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1 We’re here to help, when victims need it most. Annual Report 2013-14 Victim Services of Durham Region
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We’re here to help, when victims need it most.
Annual Report 2013-14
Victim Services of Durham Region
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Victim Services of Durham Region offers a 7 day, 24 hour service to provide short‐term immediate emotional and practical support
to victims of crime or tragic circumstances.
The program represents a partnership between the community, Durham Regional Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police
and Ministry of the Attorney General.
Mission Statement
Reference and Administrative Details
The Board of Directors presents its report the year ended 31 March 2014. This report, including the financial figures, complies with the latest best practice in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. Charity Name Victim Services of Durham Region Charity B/N Registra on Number: 890809769RR001 Registered as a charity in Ontario, Canada Corpora on Number: 1049982 The names listed below reflect the governance and organizational structure as of March 31st, 2014.
Contact Us Victim Services of Durham Region
480 Taunton Rd. East Whitby, ON L1N 5R5 Phone: (905) 579‐1520 ext. 1846 • Fax: (905) 721‐4293 • Email: [email protected]
Website: www.victimservicesdurham.ca
A member agency of the Ontario Network of Victim Service Providers www.victimservicesontario.ca
Olwen Sigsworth, Chair Jade Harper, Executive Director
Barbara Kwietniowski, Treasurer Stephanie Belmonte, Project Coordinator
Jennifer Stewart, Secretary Heather Gailey, Program Coordinator
Margaret Harper, Community Member Amy Tanner, Victim Support Worker
Omar Ali, Community Member Michelle Marsh, Victim Support Worker
Chris Stankiewicz, Community Member Laura Burch, Victim Support Worker
Mary Ann Monroe, Community Member Randi Leibold, Victim Support Worker
Tara Asling, Community Member
Carrie‐Anne Atkins, Community Member
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................... 3 History of Victim Assistance in Ontario ............................................................................................. 4 Our Programs .................................................................................................................................... 5 Report from the Executive Director .................................................................................................. 6 Year in Review .................................................................................................................................... 7 Supporting Victims: Trauma Informed Care ............................................................................... …..8 Supporting Victims ....................................................................................................................... …..9 The Difference We Made (by the numbers). .............................................................................. .10,11 Volunteer Crisis Responders ............................................................................................................. 12 Comments from our Placement Students ....................................................................................... 13 Volunteer Recognition ................................................................................................................. 14, 15 Thank‐you to our Supporters ........................................................................................................... 16 Financial Audit / Results ............................................................................................................... 17, 18 Report from the Chair ....................................................................................................................... 19
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In 1987, the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, as part of a multi‐ministry initiative through the Ontario Women's Direc‐torate, began three pilot projects in Ontario to test a new method for assisting police officers to meet their concerns about victims of crime. Utilizing trained and accredited volunteers, the Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Service (VCARS) in Al‐goma District, Brant County and Frontenac County offered twenty‐four hour a day, mobile crisis response teams to assist vic‐tims at the request of police officers. In 1989, an independent evaluation of the VCARS projects concluded that victims, police officers, community agencies and vol‐unteers themselves were in agreement that the provision of immediate assistance and timely appropriate referral did help to reduce trauma and enhance recovery from the effects of victimization. In 1982 the Canadian Urban Crime Survey, conducted in seven major urban centers by the Ministry of the Solicitor General Can‐ada with the assistance of Statistics Canada, provided much insight into the victims of crime, as defined by those persons who had themselves been victimized. Services valued highly by the survey respondents included immediate, at the scene support, practical help and information. Such assistance helped victims to feel more confident that they could deal with both the consequences of the crime and their emotional reactions to the crime. Police also reported that victims who have had their own needs attended to effectively are better able to recall details important to on‐going police investigations. Further substantive documentation proved that victim assistance programs are an effective and valuable means of helping victims of crime and tragic circumstance. Victim services are available through community based VCARS programs or inde‐pendent police based victim assistance programs.
In 1995, Ontario passes the Victims’ Bill of Rights that states, “The people of Ontario believe that victims of crime, who have suffered harm and whose rights and security have been violated by crime, should be treated with compassion and fairness. The people of Ontario further believe that the justice system should operate in a manner that does not increase the suffering of victims of crime and that does not discourage victims of crime from participating in the justice process.” The Victim’s Justice Fund was also created at the same time under the Victim’s Bill of Rights.
In 1998, Victim Services of Durham Region opened its doors and expanded its services in 2003 with Supportlink Program and in 2007 with both the Victim Quick Response Program and an outreach program on behalf of Durham Regional Police.
Today, there are currently 48 Victim Services organizations providing much needed crisis support to victims of crime, tragic circumstance and disaster in the Province of Ontario.
History of Victim Assistance in Ontario
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Our Programs
Vic m Crisis Assistance and Referral Services Program (VCARS) Utilizing trained volunteers, this program provides 24/7, 365 day on‐scene and telephone support for victims of crime, and trag‐ic circumstance. Victim’s and their families through police referral can be provided with crisis intervention, emotional support and referrals to community agencies for long‐term support and counselling. Outreach Victim Support Worker’s provide a prompt supportive outreach service to victims of domestic occurrences and any other re‐ferred cases whether or not an arrest has been made. A Victim Support Worker supports the victim in enhancing their quality of life by assessing risk factors, creating personal safety plans, linking to appropriate community resources, providing follow‐up and connecting victims with appropriate services through VQRP and Supportlink. Supportlink (SL) Supportlink is a joint initiative of the Ministry of the Attorney General, Rogers Wireless Inc., and Ericsson Canada to provide clients, both men and women, identified as high risk with extensive safety planning and/or wireless cell phones pre‐programmed to call 911 at the touch of a button. Vic m Quick Response Program (VQRP) VQRP is designed to assist victims, of the most violent crimes, who require immediate financial assistance that cannot be ob‐tained through other sources. Eligible victims of violent crimes, such as; homicide, attempt murder, serious assault (assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, aggravated assault), domestic violence, sexual assault and hate crimes who have reported a Criminal Code offence to:
Resident of Ontario
A police service in the province of Ontario; or,
In cases of domestic violence, sexual assault and hate crime, to a domestic violence shelter, sexual assault centre, V/WAP, hospital or other community agency providing services to victims.
