2009-2010 - Empower, The Disability Resource Centre · 2009-2010 Annual Report. ... Internship...

2009-2010

Annual Report

The Independent Living Resource Centre

Supporting Consumers Across Newfoundland

This report is available in other formats.

Large Print - Braille - Text Only –Audio CD

Contact the ILRC for a copy in the format of your choice at 709-722-4031 or TTY: 709-722-7998 or Toll Free: 1-866-722-4031

2 Independent Living Resource Centre Annual Report St. John’s, NL 2009-2010

Independent Living Resource Centre

Mission Statement

The Independent Living Resource Centre is a consumer-controlled organization committed to providing supports, resources and

opportunities for empowerment, which enable persons with disabilities to make informed decisions about their lives.

ILRC Staff and Board of Directors ………………………………..….. Page 2

Interns, Project Staff, Students and Placements ………........ Page 3

Committees and Advisory Groups ……………………….……….... Page 5

Chairperson’s Report ………………………….………………………..... Page 6

Executive Director’s Report ………………….…………………………. Page 7

Annual Services Page 10

Information & Networking ……………………...……………. Page 14

Career Development………………………………..…………... Page 16

Individual Advocacy ……………………………....…………….. Page 20

Adaptive Technology ...………………………….……………... Page 21

Volunteer Services...…………….………………………………... Page 19

Peer Support ...…………………….……………………………..... Page 17

IL Internship..………………………….………………..……………. Page 23

Report for the IL Canada Representative………..……………….. Page 24

Debbie Prim Memorial Garden Committee Report ….……… Page 26

ILRC Activities ……………………………….……………………..……....... Page 27

ILRC Building Community...………………………………………………. Page 31

Treasurer’s Report …………………………………………..…………...... Page 34

Funding Partners ………………………………………………………….…. Page 35

12 Years of Milestones ……………………………………………………. Page 36 Appendix: Financial Statements & Auditor’s Report.................................................................................. 0

Table of Contents

Independent Living Resource Centre Annual Report St. John’s, NL 2009- 2010 1


Board of Directors:

Chairperson Cecilia Carroll Vice Chairperson Brian Conway Secretary David Swain Treasurer Cynthia Howlett Member at Large Roger Baggs Directors Joey Power,Alaina Butt, Brianna Hookey,

Paul Morgan, Margaret Allan, Gerard Blyde, Lucinda Churchill, Terry Rielly**, Jennifer Lythgoe**

IL Canada Representative Catherine Rodgers ** Served on the Board for part of the year. Core Staff:

Executive Director Barry Galloway Administration Crystal John, Vera Parsons Bookkeeper Dorothy Janes Core Program Coordinator Susan Ralph Peer Support & Volunteer Services

Trudy Marshall

IL Internship Kathy Hawkins, David Hogan Adaptive Technology Donna Greene Individual Advocacy Penney Abbott Career Development Stephen Quinn, David Hogan Information & Networking Amanda Lush

ILRC Board of Directors & Staff


Projects Staff:

CAP (Community Access Program:

Coordinators: Jeff Thornhill, Provincial Coordinator (St. John’s) Colin Walsh & Adam Baker, Regional Coordinators (St. John’s, Carbonear) Nick Prosper, Regional Coordinator (Corner Brook, St. John’s)

Interns: Erika Breen, Intern (St. John’s, MUN) Desiree Hopkins, Intern (Clarenville) Mercy Dhlakama, Intern (St. John’s, ILRC) Deborah Gilbert, Intern (St. John’s, CNA)

CAP Summer Intern Mercy Dhlakama Independent Living Internship:

IL Interns Juanita Felix – Stephenville Karen Davis – Corner Brook Jennifer Stuckless – Grand Falls-Windsor Darrell Duke – Clarenville Adam Baker – Carbonear Kelly Lush - Gander Cyril Peach – Happy Valley-Goose Bay Sarah Dunphy - St. John’s Cathy Gill - St. John’s Bradley Goodyear - St. John’s Nicole Marsh - St. John’s Johnathan McDonald – St. John’s David Hogan – Internship Placement & Alternate Formats Coordinator (St. John’s)

Project Staff, Interns, Students & Placements


Students:

Nursing Students Laura Delahunty, 4th year Nursing Leann Pardy, 4th year Nursing

Summer Students Cassandra Carroll, Adam Benson, Dylan Bridger, Scott Batten

Co-op Students Cody Loveless Amanda Martin

Community Placements:

Stella Burry Cathy Gill - New Beginnings Stephanie McGrath - Hope Works Suzanne Petten - Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program

SWASP Kristyn Collins

Memorial University Courtney Best, Jessica Johnson, Meghan Lundrigan, Laura May, Pamela Pollard, Ashley Power, Emily Woods, Kayla Riche, Caitlin Rose Heidi Snow, Tamara Randell


Debbie Prim Memorial Garden Joey Power David Hogan Stephen Quinn Brian Conway Diane White Paul Morgan Dougie Dunne Len Starkes George Adamchik Pat Day Hubert Pinksen Robert Moores Kimberley Underhay Jane Norris Adam Cole

