Community Living Algoma is acknowledging the hard work of volunteers, especially those who have continued their dedication throughout the pandemic.
CLA executive director John Policicchio says the organization held their AGM last week via Zoom celebrating the many people who have given so much of their time and efforts to assist clients and staff.
He says several Community Partner Awards and Volunteer of the Year Awards were handed out to deserving recipients from throughout the Algoma District.
He adds AGM also saw the soft launch of CLA’s new website, designed by Miramar Design Studio Incorporated of Sault Ste. Marie.
Policicchio says Community Partner Awards’ recipients included: Laurel Carson at Metro Northern; Joni Cooke at Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kitely Chapel; and Vicki Bailey and Andrea Garcia at Northbridge Montessori.
“Community Partner Awards are for businesses who are making a positive difference for people with intellectual disabilities,” he explains. “Recipients are organizations who build and contribute to a culture of inclusion, a community of acceptance and respect for all people.”
Volunteer of the Year Awards were presented to individuals who are making a positive difference for people with intellectual disabilities.
“This year’s recipients were selected for their volunteering of time; efforts or resources and included Jacques Ribout; Phillip Grisdale and Isaiah Pedatella.”
Jacques, who is from Elliot Lake, is a member of the CLA Board of Directors and is the Chair on several committees. He was recognized for his role as a champion for inclusion and accessibility for all people and as Project Manager of renovations at CLA’s new Elliot Lake office.
“Due to COVID restrictions, Grisdale and Pedatella were unable to actively participate as volunteers this past year, however, their recognition was in honour of their already-proven, above-and-beyond commitment to working with people supported.”
Policicchio adds the new bilingual site features many downloadable resources and meets Ontario Accessibility for Ontario Disability Act standards. In content, the website provides answers to how and why CLA supports people with intellectual disabilities in living their best lives.
Community Living Algoma provides supports and services to more than 720 people in the Algoma District who have intellectual disabilities or are on the autism spectrum. Community Living Algoma is committed to the advancement of a community in which all people are recognized as full citizens; achieve personal dignity; enjoy the benefits and responsibilities of independence and are supported to reach their full potential.