VQRP provides funding for 3 components: Emergency Expenses – for eligible victims, for emergency home safety expenses to secure premises for victim safety, emer‐gency transportation costs, cellular phones, emergency child care and dependent care for elderly and special needs depend‐ents, emergency accommodation, meals and personal care items, emergency vision care, and crime scene clean‐up. Funeral Expenses – to assist eligible families of homicide victims; Counselling – to provide short‐term, early intervention counselling to help victims of serious crimes recover from their experi‐ence.
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Report from the Executive Director
The success of any kind of social epidemic is heavily dependent on the involvement of people with
a particular and rare set of social gifts. ‐ Malcolm Gladwell
Since 1998, Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) has evolved our service to meet the needs of people affected by crime
and tragedy in an effort to help them find the strength to carry on and face the future with hope.
The goal of the Victim Services is to make a difference in victims’ lives.
Our team of dedicated staff and volunteer crisis responders routinely step in and take over many distressing tasks for our
clients, in addition to providing emotional and practical support. We help them to cope and recover after experiencing crime
and tragedy. Our efforts can range from helping to get victims extra safety measures or supporting them through their
re‐housing initiatives; through accessing medical and counselling treatment to supporting families as they cope with the
aftermath of the murder of a loved one. We will also assist with the closure of social media accounts, liaise with the coroner
about the body, help to arrange the funeral, aid the family to cope with distressing evidence and/or ongoing investigations,
complete complicated forms, manage the flow of extensive paperwork, and finally mitigate and/or minimize media attention.
Bottom line, we support people through challenging and traumatic times, and led by them, we aim to help them get their lives
back.
We do not do this work alone.
We share this vital responsibility with the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Durham Regional Police Service and the Ontario
Provincial Police. Together, we deliver the victim support to which people are entitled to under the Ontario Victim’s Bill of
Rights and Police Services Act. To this end, we extend our appreciation to the Ontario Network of Victim Service Providers,
Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Department of Justice and
Ministry of the Attorney General ‐ our innovative partnerships and collaborative working relationships have enabled us to deliv‐
er on our commitment to victims.
The Board of Directors continued its review of governance processes in 2013/14. This is important work and has a direct impact
on VSDR meeting its vision and mission. I am grateful for the Board’s continued leadership and insights.
Staff members and volunteers are the very heart of Victim Services; their passion and commitment, displayed every day, in‐
spires me immeasurably. I am confident in and proud of the entire team we have assembled to provide round–the‐clock, trau‐
ma‐informed care to the residents of Durham Region.
Thank you for being tremendous leaders in social change.
Together we are stronger.
Sincerely,
Jade Harper
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Organizational Highlights
Placement Students through a partnership with University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Faculty of Social Science and
Humanities and Durham College, School of Justice and Emergency Services
Executive Director participated in Victims Bill of Rights Consultation (Bill C‐36 Announcement)
VSDR employees Participated in Regional Emergency Services Exercise
2 new employees (Program Coordinator and Victim Support Worker)
Program Highlights
Partnership with DRPS on Human Trafficking Project
Strengthened connections with “Walk with Me” – Assisting Human Trafficking Clients
Meeting the needs of our changing community we experienced an increase in supporting clients with diverse cultural
backgrounds by utilizing Multilingual Community Interpreter Services (MCIS)
VQRP Counsellor Eligibility List ‐ Counsellors in Durham Region eligible to provide victim care
Increased diversity of our volunteer team through direct outreach with Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP),
Community Development Council Durham (CDCD), and French Canadian Association of Ontario
Volunteer Highlights
Launched a online volunteer schedule management system
Incorporated a new online volunteer training into our volunteer training program
40+ new volunteer crisis responders added to our volunteer roster to provide 24/7 victim assistance
Increase in attendance at volunteer meetings and community participation
Public Awareness and Training
ONVSP Technology Conference ‐ “Enhancing Victim Safety” Attendance
In recognition of the 2013 National Victims of Crime Awareness Week, Victim Services of Durham Region produced various
media sources, such as; Chex TV, Channel 12 Commercial and In‐Depth Interview, Live on CKDO Interview, Radio Advertise‐
ments on KX96, Digital Advertisements at the Oshawa Centre, printed advertisements in the "This Week Newspaper",
guest appearance on Seniors Talk with Sgt. John
Proclamations in Oshawa, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scugog, Brock and Clarington, Top Story on DRPS’ website
Volunteer participation at community events; United Way Volunteer Fair, Crime Prevention Information Sessions, Police
Week, Brooklin Spring Fair, 4th Annual Survivor Forum by Durham VPCC
Executive Director attended Change Management Seminar
Community Development
Executive Director is an Executive Member on the Durham Region‐Intimate Relationship Empowerment Network (DRIVEN)
Vice Chair of the Ontario Network of Victim Services Providers (ONVSP)
Member of Violence Prevention Coordinating Council (VPCC)
Member of Children’s Aid Society Child Abuse Review Team (CART)
Part‐time faculty member of Durham College ‐ Victimology Post Graduate Program
Member of the Ministry of the Attorney General, Provincial Advisory Committee Member
New Member of Community Threat Assessment and Intervention Protocol (C‐TAIP) with Durham District School Board and Durham Catholic School Board.
VSDR Staff received Level 1 Violence Threat Risk Assessment Training (VTRA)
13/14 - Year in Review
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Supporting Victims: Victim Services Provides Trauma Informed Care
What is trauma‐informed care?
Trauma‐informed services take into account an understanding of trauma in all aspects of victim service delivery and places pri‐ority on trauma survivors’ safety, choice and control. Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) works diligently to create a culture of nonviolence, learning and collaboration. Working in a trauma‐informed way does not necessarily require disclosure of trauma. Rather, victim services are provided in ways that recognize needs for physical and emotional safety, as well as choice and control in decisions affecting one’s life.
VSDR offers trauma‐informed victim services, such that there is special attention paid to its policies, practices and people approaches to ensure safety and empowerment for the victim (client). For example, our Victim Support Worker’s seek safety that should be created in every interaction with a client and confrontational approaches are avoided.
Our Victim Support Workers and Volunteer Crisis Responders approach their work with the understanding of how common trauma is among those we serve, and how it is manifested in peoples’ lives. It could be said that our trauma‐informed ap‐proaches build trust and confidence, with a focus on ensuring emotional safety so that people consider taking further steps toward healing and recovery while not experiencing further traumatization or re‐victimization.
