely inclusive society.

I signed up for Kathie’s newsletters and every few weeks I receive an article that gives me further insight into her beliefs and herpassionate point of view. Last month she sent me an article entitled, What’s Your Position? I like when my thinking is challenged, andjust when I think that I have a good grasp on things is the best time for the shake up. Kathie anticipated me by saying in the articlethat knowing your position is a “soul searching struggle.” She described a continuum of positions that range from pity to equality. No problem there, we are not in the business of pity.

Here is the challenge: She places statements like, “I want to make the world better for people we support,” “I want to ensurepeople are empowered” and “creating community connections” on the pity end of the spectrum. Her issue is with the concept of“helping” often comes the idea of “neediness” and inequality.

Kathie challenges that there is inherent inequality in the “provider” and “recipient” relationship, and that we need to commitevery day to exploring our thoughts and ensuring that we are in fact working from a place of equality. She asks that we “worktowards equality in relationships, so the recipient of help also becomes the provider of help to us or others.” Kathie stronglybelieves that we must see the ability and the competences first in all cases. A great article which can be found here in its entirety:

http://www.disabilityisnatural.com/images/PDF/position.pdf

My thanks to Kathie for giving me permission to highlight her article as a part of this update.Highlights for the past week

This year’s accomplishment and planning day was held last Friday. We have so much to celebrate:

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We raised over $1,400 for Abigail’s treatment.

Great care in London for Yvette, and support from Shirley wasabove and beyond.

The members of the weekend part-time teams have astoundedwith great planning and activities.

Many of our forms were held up and gathered by the Ministrythrough compliance as best practice.

Anne was elected chair of the Provincial Home ShareCommittee, and planning for the committee’s first conference isunderway.

Job Quest staff members developed a relationship with a NursePractitioner who accepts all of their referrals.

Work has panned out in our effort to ensure that planning movesfrom maintenance and support to dreams and goals.

The student mentoring group has been a huge success.

Medication errors were significantly down for most of the year,

Residential teams began ‘PJ Fridays’ and raised both money forthe Cancer Society and food for the food bank.

Safety Sam has raised awareness of safety across the agency.

The children’s program found growth in the face of adversity.

Members of the Christian Horizons group are swimming in theirown community again now that the Rec Complex is fullyaccessible.

Independent Living team members have begun the group, “RoomFor Growth,” with great themes and ideas.

Accreditation has ramped up and is speeding along.

People all over the agency have volunteered to sit oncommittees and task forces, and have worked diligently tomake Community Living Kawartha Lakes a better place.

Over the past three weeks, the Joint Health & Safety and Mindfulness committees have offered us the 21-daymediation challenge. We have learned a lot!

We have been found to be in compliance with the fire code at all locations.

Administrative Professional day was this week.

We interviewed all week for the permanent position at Elm.

National Volunteer Week saw a flurry of activity sending notes to our important volunteers. thanking them for all oftheir hard work.

Tom Little came in and did good work with members of the Board around planning and committee work.

Response Team members held their regular meeting.

Cathy Puffer did great work in glucometer and diabetes training.

Resource Consultants and Independent Living teams held their regular meetings.

The Rights Commission members met and reviewed restrictions and plans.

We held the Part-time meeting with a great Q & A with Residential staff and manager.

Finance department was on lock down all week, with staff members chained to spread sheets finishing year-end.


The members of BEST, who did such an astounding job of greeting and touring: Kyle, Jenn, Tina, Scott, Randy, Tony,Yvette, Steve, Grace, Christine, Vanessa and Todd.

Jessica, Melinda and Nena- we do not need a special day to remind us how important you are to the operations of ouragency - thank you.

Cindy for offering the insight “positive feeds positive” words to live by.


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Our wonderful volunteers - you make us so much more with the gift of your time and talents.

Debra for offering pictures to support the presentation from Finance - especially the “blue screen of death.”

Barb and Erin for taking the time to read these weekly Executive Director messages to the people we support.

Dawn for consistently being a strong mentor with students.

Jen MacDonald for consistently being at the respite house each weekend and for doing great work there.

BOB FM for another year of free ads for Jobs’R'Us.

The City of Kawartha Lakes for valuing the work of individuals with a raise to well above minimum wage.

To Tammy, Erin and Gloria for taking the time to attend the Part-time Meeting and answer questions about residentialprograms.

Barb and Tim for taking on a delicate situation with grace and professionalism.

And to everyone for taking the time to check and challenge your position.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

April 22nd, 2013

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January 7th, 2013



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Community Living Kawartha Lakes


3 of 4 11/02/2015 10:32 AM

APRIL 22ND MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted April 21st, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

A grand opening event is just that - grand, and an opening. We opened out head office tomembers of the community, and they arrived. The front entrance was packed with people from every corner of our agency -neighbours, friends, partners, supporters, volunteers, staff members and people supported.

The atmosphere was one of joy and celebration. BEST (Best Ever Self Advocates Team) members - in their wonderful matchingtee shirts - greeted and gave tours to over 180 visitors in the two days. Their enthusiasm and infectious smiles made the day atotal success.

Many thanks are in order. Thank you so much to the Board members who came out and supported the openings. Huge thanks toAnne and her organizing committee members - thanks to them, the openings were total successes. Special thanks to Yvette fornot only volunteering her time with BEST, but also serving as a member of the planning committee. Last but certainly not least,thank you so much to all staff members who came out to support us, and brought their family members along with them.

At the Saturday opening I reminded the crowd that we have sprung fromhumble and hard working beginnings - a small group of dedicated parents who wanted a better life for their children. Fast forward54 years and we a community agency that supports over 600 families, employs over 100 staff, offers training, is working to be

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April 22nd Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Ka... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/04/april-22nd-message-from-the-...

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accredited, is a member of two Provincial Federations, is represented on countless local, regional and provincial committees and isworking each day to achieve connection , contribution and choice for all people.

Our founders pooled their own money to compensate the first staff member of our agency. Since then, we have grown. Saturdayinstilled in me a renewed hope - and not one about the cement and metal around me that we call Kennedy Place. The openinginstilled a new hope about the impact that the efforts of a few people had in creating our agency … and about the profoundimpact that our work has each day.

I am also filled with hope for a bright future of creativity, connection, honour for our past and positioning for our future. This istruly an agency of blessing.Highlights of the past week

Life Skills classes started yesterday with Kim.

Members of the Best Ever Self-Advocates Team (BEST) were out in full form at the openings and served asexcellent hosts.

Kristin has been working non-stop in supporting our website and our Ron Kennedy tribute.

Management staff members have worked all week to prepare and submit their operational review input.

Part-time interviews took place, and we interviewed many bright applicants.