Nominating Michelle Murdoch Crystal john Cynthia Howlett Cecilia Carroll Barry Galloway Full Steam Ahead Advisory Roger Baggs Andrea Augot Kathy Hawkins David Hogan Gail Howell Gordon Butler Mike Ryan Joanne George Jamie Winter

Adaptive Technology Steering Committee Paul Mitten Jeremy Brown David Swain Paul Morgan Jason Rose Karen Westcott Tim Wartman Brian Evans Kathryn Phelan Darlene Scott Kathy Hawkins Donna Greene Personnel David Swain Terry Rielly Cynthia Howlett Cecilia Carroll Lucinda Churchill Barry Galloway Executive Cecilia Carroll Brian Conway Roger Baggs Cynthia Howlett David Swain Barry Galloway

Black Spruce Newsletter Joey Power Deborah Gilbert Cathy Gill Catherine Rodgers Cassandra Carroll Paul Morgan Crystal John Amanda Lush Strategic Planning Paul Morgan Brian Conway Cecilia Carroll Barry Galloway Governance Joey Power Brianna Hookey Roger Baggs Brian Conway Cecilia Carroll Barry Galloway Building Expansion Barry Galloway Brian Conway Cecilia Carroll Vera Parsons Susan Ralph Michelle Murdoch

Note: Cecilia Carroll (Chairperson – ILRC Board of Directors) and Barry Galloway (Executive Director)

Committees & Advisory Groups


We often hear people say time flies when you’re having fun. Well I must be having one hell of a time because it has been 23 years since I first walked through the doors of 4 Escasoni Place, and I have no idea where that time has gone. I was young and single when I started here now I am old and married with a family, but still young at heart. I was going over in my mind what I wanted to say in my report this year and all of a sudden it hit me that I have been involved with this organization for half of my life. I was only 23 years old and had no idea what I really wanted to do with my life, but once I started working at Civic #4 my fate was sealed. Little did I know that the Independent Living Philosophy would take such a hold of me and become such a big part of my life. I have met and worked with so many wonderful people over the year, from residents, board members, summer students, and staff, I have enjoyed every single minute of it. They have all made a difference in my life. There have been so many good times, and memories that I will cherish forever. Mary Reid has been a big influence in my life because she taught me everything I know about Independent Living. She would always tell me that I kept her grounded. The ILRC and all the people that work and gather within it will always be to me a part of my extended family. It has been absolutely amazing to watch this organization grow from a Transitional Residence for Independent Living, which could only serve people with physical disabilities, to an Independent Living Resource Centre, which can serve people of all disabilities, and provide information to families, friends, governments and other community organizations. I would like to take this time to say a huge thank you to each and everyone of the staff at the ILRC. You are a fantastic group of people who are constantly going above and beyond in everything your do and it is very much appreciated. I would also like to say thank you to all of

Chairperson’s Report – Cecilia Carroll


our wonderful volunteers, for everything you do to assist the ILRC, and of course thank you to all of our funding partners for the past year, your financial contribution is greatly appreciated. Thank you everyone.

-Cecilia Carroll-

The Independent Living Resource Centre A Year in Review 2009-2010 It was the year that H1N1 arrived in our province and the year Barack Obama took office in the United States. It was the year that a small earthquake hit part of eastern Newfoundland and Canada hosted the Winter Olympics winning a record 26 medals. It was the year that our province introduced a Disability Policy Office and the year that Canada ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It was quite a year both in the world around us and in our world of Independent Living. At the ILRC we have stayed the course through the seas of economic change; maintained the highest standards of service and above all continued to support consumers. This year topping 35,000 services delivered to individuals through our combined programs. By remaining steadfast to our mission, the ILRC has been able to do what we do best: forge new paths for supporting people with disabilities every day so that we can all weather the storms ahead. Nothing at the ILRC happens in a silo…. It is only when everyone comes together – government, community and consumers - that we can think of ways that everyone can be included. At the ILRC, we have wonderful partners who support our work. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has always helped us with experience, money and ideas. Thank you so much. Thank you to all of our funders for their support, especially:

Executive Director’s Report – Barry Galloway


- Province of Newfoundland and Labrador - Department of Health and Community Services - Department of Human Resources Labour and Employment - Department of Education - Government of Canada - Industry Canada - Service Canada - Independent Living Canada

International Day In December we celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities with over 100 people coming to the ILRC that day to join us. This year’s theme, “Empowering Persons with disabilities and their communities,” recognizes the tremendous potential of the new Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as a mechanism for the empowerment of the global disability community. We were honoured once again with the presence of the Minister of HRLE and the Minister responsible for the Status of Persons with Disabilities - Susan Sullivan. She helped us celebrate, and added her voice to ours hoping, that some day, we will be able to eliminate barriers for all people with disabilities in our province. This year we launched our new awards program. We announced five award categories to commence on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, December 2009. They are:

• The Cecilia Carroll Award for Independent Living for a person with a disability, over 30 years of age who has demonstrated a long-term and extraordinary personal commitment to full inclusion of persons with disabilities in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Recipient was Karen Westcott.

• The Independent Living Young Leader Award for a young person with a disability, under 30 years of age, who has raised awareness and shown outstanding leadership in promoting full inclusion of people with disabilities in Newfoundland and


Labrador. The award was presented posthumously to Jennifer Lythgoe.

