Annual Report - Empower, The Disability Resource …INDEPENDENT LIVING RESOURCE CENTRE Your...

INDEPENDENT LIVING

RESOURCE CENTRE

Your Disability Resource Centre

Annual Report

2015 – 2016

Annual General Meeting

June 9, 2016

St. John’s, NL

As of April 1st, 2016:

Table of Contents

Table of Contents ........................................................................................................ 2

ILRC Overview ............................................................................................................. 3

Chairperson’s Report .................................................................................................. 4

Executive Director’s Report ......................................................................................... 6

Treasurer’s Report ...................................................................................................... 8

IL Canada Provincial Representative Report ................................................................ 9

Annual Services ......................................................................................................... 10

Advocacy Skills Program Report ................................................................................ 15

Peer Support Program Report ................................................................................... 18

Volunteer Program Report ........................................................................................ 21

Full Steam Ahead - Career Development Program Report ........................................ 22

Adaptive Technology Program Report ....................................................................... 25

IL Internship Program Report .................................................................................... 28

InclusionNL - Employer Supports & Services Report .................................................. 32

Debbie Prim Memorial Courtyard & Garden Committee Report ............................... 37

The Transition to Empower, The Disability Resource Centre ..................................... 38

Independent Living Awards 2015 Recipients ............................................................. 40

Independent Living Awards 2015 Recipients ............................................................. 41

ILRC Funding Partners ............................................................................................... 42

Appendix A: Minutes from 2015 Annual General Meeting (AGM) ............................ 43

Appendix B: The ILRC Board of Directors and Staff .................................................... 46

Appendix C: ILRC Board, Project and Other Committees ........................................... 47

Appendix D: Auditor’s Report and Financial Statements ........................................... 48

ILRC Overview

Transition from Civic # 4 to the Independent Living Resource Centre (ILRC) in

1997-1998

Accredited member of IL Canada

Not-for-profit cross disability organization

10 full-time staff and 35-40 project staff throughout the year

Mission Statement

The Independent Living Resource Centre is a consumer-controlled, non-profit

organization that provides leadership in the delivery of cross-disability services and

supports while promoting a more inclusive society within Newfoundland and

Labrador.

Independent Living

“Independence is not measured by the quality of task we can perform without

support, but by the quality of life we can have with support.”

Independent Living is:

Having choice

Making decisions

Taking risks

Taking responsibility

Having control over one’s own life

Chairperson’s Report

It has been an extremely busy year for everyone involved with the

ILRC. It has also been a year filled with uncertainty and excitement

at the same time.

Our Executive Director Wayne Penney retired in July of last year.

Although he was only with us for a short period he had a lasting impact on our

organization. We wish him all the best in his retirement. As the saying goes, change

is as good as a rest. While it was sad to see Wayne go, we were happy to hire

Kimberly Yetman Dawson as our new Executive Director. It has been a pleasure

getting to know and work with Kimberly.

In the fall we held a Universal Design Workshop with Betty Dion. Betty is known

internationally for her work on Universal Design. The workshop was very successful

with attendance from many different sectors of our community. We hope to hold

other workshops like this again in the future.

During this past year we also started planning a community Inclusion Summit. We

formed a committee made up of people from various disability organizations. The

purpose was to bring together people from all areas of our province and to learn

from each other what Inclusion really means. Funding for the Inclusion Summit was

provided through the Disability Policy Office Inclusion Grants. We are very grateful

for their support.

For years we have all struggled with trying to explain who the ILRC is and what we

do. We decided we would start work on an awareness campaign. To assist in this

process we hired an amazing communications and marketing firm Prime Creative.

Our goal was to figure out how to get our message, of who we are and what we do,

out to the general public. Through our work with Prime Creative we developed

video and print ads. We also created a new name and new look for the organization

that better describes who we are and what we do. As many of you already know we

are now known as Empower, The Disability Resource Centre. The comments from

people on the new name and look have been fantastic. We are really pleased.

I want to thank the staff for your outstanding commitment to this organization. You

work so incredibly hard every day so that people with disabilities have the supports

they need and are included in their communities. Thank you to the Board of

Directors for all your hard work this year. Thank you to our many volunteers who

help out in countless ways. Whether it’s working in the garden, office work or being

part of our awareness campaign, your willingness to do whatever we need is greatly

appreciated.

I big thank you to all of our funding partners who provided financial support for our

programs and services this past year. Your continued support has meant so much to

our organization over the years. We look forward to continuing our partnership in

the years to come.

As I look back on this past year I am so proud of what we have accomplished

together. Thank you.

Cecilia Carroll

Chairperson

Board of Directors

Executive Director’s Report

It's been an exciting nine months with the time just flying by. As

the new Executive Director, I had big shoes to fill with Wayne

Penny retiring. He left the organization in great shape with

strong processes and a three year strategic plan in place. As staff,

Board, and volunteers, we have accomplished so much this past

year. An overview of each of our programs is included in this annual report

capturing highlights of the ILRC's activities and worthy accomplishments.

First, a big thank you to the ILRC team who strive hard every day to promote

inclusion, as well as provide the best services in supporting people with disabilities to

live independent lives.

For more than 35 years, our organization has developed programs to meet changing

needs. Growing on the strong foundation of what the Independent Living Resource

Centre was, this year we were able to work closely with a marketing company in

developing a new name and awareness campaign. We are excited and proud to now

be Empower, The Disability Resource Centre. It better reflects our mandate and the

services we provide to people with disabilities. For us, Empower is truly more than

just a word that expresses what our organization does; it’s the sense of strength and

inclusion that people get from their experience with us.

Implementation of our Strategic Plan, 2014-2017, "Towards a Fully Inclusive Province

for All" is wrapping up right on schedule. Many of the specific objectives outlined in

the three year strategic directions have been accomplished while a small few will be

completed over the next year.

We are pleased to have spearheaded the Universal Design Workshop with Betty

Dion which surpassed our goal in number of attendees. It was great to have so many

architects, government and community members in the room listening, learning and

asking questions about universal design.

In April 2016, we will also be hosting the Inclusive Communities Summit, funded by

the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador's Disability Policy Office. This

project will bring together community, government and volunteers to plan a

momentous event in our province's history to share effective practices and discuss

future directions.

In Newfoundland and Labrador today, 14% of those who live here are people with

disabilities. With an aging population, it is projected that by the year 2023, the

number of people with disabilities will rise to 20% of the total population.

This has been a tough year with government cutbacks and a proposed increased cost

of living. Reductions and mainstreaming of government services and programs will

no doubt have negative impacts on the lives of people with disabilities. While the

community sector has not been affected directly with cuts it should strengthen our

resolve to both diversify funding and also look for ways to support ourselves

financially.

In carrying out the ILRC's mandate, our organization is continuously called upon to

respond to changing needs in the community. With increased awareness and

emphasis on inclusion in the workplace and in the community at large, an increasing

number are looking to us for direction and guidance concerning people with

disabilities.

