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2023-24 Annual Report Open PDF Version Scroll Down
Annual Message From CEO
Dr. Claudine Cousins

This past year has been one with remarkable achievements for Empower Simcoe. We continue the work that has been the foundation of the Agency, wanting more for the people we support. Empower Simcoe is one of the largest multi-service community agencies of its kind in Ontario. We have seen enormous growth, and I’m excited to think of what is yet to come. As I reflect on where we started and where we are today, I must acknowledge the unwavering excellence and dedication of our employees, community partners, volunteers, and donors. Without you we cannot be Empower Simcoe!

We must continue to innovate and evolve to anticipate and respond to the changes in our community and the economy. Our current strategic plan is in its final year. This dynamic plan reflects the changes in our environment and sector. Our three priorities: Service Excellence, Our People and Culture, and A Strong Partner, has positioned Empower Simcoe as a leader in helping drive the sector’s Journey to Belonging transformation. We continue to be at the forefront of discussions with government decision-makers, advocating for funding and resources, and most importantly, growing, learning, and listening to the voices of the people and families we support.

It is crucial for us to listen and learn from the valuable input within our organization. Over the past year, our Senior Leadership Team has conducted Listening Forums and Journey to Belonging Customer Service Excellence sessions with all employees. Through these sessions, we have learned how to enhance the work environment at Empower Simcoe and further integrate equity, diversity, and inclusion into everything we do within our organization and in our increasingly diverse community.

We continue to rely on the support of our Empower Simcoe and Foundation Boards of Directors, valued community partners, and stakeholders. Most importantly, the support, hard work, and dedication of our valued and loyal employees will allow us to forge ahead in this time of transformation. I’m so proud of the work we are doing every day to ensure we’re ready for the future.

Dr. Claudine Cousins
Chief Executive Officer

Watch Dr. Claudine Cousins' Message
Our Board of Directors
Protecting stakeholders’ interests, establishing policies for management, oversight of the organization, and making decisions about important issues Empower Simcoe faces.
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Brian Young
Director
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Allison Bobbette
Director
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Jacob McNamara
Director
Valerie Scott
President, Board of Directors

Hello, I’m Valerie Scott, President of the Empower Simcoe Board of Directors. This past year was truly memorable as we celebrated 70 years of excellence as one of the largest multi-service agencies in Ontario. We organized various events, including an Empower Simcoe signature wine launch, a fun-filled Celebrity Baseball game, and a spectacular 70th summer anniversary party at Rounds Ranch. These events made the year unforgettable and allowed us to honor and recognize our remarkable journey. Congratulations, Empower Simcoe!

2023-24 was also a period of significant transformation for Empower Simcoe. Through its Journey to Belonging: Choice and Inclusion plan, the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services is changing the funding model for the developmental services sector, however Empower Simcoe has already begun the work to prepare for this major reform to the supports and services we provide.

As we approach the final year of our current Strategic Plan, we are making great progress in advancing our agency in the strategic directions of Service Excellence, Our People and Culture, and A Strong Partner.

Despite the anticipated changes in the developmental services sector in the coming years, our ongoing efforts are paving the way for a bright and innovative future. We are positioning ourselves to continue to be a front runner in delivering the highest quality of supports and services for people and families in Simcoe County.

On behalf of my fellow Board members, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to CEO Dr. Claudine Cousins, the Senior Leadership team, and all Empower Simcoe employees for their unwavering dedication and tireless commitment. It is through their hard work and perseverance that we can evolve and innovate to support the people we serve so that they can Be, Belong, and Thrive for the next 70 years.

Keep up the extraordinary work, Empower Simcoe!

Valerie Scott President,
Empower Simcoe Board of Directors

Watch Valerie's Message
CORE VALUEs
Core Values Represent Our Highest Priorities And Core, Fundamental Driving Forces.
Driven

We strive to constantly move forward, while celebrating successes.

Accountable

We work mindfully to empower every individuals goals.

Community

We are accepting of all people and give each a voice.

Respect

We treat everyone with dignity, deserving of our full attention and commitment.

Strategic Plan
Where We're At

In 2022, the Empower Simcoe Board of Directors approved our strategic plan, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for our agency. We are incredibly proud of the significant strides we have made in pursuit of our three key priorities: Service Excellence, Our People and Culture, and Strong Partnerships.

Priority #1: Service Excellence
Service Excellence has been the cornerstone of our unwavering dedication to providing quality customer service. We are thrilled to announce the completion of a specialized transition home in Orillia, designed to empower individuals in developing essential social and living skills. We’ve optimized our housing stock to align with the goals of those we support, and the launch of fee-for-service (FFS) programs has brought immense benefits to the people and families we support and the community alike. In 2024, our integration of Microsoft platform technologies like Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate, and SharePoint has greatly improved our ability to track key performance indicators, streamline passport budget management, and enhance operational efficiency. In addition, the introduction of a content submission portal for employee engagement and the inclusion of profile photos on internal platforms have significantly elevated communication within our organization.