• The Business Award for Independent Living - displayed an innovative approach and achieved substantial outcomes, in supporting the full inclusion of people with disabilities in areas such as employment, transportation, housing, communication and technology. Presented to Marine Atlantic.

• The Local Government Award for Independent Living - has challenged or lobbied, and has succeeded in implementing substantial change by breaking down barriers faced by people with disability. Presented to the Minister Susan Sullivan for the Department of HRLE on development of the Disability Policy Office.

• The Social Inclusion Award for Independent Living for a person who has worked towards a more inclusive environment by creating opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in areas such as sport, the arts, education and the wider community. Presented to Nick Nash.

FAREWELLS & WELCOMES Good Bye and Good Luck to those that have left to pursue other challenges. All who have worked, volunteered, or been part of the ILRC have left some of themselves behind and taken some of us with them as they parted. I especially want to acknowledge Susan Ralph who was with the ILRC for almost ten years and has now moved to a new position with the City of St. John’s. As all gardeners know, you can never transplant a flower and expect it to be gone completely. Some of its’ roots always remain in the earth in which it was nurtured. And like all who are touched by the ILRC we always remain rooted in the rich soil of Independent Living. WORKING TOGETHER We could not do the work that we do without the help of our volunteers. Whether you write for the Newsletter, answer a phone, plant a flower, wash a cup, share an idea, support a friend, or change the world; you belong at ILRC. Thank you for always being here.


Our Board of Directors commit countless hours of their time to attend meetings, and support the work of the centre. Thank you all for your energy and help. I want to thank Cecilia Carroll our retiring Chairperson of our Board of Directors. After so many years with the ILRC we know you will remain part of the community that you helped to build. Thank you to the Executive Committee and all Board and Committee members. You are great people and bring so much through your experience and participation. To the staff of the ILRC, thank you so much for your work. As a team, the ILRC staff - is second to none! Have another great year everyone.

-Barry Galloway-

Individual services are provided by program coordinators and other ILRC staff and occur when support or information is provided to a consumer, friend/family member, education representative, government official, or other person. Categories used to record services encompass topics such as accessibility, finance, education/employment, computer support, skill development, independent living, disability awareness, community links, and many others.

Annual Services of the ILRC


0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

ILRC Growth in Individual Services2000-2001 to Present

Independent Living Resource Centre Top 10 Issues The ILRC’s staff, volunteers, interns and members work to promote Independent Living within our communities and provide services related to all sorts of issues. Some examples are Disability Awareness, Community Development, Transportation, Legal, Housing, and many more. The top service issues in 2008-09 are depicted in the chart below.

Top 10 Issues for 2009-2010

Independent Living Information Housing Disability Awareness Disclosure Computer Support Community Links Home Support Skill Development Independent Living Income Support


Independent Living Resource Centre Services by Location The ILRC provides services mainly to the St. John’s area through its core programs (Individual Advocacy, Information & Networking, Volunteer/Peer Support, and Career Development). With the addition of two provincial programs (Adaptive Technology and IL Internship) services have increased in areas outside St. John’s in recent years.

Services by Location

0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 30000

St John's

Conception Bay South

Avalon NL

Eastern NL

Central NL

Western NL

Labrador/Grenfell

National

International

Independent Living Resource Centre Services by Method of Contact The ILRC is known for offering services to the public regardless of where the consumers are and how they wish to receive these services. The main method of contact experieced at the ILRC is through person to person interactions at the centres, however it is not the only method. E.g. Phone, E-mail, TTY, etc.


Services by Method of Contact

0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000

Phone

TTY

Fax

E-Mail/Messenger

Mail

ILRC

Outside Meetings

CWC

Independent Living Resource Centre Services Provided To…

Services are provided to a large variety of people ranging from Community Agencies to family, friends and consumers by staff, interns, volunteers and concerned citizens. There are no restrictions on who can access ILRC services. In 2009-10, the vast majority of services were provided to consumers (people with disabilities).


Services Provided to ...

Consumer Family Member Friends Placement Student Co-Worker Support Staff Media Youth Seniors Public Business Community Education Government/Gov't Agency

The Information and Networking Program (I&N) is one of the ILRC’s Core programs. (that means that it is a program offered at all Independent Living Centres in Canada) It provides people with disabilities, their families and friends and the community at large with information about available disability-related services and resources. Through one-on-one contact with the Coordinator – in person, on the phone, via e-mail, etc. – people are assisted to find answers to their questions; or assisted to establish contact with others who can meet their informational needs. Consumers access clear, accurate and practical information in the format of their choice and/or in plain language. Our on-site Library has been updated and reorganized to make it more accessible and friendlier. It contains information on over 165 different topics, including accessibility, housing, education, employment and many more. Consumers seeking information can also be linked to other disability related organizations and a range of other resources through the ILRC website and it’s Community Access Project Site.