Key principles of trauma informed approaches?
Researchers and clinicians have identified key principles of trauma‐informed practice:
1. Trauma awareness: All services take a trauma‐informed approach by building awareness among staff, volunteers and clients of – how common trauma is; how its impact can be central to one’s development; the wide range of adaptations people make to cope and survive; and the relationship of trauma with substance use, physical health and mental health concerns.
2. Emphasis on safety and trustworthiness: Physical and emotional safety for clients is key to providing trauma‐informed vic‐tim support because trauma survivors often feel unsafe, are likely to have experienced boundary violations and abuse of pow‐er, and may be in unsafe relationships. Safety and trustworthiness are established through activities such as: welcoming and supportive on‐scene or telephone procedures; exploring and adapting the physical space; providing clear information about the practical steps forward; ensuring informed victim consent; and creating crisis, safety and referral plans. It also means that our people demonstrate predictable expectations for the work at hand and schedule crisis responder shifts consistently so that we are available to help when victims need it most.
3. Opportunity for choice, collaboration and connection: Trauma‐informed victim services create safe environments that fos‐ter a client’s sense of efficacy, self‐determination, dignity and personal control. Volunteer Crisis Responders try to communi‐cate openly, equalize power imbalances in relationships, allow the expression of feelings without fear of judgment, provide choices as to referral preferences, and work collaboratively. This experience of choice, collaboration and connection is often extended to clients beyond the initial on‐scene service provision.
4. Strengths‐based and skill building: Clients in trauma‐informed victim services are assisted to identify their strengths and to further develop their resiliency and coping skills.
Trauma‐informed victim services take into account an understanding of trauma in all aspects of service delivery and places pri‐ority on the trauma survivor’s safety and empowerment. Services are designed specifically to address violence, trauma, and related symptoms and reactions.
The intent of any victim service activity is to increase skills and strategies that allow victims to manage their symptoms and reactions with minimal disruption to their daily obligations and to their quality of life, and eventually to reduce or eliminate debilitating symptoms and to prevent further traumatization and violence.
VSDR intends attends to create a culture of non‐violence, learning and collaboration at the level of individual interaction with victims (clients) as well as the overall organizational level, whether or not the client has disclosed current or past violence or trauma. VSDR helps people connect to trauma‐specific services based on individual preferences and readiness. As an agency working with individuals who have experienced trauma VSDR recognizes it has a responsibility to be aware of the many chal‐lenges that victims face and do all that we can to minimize re‐victimization.
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Supporting Victims
6familiesweresupportedwiththeapplicationprocessfortheFinancialAssistanceforFamiliesofHomicideVictimsProgram(FAFHV)
6,312victimswereprovidedwithemotionalsupportandreferrals.
191Of icersprovidedover400referralsrequestinginitialcontacttosupportavictimintheimmediateaftermathofacrime.
78callsforimmediateVolunteerCrisisResponderSupporton‐sceneand/ortelephonecrisis.
273VictimQuickResponseProgram(VQRP)Servicesrenderedorrequested.
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In 2013/2014 over 6,312 clients received support at the following types of incidents:
Volunteer Crisis Responders provided on‐scene support to victims and their families at 78 incidents from April 1st, 2013 to March 31st, 2014. A breakdown of the types of incidents our volunteers responded to are as follows:
The Difference We Made: By the Numbers
41 3
44
1 1 1 3 2
17
1 115
14 5
62
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
On‐Scene
Telephone Crisis
Call Cancelled
Additional Follow‐Up Requested byClient
78 Calls for Volunteer Crisis Responder support on‐scene and/or telephone crisis.
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The Difference We Made: By the Numbers
Percentage of Financial Breakdown of VQRP Services Requested / Rendered
273 Victim Quick Response Program Services Requested / Rendered
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Volunteer Crisis Responders
Victim Services Crisis Responders provide immediate on‐scene and telephone support through our 24/7 VCARS volunteer pro‐
gram. During the 13/14 year, volunteers provided over 22,748 hours of on‐call support to the program and assisted on‐scene at over 78 incidents. Below is what our volunteers had to say about why they chose and continue to volunteer with Victim Services….
“When I first started volunteering with Victim Services, I doubted my abilities to offer much to the people who I would be called on to help. There are no letters after my name, no years of experience to back me up as I walked into these people's lives. I was terrified that I wasn't enough. But I began. I have looked into the eyes of a parent who just lost their child and mourned with them a loss one can never imagine. I have held the hand of a man who lost his wife of almost forty years and watched him smile as he told me story after story of the good times he had shared with her. I have laid in bed at night, going over and over in my mind the conver‐sation I had with a victim of domestic assault, wondering if there was anything more I could have done to ensure she was safe. I have been in hospitals and living rooms with families and friends so broken‐ the hurt so tangible. I have been awakened by that call in the dead of night and have left errands mid run to be at the side of someone in need. I have had calls that have brought me to the brink of my own composure and have left me emotionally exhausted for days. I have been there for the sadness, the heart ache and the worst time of so many people's lives. But I have been there and I have come to realize that is all that is needed of me.
I am there...that is enough. “
Katie Cowan, Volunteer Crisis Responder
“I am a trained Volunteer Crisis Responder, I provide on scene and telephone support to victims and their families requiring immediate emotional and understanding support of tragic circumstances. I have chosen to be part of a Vol‐unteer Team that is nowhere near ordinary, helping/supporting Victims and individuals at their most tragic circum‐stances, and working with the most amazing people within my community. My volunteering started a little over five years ago, when I volunteered my time to Margaret. Margaret is a 70‐year‐old senior, who has hardly anyone left in her life. I took Margaret grocery shopping, I helped her with landscaping, and we had tea parties together. The pleasure I received by helping Margaret was extremely fulfilling. My time/experience with Margaret is what motivated me to get involved with many great organizations within my community including Victim Services.”
Anastasia Doubtsova, Volunteer Crisis Responder
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Throughout the 13/14 school year, we had the pleasure of working with several talented students in field placements from the following programs:
Criminology at University of Ontario Institute of Technology
Victimology, post‐graduate certificate program at Durham College The students were tasked with providing administrative support to our agency and learned more than their textbooks would ever teach them about providing support and service to victims of crime and tragic circumstance. Below is what one of the students had to say about their experiences working with Victim Services.