Elgin has two new assistants - Tammy Lynn and Terri. Congratulations to you both!

The Open House committee members did an incredible job!

Board members past and present accomplished a dream this week in the official opening of Kennedy Place.

Community Living Peterborough held their Strategic Planning session with Cheryl Lyon.

The Rights Stuff committee members met.

Day Supports team members had their planning day.

Elm had their meeting with Yvonne.

Merla took part in interviewing with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA Kawartha Lakes Branch) for anew, part-time dual diagnosis work for the City of Kawartha Lakes.

The Accreditation pit crew members continues to meet weekly - vroooom! (We have set up a new space on thewebsite for Accreditation information and updates. It is still in the working stages but you can check it out here or by goingto ABOUT US and choose Accreditation.


Barb and Gloria for offering extra input to the operational plan.

Grace and Rochelle for offering an excellent story of connection and a journey.

The Open House committee members - Anne, Cindy, Jessica, Bonnie, Yvette and Grace - you did a wonderful job!

Lynda Howe for knowledge, support and excitement about the Ron Kennedy tribute and the Kennedy Place name.

All staff members who have been working so creatively on the entries for the Accreditation challenge - awesome work,all!

Nicole for answering the SOS.


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Our thoughts are George’s family and friends at his passing.

Jessica N., you had a tough week - very well handled.

Seamus - community feedback is already good!

Steve and Bonnie for staying to the bitter end on Saturday.

Teresa Dumas for excellent photography.

Laurie Scott, Barry Devolin, Ric McGee and Pat O’Reilly for attending the open house and giving really nicespeeches.

Barb Brown and all past board members, for giving us a dream.

Deanna, our thoughts are with you.

Yvonne Roy for being a support and inspiration to our work.

Ron Kennedy for inspiration and for challenging everyone to understand human worth and the value of community.

We have arrived - now our work begins to make goals of connection, contribution and choice a reality in our community.


Sincerely,


April 15th, 2013

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Follow @CLKLTeresa

Tomorrow is our grand opening, and what a whirlwind of activity has led ushere! This week I had the opportunity to present to members of the Day Supports current events group and I chose to talk aboutRon Kennedy, his legacy and how he was chosen to be honoured with the name of our building. It was a great time spent lookingthrough Ron’s sister’s scrapbook and talking about all of the significant contributions that he made to our community.

I feel like I have been walking along side Ron for the last few months, and I was happy to share his work with the Day Supportsgroup. I wanted them to realize that this was not a man with a huge physical presence or booming voice, Ron was a man of quietconfidence who tackled his challenges and missions from his wheelchair with quiet confidence. We looked at his pictures andtalked about the Boys and Girls Club, Kawartha Participation Project, the LIMO, his work as a foster father to a young man withdevelopmental disabilities, and his art.

Marnie interjected a profound comment to the members of the group - that each of their “… day-to-day lives at CommunityLiving Kawartha Lakes would be affected if Ron had not had such energy and passion.” Most people in the group had taken theLIMO or belonged to the Boys and Girls Club.

I told the group the story of how I planned to scan a card that had Ron’s signature on it for the tribute wall. When I placed thecard face down on the scanner, the other side revealed that is was a Victoria County Association for Community Living (nowCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes!) volunteer identification card.

Lastly, I shared how Ron was peppered with honours and accolades from our community and beyond, but most were found by hissister after his death. Ron himself was more interested in the work he felt he had to do than the prizes and accolades offered.

Kristin, our website manager, found the following quote and it about sums up Ron Kennedy - a true champion of community,contribution, connection and choice. From his vantage point, he looked up to everyone.

” … there are those who give and know not pain in giving, nor do they seek joy, nor give with mindfulness of virtue;They give as in yonder valley the myrtle breathes its fragrance into space.Through the hands of such as these God speaks, and from behind their eyes He smiles upon the earth.”

Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet (1923)

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Learn More About Ron Kennedy

Learn more about Ron by visiting Our Stories or his dedicated pages.Solution box shout outs continue to astound

To Elgin team members and part-time staff who have helped William with transportation.

Excellent Diabetes care by the Elgin team members.

Elgin will miss Sharon.

Tammy, for going above and beyond in her duties.

Countless shout outs to Gloria H. for helping her team members and the other Residential primes: “She has a lovingheart and would do anything for her team.”

Elgin team rocks!! Has pulled through changes, assisting both William and Elm on a daily basis.

Teresa, Joan and Anne for assistance and support over the last few months - from Trish.

Melinda, for taking on the IT challenges both big and small - she really is the one who keeps this organization runningsmoothly!

Steve, Seamus and Cindy for helping with Part-time interviews.

Jessica and Melinda for taking the lead on the Admin team’s Full Throttle contributions.

Melinda - a Tim’s run on a gloomy day is priceless!

Tammy C. for chocolate in times of need.

Sharon for excellent pain management education and support to others.

Love the new inspirational quotes that are posted by the new Prime at Elm.

Elaine, great at motivating individuals and staff.

Kali, a hard worker, it is awesome to work with you!

Cindy J., great to work with, a hard worker who is always kind.

Lisa S., thank you for showing me the ropes - Cindy J.

Amy Kerr - the student who is working with Family Supports - for your willingness, kindness, and endless help withprojects; meeting with Heads of Special Education in Haliburton; shadowing Julie; making the Community Board; attendingthe United Way meeting. Thank you for all you do, from Bonnie.

Highlights for the past week

Board development day took place in Peterborough on Saturday with over 35 people in attendance - this was apartnership event for four Community Living organizations.

Bonnie represented Community Living Kawartha Lakes at the Transition Planning summit in Newmarket, and made areal impact through her contribution.

Jobs’R'Us was featured in a business profile in the Lindsay Post a few weeks ago.

Anne attended the OADD conference in Niagara Falls.

Seamus took on his first William team meeting.

Over 40 slips of paper were collected from the solution boxes - thank you so much, everyone, for sharing your thoughts.

The new building was a hive of activity this week in preparation for the Open House.

Two day NVCI training took place.

The Resource Consultants held their regular meeting.

The United Way committee members met and planned their coming year of fundraisers.

The Independent Living and Day supports team members met and planned joint summer trips.

Dyson was in to do annual inspections at all locations.


Darla for her dedication and attendance at Board development day.

Gloria, Karla, Grace and Diane for sharing their elevator speeches.

Tammy - you are the glue that is holding William together - thank you for going above and beyond each day.

Deanna, you are in our thoughts and prayers - and welcome to the world grandson, Zander.

Pit Crew for Accreditation contest - your work is paying off - competition is ramping up.


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Josh for great suggestions.