Now it is more important than ever, that opportunities continue to be available to

people with disabilities. Programs and services that empower individuals to reach

their potential are of the utmost importance.

In closing I would like to add that as a new staff person, our team environment and

welcoming atmosphere make this a wonderful place to work. And I wish us

continued success in the year to come.

Kimberly Yetman Dawson

Executive Director

Treasurer’s Report

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Independent Living

Resource Centre (ILRC), I am pleased to present the audited

financial statements for the March 31, 2016 fiscal year

(Appendix C), as prepared by Grant Thornton LLP (formerly

known as Morrissey Professional Corporation Inc.) Consistent

with prior years, the financial statements have been audited and issued a clean

audit. The audited financial statements confirm that the total revenues received by

the ILRC were $970,499 and the total expenditures for the year were $1,125,572.

The net result for the fiscal year was a deficit of $155,073. The current year deficit is

directly related to the ILRC’s commitment to our awareness campaign that was

launched towards the end of our 2016 fiscal year.

The work of the ILRC towards promoting a more inclusive community for all and the

programs and services offered, would not be possible without the continued support

of our funding partners. A special thank you to the provincial government

departments of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development and Advanced Education

and Skills for your ongoing financial support of the ILRC. As well as the continued

support of the Adaptive Technology Program through Industry Canada is very much

appreciated. Be assured that your contribution is valued and that the funding

provided is managed with a view towards encouraging inclusive practices and

providing the best possible service and outcomes for consumers.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Directors and the staff of

the ILRC for welcoming me as their new Treasurer. My experience on the board has

given me a new appreciation of how important independence truly is. I look forward

to sharing my skills and knowledge as our organization grows within the community.

Krista Ryan, CPA, CA

Treasurer

IL Canada Provincial Representative Report

IL Canada has again had a challenging year but this year we have

seen a renewed spirit in spreading the message of Independent

Living in Canada. The ability of IL Canada to financially support the

work of IL Centres across the country is still not great but we are

developing partnerships and events that will allow IL Canada to

continually support centres on a local level.

During this year, the IL Canada Board of Directors continued to be focused on

exploring every avenue to help ensure the future sustainability of IL Canada and the

network of IL Centres. IL Canada has moved to a smaller office, and is continuing to

explore alternative revenue sources and partnerships. While exploring these other

options IL Canada has continued to build on our relationship with the Council of

Canadians with Disabilities (CCD).

After feedback from member IL Centres this year IL Canada has been offering a

series of workshops online entitled “Building Stronger Centres” which have seen a

number of centres participating, with feedback being very strong. This has been a

focus of the IL Canada Board this year in building a stronger community across the

country and will happen in June with the event “Independent Living across Canada”.

While this year has again been challenging, the IL Canada Board is excited for the

year ahead and excited for all our Independent Living Centres to continue to do the

great work they do in ensuring that the Independent Living Movement flourishes in

this country.

Deborah Gilbert

IL Canada Provincial Representative

Annual Services

The ILRC provides a variety of services to both individuals and groups in an effort to

promote inclusion for persons with disabilities throughout Newfoundland &

Labrador. Over the course of this past year, we have made a number of changes to

the way we collect and report on information about the services we provide.

ILRC Services

Independent Living Resource Centre services fall under one of the following five

categories and a brief overview of each of the five service categories is provided

below.

- Consultation

- Information

- Individual support

- Skill development

- Referral

A Consultation is a service that involves in-depth work with an individual around a

particular topic. For example, the AT Coordinator provides a consultation service

when he meets with a student who requires technology support for educational

purposes. The Coordinator will work with the student to identify challenges and try

out Adaptive Technology options so the student can decide what works best. They

will discuss options around purchasing the technology followed by offering support

to teach the student how best to use the technology once it is acquired.

An Information service is simply providing information on a disability related topic.

Examples would include individuals approaching the ILRC to obtain information on

services available through a government program to assist with renovations to a

home or accessing funding to assist with the cost of required medical equipment or

services.

Individual Supports moves beyond the providing information and involves staff

providing direct assistance to an individual or family in addressing a particular issue.

This service could include something as basic as providing alternate formats for a

consumer who requires printed material in Braille. However most of the individual

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000

Consultation

Individual Support

Information

Referrals/Links to other programsor services

Skill Development

Services Provided in 2015/16

supports provided by staff involve working with consumers on difficult issues over

extended periods of time.

Skill Development services occur when staff provide training and instruction to an

individual. For example, the Advocacy Coordinator provides a skill development

service when he helps a person complete a Canada Pension Plan application form.

Our Volunteer Coordinator provides a skill development service when she works

with a volunteer interested in learning what is involved with volunteering as a

receptionist at the ILRC.

Referral services occur when an individual is connected to another program, service

or organization. As an example, the Career Development Coordinator provides a

referral service when he links a consumer who’s interested in participating in a

Linkages employment opportunity with Easter Seals. He would also provide a referral

service when he connects job-seekers with staff at Advanced Education and Skills to

apply for “job start” funds.

Figure 1: Services Provided in 2015 - 16

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000

Accessibility & Accommodations

Advocacy

Computers & Technology

Disability Awareness

Disability Resources

Education

Employment

Health

IL (philosophy)

ILRC Programs & Services

Volunteering

Common Issues Across ILRCPrograms

Figure 2: New Individuals Participating in or Accessing Programs & Services

Figure 3: Common Issues Across ILRC Programs

0 50 100 150 200 250 300

Peer Support/Volunteer

IL Internship

Advocacy Skills

Adaptive Technology

Full Steam Ahead

New Individuals Accessing Programs & Services

Who Received ILRC Services in 2015-16

Consumer

Business/Employer

Community Group

Education

Employee

Family/Friends/Support Staff

Government

Health Professional

Intern

Public

Student/Placement

Volunteer

ILRC programs primarily service the St. John’s Metro area. However, with the

addition of our two provincial programs (Adaptive Technology and IL Internship) and

InclusionNL, many services are provided to areas beyond the Northeast Avalon. The

charts below provide a breakdown of the areas where service is provided and the

types of individuals/groups that access ILRC services.

Figure 4: Who Received ILRC Services in 2015-16

Geographical Distribution of ILRC Services 2015-16

NE Avalon

Eastern

Central

Western

Labrador

National/International

Figure 5: Geographical Distribution of ILRC Services 2015 - 16

Below: Universal Design Workshop

Advocacy Skills Program Report

This has been a very busy year for the Advocacy Skills Program.

The Program has supported consumers to identify their goals,

personal strengths and skills. It supports consumers by providing

clear, accurate information about current legislation, policy

regulations and resources. Consumers have used this program to empower

themselves, to navigate different systems (such as the medical system and

government systems), and gain control in order to make informed choices. The

program has supported consumers in breaking down the barriers to advocacy. The

Advocacy Skills Program, when requested by a consumer, acts as a support or liaison

between the individual and organization, government, agency, and other service

delivery providers.