Information & Networking – Amanda Lush


We have been working hard to ensure the quality and accessibility of our Newsletter – The Black Spruce. We have reduced the number of hard copies to be mailed out by increasing the number of e-mailed copies. Do to the large demand for Audio formats we are now are offering the Black Spruce in an audio CD format. Another part of I&N is Networking by sitting on different committees to promote Independent Living, accessibility, inclusion and sharing information and disability resources with other community partners, we are promoting the full inclusion of all people with disabilities in our province. Some of the work this past year includes: Violence Prevention Initiative Executive Committee, Universal Design Network, the St. John’s Women’s Centre, Women’s Policy Office, the Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, Community Youth Network, and City of St. John’s. We have developed and facilitated many workshops and seminars over the past year. Some of these include: Disability Awareness Fair at MUN, Healthy eating, Registered Disability Saving Plan, Workshops with Horizons Group /Easter Seals, Outpatients Rehabilitation program of the L. A. Miller Centre, St. John’s Women’s Centre, Eastern Health, and many more. The Young Adult Group has been growing and developing. They meet the second Thursday every month, from 5pm to 7pm. The group has been continuing to gain skills and develop presentations. They are learning about different resources available in their communities and how to link with these resources by connections through other groups, and community organizations. We would like to thank everyone for their hard work and support within the Information and Networking program over the past year; with out our volunteers we would not have been able to accomplish everything we have.

- Amanda-


Full Steam Ahead (FSA) is program at the ILRC that helps people to do things like finding a job. We help people decide on what kind of job they want to do. We look for ways to get the education or training that you need for the job you want. We help people get the supports that have to do with their disability as well. Our Coordinator will guide you through all of the steps to find a job, or to go to school, or to start a business of your own. Full Steam Ahead helps people with disabilities to handle the many problems they will face as they look for a job. The program gives consumers information and support, and helps them to move forward on their career goals. This year has been exciting and busy for individuals using services offered by the FSA Program of the ILRC. The number of consumers who are accessing these services consistently increasing with each passing year.

• FSA Program has provided more than two thousand individualized services in priority areas such as Employment Career Exploration, Job Search, Resume/Cover Letter Writing, Labour Market Research, Business Planning and Education also funding options.

• Twenty-three participants found employment. Nine participants started or returned to school. Seven participants started subsidized training and three participants began volunteering as a way of developing work related skills and experience. In total one hundred and fifty-nine participants were actively involved in job searches throughout this fiscal year.

• Throughout the year, the FSA Program has offered a series of career development workshops in various locations through St. John’s and Mt. Pearl. Topics include “How to Conduct Active Job Searches, Practice Interviewing Skills, Developing Career

Career Development – Stephen Quinn/ David Hogan


Portfolios and Resume Writing. We will continue to consult with consumers to enhance our workshop delivery and offer sessions of interest based on consumer input and identified needs.

• In our upcoming year we plan to expand upon our current workshop themes to offer a series of workshops in Personality Dimensions®. These workshops will give participants information about various personality characteristics to support employment skills when working with others as well as provide opportunities for self-discovery of what their personality characteristics are when considering various career interests.

• Hosted Information sessions and tables at three “Transitional to

Employment Information Fairs” - Holy Heart of Mary High School and Prince of Whales Collegiate and Bishops College. These sessions were organized in partnership with HRLE.

• Hosted FSA Program Advisory Committee Meetings providing

work plan details to Committee Members detailing upcoming program plans and activities

Thanks to all of our Volunteers for their help throughout the year!

-David & Stephen- The Peer Support Program Coordinator, volunteers, and other staff provide peer support to individuals one to one and in groups. We match and support people who have things in common and work together. A part time coordinator supports individuals and tells consumers about other services at ILRC or in the wider community. Major issues of concern this past year were mental health - grieving and being friends, physical health – chronic pain, and access for recreation and social activities. The top two services provided by the peer support program were skill development and volunteer support and direction. We also

Peer Support – Trudy Marshall


gave information and support around independent living and making an informed choice. The peer support coordinator also talks with people in community, business, and government to develop new ways to make our community accessible. The program also supports individuals to speak out and to work towards being included in the life of our community. Leadership working group members supported 34 individuals to talk in groups or one to one on the value of and barriers to peer support. We sent a report on ‘Making the Case for Peer Support’ to the Mental Health Commission of Canada. Thank you to ILRC staff along with Interns and summer staff, volunteers, volunteer placements, and group members for your support of Peer Support groups. Group members shared experiences, skills, wisdom, and information at several groups. The ILRC Events and Activities section lists the locations, activities, and topics for the Dinner Club, Men's Group, Women's Night, Paint Group, and other Peer Support Groups and activities. ILRC recognized 15 Paint group members for their volunteer work at the Volunteer Week 2010 Volunteer Recognition Reception. The Peer Support Program supported 77 groups for the year. There were 995 participants with most identifying as consumers [see chart]. The Information and Networking program supported the young adult group. The newly formed Program Committee will support the volunteer and peer support programs towards coming up with ideas to hire more staff. The program applied for funding to keep groups operating. We supported volunteers to develop workshops like ‘It’s Okay to be Angry. The Peer Support program continues to support individuals to share their feelings, live safe, be healthy, make a friend, practice a skill, and ‘have a life’.

