Ellen Tarshis (Executive Director),
Lindsay Kines (recipient)
Carlene Thompson (CLV president),
John Bird (recipient)
Donna Griffiths, A & W, Manager, Douglas St. (recipient),
Deanna Hellener (employee)
Colleen Walton (recipient),
Susan Anthony, Jenny Howard
(supervisor), Melissa Lougheed,
Kristie Marrs (recipient)
and David Martin.
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CLV was pleased to recognize the following community members at our General Meeting
on April 18th, 2012:
Making a Difference:
Lindsay Kines, reporter for the Times-Colonist newspaper.
Lindsay’s coverage of CLBC’s budget cuts, closure of group homes and threats to services
for people with developmental disabilities was instrumental in government finally listening to the concerns of families, individuals and community advocates. This led ultimately to an internal review of CLBC. As a result of this review, government announced 40 million dollars in new funding and a 12 point plan to improve services to people with disabilities and their families.
Lindsay’s articles brought awareness to the realities faced by people who live with developmental disabilities and their families. He promoted their voices by profiling them and their experiences. He raised both the profile and understanding of Community Living.
This is just one example of Lindsay’s reporting over his 28 year career. He cares about social justice and truly makes a difference!
Making a Difference:
John Bird, president of the Victoria Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils
John Bird is an amazing volunteer, giving numerous hours to move towards a better school system, one that can be more tolerant and accessible for all students . He is a visionary, who believes in the rights of each student and the importance of full inclusion to the school and our society. John led the way in defeating Bill 33, which was a discriminatory practice which provided a limit on the number of students with a disability who could be in each classroom. His paper, entitled “Classroom Support Fund: A Collaborative Approach to Effective Classrooms “ allowed educators and politicians to turn into reality the vision of ensuring that British Columbia has an education program that is truly equitable for all students. John’s impassioned speeches highlight that nothing in this world is impossible if you have the vision – and John’s vision is that we need to meet the needs of all students and that decisions be based on the unique needs of each student. John truly believes that the children of BC deserve nothing less!
Employer of the Year:
Donna Griffiths, Manager,
A & W Restaurant. 3335 Douglas St.
A&W is one of the longest term employers in our Employment Services program (over 20 years). They have been very supportive of the individuals who have been employed through our program throughout the years and are strong ambassadors for our agency. Deanna Hellener has had a job at the Douglas St. A & W for the past 23 years! Thank you A &W for being a fair and equitable employer!
Volunteers of the Year:
Colleen Walton and Kristie Marrs
Colleen and Kristie have both been active volunteers at our Supported Apartment Living (SAL) program for the past eight years, ever since Colleen’s daughter, Mel, moved into the building.
They are known within our program for planning a variety of monthly social activities for the group – bingo nights, mini-golf, theme dinner and craft nights. Their enthusiasm, humor and energy are contagious! Colleen and Kristie are not only generous with their time, but they have also donated hockey tickets, a Wii game and computer to the individuals in the program. They are also great ambassadors for the SAL program and are always willing to share their personal experiences about what the program means to them! Thank you! |
In December 2012, Community Living Victoria celebrated its 57th year. There have been many challenges and opportunities since 1955 and today we are a vibrant not for profit agency... 
