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9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Believe In Yourself Committee

Empowering Voices, Protecting Rights:
The Believe In Yourself Committee

The Empower Simcoe Believe In Yourself Committee was created over 15 years ago, advocating for people supported by the agency.

The Committee provides education regarding the prevention of abuse, understanding one’s rights and empowering the voice of people receiving support from Empower Simcoe. The Committee reviews and responds to local and provincial challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities.

Our purpose

  • A Forum to Empower our Voices

    The Believe In Yourself Committee is a dedicated platform for individuals who receive support to come together to discuss current supports, issues, and movements. We connect with the Board of Directors to discuss common concerns regarding supports and services provided by Empower Simcoe. Members of the committee advocate for all matters that are important to them and provide education and information to others.

  • Knowledge Sharing with the Board of Directors

    We are committed to sharing knowledge and valuable insights with our Board of Directors concerning the support and rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

  • Growing as Leaders

    Our aim is to provide learning opportunities for people across the diverse programs of Empower Simcoe, enabling them to enhance their leadership capabilities and personal growth.

Meet the believe in yourself committee

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Allison Bobbette
Committee Member

I would like to advocate for inclusions within various communities and anti-bullying and while highlighting Empower Simcoe’s services. I’m passionate about helping others find their voice and doing advocacy work with Empower Simcoe and in other parts of my community.

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Melissa Belviso
Committee Member

I want to advocate for accessibility for people with intellectual disabilities, making it easier for people to get around and confidently participate in their communities. I think it’s important for everyone to celebrate their accomplishments while being patient, mindful, and respectful toward others.

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Jefferson Broomes
Committee Member

I would like to advocate against bullying and raise awareness about the importance of building lasting relationships and understanding among people. I also want to use my voice to bring attention to the long waitlists people face when trying to access services through Developmental Services Ontario.

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Diana Harper
Committee Member

I want to use my creativity and artistic abilities to show the beauty and reality of disabilities and inspire others to believe they can achieve their dreams. I see myself as a visionary who notices the small things and wants to advocate for realistic and meaningful opportunities for everyone.

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Melissa Swales
Committee Member

Representing Empower Simcoe and advocating for the people we support is something I have always been passionate about. I want to help programs and services for people with disabilities while raising awareness about the lasting impact bullying can have on individuals and communities.

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Jenna Kerr
Committee Member

I want to advocate for people whose voices may not always be heard and help ensure their rights are recognized and respected.

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Fiona Fryer
Committee Member

I would like to advocate for Empower Simcoe’s services and the diverse living opportunities available to individuals. I also want to speak up for people’s rights and help increase awareness about the significance of community integration.

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Harold Dougall
Committee Member

It is my life passion to speak up for others and make a positive change for the success in their life journey.

Matteo Ruffino
Committee Member

Being a self advocate means being able to ask for what I need. I want to use this opportunity to meet more like-minded individuals, and people I can relate to.

committee resources

Self Advocates - Bill of Rights

Stop Abuse Brochure

It's Your Rights Brochure

get in touch!

The Believe In Yourself Committee feels their ability to advocate is at its best when they hear from others and is always looking for ways they can support the community.

If you wish to learn more about the Committee or to share something, please call 705-726-9082 ext. 2286, or send an email to believeinyourself.

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Enjoy our special Community Living Month Town Hall, hosted by the Believe In Yourself Committee and people receiving services who were part of our Person-Centered Focus Group.

Don’t miss this special #BeBelongThrive Town Hall.

Event Calendar

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