This year, the program had approximately 150 people access service for the first

time. 2300 contacts have been made with consumers, community partners and all

levels of government. The Advocacy Skills program’s activities and support has

reached consumers and service providers in St. John’s, Mount Pearl, Paradise,

Torbay, Kilbride, Conception Bay South, Kelligrews, Bay Bulls, Cape Broyle,

Carbonear, Harbour Grace, Bay Roberts, Toris Cove, Deer Lake, Grand Falls-Winsor,

Bonavista, Placentia, Stephenville, Corner Brook, and Ontario.

The main objective of the Advocacy Skills program is to support consumers in taking

control of difficult situations and making informed decisions. The coordinator

supports the consumer to understand the complete issue so that what is advocated

for is exactly what the consumer has identified as a need. In other words, it is not

the objective of the program to provide prescriptive information, it is to make

choices and responsibilities clear to consumers and work with them to ensure the

most positive possible outcome from a challenging situation.

The result, in turn, is that the consumer develops individual empowerment, self-

advocacy skills, and skills in taking control and responsibility in difficult situations.

There are also many situations when the consumer wants the coordinator to

perform the role of a liaison. There are instances when consumers self-identify that

they are no longer able to speak directly with representatives from other entities. In

these cases, the coordinator is very successful at bridging the gap in understanding

and achieving positive outcomes.

The key consumer issues remain the same and usually poverty is the underlying

factor in all. Accessible affordable housing, transportation, home supports, healthy

diets, health care, access to medications, access to devices and accessing mental

health services remain at the top of this list.

Some concrete successes of the program

Advocated with consumers in putting in requests into Income Support,

Advanced Education and Skills

Supported consumers with finding housing

Supported consumers as they navigated through the justice system

Successfully assisted consumers advocating to NL Housing for repairs and

accommodations to their home

Successfully resolved consumers complaints with the paratransit system

Supported a consumer through Human Rights case

Assisted consumers in navigating through the Community Supports Program,

Eastern Health

Supported consumers with different transitions in their lives.

In addition to working with consumers, the Advocacy Skills Program continues to

participate in meetings, forums, consultations, workshops and town halls to ensure

that the barriers facing persons with disabilities are on the radar of decision makers.

The Advocacy Skills Coordinator has been representing the ILRC and the issues of

people with disabilities on several committees: The Coalition Against Violence; The

Mayor’s Advisory Committee on the Status of Persons with Disabilities; The

Paratransit Committee; The Affordable Rental Housing Action Team, End

Homelessness St. John's Front Line Serving Organizations Table and the Community

Coalition for Mental Health (CC4MH).

This year also saw the continuation of the ILRC's Peer Advocacy Group, PARTS - Peer

Advocates for a Respectful Transportation System. The group has a keen interest in

supporting the city in their efforts to improve the current service operated by GoBus,

Accessible Metrobus and accessible taxi service. The ILRC has made strong

connections with all parties involved in providing Para-transit services in St. John's.

I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the Advocacy Skills Program.

The sharing of your valuable knowledge and expertise has truly supported the

program’s success. To the consumers that have participated in the Advocacy Skills

Program over the last year, I commend you for your courage and determination

throughout your advocacy process.

Joby Fleming

Advocacy Skills Coordinator

Peer Support Program Report

The Peer Support Program is about bringing consumers with similar goals and interests together. While doing so, we offer opportunities to socialize, learn new skills, make new friends, share life experiences, explore aspects of life that they may never had the opportunity or resources to explore before.

The program provides opportunities for people to demonstrate and develop personal and workplace skills, and to support one another throughout the process of learning, growing, and living. The program promotes access to recreational and social activities, while raising the awareness of inclusion and the rights of persons with disabilities in the greater community. The program provides information and support around independent living and informed choice. We encourage consumers to speak out and work towards community inclusion.

Through regular group sessions, consumers are provided an opportunity to learn valuable life skills. The topics are chosen by the group members through focus groups twice a year. The program works with other community organizations to promote inclusion and the integration of people with disabilities into activities outside the ILRC. The following is a list of the ILRC groups and some of the topics they have covered over the past year.

Craft Group was formally known as Paint Group but as the group does a lot of other crafts besides painting, we renamed the group. Members meet on Thursday afternoons from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at the ILRC or in the community. Members learn, share skills and work together on projects. We work to create and support art across disabilities. We are sadden by the fact we can no longer accept new members for this group due to limited space available. Craft Group activities included: Christmas decorations, Halloween decorations, Olaf’s, flower pots, get well cards, farewell cards, a visit to Lester’s Farm, pumpkin carving, and of course a visit from some mummers and Santa during Christmas.

Men’s Group members meet once a month at the ILRC or in the community. The group provides opportunities for men with disabilities to come together and discuss topics of importance to them. Men’s group topics included: personal safety, bullying and peer pressure, wills and power of attorney, a visit to the RNC stable, and a movie.

Women’s Group members meet once a month at the ILRC or in the community. The group provides opportunities for women with disabilities to come together and discuss topics of importance to them. Women’s Group topics included: personal safety, peer pressure and bullying, a Bowring Park visit, board games, and a movie.

Men’s and Women’s Group members meet once a month at the ILRC or in the community. The group provides opportunities for the men and women to come together and discuss topics of importance to them. Men’s and Women’s group topics included: money grabbers, maintaining healthy debt and credit, a trip to St. Pat’s Bowling Alley, a Christmas light tour, and a GEO Centre visit.

Healthy Living Group “Fitness Group” members meet once every two weeks to learn about healthy living as well as how to be active. This group was developed to provide consumers with information, resources and supports around getting active and living healthier lives. This group is a pilot project.

Dinner Club members meet every six weeks to share a meal and learn about inclusion together. This past year ILRC staff, volunteers and members discussed accessibility with staff and owners at 3 new restaurants.

Spruce Up is an annual partnership of the Craft Group and Debbie Prim Memorial Courtyard/Garden Committee. Participants ‘spruce up’ the ILRC garden by planting flowers in painted pots and by decorating rocks. This event also creates the opportunity for Craft Group members to socialize with the garden committee during activities and a BBQ.

Christmas Dinner and Dance is an annual ILRC event. This year’s dinner and dance was held at the CLB Armoury. The event is always well attended. We had a lovely turkey dinner provided by the catering services of the CLB, as well as door prizes and lots of dancing.

The Annual Barbeque is an annual event held at the Rotary Sunshine Park. This event is for consumers, staff and board members of the ILRC. The event is well attended with over 100 people joining us for food, fun, prizes, games and karaoke.

We would like to thank the staff, volunteers, group members and others for their contributions to the Peer Support Groups. This year 9 Peer Support groups/activities met 124 times. There were 206 individuals who took part in peer support activities.

We would also like to thank our community volunteer placements, students, educators and health professionals for the support they provided the groups and for allowing us to share our knowledge about inclusion and Independent Living.