Cindy and Trish for all of your work in training NVCI to the masses.

Elaine for great work, enthusiasm and energy at William - you are making a difference.

Erin for confidence and grace in your new position.

Marlene and staff members from Elgin for so many great shout outs.

Anne and the open house committee members - the Open House is going to be great - thank you so much for yourwork.


Sincerely,


April 8th, 2013

April 1st, 2013

March 25th, 2013

March 18th, 2013

March 11th, 2013

March 4th, 2013

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013

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January 7th, 2013



Edit |


Community Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin Road

Lindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Tel: 705-328-0464 Fax: 705-328-0495

Community Living Kawartha Lakes empowers people withdevelopmental challenges, with their families, to achieve their

unique personal goals. Community Living Kawartha Lakesleads in fostering healthy inclusive communities.


3 of 3 11/02/2015 10:30 AM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

In honour of the week that all of our budgets were submitted, I bring you a story ofnumbers by Kathryn Otoshi.

Blue was a colour of no particular significance, but he liked who he was - except when Red was around. Red picked on Blue and,although the other colours liked Blue, they never said so in front of Red.

Every time Red was mean, he got bigger. Soon he picked on all of the colours.

Then one day One came along. He was a different shape all together. Red tried to pick on One, but One said, “No.” The coloursmarvelled at One and tried standing up for themselves, too - Yellow became Two, Green - Three, Purple -Four and Orange - Five.

Blue watched the colours change and wanted to count, too. Red tried to intimidate Blue, but Blue stood up and became Six. Redblew a fuse and tried to roll over Six, but all of the numbers stopped him. Then Red was small and alone, until - my favourite part -Blue called out, “Join us” and Red became Seven. The moral - everyone counts.Highlights of the past week

We have submitted all budgets - huge thanks to Debra, Melinda and Nena.

The plans for the Open House continue, and it is shaping up to be something wonderful!

Seamus began in his new role this week.

Interviews for the Elgin Assistant continue.

Advocacy and hard work have paid off with funding limitations changing for our children’s Programs.

Job Quest won a wonderful breakfast from BOB FM.

Pay Equity work continues with a visit to three more Members of Provincial Parliament this week.

Congratulations to Amanda in taking over the Prime at Respite.

Accreditation Full Throttle continues - the Race is on!

We continue to put up signs and art around the building.

Steve took part in an ECE advisory.

Jess can finally put to bed the Years of Service Awards with the long awaited garden stones arriving yesterday.

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Human Resources student, Maggie, has finished her placement hours with us.


The Family Supports team, for winning the first Accreditation Challenge.

Tammy for holding down all the sails on the boat called William and going above and beyond.

Get well soon, Sharon.

Amanda, welcome to the next chapter of your career.

Donna from Four Cast reports that her team finds our staff to be professional, empathetic and caring.

Shirley W. from the Board of Directors, for connecting us to CHEX.

Anne and her committee members for their work, work and more work in preparing for the Open House.

Merla and Shirley S: Bon Voyage!

And to everyone for knowing when to stand up and to include everyone - and for understanding that we all count.


Sincerely,


April 1st, 2013

March 25th, 2013

March 18th, 2013

March 11th, 2013

March 4th, 2013

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013

February 11th, 2013

February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

October 22nd, 2012

April 8th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kawa... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/04/april-8th-message-from-the-ex...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:29 AM

APRIL 1ST MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted April 1st, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I am still asked regularly how I like my new job. I am unsure how long it will be consideredmy new job, but if it is new until perfected, it will be new for a long while yet. I start to tell people that there are really two mainparts to my job - connecting our agency to the outside world and walking beside all those within.

Sometimes I feel very much like a head coach watching or pacing at the sidelines, looking at plays that I planned … plays that Iunderstand and sometimes, knowing that creativity and initiative are happening all around, I cannot even keep up to. I can onlyadmire that I am surrounded by talented people.

This week two great plays happened on the field. A young woman had big dreams. One of our staff members made it her businessto make those dreams happen. In spite of poor choices, broken promises, lost opportunities and hurdles at every corner,perseverance, dedication and connection won the day. A young woman was able to walk out of a meeting knowing she had anapartment of her own, a trustee and independence - all her dreams. Our staff member watched her shoulders and chin lift with“self-steam.”

The second great play was a grateful mother. A staff member worked tirelessly to ease burdens, plan, open doors and haveoverdue, unpayable utility bills waived. Again, determination allowed big change to happen in this single mother’s life. A burden waseased and a child’s life was changed as his mother’s shoulders and chin lifted.

These are stories of great impact, connection and life changing success. I am, as usual, overwhelmed to be able to walk along theedge of the field.Highlights of the past week

Fiscal unspent dollars from the RMT were offered to many important applications benefiting individuals.

Bonnie and the committee held a successful Youth Symposium this week.

The Youth Engagement team at the high school in Haliburton began a campaign - “Don’t be a Derp, Stop theChirp” - to highlight inclusion and mental health.

Accreditation awareness is at “Full Throttle.”

Open house invitations are circulating far and wide with the mayor and MP already confirming their attendance.

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Twitter now has 102 follows and Facebook was looked at by 271 people this week.

Non residential surveys were completed and submitted to the Ministry this week - huge job, great work!

Erin obtained the permanent Primary Support Worker position at Elm.

Residential teams got together this week and put together awe inspiring dream boards.

Members of the Board of Directors met this week with nine out of ten directors in attendance - talk about energy inthe room!


TARGET, for opening and for donating many chairs and tables a few weeks ago to Community Living Kawartha Lakes.

Job Quest for offering up the first entry in the Accreditation Full Throttle contest.

Members of the accreditation pit crew for hard work and creativity.

Welcome to the world baby Madeleine, and congratulations to Meredith.

Sharon and Marlene, for marathon interview schedules.

Assistants at William and Elm, for taking on extra during the transition - much appreciated.

All teams that have picked a car number and revved up.

Mary Lynn and Bonnie for important, life changing work.

Anne, Grace, Yvette, Jessica, Cindy H. and Bonnie for great work planning the open house - so far.

All primes who made it possible to complete 115 surveys over and above regular work.

And to everyone who I have the privilege to walk beside - I am awed every day at every play.


Sincerely,

Teresa Jordan

Executive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes

Suite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7

April 1st Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kawa... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/04/april-1st-message-from-the-ex...

2 of 5 11/02/2015 10:29 AM

MARCH 25TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted March 25th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I read a good book this past week called The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon. This is a book written inthe first person, and the author does a fair job of projecting that first person voice through the lens of autism.

In The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, I think that Mark Haddon offers the reader insights about the complexities ofcommunication and thought processes.