Comments from our Placement Students
The experience that I gained from my student placement with Victim Services of Durham Region is invaluable. The team was very welcoming and knowledgeable in helping victims of varying circumstances. I look forward to using what I have learned to help victims in the future.”
Patricia Knowler, Placement
My experience at Victim Services increased my knowledge working with vulnerable populations, and solidified my passion for domestic violence in youth research. I am so excited to go onto the next steps. And I thank Victim Services for everything that they did and contributed to my experience.
Gina Molleson, Placement Student
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Volunteer Recognition
Cer ficate of Years of Service Volunteer Crisis Responders provide a minimum of 2, 12 hours of on‐call shifts per month to respond to police requests for on‐scene emotional support and practical assistance. At each call for support, Volunteers are faced with the difficult task of sup‐porting victims under the most tragic of circumstances and life shattering traumatic events. Surrounded by all of this sadness, our Volunteers manage to support victims and their families with the utmost kindness, respect and compassion and for this we can’t thank them enough.
10 Years
Ashleigh Daniels
5 Years
Corrie Closs Kevin Goswell
Laurie Lefurgey Tara Martin
3 Years
Amanda Grills Steve Hyshka
Cody Perry Margaret Romain
Peter Neretljak
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Hours of Service The following volunteers committed extra hours being on‐call and/or participating at Community Events, such as Police Week at the Oshawa Centre, Crime Prevention Week, Take Back the Night, Brooklin Fair, and Youth Forum.
Team Leaders Thank‐You to our Team Leaders whom provide 24/7 on‐call monitoring, dispatching and supervision of our on‐call volunteers.
Placement Students A Special Thank‐You to our University of Ontario Ins tute of Technology and Durham College Placement Students.
Patricia Knowler Gina Molleson Pavi Sritharan
Volunteer Recognition
Jenna Couvier Stacey Dacosta Ashleigh Daniels
Don Grant Morag Kaye Jeff Labine
Laurie Lefurgey Cindy Tammerand
Kristen Bigaskas Verone Bowen Curtis Branch
Colleen Ireland Morag Kaye Rita Kearney
Jeff Labine Rose Laflamme Laurie Lefurgey
Aileen Meshriy Gord Miller Evelyn O’Campo
Michelle Burns Midge Buzza Corrie Closs
Megan Coull Katie Cowan Jacquelyn Croasdale
Stacey Dacosta Ashleigh Daniels Peggy Dolson
Anastasia Doubtsova Lindsay Evans Genn Fitzgerald
Matt Gallagher Don Grant Yuzhuo Gu
Dorann Hargreaves Lise Hendrick‐Jebson Steve Hyshka
Cody Perry Nathan Reid Margaret Romain
Bonnie Smith Cindy Tammerand Brenda Tilley
Leanne Tilley Janet Traer Jillian Vaughan
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Thank-you to our Supporters
At Victim Services of Durham Region we work hard every day to help victims of crime and tragic circumstance recover from the trauma they have experienced, regain their self‐confidence, and rebuild their lives. Our goal is to help all our clients become empowered and see themselves as strong survivors. But we cannot do it alone. As a non‐profit, charitable organization serving residents of Durham Region, donations from individuals, businesses and organ‐izations help to ensure that our services are always free and available for anyone in need of victim assistance. We would like to recognize our contributors who gave so generously over the past fiscal year. Government of Ontario
The Ministry of the Attorney General, Victims and Vulnerable Persons Division (VVPD) Region of Durham
Durham Regional Police Service Durham Regional Police
Police Appreciation Dinner and Awards Night Committee (PADAN) Government of Canada
National Victims of Crime Week (NVCAW) Grant, Department of Justice
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Financial Audit
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2013 Financial Results
$436,423.00
$4,638.00$20,733.00
Expense
People Total
Administration Total
Professional Service Total
Office Supplies
Program Equipment
Communica ons / Informa on Technology
Purchased Services
Associa on Fees
Public Educa on / Adver sement
Insurance
Salary and Benefits
Volunteer Expenses
Staff/Training Expenses
$252,940.00
$184,840.00
$300.00
Revenue
Ministry of the Attorney General
Durham Regional Police
Fundraising
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Report from the Chair
It’s been another busy year and the staff and volunteers have done an amazing job of keeping vic ms well‐supported. This is what ‘we’, Vic m Services of Durham Region, is all about and we are doing it well. In my role as Chair it’s been my privilege to work closely with Jade Harper, our competent Execu ve Director, and walk with her through some of the challenges of this past year as she has led her staff in the support of more than 6,000 vic ms. In the challenge of having to a ain a certain number of vic ms to maintain our Ministry of the A orney General fund‐ing, the ques on of quality versus quan ty is always uppermost. Quality of support, needs more me and effort, but I am happy to say that quality has won out. We thank you, our ED and staff, for taking what we think is the higher road, and for recognizing each vic m as a unique individual and trea ng them with respect and care. It’s a privilege for me to work with such caring, capable and passionate people, who always put vic ms first. Our Execu ve Director has also been kept busy in her many roles as manager of and advocate for her staff, chair of the Ontario Network of Vic m Service Providers (ONVSP), and nego ator for Vic m Services of Durham Region with Durham Regional Police Services and the Ministry of the A orney General. Jim Weldon, our accomplished auditor, is re ring this year a er many years of checking our books, answering our ques ons, suppor ng us through financial challenges, and teaching us the best way to do what we’re doing. “Thank you, Jim, for keeping us ‘on track’.” We wish you well in your re rement. The Board of Directors wishes to thank our willing volunteers and competent staff for providing a scaffold for vic ms as they recover from their trauma and begin to rebuild their lives. In this coming year, the Board will endeavour to con‐nue opera ng as an effec ve and efficient team.
Sincerely, Olwen Sigsworth Chairperson Board of Directors 2013/14
Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR)
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report
Table of Contents
About Us __________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1
Report from the Executive Director _____________________________________________________________________ 2
History of Victim Assistance in Ontario ________________________________________________________________ 3
Our 24/7 Volunteer Crisis Responder Program ________________________________________________________ 4
Victim Impact _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 5
Volunteer Testimonials __________________________________________________________________________________ 6
The Difference Our Volunteer Crisis Responders Made _____________________________________________ 7-9
DRPS Officer Referrals ______________________________________________________________________________ 10-11
Community Events ______________________________________________________________________________________ 12
Volunteer Recognition ______________________________________________________________________________ 13-14
Report from the Chair ___________________________________________________________________________________ 15
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 1
About Us
Mission Statement
Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) offers a 7 day, 24 hour service to provide short-term immediate emotional and
practical support to victims of crime or tragic circumstances. The program represents a partnership between the
community, Durham Regional Police Service, the Ontario Provincial Police and Ministry of the Attorney General.