-Trudy-


A part-time Volunteer Coordinator matches volunteers with jobs by linking volunteers and volunteer placements with our programs and other options. The Coordinator, talks with the person about what they need to know to volunteer at ILRC, about why we keep information private, and how we respect each other. Volunteers, tell us what they can do – their skills, what they like to do– their interests, and what their dreams are – their goals. In this way, the volunteer has control and owns their volunteer experience. Also, staff and others give feedback to volunteers on their work and their success so that both the volunteer and ILRC are getting the best result. We wish to thank over 200 volunteers who ‘Connect Communities’ and worked together at the ILRC last year. With volunteers, the ILRC is able to offer more information, support, and services to individuals with disabilities. Volunteers bring many different skills and talents to the ILRC and take part in every aspect of our centre. We have supported volunteers to work together, to learn from each other, and to put their skills together to do more than they would do alone. We appreciate the work of each and every individual. Many volunteers at ILRC identify as consumers, however, others volunteer to learn about independent living, disability issues, and to develop skills related to their career interests. We provide support for individuals going through community pre-employment programs and for students from high schools, university and college. Volunteer placements are supported to work on their skills in a supportive workplace setting. They get to try out a job and see how it fits. The Volunteer program also promotes the value of inclusion for volunteers in the community. The Volunteer Coordinator worked with others on the Volunteer Week 2010 Committee to plan Volunteer week events like the Volunteer Expo 2010 at the Village Shopping centre and the Volunteer Week Recognition Reception at the Sheraton hotel. Several family and community supporters, 40 volunteers, and 8 staff

Volunteer Program – Trudy Marshall


joined together in song at ILRC on April 22, 2010 to celebrate the hard work of ILRC volunteers. Thank you again to our volunteers. If you would like to learn more about volunteering, please contact the centre and we will meet with you.

-Trudy- Here we are at the end of another year, WOW!! Where does the time go? It has been 18 months since I first began my journey into the position of Individual Advocacy Coordinator. And what a journey it has been!! I have decided to stray a little from the norm in this annual report. I could talk about the many services that the program has delivered, the number of consumers that have passed through the doors, and the many partnerships that have been developed. I could tell you that Affordable Accessible Housing has been one of the top issues for consumers this year or that poverty is still a major issue. However, this is information you can get from one of our many resources developed through focus groups and consultations over the years. All are available on our website. The Individual Advocacy Program has been successful and has supported numerous consumers in the fight for their rights. When I reflect on what makes the program such a success, I’m always drawn back to the consumer. It is the positive attitude of the consumer, the willingness to fight for one’s rights as an individual and the drive to not give up when the road gets rough & bumpy. Each and every day we are faced with new and existing issues that create barriers for persons with disabilities. It is the strength, endurance, and caring of our consumers that makes the goal of changing attitudes, promoting an Independent Living Philosophy and breaking down barriers a worthwhile fight. The respect, kindness and understanding that consumers show to us as staff members, never ceases to amaze me. No matter how

Individual Advocacy – Penny Abbott


overwhelmed or distressed people are, or when the outcome is not always positive consumers of the program are always appreciative of the work that we do and the efforts that we make. It is this feeling of respect and togetherness that enables me to forge ahead and not become defeated by the politics and bureaucracy that we must face daily. I would like to thank all the consumers who have contributed to the success of the Individual Advocacy Program, without your support, guidance and understanding the program would not be what it is today. Keep up the good work and keep fighting the fight. I would also like to thank all the staff members who have provided support to me as the Coordinator and for your patience as I learned the ropes over the past year. No program would be complete without the efforts of everyone as a team. I look forward to another great year of working together to make this a better place for everyone!

-Penny- The Adaptive Technology program provides information, resources and learning opportunities for people with and without disabilities. We work to break down barriers to technology that people face, link consumers with supports in their communities, and increase knowledge and awareness of accessibility and inclusion. General activities of the program this year have included: • AT information sessions to community groups, schools and

government agencies throughout the province; • AT training to HRLE’s Career Work Centre staff, College of the North

Atlantic’s Resource Facilitators, and local Junior- and High-School Special Services teachers;

• Individual support to consumers and students using technology for school and employment;

Adaptive Technology – Donna Greene


• Group workshops in the ILRC CAP site to promote skill development opportunities for consumers;

• AT Youth Internship providing employment to youth with disabilities throughout the province;

• Development of new resource materials to support learning about technology and AT;

• Partnering with community groups to share knowledge and expertise, learn about other resources, and promote accessibility and inclusion throughout the province;

• IT support to the organization – network maintenance, server backups, website maintenance, firewall administration, and troubleshooting office equipment and staff computers.

Some Highlights from 2009-2010: Youth Employment: Through our partnerships with Industry Canada, CAP-NL, and HRSDC, we were able to provide jobs for 10 youth this year. Eight of those were youth with disabilities. New Equipment: Thanks to funding from CAP-NL and HRLE, we acquired approximately $23,000 worth of new computers, hardware and software to replace old and broken technology. This helps us maintain the level of accessibility that we have become known for at the ILRC CAP site. New Alternate Format: Created a new alternate format using video that allowed us to provide advertising for a workshop in ASL (American Sign Language). The video was then posted on the ILRC website and on YouTube! New ILRC website: On December 3, 2009 we launched our new website. This new website includes a members section where people can connect with each other to share resources and support. Our website is now also available in a text-only version. (www.ilrc-nl.ca) Looking forward to an exciting new year!