The Peer Support Groups work in partnership with the Mental Health and Addictions Outreach Program, Eastern Health, NL Sexual Assault Crisis & Prevention Centre, Hoyles/Escasoni Recreation Programs, Coastline Consultants, Alzheimer’s Association, Passion Parties NL, Credit Counselling Services of Newfoundland and Labrador, Easter Seals, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Nicole Penton – Registered Dietitian, Sandy Cooper, Canadian Registered Safety Professional, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Advisor, and the RNC.

The Peer Support Program maintains its dedication to providing opportunities for the growth and personal fulfilment of peer support group members. We look forward to working with you in the coming year to identify topics and issues that are important factors of our lives and your access to independence.

Right: Pictures from the 2015 Annual Members BBQ.

Amanda Lush

Peer Support Coordinator

Volunteer Program Report

Over the past year, I have been meeting with volunteers of the ILRC to discuss their satisfaction with the program and how we can improve. It has been an exciting year and I look forward to the next.

Volunteers are a fundamental part of the ILRC; they are the back bone of the organization. We wish to thank the 70 volunteers who worked together at the ILRC last year. We thank you for your time, commitment and for the difference that you make in our communities. 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.

We provided opportunities for students from university and college to learn and contribute. These partners include Memorial University School of Nursing, Centre for Nursing Studies and Therapeutic Recreation, Academy Canada. Also, two placement volunteers from Canada World Youth experienced life and learned as part of their Canada – Ghana exchange.

The 2016 Volunteer Appreciation Event was held at the CLB Armoury. 60 Volunteers, staff, community partners, and consumers came together to celebrate our 2015-16 Volunteers. It was a festive evening, with a light reception followed by a dance. This year's theme was "Volunteers are the Roots of Strong Communities." Thank you, volunteers, for making our centre a healthy environment through your presence and gift of time. We look forward to working with you again in the upcoming year.

Amanda Lush

Volunteer Coordinator

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Cognitive MentalHealth

Mobility Sensory Multiple Invisible Undisclosed

Participation by DisabilityEmployment, Training and Volunteerism

FSA Consumers Consumers Finding Employment

Full Steam Ahead - Career Development Program

Report

The first time I walked into the ILRC, I knew this was an

extraordinary place, as all people are welcomed, exactly as they

are. I am happy to say that since this first encounter, the

impression is even stronger in my mind. To all those considering employment,

education or entrepreneurism, I extend this same welcome. I hope that this can be a

respectful and empowering place to explore your career goals.

In total, 137 consumers like you were helped by the Full Steam Ahead Program in

2015-2016. 40 consumers found 42 jobs – and 3 consumers were self-employed.

Eighteen others entered school or started pre-employment skills training. Fifteen

consumers were volunteering as they move towards their career goals. Forty-nine

consumers were new, 54 returned to work on new goals and 33 continued to work

on goals they had set last year.

The chart below shows the distribution of consumers by disability, and the number

of consumers that found employment, started training or were volunteering within

each disability category.

To those of you who found employment this year, I offer you my sincere

congratulations. You are continuing to spearhead the movement to make

employment for people with disabilities in Newfoundland and Labrador real and

significant. Here are some highlights over the past year that reflect your successes;

8 consumers found work through wage subsidies. Subsidies were offered by

differing programs including: Access-Ability Wage Subsidy through the Sobey

School of Business, Opportunities Fund Wage Subsidies through the Canadian

Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) and Easter Seals NL; Ready,

Willing and Able Wage Subsidies through the Newfoundland and Labrador

Association for Community Living, and NL Works Wage Subsidies through the

Provincial Government Department of Advanced Education and Skills.

25 Consumers found 27 Unsubsidized jobs. There was a wide range of jobs

including: Janitorial Work, Warehouse Management, Shipping and Receiving,

Tele-Fundraising, Customer Service, Home Support Work, Human Resources,

Automotive Mechanic, Labourers, Community Support Workers and many

more.

Two New Canadians with Disabilities found work this year; one in Computer

Support and one in a Restaurant.

Accessing education is another way that people with disabilities are moving full

steam ahead! This year, 18 people began training opportunities. Some highlights

include:

One consumer is helping lead the way in Skilled Trades. After participating

with Husky Energy in their new Inclusive Career Guide - which helps Persons

with Disabilities explore their options in the Oil and Gas Industry – they went

on to upgrade their skills in Safety Engineering Technology.

6 Consumers entered Pre-employment Skill Development Programs offered

through community organizations such as Stella’s Circle, CCRW, Easter Seals

NL and the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

One Consumer has found a way to gain their Entry Level Child Care Services

Certification at home with the help of a tutor and materials from the

Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Again, congratulations on all of your hard work and accomplishments! Your success

is encouraging. Hopefully, someone who is still trying to move towards their career

goal can look at you and say, “If they can do it, why not me?”

In fact, I would like to dedicate this coming year to people who tried to find work but

did not.

Not getting a job after trying really hard can be a disheartening experience. It’s okay

to acknowledge your disappointment and even take a break. Many people find it’s

hard to keep going when a lot of doors are being closed.

But when you are ready to get back up

and try again, remember our door is

open and you can come here for help.

Maybe in the coming year you will find

your opportunity. With your

determination and our support, next year

should be a promising one. You will get a

job in time; after all, you are only looking

for one!

Stephen Quinn

Full Steam Ahead Coordinator

Right: A picture of Stephen Quinn from the

2015 Annual Membership BBQ.

Adaptive Technology Program Report

This year we saw many changes at the ILRC. This included the

departure of a long time staff member, Donna Power. She was

dedicated to improving access for everyone through Adaptive

Technology. Thank you Donna for your years of dedication... you

are missed! I was hired as the Adaptive Technology Resource

Facilitator in October of this year, to work alongside Penny Abbott, the Adaptive

Technology Program Manager.

Through the Adaptive Technology Program, we work to connect consumers with

technology that works for them – whether that’s a particular mouse or keyboard, a

software program, an iPad app, or a new mobile phone. We often work with

students who need support in the classroom, employees who need technology

alternatives for work, service providers who are supporting their own clientele, and

individuals who want a more comfortable way to use their computers or other

devices.

At the ILRC, we work with people one-on-one and in groups to identify options and

provide support in learning about these options.

Some of the services provided within the AT program include:

Working with individuals to identify appropriate AT options, and providing support to acquire and use the technology successfully;

Creating employment opportunities for youth with disabilities through the AT Youth Internship project (with funding from Industry Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy);

Sharing information to increase awareness of AT supports and offering training on a variety of assistive software and hardware;

Free public computer access offered through our Community Access Site, where people can use computers in an inclusive and supportive environment;

Partnering with community organizations, educational institutions, government departments/agencies, and private business to support growth in AT services throughout the province and to increase general knowledge of inclusive technology.

ILRC’s Community Access Program (CAP) Site

The ILRC CAP site offers opportunities for individuals to use computers at no cost, in

an accessible and supportive environment. Over the course of this year, we saw an

estimated 55 people visit our CAP site on a regular basis. Through funding from the

Department of Education, we were able to hire a Youth Intern to work in our CAP

site from October to February. This intern was available each day to support visitors

by answering questions, providing training and assisting with problem solving.