“I find people confusing,” the main character Christopher says, “The first reason is that people do a lot of talking without using anywords.

The second main reason is that people often talk using metaphors.”

Both of these tendencies are, it is relayed, incomprehensible for Christopher. Throughout the book there are many instanceswhere other characters say funny things to one another or laugh to themselves about something. Each time Christopherinterprets their actions as laughing at him, and removes himself from the situation.

Christopher is being asked questions by the police in one instance and does not answer - but he describes his thoughts: “He wasasking too many questions, and he was asking them too quickly. They were stacking up in my head like loaves in the Factory whereUncle Terry works. The Factory is a bakery and he operates the slicing machine.”

The value of this book is the glimpse it gives the readers of a mind that works very differently from our own. Reading it makes methink of the times that I have laughed out loud, or said I was dead on my feet, or unleashed my own barrage of inquiry and wasmet with an unexpected reaction.

I think we have all had moments in our journey where we look at the person we are talking to and realize that we are not, in fact,communicating. Christopher gives us an intimate look at one way that a person with autism or a developmental disability couldperceive what we say. The challenge for all of us is to ‘check in’, and to seek to communicate in a way that will lead to

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understanding with each person we encounter.

The novel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time offers the reader a heightened awareness and sensitivity, and for this Iwould recommend it to everyone.Highlights for the past week

Lynda Howe (Ron Kennedy’s sister) stopped by, and we will now be planning an art exhibit featuring Ron’s art as part ofour Open House.

The accreditation team members had their weekly meeting.

Doris finished her final week with great flare at a retirement party.

Joint Health and Safety committee members met.

Seamus was appointed as Manager of Adult Services, supervising the Residential program.

Karla and I attended United Way leadership training about stewardship.

The United Way Touchdown took place, celebrating a successful campaign raising the most money in their history.

Day Supports team members held their regular meeting.

The Alzheimer’s Society continues to use our boardroom for training.

Elm team met with Yvonne.

The Rights Stuff members met.

Al Dyson from Dyson Alarm Tech stopped by to hand us his donation of all labour and support of our alarm system -thank you!

Another employee will meet the incredible milestone of 25 years on Sunday!

INNOWEAVE work is wrapped up formally, but the wrap up includes an implementation plan and learning agenda.

Work continues on the Open House, set for Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Please set some timeaside to drop by. Download our invitation here → Open House Invitation April 13, 2013.


Bert, thank you for your hard work, dedication and commitment to Community Living Kawartha Lakes forthe past 25 years.

Debra, who welcomed brand new granddaughter, Frankie, into the world this week.

Anne and her team - the Open House plans are wonderful!

To Karla, for seeking out learning.

To everyone who applied for the Elm position - thank you for your passion and commitment to Community LivingKawartha Lakes.

To the United Way and all their staff members - our community is better thanks to your hard work!

Jen A. and Elaine for overcoming great challenges at William on the weekend.

Seamus, for accepting the challenge and being ready with excitement!

And to Doris - thank you for 18 years of caring and sharing your gifts and creativity - all the best of everygood thing!

And to all of us on our quest to communicate and understand.



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Sincerely,

Teresa Jordan

Executive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes


March 18th, 2013

March 11th, 2013

March 4th, 2013

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013

February 11th, 2013

February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012


3 of 5 11/02/2015 10:28 AM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

How does an idea start? How does it grow? If you are looking for the answer ask themembers of the United Way Fundraising committee.

This little group started with an idea. Tammy asked me why we couldn’t be more organized about our United Way fundraisingthroughout the year. The seed was planted and Doris helped it grow. The committee was formed.

Many thanks United Way Fundraising Committee members Jessica G., Tammy, Doris, Melinda, Bonnie and Tanya for their hardwork organizing muffin sales, seasonal dances, penny drives and 50/50 ticket sales (at the car shows) - as well as spreading theword that the United Way does good work throughout our community.

Imagine an agency with no clients, no funding, no Ministry guidelines. Imagine an agency whose only mandate is to raise funds insupport of community work, to connect community organizations and to act as a conduit for community knowledge and initiative. The United Way with their small but mighty team do just this - they exist to make all other community agencies stronger, betterequipped and more impactful.

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1 of 5 11/02/2015 10:27 AM

The United Way has raised, allocated and handed back millions ofdollars in our community over the years. This year the United Way set their goal high - $500,000! Know and be proud that hereat Community Living Kawartha Lakes we contributed to that goal in a big way and we have raised our commitment to United Wayawareness.

“It’s stunning to me what kind of an impact even one person can have if they have the right passion, perspective and are able to align theinterest of a great team.” ~Steve Case~Highlights for the past week

Representatives from the District Health Unit provided us with an excellent overview of information about bed bugsand their strange habits.

Robbie Ruth and Doug are having a great party today.

We have submitted final deliverables for the INNOWEAVE project.

The Resource Consultants begin their training today on “Writing without tears.”

The cheque presentation for the United Way took place on Wednesday, and our donation of $3,939.71 was muchappreciated!

Linda Ross and Randy N. have joined our Rights Commission.

We augmented Youth Engagement and the Respite program for March Break.

Cindy and Justin obtained contract hours at Day Supports.

Doris’s count down to retirement continues - only three more days!

Members of the Independent Living team had their regular meeting.

Jane Ann was crowned change maker of the week.


Marnie for a willingness to go above and beyond.

Welcome to the world, Shane - congratulations Darlene.

Cindy H. you saved the day with a well-stocked purse.

Michael, a student at William, was a big help with Paul’s homecoming.

Accreditation team members - your leader cannot say enough about your enthusiasm and ideas.

Get well soon, Mary Anne, Crystal, Denise, April, Debbie and Angelia.

Safety Sam - you rock!

Cindy and Justin, congratulations on your new positions.

Steve, you always have good ideas, but this time you hit it out of the park!


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And to everyone for the support of our community through United Way giving.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502, ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected]


March 11th, 2013

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December 31st, 2012

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November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

October 22nd, 2012

October 15th, 2012

October 8th, 2012

September 30th, 2012



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Follow @CLKLTeresa

In the March issue of Chatelaine there is an article written by Carolyn Pioro. Carolyn isa former circus performer who had an accident in practice, landing on the safety net head first and severing her spine. (ReadCarolyn’s story here.)

The article is a gut wrenching account of the emotional journey that Carolyn faces after learning the extent of her injuries and theadjustment that she had to make in her new life being paralyzed from the neck down.