-Donna-

http://www.ilrc-nl.ca/�


Throughout our third year of operation, the IL Internship Program has been extremely successful in creating networks within the disability community across the province. During this fiscal year, our program expanded our presence with the addition of IL Interns in Gander and Carbonear. This currently enables us to provide services in seven regional locations throughout NL including Stephenville, Corner Brook, Grand Falls-Windsor, Gander, Clarenville, Carbonear, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, with two interns for the St. John’s surrounding area. Program Activity Highlights

• Creation of Community Resource Guides on Accessibility and Inclusion for all communities with an Internship Program presence.

• Development of community networks building partnerships with other community organizations and government.

• Provided more that 3,500 individualized services in priority areas such as Disability Awareness, Employment Career Exploration, and Independent Living Information.

• Hosted seven regional Information Fairs on Disability Awareness and Inclusion making connections with well over 1,000 individuals in various communities across the province.

• Hosted and presented in public consultations on issues and barriers facing people with disabilities throughout the province.

-Kathy-

Independent Living Internship – Kathy Hawkins


The heart of ILC and the Independent Living movement are Canadians with disabilities.

ILC is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of a majority of persons with disabilities. The Board membership is made up of ten provincial representatives, and eight members at large.

The member at large positions are nominated by local IL Centers from across the country. The Governance/Nominating Committee receives and reviews these nominations and then makes a recommendation to

Independent Living Canada Report from Provincial Representative – Catherine Rogers


the General membership at an Annual meeting. This recommendation is voted up by the general membership. All seats are for a two year term. The Provincial representatives are appointed one year and the members at large elected the next year.

The board has several sub-committees to help carry out the work involved in running a national organization. These sub-committees are chaired by Board members with membership from local ILCenters other Board members and communities at large.

Founded in 1986 by the Independent Living movement membership, Independent Living Canada (formerly the Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres) is the national umbrella organization, representing and supporting the network of IL Centres at the national level. Its office is located in Ottawa the Nation's Capital.

Independent Living (IL) Canada's primary activities include:

- promoting the development of IL Centres in Canadian communities;

- articulating and promoting the IL vision, philosophy and work of the IL Centres at the national level;

- providing organizational assistance, training and the implementation of programs to IL Centres; and

- acting as a liaison between the IL Centres, various federal government departments, and Members of Parliament.

It has been my pleasure to serve as the Provincial Representative for the past year and look forward to putting my name forward for re-election to this position.

-Catherine-


The Debbie Prim Memorial Courtyard & Garden is blooming!

All winter long, in the hearts and minds of our Gardeners and Garden Committee Members, flowers have been taking root. We’ve been dreaming of vegetables and the smell of blooming Lilac trees. And this year, something truly wonderful and unexpected has occurred…

Spring! - The Debbie Prim Memorial Courtyard and Garden was started to honour Debbie and her love of flowers. The Garden, created by people living with disabilities and in the spirit of accessibility, still has an accessible pathway and wheelchair swing, and now we’ve added several accessible flower beds. Show up during strawberry season and you can pick your own. In the past two years, consumers have also started a vegetable garden. Last year’s harvest provided close to three hundred meals. Want to learn how to cook a good pot of soup? Then come by

Debbie Prim Memorial Garden Committee


during our fall harvest. We’re thinking green, and eating more healthy and local foods. People of all abilities are finding room to grow in our Garden. Want to be involved? Our Gardening Committee meets monthly and there’s always a weed that needs plucking. Come to learn, share your knowledge, or simply stop by to smell the flowers.

Information Sessions & Presentations delivered to… Delivered 97 workshops and presentations to the community

Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC) Partners and Stakeholders 2009 - 10 Information and Networking Program The Miller Centre Active Living Alliance Bishop’s College Academy Canada YMCA Foster Families St. John’s Native Friendship Centre The Association for New Canadians NL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre The John Howard Society Coalition Against Violence Canadian Hard of Hearing Association - NL Universal Design Network Multicultural Women’s Organization St. Kevin’s Highschool St. Andrews Pedestrian Church CHANNAL The Murphy Centre Gonzaga High School

How the ILRC Works for You…


The Janeway Hospital Community Youth Network Memorial University of NL Provincial Advisory Council Status Women St. John’s Women’s Centre/ St. John’s Status of Women Council Individual Advocacy Program Newfoundland Legal Aid Commission St. John’s Women’s Centre/ St. John’s Status of Women Council Canadian Treatment Action Council Eastern Health Marine Atlantic Newfoundland & Labrador Housing MP Siobhan Coady (St. John’s South-Mount Pearl) HRLE Royal Bank Provincial Advisory Council Status Women Disability Policy Office MP Gerard Kennedy (Liberal Critic for Infrastructure, Communities & Cities) Coalition of Persons with Disabilities MP Lorraine Michaels Full Steam Ahead (Career Development) Program The Youth Protocol Committee HRLE College of the North Atlantic Community Centre Alliance Association Partners for Workplace Inclusion New Hope Community Centre Community Youth Network Learning Disability Association of Newfoundland & Labrador Avalon Employment Canadian Hard of Hearing Association - NL