Individual Consultations

The AT Program offers individual consultations in many areas related to AT, including

employment, education, skill development, and adaptive technology

hardware/software options. In 2015-16 we completed 103 of these individual

consultations.

Employment consultations could range from supporting an employee in using a

new mouse or keyboard, to working with an intern to help them seek out future

employment opportunities. (Employment consults = 17)

Education consultations typically involve working with students to help them

acquire and/or use AT in their studies, or working with teachers to better enable

them to support students with disabilities. (Education consults = 16)

Skill development consultations are training sessions we provide to volunteers,

consumers, job seekers, interns, and others on a variety of computer related

topics. (Skill development consults = 33)

The majority of the consultations we provide are related to Adaptive Technology. An

individual AT consultation typically consists of a brief overview of what Adaptive

Technology is, followed by a discussion of options/supports, and some hands-on

training. It is an opportunity for consumers to decide what technology will work best

for them. (AT consults = 44)

Adaptive Technology Youth Internship

Through partnership with Industry Canada’s Youth Internships Program, we offer an

Adaptive Technology Internship at the ILRC each year. This project provides youth in

NL with an employment opportunity that allows them to develop new technology

skills, share information about adaptive technology, and learn about accessibility and

inclusion. This year we employed 7 interns from St. John’s, Gander, Point

Leamington and Corner Brook.

Each year we endeavor to find placements within local organizations that would give

interns more on-the-job experience in the field of technology. This year interns

completed placements at MUN’s Grenfell Campus, Community Youth Network,

Public Library, Virginia Park Community Centre, and the Learning Disabilities

Association NL. Through these experiences, interns are exposed to much more than

just technology and the skills they gain are very valuable to their future employment.

Thank you to all for your continued support of the AT program and Interns.

Community Work

Over the past year, we’ve had many opportunities to work with our community

partners and attend events related to adaptive technology. We’ve provided AT

training to teachers and students; the ILRC interns and consumers; government

agency staff; disability organizations; private businesses; and health professionals.

We’ve attended information and career fairs to showcase AT and share information

about how it can support a person in the workplace.

Thank You

Financial support for this program comes from the Department of Advanced

Education and Skills (Community Partnerships Program), Department of Education,

and Industry Canada (Youth Internships Program). Thank you to each of these groups

for your continued support and investment in the Adaptive Technology Program.

We would also like to thank our many partner organizations, who provide their

continual resources and expertise in support of the Adaptive Technology Program.

Thank you also to the volunteers and consumers who support the work of the AT

Program. We look forward to another successful year in 2016-17.

Jim Escott

Adaptive Technology Resource Facilitator

IL Internship Program Report

The IL Internship Program provides employment opportunities for

individuals with disabilities in communities throughout

Newfoundland and Labrador. The program is designed to support

Interns in identifying and working towards their own career goals.

The program also aims to share information with individuals and

groups throughout the province about accessibility and diversity, with an end-goal of

inclusion for all persons with disabilities in our province.

Within the IL Internship program, we carry out a variety of activities aimed at

creating inclusion and supporting interns to achieve their career goals. Some of

these include:

Creating skill development opportunities through the development of a career portfolio and through community/business work placements;

Fostering community partnerships by networking with various organizations, as well as participating in and/or initiating community events;

Sharing information with individuals and groups to promote Independent Living and inclusion;

Working with individuals and organizations to break down barriers to inclusion in their community (such as barriers to accessing a physical building or barriers to accessing supports or services); and

Promoting local services for people with disabilities and connecting individuals with resources available to them within their community

Planning, Promotion and Recruitment

During the year’s first quarter, the IL Internship focuses on planning, promotion and

recruitment. We tap into our provincial networks and resources to make people

aware of the program and attract qualified individuals to fill our Intern positions.

This year we were successful in hiring 8 interns in 7 communities – Corner Brook,

Grand Falls-Windsor, Gander, Carbonear, Marystown, Clarenville and St. John’s.

Job Orientation Week

Interns were hired and started work in July. In August, interns travelled to St. John’s

for a week-long job orientation session. This was an opportunity for interns to meet

as a team, become more acquainted with their job responsibilities and expectations,

and to learn more about the ILRC and Independent Living. During the week, Interns

participated in group presentations, information sessions from various service

providers, training on Adaptive Technology, presentations on workplace

professionalism and disability etiquette, and an opportunity to become familiar with

the centre and the ILRC staff.

Following orientation, interns were focused on scoping out the disability related

services and resources available in their respective communities. Being

knowledgeable of these resources and being able to connect individuals to those

services is integral to the Intern’s roles.

Community Inclusion

This year the IL Internship Program expanded its community outreach by increasing

its attendance at community events, information fairs, trade shows, and community

forums. This work was done across the province, within the Interns’ communities.

Much of this was done with support from the Community Inclusion Facilitator, either

directly or indirectly, through travel or online communication. As well, with much

direction and assistance from Interns, a number of information sessions on ILRC

programs and services and disability etiquette were organized for various

community groups and government departments.

IL Internship Placements

Between October and March, interns completed placements with community

organizations and AES Employment Centres in their areas. These placements

provide interns with the opportunity to develop new skills, improve on existing skills

and become exposed to workplace practices while bringing an awareness and a

personal perspective on disability related information to the staff and consumers of

their placement agency. Both interns and placement representatives reported this

as being a positive experience. Thank you to the AES offices (Gander, Grand Falls-

Windsor, Marystown), Seniors Resource Centre (St. John’s), Community Youth

Network (Gander) and YouthTube (Clarenville) for providing welcoming and valuable

placements to the IL Internship Program and its interns.

During this time, all interns also planned an information fair to be held on December

3, International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Interns planned, advertised and

hosted the event, inviting organizations, businesses and government departments to

set up an information booth to promote their services for persons with disabilities.

The events were quite successful and well attended with a number of

recommendations coming from partners for future events in the community. This

was a great skill building activity for the interns gaining skills in the organizing of an

event while also making contacts with resources in their communities. We will

continue to hold this event annually and build on its potential for future partnering

with the IL Internship Program.

Skill Development

Given the importance of technology in almost all jobs today, it is important for

interns to be aware of the many online resources available to support their job

search. This year we focused quite a bit on the online job application process and

tools for creating a positive online presence. Coupled with that, Interns created

career portfolios using Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. This process

allowed Interns to identify skills they acquired through many of their life experiences

that are very much applicable and transferable to employment opportunities.

Interns also learned new skills through their work placements. Working within a

specific organization or business gave interns on-the-job experience in an area of

interest to them. Some interns were also able to receive formal training in areas

specific to their placement duties that gave them skills they can carry forward to

future employment.

Successes

Partnering: Throughout the course of their work, Interns helped expand the ILRC’s

networks throughout the province. We have developed partnerships with many

government departments/agencies, educational institutions, businesses and

community groups and our list continues to grow. This year, we partnered with

approximately 50 groups/organizations throughout the province.