The part of her story that reached out and grabbed me most, given my role, was her description of her new dependence onothers. Carolyn writes: “I received 24 hour assistance from a staff of personal-support workers. I met a handful of remarkablewomen who really did ‘get’ the job and were genuinely helpful. Unfortunately, they were not the norm. The rest treated myapartment solely as their workplace and me as an inconvenience…”

Carolyn also writes: “… she filed a complaint that my clothing had too many hooks, clasps and time-consuming accessories. Staffwere afraid of straining or spraining their hands and wrists.”

Why did these words seem to punch me between the eyes? It is one thing to read the article from the point of view of just aChatelaine subscriber reading a life journey of a brave and determined woman. However, when I read these thoughts as someonewho is in the business of offering support I am instantly in a more conflicted place. We all believe in the right of all the individualsto choose and to have their homes treated with respect, but what of all the layers of legislation that force us to “work placify”their homes. The general public can rebuke the support workers in their refusal to handle complicated hooks and clasps, but thereis a law that states that workplaces need to protect the worker from harm. What is the take-away for those of us in the business?

I think that answer lies somewhere in the gray area called “conscious intentional effort.” I think that we need to face the challengeeach day from a place of awareness and sensitivity, and I know that each small decision in honour of those we support while in ourworkplaces will be the right one. I think understanding that balance and conflict exist means that we are on the way to a place ofrespect and responsibility.Highlights of the past week

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Yvette reminded us all that the move was the right decision when she “came up” for the mail - a task that she was neverbefore been able to do.

Marlene and Jessica attended the Georgian College Career Fair and passed out information about Community LivingKawartha Lakes.

The Open House Committee members began meeting and will do so weekly until April 13th.

We bought ten tickets for the special Pete’s game in honour of Community Living Peterborough’s 60th

anniversary.

It was announced this week that our full contribution to the United Way campaign through pay roll deduction andfundraising is $3939.71!

Cindy and Trish continue to offer CPI training to the agency through re-certification sessions.

Leah was awarded first prize as part of the Accreditation team member’s challenge to come up with a marketingtheme.

Cindy renewed our commitment to first aid inspections by developing a new form.

The Kawartha Lakes Fire Department inspected all of our “workplace/residences” and found them to be incompliance.

Steve and Marlene received training in supporting staff through major illness.

The baby shower for Meredith was a great success.

Sharon and Steve met pressured deadlines for the INNOWEAVE project.

Marja enjoyed a great retirement get-together, and has now begun her next chapter.

We had a luncheon to celebrate and thank our cleaners, Stan and Julie, in their retirement after our move.

Rights and accreditation training for the people we support took place on Thursday.

The United Way interagency meeting was held.

Debra and Melinda have worked to meet with several managers to set next year’s budgets.

The Day Supports team members had their regular meeting.

A new volunteer recruit has joined our team to assist with marketing and communication - thank you, Diane.


Jane Ann for the work of organizing a great retirement gift.

Cindy H. congratulations, Grandma.

Bonnie, Julie and Steve for working tirelessly to make March Break a break for many families.

Gloria H, Shirley, Christy, Tracey, Jane Ann, Tim and Marja - from the Finance Department for excellent annualreviews.

Target - welcome to our community, and thank you for the donation of wonderful folding tables and chairs.

Barb, thank you so much for organizing next week’s party for Robbie Ruth and Doug.

Welcome back, Jane Ann.

Trish and Cindy - you rock our CPI training!

Marja - we miss you already.

Anne for making it known that Denise is an everyday hero.

Bonnie and Doris - you teach us much about how to support a friend in crisis.

And to everyone walking the balance beam that is a “workplace / residence” and doing so with honour and awareness.


Sincerely,Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7DirectTelephone: (705) 328-0502 Ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

March 4th, 2013

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013


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Follow @CLKLTeresa

I read a story about a mouse. He discovered a mousetrap in the farmhouse where helived and in a panic ran to tell all of the other farm animals.

One by one the chicken, pig and cow all showed some pity and sympathy for the mouse, but essentially made it clear that this wasnot their problem. The cow said “I am so sorry for your bad luck, but its no skin off my nose, you will be in my thoughts.”

The mouse returned to house dejected and prepared to face the trap alone. In the night the trap cracked shut in triumph. Thefarmer’s wife rushed to inspect the prey. In the dark she did not see that it was a venomous snake in the trap and was bitten.

In caring for his ailing wife the farmer killed the chicken to make soup, butchered the pig to feed the many friends that came tovisit and, finally, served roast beef at the celebration dinner when the wife was again well.

The mouse looked on at the celebration in sadness - when one of us is threatened we are all at risk.

I know that part of Anne’s message to us - to consider that we cannot be silent in a work where we are not all treated equally.And Merla, through her justice committee work, echoes the theme that where human trafficking exists we cannot silently standby. Each of us is a vital thread in each others tapestry; our lives are woven together. We do good work, and we can start to makea difference.Highlights of the past week

Anne did Rights Training with the Resource Consultants.

The Part time meeting was held with Health and Safety Training.

Much planning is being done for Meredith’s baby shower on Sunday.

Marlene and I went to Kingston to participate in an annual training forum in connection with Core Competencies.

William and Elm both had their regular meetings with Yvonne.

Sharon held a residential orientation meeting.

Accreditation team members met.

Members of the Board of Directors held their monthly meeting

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Many have applied for different jobs - good luck!

Debra and Melinda attended an MCSS (Ministry of Community & Social Services) budget seminar - manychanges, all due to be implemented on April 1st.

Steve and Bonnie attended the Trillium Lake Lands District School Board community breakfast.


Darlene, all the best today.

Crystal, congratulations on your transfer to Elm.

Steve - Health and Safety Manager of the week!

Tammy, for understanding that everybody likes to be appreciated for what they do.

Shirley Wheatley, thank you for your enthusiasm in being part of the BEST committee.

Debra, for facing the first week of On Call.

To the person who gave me my wonderful journal - thank you.

Mary Anne, you remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Merla and Anne for broadening our thinking.

And to everyone for taking a moment to think about connection to all of the world.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502 Ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

February 25th, 2013

February 18th, 2013

February 11th, 2013

February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

March 4th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living Kaw... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/03/march-4th-message-from-the-...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:25 AM

FEBRUARY 25 MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted February 25th, 2013

Follow @CLKLTeresa

I have been reading, as usual, and came across a great story about a fisherman who comes into a tavern after a long cold day atsea. He orders a pot of tea.

Minutes after the tea is delivered, the fisherman accidentally knocks it against the wall while telling a particularly passionate story.The black tea immediately stains the wall paper of the small pub and the fisherman apologizes profusely for his blunder.

Calmly a stranger takes a coal pencil and begins to draw on the paper around the stain. In front of everyone’s eyes the unsightlystain becomes a majestic horse with mane and tail flying in the wind.