Stella Burry Community Services The Salvation Army The Murphy Centre Disability Policy Office Elaine Dobbin Autism Centre Keyin College Canadian Paraplegic Association Community Centre Alliance Holy Heart of Mary High School North East Avalon YMCA/YWCA Prince of Wales Collegiate Exxon Mobile Peer Support Program Stella Burry Community Services Memorial University NL Clare Baker - Chiropodist, Foot Care Specialist Seniors Resource Centre Mental Health Commission of Canada NL Long Term Pain Association Sandra LeFort, RN, PhD People First of NL NL Association for Community Living People First of Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre Andrew Safer, Meditation Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women Coalition of Persons with Disabilities Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Health Centre St. John’s Women’s Centre/ St. John’s Status of Women Council CHANNAL Victoria (Tori) Balsom - Artist


reachAbility Association Holy Heart High School Volunteer Program Stella Burry Community Services Memorial University of NL Community Sector Council – NL People First of NL Terry Rielly - Artist Student Volunteer Bureau, Memorial University NL Partners for Workplace Inclusion Program Volunteer Week Expo - Village Shopping Centre Provincial Programs - St. John’s, Gander, Grand Falls Windsor, Corner Brook, Clarenville, Stephenville, Happy-Valley Goose Bay, Carbonear: IL Internship Program Disability Policy Office HRLE Career Work Centre(s) College of the North Atlantic HRLE Poverty Reduction Strategy The Murphy Centre Y North East Avalon Easter Seals – Corner Brook Canadian Paraplegic Association Newfoundland and Labrador Association for the Deaf NL Prior Learning Network Community Homeless Network Office of Employment Equity for Persons with Disabilities Adaptive Technology Program Disability Policy Office Career Work Centre College of the North Atlantic HRLE Career Work Centre Human Resources Skills and Development (HRSDC)


Gov of NL: Department of Education Industry Canada Volunteer Week Expo - Village Shopping Centre Holy Spirit High School Disability Policy Office Canadian Hard of Hearing Association - NL CAP-NL Memorial University of NL Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL Association of the Deaf Humanware CBC radio HRLE LMI Hotline Gonzaga HighSchool St. Kevin’s Junior High School Senior High, Bishop’s College Mobile Central High Prince of Wales Collegiate Jeremy Brown – Network Rhythms Compusult The Miller Centre Active Living Alliance Coalition Against Violence Canadian Hard of Hearing Association Universal Design Network The Murphy Centre The Janeway Hospital Community Youth Network Memorial University of NL Provincial Advisory Council Status Women St. John’s Women’s Centre/ St. John’s Status of Women Council Newfoundland Legal Aid Commission

ILRC - Building Community


Eastern Health Marine Atlantic Newfoundland & Labrador Housing HRLE Royal Bank Disability Policy Office Disabled Peoples’ International Human Rights Commission - NL Disability Rights Promotion International - York University HRLE Career Work Centres – (province wide) College of the North Atlantic - (province wide) Human Resources Skills Development Canada Compusult Gov of NL: Department of Education Industry Canada Volunteer Week Expo - Village Shopping Centre CAP-NL Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL Association of the Deaf Community Centre Alliance Partners for Workplace Inclusion The Youth Protocol Committee Learning Disability Association of Newfoundland & Labrador (LDANL Avalon Employment The Salvation Army Canadian Paraplegic Association (province wide) North East Avalon YMCA/YWCA Service Canada Council of Canadians with Disabilities City of St. John’s Stella Burry Community Services Clare Baker - Chiropodist, foot care specialist Seniors Resource Centre NL Association for Community Living Andrew Safer, Meditation Community Sector Council NL


Terry Rielly - Artist Royal Newfoundland Constabulary St. John’s Mayor Advisory Committee St. John’s Para Transit Advisory Committee

Involvement on External Committees: City of St. John’s Para-Transit Committee Avalon East Caregivers Marine Atlantic Accessibility Advisory Committee Coalition of Persons with Disabilities (COD) - NL Council of Canadians with Disabilities (CCD) Independent Living Canada St. John’s Mayor’s Advisory committee on the Status of persons with disabilities Blue Zone Advisory Committee, Department of Government Services Newfoundland and Labrador Long-term Pain Association Elder Abuse Committee of NL Violence Prevention Initiative Executive Committee Avalon East Regional Caregivers Network Committee Universal Access Network Public Legal Information Association of Newfoundland and Labrador Building Worker Service Program Art and Health Affinity Group, Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Applied Health Research Volunteer Week 2009 Committee and Volunteer Expo Sub-Committee, Community Services Council Newfoundland and Labrador Social Recreation Committee for Persons with Disability, Stella Burry Youth Protocol Committee, A collection of representatives from both federal and provincial governments and local service providers. Member of the Steering Committee for the Community Mental Health Initiative – Corner Brook Steering Committee for the East Coast Music Awards – Corner Brook


It is my pleasure to present the 2009-2010 financial statements for the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC). Total Revenue for the year ended March 31, 2008 was $979,442 Total Expenditures were $1,035,671. Resulting in a deficit of $56,229. This was both anticipated and budgeted for using previously allocated funding. Again this year there were projects that provided valuable work and learning experiences to the Centre. Health and Community Services, Human Resources, Labour and Employment, Industry Canada, Services Canada, Department of Education, and the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Agreement have financially supported projects undertaken by the ILRC for the Community access Program. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the various Departments and funding agencies that support the work of the ILRC. Appreciation is extended to the Provincial Departments of Health & Community Services and Human Resources Labour & Employment that have again continued their ongoing support. The official representatives of each of these Departments have been most helpful. As well, HRSDC continues to offer support to Independent Living Centres across the country through Independent Living Canada. We commend their commitment to the Independent Living Movement. I would also like to thank Network Rhythm and Compusult. The support offered by these organizations throughout the year is valuable to the Centre and very much appreciated. In addition to the support of these organizations, individual and business donations continue to be much appreciated. As well, the tremendous wealth of skills, expertise and hard work that is given freely by volunteers is a strong component of the centre.