Reference and Administrative Details
Charity Name Victim Services of Durham Region
Charity B/N Registration Number: 890809767RR001 Registered as a charity in Ontario, Canada
Corporation Number: 1049982
The names listed below reflect the governance and organizational structure as of March 31st, 2014.
Board of Directors Victim Services Team
• Olwen Sigsworth, Chair • Jade Harper, Executive Director
• Barbara Kwietniowski, Treasurer • Stephanie Belmonte, Project Coordinator
• Jennifer Stewart, Secretary • Heather Gailey, Program Coordinator
• Margaret Harper, Community Member • Amy Tanner, Victim Support Worker
• Omar Ali, Community Member • Michelle Marsh, Victim Support Worker
• Chris Stankiewicz, Community Member • Laura Burch, Victim Support Worker
• Mary Ann Monroe, Community Member • Randi Leibold, Victim Support Worker
• Tara Asling, Community Member
• Carrie-Anne Atkins, Community Member
Contact Us Victim Services of Durham Region
480 Taunton Rd. East Whitby, ON L1N 5R5
Phone: (905) 579-1520 ext. 1846 Fax: (905) 721-4293
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.victimservicesdurham.ca
Like Us: http://www.facebook.com/VSDurhamRegion
Follow Us: https://twitter.com/VSDurhamRegion
Connect with Us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/victim-services-of-durham-region
A member agency of the Ontario Network of Victim Service Providers http://www.victimservicesontario.ca/
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 2
Report from the Executive Director
"The success of any kind of social epidemic is heavily dependent on the involvement of people with a particular
and rare set of social gifts". - Malcolm Gladwell
Since 1998, Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) has evolved our service to meet the needs of people affected by crime
and tragedy in an effort to help them find the strength to carry on and face the future with hope.
The goal of the Victim Services is to make a difference in victims’ lives.
Our team of dedicated staff and volunteer crisis responders routinely step in and take over many distressing tasks for our
clients, in addition to providing emotional and practical support. We help them to cope and recover after experiencing
crime and tragedy. Our efforts can range from helping to get victims extra safety measures or supporting them through their
re-housing initiatives; through accessing medical and counselling treatment to supporting families as they cope with the
aftermath of the murder of a loved one. We will also assist with the closure of social media accounts, liaise with the coroner
about the body, help to arrange the funeral, aid the family to cope with distressing evidence and/or ongoing investigations,
complete complicated forms, manage the flow of extensive paperwork, and finally mitigate and/or minimize media
attention. Bottom line, we support people through challenging and traumatic times, and led by them, we aim to help them
get their lives back.
We do not do this work alone.
We share this vital responsibility with the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Durham Regional Police Service and the
Ontario Provincial Police. Together, we deliver the victim support to which people are entitled to under the Ontario Victim’s
Bill of Rights and Police Services Act. To this end, we extend our appreciation to the Ontario Network of Victim Service
Providers, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Department of
Justice and Ministry of the Attorney General - our innovative partnerships and collaborative working relationships have
enabled us to deliver on our commitment to victims.
The Board of Directors continued its review of governance processes in 2013/14. This is important work and has a direct
impact on VSDR meeting its vision and mission. I am grateful for the Board’s continued leadership and insights.
Staff members and volunteers are the very heart of Victim Services; their passion and commitment, displayed every day,
inspires me immeasurably. I am confident in and proud of the entire team we have assembled to provide round–the-clock,
trauma-informed care to the residents of Durham Region.
Thank you for being tremendous leaders in social change.
Together we are stronger.
Sincerely,
Jade Harper
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 3
History of Victim Assistance in Ontario
In 1987, the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, as part of a multi-ministry initiative through the Ontario Women's
Directorate, began three pilot projects in Ontario to test a new method for assisting police officers to meet their concerns
about victims of crime. Utilizing trained and accredited volunteers, the Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Service (VCARS)
in Algoma District, Brant County and Frontenac County offered twenty-four hour a day, mobile crisis response teams to
assist victims at the request of police officers.
In 1989, an independent evaluation of the VCARS projects concluded that victims, police officers, community agencies and
volunteers themselves were in agreement that the provision of immediate assistance and timely appropriate referral did
help to reduce trauma and enhance recovery from the effects of victimization.
In 1982 the Canadian Urban Crime Survey, conducted in seven major urban centers by the Ministry of the Solicitor General
Canada with the assistance of Statistics Canada, provided much insight into the victims of crime, as defined by those
persons who had themselves been victimized. Services valued highly by the survey respondents included immediate, at the
scene support, practical help and information.
Such assistance helped victims to feel more confident that they could deal with both the consequences of the crime and
their emotional reactions to the crime and trauma. Police also reported that victims who have had their own needs
attended to effectively are better able to recall details important to on-going police investigations.
Further substantive documentation proved that victim assistance programs are an effective and valuable means of helping
victims of crime and tragic circumstance. Victim services are available through community based Victim Services and VCARS
programs or independent police based victim assistance programs.
In 1995, Ontario passed the Victims’ Bill of Rights that states, “The people of Ontario believe that victims of crime, who have
suffered harm and whose rights and security have been violated by crime, should be treated with compassion and fairness.
The people of Ontario further believed that the justice system should operate in a manner that does not increase the
suffering of victims of crime and that does not discourage victims of crime from participating in the justice process.” The
Victim’s Justice Fund was also created at the same time under the Victim’s Bill of Rights.
In 1998, Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) opened its doors and expanded its services in 2003 with Supportlink (SL)
Program and again, in 2007 with both the Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP) and an outreach program on behalf of
Durham Regional Police.
Following an evaluation of the VCARS, VQRP and SL programs, a modernization initiative arose more recently in 2010. Since
that time, the Ministry of the Attorney General (MAG) has consulted with Victim Service providers and other stakeholders to
seek input on various aspects of the initiative, including comprehensive program standards, competency-based training,
enhanced statistical reporting and funding formulas. Based on this input, the Ministry has made several significant
modifications to the program.