Employment: By the end of the 2015-16 Internship Program, 2 interns had found full

time employment and 1 had decided to return to school.

Positive Impacts: The IL Internship Program generates positive impacts for interns,

for the community and for the ILRC. Some positive impacts from this year include:

Interns reported a great satisfaction with being able to help other individuals

in their community. Sharing information or tools to help them obtain/attain

what they need or want was deemed a great success.

Networking allowed interns to make new connections to local organizations

and build working relationships with them. This broadens their knowledge and

experiences and by getting their name “out there” more, interns are

increasing their chances of finding future employment.

Working in a supportive and inclusive environment and learning from their

peers was deemed a success by many interns. There was companionship

among interns who’ve experienced like situations, or who have similar

backgrounds, that led to excellent team work and great relationships between

interns.

Through all of the work of the Interns, we were able to develop new

partnerships throughout the province which helped the ILRC share its vision of

inclusion. It allowed us to broaden our reach and offer services to individuals

who may not otherwise be able to access the services they need. In addition,

by connecting with service providers we were able to provide them with

information and resources that they can in turn share with their clients,

further increasing the supports and services available to individuals in NL.

The success of the IL Internship Program would not be possible without the ongoing

financial support from the Department of Advanced Education and Skills. We would

like to thank AES for their continued investment in the Program. We also wish to

thank all of our community and business partners for their generous support.

Together we are making great strides towards inclusion for people with disabilities

throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Leslie Pitt

Community Inclusion Facilitator

InclusionNL - Employer Supports & Services

Report

InclusionNL, Employer Supports and Services started in June 2014

with funding received from Labour Market Partnerships Program,

Dept. of Advanced Education and Skills. Throughout this past

year we have developed a wide collection of partnerships with

businesses and service agencies throughout the province as they develop their

disability confidence and increase accessibility and inclusion within their work

environments.

Research in Employer Experiences

In 2015, inclusionNL contracted with external consultants to conduct a baseline

research study within Newfoundland and Labrador exploring employer practices,

experiences, needs, and perspectives on the employment of persons with

disabilities. Consultants engaged with close to 100 businesses from a wide collection

of industries and regions in the province to gather information about their practices

in recruitment, employing and maintaining employees with disabilities in their

workplaces.

There was considerable consistency in the interview results overall, demonstrating a

predominantly positive attitude and willingness on the part of employers to

incorporate persons with disabilities into their workforces. For those that

participated there was no sentiment expressed that persons with disabilities “did not

belong” in the workplace. Of those who responded, 67% of the employers had

some experience employing and working with people with disabilities, with the vast

majority reporting it being a highly positive experience.

Most indicated they found employees with disabilities to be very hard working and

among their most reliable and productive workers. Only a limited number of

employers noted having experience in accommodating employees with disabilities

and workers returning to work after an injury who require a number of supports and

emphasized that training for employers and staff in working with people with

disabilities was an essential need.

Staff will continue to work with employers to develop an Action Plan based on

research findings and recommendations to move forward with an inclusive

employment strategy to better provide supports to businesses throughout the

province.

InclusionNL - Program Development

Throughout this fiscal year, staff have been

working hard to develop a collection of tools

and resources to support businesses in their

daily practices. Resources and information continues to be updated and utilized

from our program website, inclusionNL.ca. Numerous website and building

accessibility reviews have been completed as well as customized resources and

information sheets made available to businesses based on their unique requests and

individual needs they bring in their partnerships with us. In late April, we travelled

the province promoting the program with businesses and community groups in

Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Lewisporte, Deer Lake, Corner Brook, Stephenville, and

Port aux Basque.

Throughout the summer and into the fall

of 2015 we worked closely with the

Government of NL Department of

Corporate Development & Learning to

develop a series of six videos on disability

awareness and community supports that

are available on the government

employee servers to access as they plan

their retirements.

Also in the summer of 2015 we were

extremely involved in a number of

festivals and events including the 39th NL

Folk Festival, Eastbound Hoedown 2015 in

Avondale NL, and The Festival of New

Dance that took place at The LSPU Hall in early October 2015.

InclusionNL Steering Committee

InclusionNL Steering Committee met on a number of occasions over this past year.

The committee continues to provide supports and expertise in a variety of ways

including a focused attention on program initiatives, ensuring that objectives are

reached and outcomes are met, and create a sustainability plan for inclusionNL. In

late April, the Committee met and developed an Action Plan moving forward into

2016 – 2017 and have requested a time extension from the government for this next

fiscal year. The Committee’s Action Plan will focus in three areas based on

recommendations coming from the employer experiences research, those are

building a more supportive public policy, increase awareness on inclusive

employment with employers and the public, and provide employers with more

supports to increase inclusive employment equity throughout the province.

Business Development & Promotion

This year has been a busy one in the area of

program development and promotion with

the business sector province wide. We

continue to build relationships with local

workers associations, councils, Board of

Trades, and Chambers of Commerce. This

past year, staff participated and presented at

a number of St John’s Board of Trade events

and networking sessions with the Mount

Pearl Paradise Chamber of Commerce, and

other community industry leader events such

as the Husky Energy Diversity Forum and the

Board of Trade annual Business Summit.

Direct Employer Supports

During our second year, staff of InclusionNL have provided direct supports to over

forty businesses throughout the province. While each direct service is unique based

on the immediate needs of the business at the moment, some of the types of

supports provided included multiple visits on a variety of related topics, accessibility

reviews and testing of a new mobile app, website reviews and e-recruitment

support.

In late September of 2015 InclusionNL developed a unique partnership with Labour

Market Development Officers (LMDOs) in the St John’s regions to create a new

service for businesses that would continue to build on their disability confidence,

provide an avenue for education and professional development to the business

employees, and offer an opportunity to businesses to engage with candidates with

disabilities seeking employment as a way to address issues with finding appropriate

talent to fill employment gaps. Businesses OPEN, building Opportunities, Partners,

Employment, & Networks Collaboratively was created.

Businesses OPEN: A New Partnership Approach

In January 2016, in partnership with LMDOs from St. John’s office of Advanced

Education and Skills, a pilot of this partnership commenced with Rocket Bakery &

Fresh Food on Water St. By participating in Businesses OPEN, Rocket Bakery

broadened their customer

base, promoted their

disability confidence to

their customers, received

professional development

training for their staff, a

resource toolkit full of

information to improve

inclusion in their work

environment and

improvement in their

bottom line.

“Safely Build Your Disability Confidence with InclusionNL”

Kathy Hawkins

InclusionNL Manager

What is Businesses OPEN? A partnership that supports businesses to increase workplace inclusion though a series of FREE services. Free access to resources and consultants with expertise in accessibility and economic solutions to reducing barriers.

Services include:

OPEN with Information Braille, Podcasts, Large Print, Easy Read… This is all about “Alternate Formats.” Samples of company materials converted in multiple formats with our compliments.