The stranger was Sir Edmond Lancier.

I am struck by this story first because it reminds me that disaster is bound to happen, but misery is optional - I can wallow in thespill or I can find the beauty.

This story also reminds me of one of the stories that Lynda, Ron Kennedy’s sister, told me about how Ron used to randomly dropor smudge ink on paper and then sketch the mark into a picture. Given the kind of life Ron led I think that it is no coincidencethat he was well versed in the art of “seeing past the tea stain.”Highlights of the past week

Early Childhood Education student, Jade, led a very resourceful workshop call Loose Parts.

Day Supports held their regular meeting.

Joint Health and Safety committee members met.

The Rights Stuff committee members held their regular meeting.

FOCUS accreditation work continues on the front burner.

Date for the official Open House is set for April 13.

Date for the official Business Open House is set for April 16.

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Anne and Cindy have worked on a method of gathering input more regularly from people supported about our work atCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes.


Kim G. for her work in the proposal that Gloria submitted last week.

Lisa Morasse for her dedication to our Rights Commission as Chair.

Leah, Erin and Grace for a great trip to the Blue Heron.

Anne for leading the Open House.

Shirley, Dwight, Denise, Becky, Sonya, Rose and Leslie for recent moves and reviews - congratulations.

Steve for trading me on-call weeks.

And to everyone for constant effort to see past the stains.


Sincerely,


February 18th, 2013

February 11th, 2013

February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

October 22nd, 2012

October 15th, 2012

October 8th, 2012




February 25 Message from the Executive Director « Community Living K... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-25-message-from-the...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:24 AM

FEBRUARY 18TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.


Follow @CLKLTeresa

Have you ever noticed in the wintertime that, once the leaves are completely gonefrom the trees, you can see the bird nests you had no idea were there? I see these nests in trees that are close to the house,near where my kids wait for the bus, near where I walk every day. I am always a bit surprised that all of that activity - hatching,feeding, sleeping, learning to fly - was happening so close to me and I did not notice until the leaves no longer blocked my view.

I have come to realize that our FOCUS accreditation journey is proving to be much like those birds’ nests. Things that we havenot celebrated - because they have been part of the “noise” - are now coming into view.

In the accreditation process, the framework and tools provided are based on current research, international best practices andfeedback from community stakeholders. Using this information and these standards the committee members have worked hard tolearn and evaluate where we are and what still needs to be improved. Our practices, commitment to Health and Safety, and BoardGovernance are proving to be the “winter bird nests.” The high quality and commitment that we have shown in these areas isproving exemplary.

There are five cornerstones to the FOCUS foundation of High Quality Service:

Person-centred services

Effective governance & leadership

A learning culture

Inclusive and flexible services

Comprehensive structures and processes

Our managers each have a ‘to do’ list for upcoming FOCUS work, and accreditation has officially been moved to the front burner. Ask a committee member or manager how you can be a part of this great journey to make things better at Community LivingKawartha Lakes.Highlights for the past week

Many primary support workers are engaging in training and accomplishing a ministry survey - 25 surveys done already.

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February 18th Message from the Executive Director. « Community Living... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-18th-message-from-t...

1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:23 AM

The Glory Dressler - Leading and Managing change workshop was a delight.

The Valentines Day Dance was a celebration of fun.

The accreditation group members met.

The INNOWEAVE group members met and finalized much of phase two work.

The Student mentoring group members met.

The Elm team held their regular meeting.

The monthly residential prime meeting took place for collaboration and learning.

Resource Consultants held their regular meeting.

Rights training is ongoing for teams at their meetings.

The Funspiel continues to wrap up and we submitted a story to the website.

We submitted a grant proposal to look at E-Waste initiatives.


Christy on her transfer to IL - good luck!

Paul on his continued miraculous recovery.

Jen - good luck in you new permanent position.

Leslie and Rose - Glory had great reviews - superb job.

Safety Sam for watching our backs.

Gloria for breaking some kind of speed record for high quality proposal writing.

Bonnie for keeping things festive.

Nena for patience with rounding up receipts.

To everyone who brings in snack and treats to our wonderful lunchroom.

And to everyone working hard “behind the leaves” making wonderful things happen that we can all celebrate.

With much thanks and appreciation for all that you do.7th Annual ATV Poker Run Pre-Event Flyer 2013

Sincerely,


February 11th, 2013

February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

February 18th Message from the Executive Director. « Community Living... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-18th-message-from-t...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:23 AM

FEBRUARY 11TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR


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This has truly been a monumental week for Community Living Kawartha Lakes. Weput together a wonderful fundraiser, rallied around one of our own fighting for his life, took part in training, interviewed for apermanent position, celebrated a 60th birthday, took part in the inaugural Human Resource (HR) strategy forum, met with LaurieScott, and braved a snow storm to carry out our important work.

At the HR Forum I was introduced to Robert Pio Hajjar, The founding Director of IDEAL-WAY. He is a self-advocate on a missionto teach the world that we are all made better when we include everyone. ‘

Robert reinforces that battle cry, “I can, you can” and tells of the difference inclusion in regular day care and school has made in hislife. His passion fills the room and his smile is infectious. He relates to the crowd that while he may never get married or do hisown banking, he is a valued member of his community and he has something to share with all of us.

Leadership is about inclusion and realizing that we all have a role to play in making society a gentler, more accepting place. Robertis inspiring in that, together with his aunt, he has built his company to spread his message and he dances for joy every day. “Don’tworry be happy” is another of his mantras.

Robert challenges us to, “Just see me, then see my disability, better yet - just see me.” Robert asks us to remember that we are allborn different in some way, but that we are all born equal.Highlights of the past week

Paul celebrated his 60th birthday, and stared down a fatal illness and won.

The Community Living Kawartha Lakes community rallied together, taking time to put to work the power of thoughtsand prayers.

The very first Pyjama Day for United Way was held and fun for all was had.

A trip to the Famous People Players show was a huge success and fun for all.

We have officially moved FOCUS accreditation work to the front burner for the next five months. Ask a committeemember how you can become involved in “putting our best foot forward.”

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February 11th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-11th-message-from-t...

1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:22 AM

Huge thanks to Barb, Cindy, Morley, Steve, Sharon, Kim, Darla and Melinda for another awesome Funspiel.

Another dance is being planned for Valentine’s Day - thanks to Tammy, Jen N, Gloria C., Tanya and Bonnie.

The Board members held their regular meeting.

Laurie Scott agreed to meet with local representatives to talk about pressures.

The INNOWEAVE team is coming down to the last six weeks of their work.

HR strategy is gaining momentum across the province, and Minister Milloy applauds the efforts of the sector.