Effective April 1, 2015 the new program will now be called Victim Crisis Assistance Ontario (VCAO), replacing the three
previously separate programs. These changes will serve as a sustainable platform for delivering critical services to victims of
crime in a consistent manner throughout the Province of Ontario.
Victim Services of Durham Region shall deliver the VCAO program on behalf of the Ministry moving forward and our
objectives shall remain:
• To provide crisis intervention, emotional support, practical assistance, information and referrals to individuals
affected by crime and tragic circumstances.
• To reduce the likelihood of further harm by helping a client identify and address safety issues.
• To help clients identify their needs and concerns, and develop strategies to address them.
Today, there are currently 48 Victim Services organizations providing much needed crisis support to victims of crime, tragic
circumstance and disaster in the Province of Ontario.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 4
Our 24/7 Volunteer Crisis Responder Program
Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Services Program (VCARS)*
Utilizing trained volunteers, this program provides 24/7, 365 on-scene and telephone support for victims of crime, and
tragic circumstance.
Victims and their families, through police referral can be provided with crisis intervention, emotional support and referrals
to community agencies for long-term support and counselling. During the 2013/14 year, volunteers provided over 22,748
hours of on-call support to the program in the Region of Durham. Volunteers were called upon to provide support at 79
incidents, often supporting multiple victims at each occurrence.
This means that DRPS, OPP and other police services in the GTA saw a potential fit between the support that Victim Crisis
Responders could provide and the needs exhibited by those victimized. Since client consent is currently required to activate
the Volunteer Support services, this means that 79 times throughout the fiscal year the victims agreed to this service when
offered by the police.
*Effective April 1st, 2015 the new program
will now be called Victim Crisis Assistance
Ontario (VCAO).
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 5
Victim Impact
"The loss of a dearly loved family member is never easy to accept and deal with, especially if one is alone and emotionally
vulnerable. Aren't we all in need of support at such times?
*Jane was a great old girl. She lived a full life. Like a second mother to me, she was someone who was there from childhood,
a friend, confidant, mentor in all things humane.
No one can be prepared for the loss of such a good person. It is so important that there are people like Corrie and Elyce out
there and available, as volunteers, prepared to help others deal with grief and sorrow. Yet there is also the celebration, the
reaffirmation of a life well lived, and at times, it takes a stranger to draw out the details of endearment.
And so it is with gratitude and appreciation that I offer thanks for the presence of Corrie and Elyce yesterday upon the
passing of Rita. In a world where monetary gain is a prime motivator, it is encouraging to know there are individuals who are
prepared to invest their time freely.
I am one who believes there must be greater rewards in life than money if we are to become a truly empathic world in the
long run.
Further, I consider such efforts rewarding in emotional and spiritual terms. Emotional/spiritual economics? I believe the
willingness to volunteer, to invest in community care, is one of the key determinants and indicators that YES, there is hope for
the future of humanity. Can you put a price tag on that? Priceless!
Health, happiness and well being to you and yours!
Keep up the great work!"
*Name changed to protect client's identity.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 6
Volunteer Testimonials
“When I first started volunteering with Victim Services, I doubted my abilities to offer much to the people who I would be
called on to help. There are no letters after my name, no years of experience to back me up as I walked into these people's
lives. I was terrified that I wasn't enough. But I began.
I have looked into the eyes of a parent who just lost their child and mourned with them a loss one can never imagine. I have
held the hand of a man who lost his wife of almost forty years and watched him smile as he told me story after story of the
good times he had shared with her. I have laid in bed at night, going over and over in my mind the conversation I had with a
victim of domestic assault, wondering if there was anything more I could have done to ensure she was safe. I have been in
hospitals and living rooms with families and friends so broken- the hurt so tangible. I have been awakened by that call in the
dead of night and have left errands mid run to be at the side of someone in need. I have had calls that have brought me to
the brink of my own composure and have left me emotionally exhausted for days. I have been there for the sadness, the
heart ache and the worst time of so many people's lives.
But I have been there and I have come to realize that is all that is needed of me. I am there...that is enough. “
Katie Cowan, Volunteer Crisis Responder
“I am a trained Volunteer Crisis Responder, I provide on scene and telephone support to victims and their families
requiring immediate emotional and understanding support of tragic circumstances. I have chosen to be part of a Volunteer
Team that is nowhere near ordinary, helping/supporting Victims and individuals at their most tragic circumstances, and
working with the most amazing people within my community.
My volunteering started a little over five years ago, when I volunteered my time to Margaret. Margaret is a 70-year-old
senior, who has hardly anyone left in her life. I took Margaret grocery shopping, I helped her with landscaping, and we had
tea parties together. The pleasure I received by helping Margaret was extremely fulfilling. My time/experience with
Margaret is what motivated me to get involved with many great organizations within my community including Victim
Services.”
Anastasia Doubtsova, Volunteer Crisis Responder
"Volunteering with Victim Services changed my life path; I would never be where I am now one short year later."
Shar Laing, Volunteer Crisis Responder
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 7
The Difference Our Volunteer Crisis Responders Made
13/14 - 24/7 Crisis Responses by Incident Type
Total of 79 Crisis Response Incidents
13/14 - 24/7 Crisis Responses by Support Type
Total of 79 Crisis
Response Occurrences
Examples of Tragic Circumstances
are as follows:
• Sudden death
• Suicide
• Death notification
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 8
The Difference Our Volunteer Crisis Responders Made
13/14 - Number of Victims Served during 24/7 Crisis Responses in 13/14
13/14 - Total Number of 24/7 Crisis Response Occurrence by Police Service
A Total of 79 24/7 Crisis Response Occurrences in 13/14
*63 DRPS Incidents referred resulted in 69 24/7 Crisis Response Occurrences.
Note: Parent and/or Guardian was on-scene
where children received support.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 9
The Difference Our Volunteer Crisis Responders Made
12/13 and 13/14 Yearly Comparison of DRPS Crisis Response Totals
12/13 and 13/14 Yearly Comparison of DRPS 24/7 Crisis Response by Division
A Year over Year increase of 9.5%
% Year over Year Change:
West: - 9.09%
Central West: -12.5%
Central East: +14.2%
East: - 50%
North: +400%
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 10
DRPS Officer Referrals
The following Durham Regional Police Officers requested 24/7 on-scene support by our Volunteer Crisis Responders in
13/14.