OPEN with Technology Using the internet for recruitment? Offering online customer service? Access to expertise in website and mobile app accessibility. Free Website Reviews.

OPEN with Business Location What inclusion features are currently available at your location? Learn more about accessibility in the build environment.

OPEN with Customer Service Professional training for your employees with a focus on services for customers with disabilities. Free resources to support your expanding diverse customer base.

OPEN with Recognition Promoting your inclusion features with customers, recognizing your partnership and participation to become a more Disability Confident Business.

Benefits to Businesses OPEN Participants

Helps build your customer base

Provides access to an untapped labour pool

Enhances your company brand

Increases your bottom line

Contact Us to Begin Today

Kathy Hawkins - Manager

[email protected]

Cell: 709-697-3323

Toll Free 1-844-517-1376

mailto:[email protected]

Debbie Prim Memorial Courtyard & Garden

Committee Report

Once again we found ourselves in a garden with pleasant trees, herbs and vegetables good for food and flowers colourful as the rainbow. We continued to have success with our garden. Although

a rainy and cold July slowed the growing of some vegetables and flowers.

We previously determined the cost and design of raised beds and again sought fundraising for their construction. We were able to obtain new water hoses and have the leaky outdoor faucets repaired. In addition we purchased fertilizer, a new lawn mower, two new electric stove tops, planted new strawberries, and for the first time, introduced rhubarb to the garden. One of the trees had to be removed to allow for more sunshine over the vegetables. We had some difficultly with the construction of a new shed; nevertheless expect one to be in place by the fall of 2016. Again we employed a summer gardener. This is a benefit because many of us are unable to do the heavy lifting necessary in gardening.

Spruce Up day was a joyful event with staff, the Craft Group, and Garden Committee members having a day of fellowship. Our boil up after the harvest took place in the centre. Diane White was able to organize this again and we were able to provide up to 80 bowls of turkey and beef barely soup for our members and staff.

Once again we prepared Christmas baskets for fundraising with one draw taking place in early December and the others at our annual dinner and dance.

In closing, over the years we have developed a plan for a successful spring, summer and fall in the garden. We ask all members to come and join us so that we can, as we say, “learn as we grow.”

Right: Wanda Power planting new flowers in our garden during the 2015 Spruce Up.

The Transition to Empower, The Disability Resource Centre

Official Press Release

An organization with a long history of providing supports and services for people with disabilities has unveiled a new name and look. The Independent Living Resource Centre is now Empower, The Disability Resource Centre.

The organization which works towards creating an inclusive society today presented the new name and the components of an awareness campaign that includes social media, television, radio and print.

Kimberly Yetman Dawson, Executive Director with Empower, The Disability Resource Centre, said “The new look reflects more accurately the role the organization plays in our community and the impact it has in the lives of people with disabilities.” Yetman Dawson said that Empower responds to changing needs through offering programs that are customized to each individual.

Empower programs and services are available at no charge and include Advocacy Skills, InclusionNL, Career Development, Independent Living Internship, Peer Support, Adaptive Technology and Volunteer Services. Programs are customized to meet each individual's need.

Above: Pictures from the Empower Launch on March 30th

Cecilia Carroll, Board Chairperson, said that the awareness campaign will highlight the significant role Empower plays in our province. Carroll stated, “Empower is more than just a word that expresses what our organization does. It’s the sense of strength and inclusion that people get from their experience with us.”

For more than 35 years, the Independent Living Resource Centre delivered a broad range of supports and services for people with disabilities. Empower – The Disability Resource Centre has been built on that foundation and will continue to work towards a more inclusive society in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Empower, The Disability Resource Centre (formerly Independent Living Resource Centre) was originally established by persons with disabilities, community representatives, and advocates as a not-for-profit corporation. Empower supports people with disabilities to make their own choices, take risks and have control over their supports and services. While the vast majority of people who use Empower are individuals with disabilities, supports and services are also available to family members, community groups, employers, and government agencies.

Our vision for Newfoundland and Labrador is an inclusive community; a society that

embraces diversity and the rights of all individuals to choice, self-determination, and

Independent Living.

Above: A picture featured in the Newfoundland Telegram about the Empower Launch.

Independent Living Awards 2015 Recipients

Members of the disability community were invited to The Lieutenant Governor’s House on December 3rd to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Frank Fagan, gave out this year’s Independent Living Awards.

The 2015 recipient of the Cecilia Carroll Award for Independent Living is Cecil Whitten. Cecil was nominated for this award in recognition of his long term and extraordinary commitment to the full inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Cecil is a strong advocate for persons with disabilities in the metro St. John's area. He is a member of a wide range of various disability organizations. Cecil is also active on many disability-related committees - The ILRC's PARTS Committee, The City's Para-Transit Committee and Mayor's Advisory Committee and past member of the Community Sector Council Volunteer Week Committee.

The recipient of the 2015 Business Award for Independent Living is Newfound Cabs. Over the last several years Newfound Cabs have applied for Government of NL Accessible Taxi Pilot Project grants and have received funding to put several accessible cabs on the roads of St. John's. The Newfound Cabs are equipped with special hardware and mechanisms to enable people with mobility issues to use the taxi service. Newfound Cabs is the first company to offer accessible taxi service in NL. These taxis are a perfect example of Independent Living and Inclusion in action.

Independent Living Awards 2015 Recipients

The recipient of the 2015 Independent Living Young Leader Award is Liam Hickey. At age 17 Liam is the youngest member of the Canadian Senior Mens' Wheelchair Basketball team and Senior Men's National Sledge Hockey Team. Because of his tremendous skill, at age eleven Liam got called up to the junior team with Team Canada. Liam was also invited to play for the PEI Mustangs in the Maritime Wheelchair Basketball League (MWBL). Liam led the Prince Edward Island team to a best-ever fourth place finish at the 2015 Canada Winter Games. He recently was named Wheelchair Basketball Canada’s 2015 Junior Athlete of the Year. Liam is a leader and a role model to the disability and the able bodied community. His motto is: No leg, No problem.

The recipient of the 2015 Social Inclusion Award for Independent Living is the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Arts Society. During this year’s NL Folk Festival organizers worked diligently with volunteers, staff, and performers to ensure increased inclusion throughout the event. Staff and volunteers went above and beyond to accommodate the smallest of requests to ensure everyone had equal access to all aspects of the Festival events. As a result of the work and coverage on the inclusion features of this year’s folk festival, three other event organizers came forward seeking supports for their venues after learning about the inclusion features.

ILRC Funding Partners

A sincere thank you to our funding partners for their financial support throughout

2015-16.

Province of Newfoundland & Labrador

Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development

Department of Advanced Education and Skills

Disability Policy Office Inclusion Grants

Government of Canada

Industry Canada

Employment and Social Development Canada

Other:

Independent Living Canada

Cash and In-Kind Donations

The ILRC receives cash and in-kind donations from many companies, groups,

organizations and individuals. We would like to express sincere thanks to the many

groups and individuals that made generous donations to the ILRC this year.

