Celebrating excellence in 2022-23
Power of One Award
This award recipient is recognized for going above and beyond, helping children and youth and their families achieve their personal best. This nomination is very special, as it comes directly from clients and caregivers. The field of nominees is a robust, caring group of individuals. This year’s recipient is Karen J., a Speech-Language Therapist Assistant at our Ajax site.
Karen joined Grandview as a Speech-Language Therapy Assistant in 2003, after obtaining her Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Ontario and her Communicative Disorders Assistant Diploma from Durham College. Karen has worked most of her career in Durham’s Preschool Speech and Language Program, and worked in both the Ontario Autism Program and in most recent years, Social ABCs.
She has been a strong champion for the caregivers’ role in therapy, celebrates successes with her families, and has an unbelievable skill to empower parents. She is eager to share her passion and skills with her peers, including her work on the Rush and Sheldon training, which fueled her fire for the parent coaching model.
Karen’s nomination came from Jennifer H., a Grandview parent who said:
“We met Karen through the ABCs Program, and she has truly changed our lives. She has helped me learn how to interact more effectively with my son, which in turn has encouraged him to communicate more with me. Karen taught me how to initiate play sequences with my son, as well as get him to understand the prompt words, and how his wants can be communicated to achieve his desires. Karen also took the time to help me as a mother who struggled with self-regulation. She suggested numerous tactics to help me, including blogs, books, noise reducing ear buds, as well as introducing me to public groups where I was able to interact with other ASD parents on their journeys. It truly helped me realize that I wasn’t alone. Karen is just amazing! If anyone deserves to be acknowledged for their support to the Grandview services, it would 100% be Karen!”
Jennifer H., Grandview Kids parent
Karen’s ability to be both therapist and supporter, positively impacting their world and development, has earned her our 2023 Power of One Award. The award is a print made by the students of Campbell Children’s School.
Congratulations, Karen, and to all our other nominees.
Making a Difference Award
The Making a Difference Award is nominated by peers, and selected by a panel, looking for those who:
- Exemplify the Grandview Kids values,
- Demonstrate a commitment to our organizational vision and mission, and
- Champion and envision change for the betterment of Grandview Kids staff, clients and caregivers, and;
- Are known for excellence in their work, often going above and beyond what is required to drive change and innovation.
This year’s award recipient is Venus D., Team Assistant.
In her many years at Grandview, Venus has provided a great deal of care and assistance for staff and families alike, in a calm and reassuring way that makes all feel supported.
From her nominator:
“I have had the pleasure of working with Venus since I started at Grandview many years ago. She exemplifies professionalism, integrity and intelligence. She goes above and beyond for patients and their families. Venus is an integral part of the Ajax site and is the glue that “holds the fort.” She is able to calm parents when they are having challenging times. When their frustrations run high, Venus provides proper, but sensitive advice. She is able to also appropriately triage them to Grandview staff who can help. Venus understands what to prioritize and helps us to problem solve. I have had many parents compliment Venus for her timely approach to their concerns. The Grandview volunteers at our reception are guided well by Venus and they have nothing but praise and good words about Venus. For me, I am every grateful for her support and trust. She truly exemplifies the Grandview spirit.”
Grandview Kids Making a Difference Award nominator
Other 2023 nominees included: Maritza B., Dana D., Adrian P., Alishia C., Kelly M., Marlaina R., Sarah S.B., Rikki C., Michelle L., Yeldah Y., Karen J. and Vareesha K. Congratulations to all our nominees and thank you for Making a Difference at Grandview Kids!