Teresa D. is presenting at next week’s Learning Café - plan to be there.

Good luck to all applicants for the permanent position at Elgin.


Everyone who braved the storm to get to work on Friday.

Darlene, the very best of everything as you begin your new adventure.

The staff members who planned and participated in Famous People Players trip - thanks.

Get well soon, Mary Anne and Jane Anne.

Tammy, for chocolate support and encouragement.

William team members for work above and beyond through the challenges.

Tanya for support for another evening when busy.

Grace for great ideas on elevator repair days.

And to everyone for taking Robert’s words of wisdom to heart each and every day: “You can.”


Sincerely,


February 4th, 2013

January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

February 11th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-11th-message-from-t...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:22 AM

FEBRUARY 4TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR


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Friday marked the end of an era. For almost twenty years the headquarters of Community Living Kawartha Lakes has been 33Lindsay Street South. As of this past Friday, we officially left behind the building where so much good work was done over theyears.

Many thanks to the volunteers who did the final clean out of all unwanted items. The rooms at 33 Lindsay St. S. are empty, cleanand waiting for the next adventure.

Last Thursday, I was with over one hundred other leaders in the Developmental Service Sector working as a group to come upwith a vision for the sector. This is a monumental task for many reasons. There are of course, universal principles that we allaspire to - citizenship, connection, choice, sustainability, participation and inclusion. However, there are huge issues as well.

There are over 16,000 people supported in some way by the agencies in Ontario, but there are more than 20,000 waiting forservice. The duality of purpose becomes apparent every time we get together: We need to ensure that our services are properlyfunded and sustainable, but we need to recognize that increases only serve the people already connected. We discussedentitlement at length, and what that term means.

Here in Ontario there is social safety net, but it offers a minimal standard. Our sector is all about exceeding minimum standards.Much work was done on Thursday, and I proud to say that the vision chosen by the group most resembles that vision ofCommunity Living Kawartha Lakes - almost identically - People enjoy meaningful lives through connection, contribution and choice. That iswhat we are all about.Highlights of the past week

The Part-time team held their monthly meeting, which was jam packed with annual training.

Rights, Health and Safety and Ethics of Touch were covered at the Part-time meeting.

It was announced at the Part-time meeting that Doris is retiring April 1.

Health and Safety and Ethics of Touch training has come to a close for the past year.

The Autism Registry continues to grow in our city.

Remember to check out the Learning Café.

We submitted our United Way funding application and report.

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February 4th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living ... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-4th-message-from-th...

1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:21 AM

Funspiel preparation in high gear.

Planning began for the Valentine Dance - please consider volunteering.

A small team continues to work to find funding for a computer recycling venture.

CAPS ran a story about our new building in their February Issue. To read the article, go to page 3 of the current issue.


Elm team - the water temperature charts are all up to date - awesome!

Good luck to Courtney O’Hara in your future endeavours.

Welcome back, Debra.

Retirement plan joy for Marja and Doris - good luck - you cannot truly be replaced; we can only try.

Huge thanks to Merla for the travelling training road show.

And to everyone: We are starting a new chapter, dreaming dreams for the next twenty years


Sincerely,


January 28th, 2013

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

October 22nd, 2012

October 15th, 2012

October 8th, 2012





September 3rd, 2012

February 4th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living ... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/02/february-4th-message-from-th...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:21 AM

JANUARY 28TH MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted January 28th, 2013

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I wish it were a long time ago, but I must confess it was probably only ten years ago that I really thought this through … the starsare always in the sky, even in the day time. You can only see them at night, but they are always up there. This was a revelation forme.

Then last week I read that for every star we see shining in the night sky there are 50 million behind it. This is almost too much forme to conceptualize a number so big - I want to minimize it, make it understandable, put it in a comfortable compartment.

I think this is similar to what we do with our own gifts and potential, as well as the vast potential of those around us. The idea thatwe all have infinite potential and worth is big. Like the stars I may not always see that infinite potential and worth, but it is alwaysthere. Believe in possibility – it is all around and for every gift you are able to see there are 50 million more behind it.

Meg Wheatley wrote:

Why is it that we call to stars with science and insignificance?On the next bright night, find the clear air and ask again.Humans, ask again. Who are we?What is our place in mystery?Perhaps you will hear what I have heard, a song of inner radiance.For the stars are callingSaying we must turn to one anotherTurn to one another and seeFinally seeThe stars everywhere

Highlights of the week

The Rights Commission members met and did their important work on Thursday.

Happy Birthday to Liz - 50 never looked so good.

Elm organized a wonderful party for Liz on Wednesday.

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January 28th Message from the Executive Director « Community Living ... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/01/january-28th-message-from-th...

1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:21 AM

I met with Ron Kennedy’s sister Lynda and learned more about this incredible soul.

Wednesday included a tour and lunch with Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director of the Kawartha Haliburton Children’sAid Society.

The United Way Fundraising committee members met.

The Mindfulness group members met.

Job Quest is finalizing a satisfaction survey.

Clean out at 33 Lindsay street has reached its end - a final good bye to some really old desks!

A volunteer has come forward with an offer of help in public relations.

Twitter came alive this week with a tweet about the Funspiel being re-tweeted to over 4,000 people.

Merla sent around an email introducing our many students – thanks to all staff for supporting this important learning.


Lynn and the Elgin team for adapting to the changes with professionalism and solution-based thinking.

Leah, Charlene and others for coming up with the idea of theme days at the residences - I am SO attending pajama day.

Steve – we got your back!

Darlene, Deanna and Tammy for working out new habits and routines at William.

Nena, for taking over when you see the need.

Marlene for steadfast professionalism and grace.

All applicants for the Elgin and William positions- all the best in your interviews.

Welcome new volunteer, Gail LaPlante.

To all of the shining stars of endless potential – I see you, even in the daytime!


Sincerely,

Teresa Jordan

Executive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7

Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502 Ext. 244

Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

January 21th, 2013

January 14th, 2013

January 7th, 2013

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012


2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:21 AM

JANUARY 21ST MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Posted January 21st, 2013

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I heard a great story last week about a traveller who walked up to the grand gates of alarge city. He asked the guard at the gate: “What kind of city is this?” and the gatekeeper responded by asking: “What kind of citydo you come from?”

The traveller complained that the city he had come from was terrible. The government was corrupt, the people cynical anddistrusting, and the morale deplorable. ” Well, that is pretty much what you will find here,”responded the guard. So the travellercursed to himself and left to find a better city.

A short time later a second weary traveller neared the gate and asked the same question: “What kind of city is this?” Thegatekeeper responded in the same manner, asking what type of city the man had left. “The city I left was wonderful. I am sorry toleave, but my company moved. The people were generous and optimistic, the government was not perfect - but tried its best - andthe neighbourhoods were vibrant , trusting and cooperative.”