Andrews, Thomas-491 Ganeshan, Krish-488 O'Blenes, Gordon-683
Birmingham, Dean-3462 Garnett, Robert-3015 O'Connor, Gregory-3150
Bowler, Matt-3663 Glionna, Mark-672 Ouellette, Alan-3226
Branton, Gary-438 Grondin, Daniel-3422 Prins, Jonathan-3652
Broadfoot, Thomas-3431 Karpis, John-914 Rampersad, Barbara-3291
Bryan, Robert-660 Kennaley, Brendan-777 Redford, Robert-857
Campbell, David-3029 Kennedy, Jeff-984 Rendall, Nicholas-3598
Ceci, Marco-3380 Kent, Shawn - 977 Rose, Murray-649
Chappell, Mark-3306 Kerr, James-3097 Shaddick, Jay-3084
Collins, Robert-3020 Lee, Chad-3023 Sokoljuk, Tyler-671
Corby, Ian-858 Lefaive, Vincent-715 Sottile, Robert-3206
Dalziel, Krisztina-3485 Loughlin, David-680 Taylor, John-470
Dunlop, Bradley-929 Macdonald, Christopher-3246 Thakur, Amandeep-3595
Easton, Barry-856 Mackinnon, John-3059 Thompson, Colin-3659
Emmorey, David-634 McCurbin, Paul-825 Whittaker, Julia-900
Finley, Shawn-3350 McMillan, Alex-3581 Willis, Craig-3047
Fisher, Jason-3107 Ganeshan, Krish-488 Winn, Christopher-853
French, Tyler-666 Mintz, Ryan-3223 Wright, James-3065
The following Durham Regional Police Officers requested follow-up support by our Victim Support Workers in 13/14.
Accettone, Nancy-655 Birmingham, Dean-3462 Cook, Darryl-3279
Alves, Victor-3285 Bonner, Jason-3539 Cooke, Lea-1565
Anderson, Melanie-916 Bowler, Jennifer-3340 Cowan, Amanda-962
Anderton, Debbie-884 Briese, Cory-966 Crittenden, Steve-990
Arnott, Shaun-848 Brown, David-493 Dalziel, Krisztina-3485
Ashfield, David-3187 Bruce, Paul-3003 Dargie, Scott-664
Attina, Stephanie-3108 Bryan, Robert-660 Dellipizzi, Paolo-746
Bacher, Kathleen-1193 Burke, Patrick-455 Dennis, Todd-945
Bagg, Jason-3061 Bussanich, Andrew-461 Dobbs, Paul-775
Bagg, Kim-920 Bycok, Daniel-3370 Doucette, James-483
Baggio, Michael-3369 Cavanaugh, Jason-3332 Dunlop, Bradley-929
Baldini, Laura-3312 Charbonneau, Lisa-3267 Easton, Barry-856
Baldini, Nicholas-3495 Chrzan, Andrew-3447 Edgar, C Ryan-652
Ball, Gail-739 Clauson, Rob-3648 Eid, Mirwan-3328
Barkwell, Chris-3311 Cobry, Ian-858 Elliott, David-700
Barriage, Brett-641 Cole, Shannon-3653 Emmorey, David-634
Bell, Jonathan-3396 Collins, Greg-952 Etheridge, Craig-3529
Bickle-Hearn, Jenn-3025 Collins, Robert-3020 Findlay, Robert-736
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 11
DRPS Officer Referrals
Finley, Shawn-3350 Lawrence, Nigel-458 Rabishaw, Amanda-3093
Firth, Christine-3584 Lee, Chad-3023 Rayner, Ryan-3647
Fisher, Jason-3107 Lefaive, Vincent-715 Rayner, Terry-3270
Flis, Marta-3578 Leipsig, James-266 Redford, Robert-857
Forsyth, Jennifer-3142 Limb, Anthony-3634 Rhoden, Steve-781
Fox, Christopher-3337 Lock, Gillian-970 Rice, Darryl-3309
Frech, Zoe-3200 Lockwood, Jeffrey-3222 Rice, Holly-3436
French, Karen-3372 Ludlow, Chris-3181 Richardson, Elizabeth-963
French, Tyler-666 Macdonald, Peter-487 Richardson, Rebecca-3349
Gaudet, Shaun-3171 Macduff, Darrin-696 Rogers, Kenneth-3439
Gillis, Cyril-948 Macneil, Joylene-3031 Rose, Colin-995
Giuliana, Vanessa-3564 Maharaj, Anil-851 Sabo, Debby-Lyn-3232
Glionna, Mark-672 Maharaj, Karen-833 Samuels, Sean-3383
Goldenberg, David-3524 Mcardle, Brian-3537 Schutt, Sarah-3292
Gomez, Jason-3333 McBride, Thomas-3238 Shaw, Ryan-3582
Goodwin, Colin-784 McDermott, Timothy-3113 Short, Darren-486
Grenier, Yves-3557 McFadyen, David-788 Sitaram, Angela-3299
Griffin, Kyle-3394 McFarlane, David-350 Stephenson, Paula-957
Groat, Stephen-980 Mcleod, Janice-956 Stitt, Tracy-3637
Groeneveld, Phil-3660 McMillan, Alex-3581 Strong, Holly-3538
Hall, Jason-3562 McNamara, Jennifer-3343 Stuart, Kevin-978
Hartry, Corey-3198 Mcquat, Robert-3240 Sullivan, Stacey-3401
Heitzner, Shawn-637 Melnick, Joel-293 Suthers, Gerry-3574
Hilliard, Jeff-3039 Minicola, Jacqueline-807 Tate, Sheri-Lynn-632
Hindmarch, Mark-3387 Mintz, Leila-3662 Taylor, Brian-619
Hollister, Deanna-988 Moore, Robert-830 Thakur, Amandeep-3595
Hoover, Jeffrey-3406 Morse, Douglas-779 Thompson, Colin-3659
Hutchinson, Jason-866 Mounsteven, David-874 Todorovski, Ted-3489
Jackson, Amy-3400 Norton, Randy-959 Towler, Bill-3244
Jeffery, Justine-3245 Otterbein, Elaine-707 Twiddy, Paul-3397
Kaiserling, Nicole-3541 Pallister, Brian-907 Vickers, Brian-659
Karpis, John-914 Park, Jessica-3487 Walker, Christina-723
Karpis, Mary Anne-3043 Payne, Ben-3655 Weeks, Steven-419
Keat, Jason-3486 Peden, Andrew-3300 Williamson, Robert-675
Kemp, Christopher-812 Peden, Dena-3264 Willis, Craig-3047
Kennedy, Jeff-984 Phillips, David-968 Wind, Marten-790
Kenny, Carlo-3325 Powell, S.-3420 Wilson, Daniel-423
Knight, Debbie-3147 Powell, Shirley-1994 Wray, Timothy-3576
Kollaard, Tom-3188 Price, Mark-454 Ytsma, Peter-494
Lafontaine, Mike-3157 Prins, Jonathan-3652 Zebrak, Luke-3233
Lasseter, Michael-3360 Puckrin, Stefanie-3432
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 12
Community Events
·
On Monday, September 22nd, 2014 Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) held its Annual General Meeting and
Volunteer Appreciation Event. In attendance, were members of the Durham Regional Police, including Chief Paul Martin and
representatives from the Ministry of the Attorney General. The event highlighted our volunteers’ achievements and
activities of Victim Services of Durham Region throughout the past year.