Priority #2: Our People and Culture
The tireless efforts of our Empower Simcoe People and Culture team have led to the successful launch of a comprehensive orientation program for new employees, aimed at fostering a deep understanding of our services and strengthening our organizational culture and values. We are delighted to have offered diverse training programs, including Essential Skills for Today's Leadership, Direct Support Leadership, and Conflict Management. Furthermore, our listening and brainstorming sessions on customer service and equity, diversity, and inclusion have contributed to a more inclusive workplace environment.

Priority #3: Strong Partnerships
At Empower Simcoe, we deeply understand the importance of forging strategic partnerships. Our collaboration with the Intentional Community Consortium and the Local Immigration Partnership is a testament to this unwavering commitment. These partnerships have allowed us to advocate for supportive housing and the National Housing Strategy on Parliament Hill and present our services and job opportunities to newcomers in Simcoe County and beyond.

In collaboration with developmental services agencies and experts in Simcoe County, we have developed an Emergency Management and Pandemic Response Plan for congregate care settings. This comprehensive plan, coupled with an annual tabletop exercise, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the people and families we support, along with our employees, during unforeseen circumstances. The extraordinary progress achieved over the past year serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Empower Simcoe's leadership team and employees. With one more year left in our strategic plan, our commitment has never been stronger.

The accomplishments of the past year have not only inspired us but have also reinforced our unwavering mission of empowering people of all abilities to lead meaningful and inclusive lives. We are incredibly enthusiastic about the future and eagerly anticipate achieving even more significant milestones in the coming year.

Dr. Claudine Cousins,
Chief Executive Officer,
Empower Simcoe

2023 / 2024 Update

Strategic Plan

Laclie Street Transition Home

Supporting individuals in developing social and life skills to enhance their independence. First resident moved into the new home in August 2024.

Expanded Fee For Service Programs

New offerings include Cooking Up Capability, Express Yourself, Let’s Meet, Skills to Thrive, and Snoezelen Therapy, tailored to individual needs.

Microsoft Platform Integration

Implemented Power BI, Power Apps, and Power Automate for improved tracking of key performance indicators and streamlined passport budget management.

Launch of Employee Content Portal

Increased opportunities for sharing stories, news, and achievements within our agency, fostering greater internal engagement.

Agency-wide Employee Orientation

New comprehensive orientation program to build a unified workforce and reinforce our organizational culture rooted in shared values.

Modernized Core Competencies Roll-out

Enhanced employee development through Surge Learning, focusing on continuous growth, engagement, and building organizational talent.

Leadership and Development Training

Offered Essential Skills for Today’s Leaders, Direct Support Leadership Training with Georgian College, and Conflict Resolution Management for senior leaders.

Emergency & Pandemic Response Collaboration

Partnered with Simcoe County DS agencies to develop a response plan, ensuring best practices in IPAC for the safety of those we serve and our community.

Community Champion for #ITSTARTS Campaign

Leading efforts to promote equity and inclusion across Simcoe County through the #ITSTARTS initiative.

Intentional Community Consortium Partnership

Advocating for increased supportive housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities through strategic partnerships.

Financial Highlights
Budget to Actual Analysis

Total Revenue was $6.8M more than budgeted. Additional $3.2M from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services’ (MCCSS) for the Permanent Compensation Enhancement was received. The new Ontario Autism Program contributed an additional $1.5M in funding.

Total Expenses exceeded the budget by $6.8M. This was due to the spending of the Permanent Compensation funding and the Ontario Autism program funds.

Sources of Revenue (In 000's)

Total: 55,996

No Data Found

Expenditures (In 000's)

Total: 54,375

No Data Found

Impactful
STORIES OF SUCCESS
A Meaningful Lifetime of Achievement

From winning medals at the Special Olympics to sharing the ice with hockey legends, Trevor Knight’s journey with Empower Simcoe is a testament to a lifetime of remarkable achievements.

An Unwavering Commitment to Community Service

Discover how Jeff Czetwerzuk's lifelong dedication to helping others bridges his role at Empower Simcoe and his service as a Ward 3 Councillor in Orillia.

Crafting Something Beautiful, One Stitch At A Time

Discover how a custom-built adaptive loom is empowering Hailey Mackie to create beautiful knitted pieces while building connections in her community.

Empower Simcoe Foundation
Raising Funds to improve the quality of life for people of all abilities and foster an inclusive society
What We Do
Specialized Housing Needs
Accessibility Equipment
Recreational & Leisure Activities
Provide Skill Development
Assist Families with Respite
Special Projects
Foundation
Board of Trustees
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Karl Cadera
Board Member
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Mike Taylor
Chair
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Dr. Mitch Whyne
Vice Chair
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Randy Craig
Treasurer
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Miriam Villamil-Pallister
Board Member
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Mackenzie Gamache
Board Member
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Valerie Scott
Board Member
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Roch Langevin
Board Member
Annual Message From Foundation Chair
Mike Taylor
Hello, I’m Mike Taylor, Chair of the Empower Simcoe Foundation. As I enter my first year in this role, I am honored to share this message on behalf of the Empower Simcoe Foundation Board of Directors.