Upon hearing this the guard replied: “Well, that is pretty much what you will find here.”Highlights of the past week

The INNOWEAVE team members journeyed to Toronto once again for the launch of phase two of the project.

Anne attended RMT and it sounds like much was accomplished to find some resolutions.

Saturday was Board Orientation Day.

A brave team came together to start to organize the infamous room 123 in the lower level.

Furniture was sold at the old office on Tuesday to many happy customers.

The computer recycling task force members met briefly on Monday.

The regular Residential prime meeting was held.

The Learning Café made its 2013 debut with Cindy covering Facilitation.

The resource consultants held their regular meeting.

Joint Health and Safety Committee members met.

Capstone students met at their campus with Merla, Steve and Cindy to plan a database for client information.

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1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:19 AM

And a reward is now offered to any person who can locate Laura’s missing box.

Follow me on Twitter - I have 59 followers now.


Grandma Dawn and Grace DiBello on the arrival of a baby Austin.

To Steve for tackling the plastic handles at the office.

Mary Lynn for showing appreciation and offering a pick-me-up to a completely overwhelmed co-worker.

Steve, Rose, Beckie, Leslie and Melinda for hard work on the abyss we call room 123.

To everyone who has offered to do extra to help the settling in process.

Board members, managers and Bonnie for giving up a Saturday to learn about Community Living Kawartha Lakes.

Kawartha Lakes This Week for a great article.

Welcome, Tanya Cowen.

Gloria for saving a great benches with her great memory.

Get well soon Mary Anne.

Tina and Yvette for a great presentation about BEST at the Board Day.

And to everyone for knowing that we are going to find what we expect to find … every time.


Sincerely,

Teresa JordanExecutive DirectorCommunity Living Kawartha LakesSuite 200, 205 McLaughlin RoadLindsay, Ontario K9V 0K7

Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502 Ext. 244

Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

January 21st Message from the Executive Director « Community Living ... http://www.communitylivingkl.ca/2013/01/january-21st-message-from-th...

2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:19 AM



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It is my pleasure to share the latest work of our in house poet, Shirley Sundberg.

Christmas of 2012 has come and gone.But not before we received our greatest gift- a new home for the Association.It had taken many years to hear that sound,Of big machinery breaking the ground.Out in the field so big and vast.It was being built to last and last.Next came the team of painters for the big job ahead.Volunteers and staff plunged in from room to room until it was said,“Ready for moving in,” all the furniture and desks seem to weigh a ton.So happy to be there - a new place for memories and a spot in our hearts.Each wall is a memory wall right from the start.Treasure this vision,It was quite a missionLooking back to 2012 with great satisfaction,Thankful to those who took that action.Oh and one more thing-we have to plant that tree to watch our branches grow,You know what they say, “You reap what you sow.”

Thank you, Shirley, for another reminder that we are here to plant seeds, renew our mission and get down to business in our newhome.Highlights of the past week

There has finally been media buzz about our new building with CAPS, The Lindsay Post, Lindsay the Week, BOB FMand CHEX Television showing interest.

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1 of 4 11/02/2015 10:17 AM

We held Board Orientation on Saturday.

Kirby has been working hard every day to get us moved into and set up in our new building.

Day Supports programs began in the new space this week.

Work on the Funspiel is completely underway. Mark your calendar for Feb. 2nd and don’t miss it!

Independent Living, Day Supports and Job Quest held regular meetings.

Mary Anne attended the Special Education Advisory Committee meeting.


Job Quest - they now have 26 followers on Twitter!

Cindy, Marlene Edwards and Barb Brown for their hard work on Funspiel preparations.

Our thoughts are with you, Dawn and Tammy.

Merla for taking on a new volunteer strategy.

Caren, Marnie and Tracey for keeping the show on the road.

Everyone who has volunteered for the Memory Committee.

April, Jane Ann and Debbie - get well soon.

Cindy, Anne, Mary Anne and Doris for giving up your parking spots to make room.

Resource Consultants, and Day Supports and Independent Living staff members, for taking on the extra hassleof vehicles parked off-site.

Everyone who took on new roles and challenges this week.

And to everyone - for their patience in waiting for everything to get unpacked - and for their hope in a bright future.


Sincerely,



2 of 4 11/02/2015 10:17 AM



Follow @CLKLTeresa

Well it is the first update of 2013 and as usual I am so excited about the great thingsthat are possible having a whole shiny new year ahead. I think that in the time that I have been at the office and remotelyconnected I have been bombarding people with ideas, updates, plans and more ideas. I am excited to think of all the things that wecan do together in the coming year.

A friend of mine sends me jokes and stories by the hundreds. Sadly I erase most without reading, but yesterday one caught myeye. It was about a blind horse that lives out its days on a farm. He is able to find his way because its paddock mate wears a belland he knows to follow the sound to return to the barn. It got me thinking about the number of people who have guided me orwho I have followed to help me along.

Some of the people who have been influential in my life do not even know it. An online service asked me for a role model as oneof my password hint questions and I instantly thought of a catechism teacher’s name from when I was 13. He taught me to believein my skills. Then it occurred to me that he probably has no idea that he made it to my password hint list! I hope that I can wear abell to guide someone else when I am needed.Highlights of the past week

Again much thanks to those who worked while many of us took time off over the holidays.

We moved Day Supports and all its equipment to our new space.

Time and energy were spent by the INNOWEAVE team members in preparation for a big deadline next week.

We filed our accessibility report with the Ontario government.

Mary Anne began the first draft of the United Way report regarding the Respite Worker Registry.


Gloria C. for setting the example with lunchtime walks this week.

Day Supports staff members who came in and worked hard to set up for business.

The Ontario Ombudsman for his thoroughness in reviewing access to DS services.

Get well soon everyone that has been plagued by the terrible cold going around!

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Sharon and Steve for covering on-call during the office closure - a busy couple of weeks.

Teresa, Joan and Trish - your holidays are always dotted with quick calls and texts - thank you for covering theemergencies with your respective Home Share individuals and families.

And to everyone for guiding and directing so many others.


Sincerely,


Direct Telephone: (705) 328-0502 Ext. 244Fax: (705) 328-0495Email: [email protected] past messages from the Executive Director

December 31st, 2012

December 24th, 2012

December 17th, 2012

December 10th, 2012

December 3rd, 2012

November 26th, 2012

November 19th, 2o12

November 12th, 2012

November 5th, 2012

October 29th, 2012

October 22nd, 2012

October 15th, 2012

October 8th, 2012





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