Treasurer’s Report- Cynthia Howlett


Thank you to the members of the Board of Directors, staff and volunteers – your commitment to the fiscal health of the ILRC is very much recognized and appreciated. A sincere thank you to our funding partners! Province of Newfoundland & Labrador

- Department of Health and Community Services - Department of Human Resources Labour and Employment - Department of Education - Government of Canada - Industry Canada - Service Canada - Independent Living Canada - Community Foundation of Newfoundland & Labrador

Government of Canada

Industry Canada

Service Canada And …

Independent Living Canada Thank you to the corporate bodies that made generous cash and in-kind donations to the ILRC this year:

Network Rhythm Compusult Ltd.

Funding Partners


1997 Civic # 4 Board of Directors and membership vote to

become an Independent Living Resource Centre

The ILRC becomes an associate member of the Canadian Association of Independent Living Centres (CAILC)

The Black Spruce logo is created to reflect endurance, community & growth for the ILRC 1st Annual Christmas Open House

1998 Official ILRC opening, ribbon cutting with Hon. Julie Bettney

(April 18, 1998)

First edition of the ILRC Black Spruce newsletter (May 1998)

First Annual General Meeting of the ILRC (Jun 1998)

1999 ILRC website officially launched with support from Xwave

(January 1999) 2000 First COD/ILRC Children’s Party

Cecilia Collier, ILRC member, receives the First CAILC Consumer of Excellence Aware, sponsored by Canadian Labour Congress (October 2000)

2001 ILRC Community Access Program site launched, ribbon

cutting with Hon. Brian Tobin, Hon. Judy Foote, Hon. Walter Noel, Karen Westcott, Cecilia Carroll (February 2001) ILRC creates IL Mural as contribution to the great Millennium Project

12 Years of Milestones


ILRC membership crosses the 200 mark 2002 ILRC selected by Industry Canada as local Web-4-All

Champion (September 2002)

Official sod-turning ceremony for the Debbie Prim Memorial Garden (November 2002)

2003 ILRC receives full accreditation as an IL Centre in Canada

ILRC team wins Annual Bob Abbott Memorial Softball Tournament (August 2003)

ILRC receives the National Alan Simpson Award for Excellence in Programming (October 2003)

2004 ILRC becomes Provincial Champion and rolls out Web-4-All

throughout the province 2005 ILRC unites with Memorial University to complete research

and to discuss and providing training on website accessibility

ILRC CAP is recognized as a “Centre of Excellence”

ILRC receives Occupational Therapists Award and is nominated for the prestigious Donner Foundation Award for Excellence in Non-Profit

ILRC launches plans for building expansion to accommodate the growing demand for service at the Centre

2006 ILRC secures funding through HRLE for the Adaptive

Technology Program


ILRC receives the national John Lord Award for excellence in research for work on the Women * Adaptive Technology research project (Award also presented to Michelle Murdoch and Dr. Diana L. Gustafson of Memorial University)

ILRC receives the Occupational Therapists Citation Award for contributions and support to the profession of Occupational Therapy

ILRC website receives a fresh, new look and feel, and is fully accessible.

2007 FSA program is evaluated by Goss Gilroy (external

evaluators) and receives a “gold star” for service delivery.

AT program undergoes a formative evaluation and receives glowing feedback as a program to be modeled by others.

ILRC membership grows to over 450 members.

2008 ILRC forms a unique partnership with Human Resources,

Labour & Employment to begin a three-year Independent Living Internship program

ILRC Membership grows to 600

ILRC launches Provincial Forum VOICES OF THE PEOPLE – A Consumer perspective on the barriers faced in Newfoundland and Labrador by people with Disabilities.

2009 IL Internship Program receives National - Allan Simpson

Award for excellence in Programs serving People with Disabilities

ILRC Membership grows to 660


2010 Canada ratifies the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador introduces a

Disability Policy Office ILRC Membership grows to 770 ILRC introduces New interactive Website ILRC provides additional alternate format in ASL for

information and promotion

Independent Living Resource Centre 4 Escasoni Place

St. John’s Newfoundland & Labrador

A1A 3R6

Website: www.ilrc.nf.ca Email: [email protected]

Ph: (709) 722-4031 TTY: (709) 722-7998 Fax: (709) 722-0147

Toll Free: 1-866-722-4031

http://www.ilrc.nf.ca/�

mailto:[email protected]�

2009-2010 - Empower, The Disability Resource Centre · 2009-2010 Annual Report. ... Internship...

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Transcript of 2009-2010 - Empower, The Disability Resource Centre · 2009-2010 Annual Report. ... Internship...