CEO Dr. Claudine Cousins and Gerald Nganjue, Director of Clinical and Corporate Strategy, were honoured to represent Empower Simcoe at the Intentional Community Consortium (ICC) Day on the Hill, held in Ottawa on October 20–21, 2025. The two-day event brought together ICC members, Members of Parliament (MPs), and community leaders to champion the vital cause of affordable, inclusive housing for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Below, from left to right: Claudine Cousins, MP Adam Chambers and Gerald Nganjue
The event opened with Question Period in Parliament, where Eglinton–Lawrence MP Vince Gasparro recognized the presence of ICC members, underscoring the importance of their work. Click the button below to watch MP Gasparro’s remarks.
As part of their advocacy efforts, Dr. Cousins met with Simcoe–North MP Adam Chambers and Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte MP Doug Shipley to talk about the growing need for inclusive and affordable housing in Simcoe County. The conversations explored how local and national partners can work together through improved policy alignment, new funding opportunities, and creative community models to make sure people with developmental and intellectual disabilities have safe, supportive places to call home.
That evening, more than 60 guests attended a reception for MPs and Senators, hosted by Assistant Deputy Speaker Alexandra Mendès, MP. The reception featured inspiring remarks from MPs Vince Gasparro, Melissa Lantsman, and Marie-Hélène Gaudreau, each emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive and affordable housing solutions across Canada, while Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Jennifer McKelvie, offered remarks on the government’s ongoing housing efforts.
This year’s Day on the Hill not only strengthened partnerships and amplified advocacy but also reaffirmed the ICC’s leadership in driving systemic change. The progress achieved reflects what is possible when we unite around a shared purpose. Empower Simcoe’s participation reinforces collective efforts to ensure that the message of inclusion, opportunity, and dignity continues to resonate—on Parliament Hill and across Canada.
From left to right. Top Photo: Gerald Nganjue, Claudine Cousins, and MP Doug Shipley. Right Photo: Claudine Cousins and MP Melissa Lantsman.