What a year it's been for the Empower Simcoe Foundation. In 2023, the Empower Simcoe Golf Tournament returned to Orillia and Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club's lush fairways and greens, raising an astounding $55,000 for the Foundation. Thank you to all the golfers, sponsors, auction bidders and volunteers who helped make this event such a tremendous success.

The 2023 Empower Simcoe Community Champions Fashion Show at the Heights of Horseshoe was one of our most successful shows yet. For nearly thirty years, this annual Foundation signature event has celebrated the people and families we support, while also providing an opportunity to recognize and applaud our generous community partners and volunteers in an evening filled with fun, fashion, and philanthropy. Proceeds from this event have assisted the Empower Simcoe Foundation to purchase items like specialized mobility equipment, bus passes, adult and senior recreation opportunities, youth skills development, much needed respite for caregivers, and so much more. Thank you to our Community Champions for making a difference in the lives of so many.

Also, in 2023, we launched our Hooray for Outdoor Play campaign with a goal of $300,000 to build an accessible and inclusive outdoor playground for children and families at Empower Simcoe's EarlyON Child and Family Centre in Barrie. The Empower Simcoe Foundation is privileged to assist with this important playground expansion as a vital enhancement to the EarlyON Centre’s mission of supporting families and children in their journey of growth and learning.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support of these meaningful Foundation fundraising initiatives, which are vital in generating funds and resources beyond government and other funding sources for the people and families supported by Empower Simcoe. We are deeply grateful to every donor, community partner, and volunteer for their incredible generosity and tireless efforts in support of the Empower Simcoe Foundation, enabling us to continue to respond to community needs and advance our mission to enhance the quality of all lives.

Watch Mike's Message
Empower Simcoe Foundation
Financial Highlights
Why Give?

Many people with intellectual disabilities are living at or below the poverty line and barely have enough money to cover rent, food and basic health expenses. This means recreational activities and specialized equipment that would contribute to a better quality of life are simply out of reach.

With the support of many generous donors, our fundraising campaigns support the purchase of accessibility equipment; cover the cost of specialized housing needs; assist families with respite; provide youth with skills development; offer adults and seniors recreational and leisure activities.

Your donation helps make it possible for people of all abilities to live a meaningful and inclusive life.

Sources of Revenue (In 000's)

Total: 875

No Data Found

Expenditures (in 000's)

Total: 630

No Data Found

A Donor's Story
A Journey of Compassion and Giving

Growing up in northern India, Surbhi Warach learned as a young girl, the invaluable lessons of compassion, generosity, and the significance of giving back to others. “I was taught from an early age to think of others in need, whether it was a gift of food, medicine, or our time,” recalls Surbhi. These values have been Surbhi’s guiding light throughout her life.

Her journey to Canada in 2011 presented new opportunities, leading to a fulfilling career in Information Technology, where she now proudly serves as a Quality Assurance Analyst in Toronto. Surbhi and husband Waiz, were overjoyed to welcome their son Chezian into the world in 2024.

“I live by the credo that one should welcome every opportunity to welcome humanity,” says Surbhi. “We need to love people for who they are. That’s why I support Empower Simcoe.”

Having discovered Empower Simcoe through a Google search, Surbhi was moved to find an organization that helps people of all abilities throughout Simcoe County. The sight of the Empower Simcoe sign while driving along Highway 400 further resonated with her. “I loved seeing the word ‘empower’ and its positive message,” said Surbhi.

As a dedicated monthly donor to the Empower Simcoe Foundation, Surbhi takes immense pride in knowing that her contributions are making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. She adds, “I get immense satisfaction in sharing what I can with others. It brings me great joy.”

The Empower Simcoe Foundation shares its heartfelt gratitude to Surbhi for the positive impact she’s making in the lives of those in need in our community.

Foundation
Gift of the Heart Awards

Volunteer

Amber Gazso

Family Support Worker

Kacey Noble

Family

Claire May

Community Partner

Superior Home Healthcare

Community Partner

Optimist Club of Barrie

Self Advocate

Melissa Swales

2022 - 2023
Award Recipients

For giving selflessly to improve the quality of life for people supported by Empower Simcoe, please join us in congratulating the 2022-23 Gift of the Heart Award recipients.

Empower Simcoe
People That Make tHE Difference
Donors & Sponsors

Heartfelt 'Thank You' to all of the people and local businesses that helped support Empower Simcoe in 2022-2023.

Service Awards

Empower Simcoe staff are the heartbeat of our mission and we celebrate those that have reached a milestone this past year.

Funders and Partners
Collaborating with funders and partners to strengthen our impact in the communities we serve
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