The meeting was called to order by President Roger at 7:07 am.  31 Rotarians were present with 3 guests (speakers Roxanne Bird and Joanne Strome as well as Ted Hannigan who is attending his third meeting). 

 

Lana provided an insight as to why she joined Rotary.  She was working as a manager at the Townline Processing plant when she was approached by David Hawkins and asked if she could present as a guest speaker.  She did present to the Rotary Club and also provided a tour of the Townline plant.  David later asked Lana if she would be interested in joining the club.  Lana’s sister was a Rotarian in another region and spoke highly of her experience so Lana said yes! As they say, the rest is history.

 

 ‘O’ Canada’ was sung. David Hawkins recited an invocation. Breakfast was served.

 

Mike Lattner introduced the guest speakers from Community Living Prince Edward (CLPE).  Joanne Strome and Roxanne Bird are both directors at CLPE where they have worked for 37 and 25 years respectively.  The mission of this organization is to provide full opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities.  They service approximately 350 clients with a staff of approximately 150 employees.  They recently completed and passed a four year focus accreditation (2023-27).  They are proud of the extent of services that are provided which essentially extends from birth throughout adult life of an individual. 

 

A variety of child and family services were discussed including resource consultant services, family support, youth in transition, respite services, brokerage of funding and advocacy.  They discussed some of the innovative ways for families to find help and support via respite solutions.  They also highlighted some of the youth and young adult services such as the ‘gear up’ programs where young people are supported through the transitions of entering college, entering the workforce, and moving into a new home.  They outlined the ambassadors for inclusion program which is active in all school events and activities.  Adult accommodation supports were discussed as well as community supports and services.

 

Valuable partnerships of CPLE with local businesses were outlined which provide both co-op experience as well as full time work opportunities.  The annual CPLE golf tournament, which raises money for affordable housing, is a popular annual event that sells out quickly.  Our speakers noted that next year marks the 60 year anniversary of CPLE.  A provincial campaign promotes the month of May as ‘Community Living month’ and includes a ‘blue and green day’ to generate awareness of this valuable resource.  It was noted that CPLE is funded through the Ministry of Community and Social Services which doesn’t cover the costs of all creative initiatives.

 

Lyn thanked Joanne and Roxanne for their presentation.  She noted that their mandate very much aligns with what Rotary represents – community support, opportunity and inclusivity.  She encouraged our speakers to let us know how we can help them.

 

 

Roger reported on the health of members:

            Bill Mitchell reported that his wife Dorothy is healing from recent hip surgery.

            Robynne reported that John Heeringa is still awaiting a date for surgery.

 

David Mackinnon is celebrating a birthday this week and both Bill and Nancy Pennell as well as Shawn and Julie Ellis are celebrating their anniversaries this week.

 

Dawn Cutler’s ticket was drawn (again!) for the 50/50 draw – despite a focused approach and unwavering courage she failed to pull the ace of spades.