Appendix A: Minutes from 2015 Annual General Meeting (AGM)

Independent Living Resource Centre

Annual General Meeting – June 18, 2015

Bethesda Pentecostal Church

Meeting Minutes

1. Board members introduced themselves. In attendance were:

Cecilia Carroll

Deborah Gilbert

Scott Batten

Vivian Randell

Kim Underhay

Cynthia O’Driscoll

Carole Barron

Amanda Howlett

Jessica Gallant

Justin Mercer

Paul Morgan

Cathy Long

Regrets:

Lorna Gilbert

Elizabeth Horwood

Paul Mitten

Wayne Penney, The ILRC Executive Director, was unable to attend and passed along

his regrets.

2. Board Secretary, Lorna Gilbert was not present. In her absence Deborah Gilbert read the minutes of the 2013-14 Annual General Meeting.

Motion to approve the minutes as presented: Moved by: Amanda Howlett Seconded by: Kim Underhay Motion carried.

3. Cecilia Carroll read the Chairperson’s report.

Motion to approve the Chairperson’s report as presented. Moved by: Dougie Dunn Seconded by: Felix Martin Motion carried.

4. Wayne Penney, Executive Director, was not present. In his absence Jessica Gallant read the Executive Director’s report.

Motion to approve the Executive Director’s report as presented. Moved by: Gail St. Croix Seconded by: Paul Morgan Motion carried.

5. Treasurer’s Report and Audited Financial Statements

5.1 Cynthia O’Driscoll read the Treasurer’s report.

Motion to approve the Treasurer’s report and Audited Financial Statements as presented. Moved by: Diane White Seconded by: John McLean Motion carried.

5.2 Motion to appoint Morrissey and Company as ILRC’s financial auditors for 2015-16.

Moved by: Amanda Howlett Seconded by: Gail St. Croix Motion carried.

6. Approval of new Articles of Association and By-Laws

Motion to Approve the new Articles of Association and By-Laws Moved by: Randy Hawkins Seconded by: Vivian Randell Motion carried.

7. The ILRC Board of Directors 2015-2016

An election was not necessary as the number of nominations did not exceed the number of available Board vacancies. Cecilia Carroll read the names of the Board of Directors for 2015-2016. The new member joining the Board is Randy Hawkins.

8. Catherine Rodgers read the motion In order to move from two year terms to three year terms for Board Directors, it is moved that;

The following Board Directors be elected to the ILRC Board of Directors for a three year term effective June, 2015: Cecilia Carroll, Scott Batten, Paul Mitten, Vivian Randell, Lorna Gilbert and Randy Hawkins

The following Board Directors who were elected for a two year term at the 2013 AGM are elected to the Board of Directors and will serve a three year term and be up for election in 2016: Carole Barron, Jessica Gallant, Amanda Howlett and Kim Underhay

The following Board Directors who were elected for a two year term at the 2014 AGM are elected to the Board of Directors and will now serve a three year term and be up for election in 2017: Cathy Long, Paul Morgan and Justin Mercer

It is noted that the approval of this motion by the ILRC membership will mean that two Board Directors, Cecilia Carroll and Scott Batten, will serve seven years on the Board without a break

Motion to confirm board terms based on new approved by-law which changed from 2 year to 3 year terms Moved by: Gail St. Croix Seconded by: Ed Sawdon

9. Cecilia Carroll presented certificates of appreciation to Board members who retired from the Board this year: Cynthia O’Driscoll and Elizabeth Horwood

10. Other Business

Cecilia Carroll introduced the new Executive Director, Kimberly Yetman Dawson and invited attendees to introduce themselves.

11. Adjournment

Motion to adjourn the 2015 Annual General Meeting at 8:00pm. Moved by: Carole Barron

Appendix B: The ILRC Board of Directors and Staff

The ILRC Board of Directors

Cecilia Carroll

Krysta Ryan*

Deborah Gilbert

Lorna Gilbert**

Paul Mitten

Scott Batten

Vivian Randell

Kim Underhay

Carole Barron

Amanda Howlett

Jessica Gallant

Paul Morgan

Cathy Long

Randy Hawkins

Justin Mercer***

The ILRC Core Staff

Kimberly Yetman Dawson – Executive Director

Melanie Grandy – Finance and Administration Officer

Amanda Lush – Peer Support and Volunteer Program Coordinator

Joby Fleming – Advocacy Skills Program Coordinator

Stephen Quinn – Career Development Program Coordinator

Penny Abbott – IL Internship & AT Program Coordinator

Leslie Pitt – Community Inclusion Facilitator

Jim Escott – Adaptive Technology Resource Facilitator

Kathy Hawkins – InclusionNL Manager

Annette Powell – InclusionNL Facilitator

*Board member appointed

during year.

**Board member on leave.

***Board member resigned

during year.

Appendix C: ILRC Board, Project and Other Committees

Board Committees

1. Executive Committee – Cecilia Carroll, Jessica Gallant, Lorna Gilbert, Deborah

Gilbert, Krista Ryan, Carole Barron

2. Human Resources Committee – Carole Barron, Randall Hawkins, Cecilia Carroll

3. Finance Committee – Krista Ryan, Cecilia Carroll

4. Governance/Nominations Committee – Amanda Howlett, Scott Batten, Vivian

Randell, Kim Underhay, Paul Morgan, Cathy Long

Steering Committees

1. InclusionNL; Employer Supports & Services Steering Committee - Carole Barron (Chair), Kelli Penney, Lori Haines, Shelley Jenkinson, Dinah Durnford, Melanie Cayouette, Kimberly Yetman Dawson

Other Committees

1. Newsletter Committee – Cathy Gill, Gus Russell, Catherine Rodgers, Samuel

Wilkes David Hogan, Joey Power, Ed Sawdon, Eugene Barrett, Stephanie

Dunphy

2. Garden Committee – Stephen Kelland, Diane White, Gail St. Croix, Jane Morris,

Olivia Ash, Paul Morgan, Kim Underhay, Joanne Trevors, Dougie Dunne, Felix

Martin, Robert Lamb, and Albert Coombs.

3. PARTS Committee - Randy Hawkins, Scott Batten, Laura George, Amanda

Howlett, Angie Rose, Barry Bordell, Beverley Simmons, Carrie Ann Bugden,

Catherine Drodge, Ernie Perry, Eugene Barrett, Jessica Johnson, Kate

Morrison, Kathy Sitter, Kim Underhay, Linda Sorhaitz, Lorna Gilbert, Miranda

Porter, Nikki MacDonald, Paul Morgan, Randilyn Luedee, Zach Wiseman

Appendix D: Auditor’s Report and Financial Statements

Annual Report - Empower, The Disability Resource …INDEPENDENT LIVING RESOURCE CENTRE Your...

Documents

Transcript of Annual Report - Empower, The Disability Resource …INDEPENDENT LIVING RESOURCE CENTRE Your...