In addition to providing client service, VSDR
Volunteers participated in the following Durham
Region community events during FY13/14:
• Police Week
• Crime Prevention Week
• Brooklin Fair
• Take Back The Night - YWCA / DRCC Oshawa
• Youth Forum
Pictured Left: Volunteer
Crisis Responders: Corrie
Closs and Cody Perry at the
Oshawa Centre during Police
Week in May 2013.
Pictured above: Chief Paul Martin. Pictured above: VSDR Board Chair, Olwen Sigsworth.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 13
Volunteer Recognition
Certificate of Years of Service
Volunteer Crisis Responders provide a minimum of 2, 12 (24 hours) of on-call shifts per month to respond to police requests
for on-scene emotional support and practical assistance. At each call for service, Volunteers are faced with the difficult task
of supporting victims under the most tragic of circumstances and life shattering traumatic events. Surrounded by all of this
sadness, confusion and despair, our Volunteers support victims and their families with the utmost kindness, respect and
compassion. Their goal is to help victims identify their needs and concerns, and together they develop strategies to address
them.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 14
Volunteer Recognition
Hours of Service
The Following Volunteers Committed Extra Hours Being On-Call And/Or Participating At Community Events, Such As Police
Week At The Oshawa Centre, Crime Prevention Week, Take Back The Night, Brooklin Fair, And Youth Forum.
Kristen Bigaskas Lindsay Evans Laurie Lefurgey
Verone Bowen Glenn Fitzgerald Aileen Meshriy
Curtis Branch Matthew Gallagher Gord Miller
Michelle Burns Don Grant Evelyn O'campo
Midge Buzza Yuzhuo Gu Cody Perry
Corrie Closs Dorann Hargreaves Nathan Reid
Megan Coull Lise Hendrick-Jebson Margaret Romain
Katie Cowan Steve Hyshka Bonnie Smith
Jacquelyn Croasdale Colleen Ireland Cindy Tammerand
Stacey Dacosta Morag Kaye Brenda Tilley
Ashleigh Daniels Rita Kearney Leanne Tilley
Peggy Dolson Jeff Labine Janet Traer
Anastasia Doubtsova Rose Laflamme Jillian Vaughan
Team Leaders
Our Team Leaders provide 24/7 on-call monitoring, dispatching and supervision of our on-call volunteer crisis responders
teams.
Jenna Couvier Don Grant Laurie Lefurgey
Stacey Dacosta Morag Kaye Cindy Tamemrand
Ashleigh Daniels Jeff Labine
Volunteer Crisis Responder Totals
74 # Active as March 31st, 2014
82 # Volunteer Roster (Active as of April 1st, 2013)
53 # Resignations*
45 # Trained (New)
* Volunteers are required to commit to minimum of one-year of service. The resignations for FY 13/14 represent a group of
volunteers whom had completed 1+ years of service with VSDR.
13/14 Volunteer Annual Report - VSDR Page 15
Report from the Chair
2014 was a busy year and the staff and volunteers have done an amazing job of keeping victims well-supported. This is
what ‘we’, Victim Services of Durham Region, is all about and we are doing it well. In my role as Chair it’s my privilege to
work closely with Jade Harper, our competent Executive Director, and walk with her through some of the challenges as she
has leads her capable staff and skillful volunteers in the support of almost 5,000 victims.
I quote from John Carver, “No single relationship in the organization is as important as that between the board and its
executive director.” We’re extremely fortunate to have Jade as our executive director. She’s dedicated to fulfilling the
Ontario Government’s Victims’ Bill of Rights recognizing that victims “should be treated with compassion and fairness.” The
Board works with Jade to create policies that support the overall purpose of Victim Services of Durham Region, of “offering
a 7 day, 24 hour service to provide short-term immediate emotional and practical support to victims of crime or tragic
circumstances”.
The Ministry’s victim services modernization initiative is now being put into place and we look forward to what this offers
our organization as we move towards being more effective in Durham Region. In the challenge of having to attain a certain
number of victims to maintain our Ministry of the Attorney General funding, the question of quality vs. quantity is always
uppermost. Quality of support, needs more time and effort, but I am happy to say that quality has won out. We thank our
ED, staff and volunteers, for taking what we think is the higher road, and for recognizing each victim as a unique individual
and treating them with respect and care. It’s a privilege for me to work with such caring, capable and passionate people,
who always put victims first.
Our Executive Director has also been kept busy in her many roles as manager of and advocate for her staff, chair of the
Ontario Network of Victim Service Providers and negotiator for Victim Services of Durham Region with Durham Regional
Police Services and the Ministry of the Attorney General.
The Board is very proud of the job our staff and volunteers does, and we thank them for being such reliable, passionate,
and caring individuals who provide a scaffold for victims as they recover from their trauma and begin to rebuild their lives.
The Board also wishes to thank the Durham Region Police Service for their continued support of this valuable service to our
communities.
Respectfully submitted,
Olwen Sigsworth
Chair, VSDR Board of Directors.
