Grandview Kids

Every Child And Youth Living Life At Their Full Potential

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Reflecting on the journey to the New Grandview Kids

Volunteering

Grandview Kids parent and Board member, Leisa Ackerblade, reflects on the Parent Task Force’s advocacy to construct the New Grandview Kids

Read Leisa’s remarks below, which she shared at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of Grandview Kids’ new Ajax Headquarters – The Jerry Coughlan Building.

Leisa speaking at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in front of a podium that reads "Building Ontario."
Leisa speaking at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Leisa’s remarks

My name is Leisa Ackerblade; I’m a member of the Board of Trustees and a proud Grandview parent.

I was honoured to be a part of the Grandview Parent Task Force, a group that began in 2014 with the goal of advocating for a new headquarters for Grandview Kids.

Fast forward, 10 years later, it’s here. This is a surreal moment for us – many of the Task Force parents are in this room. We can’t believe that what was once a dream, has turned into a reality.

We are so proud, and we know this facility will have a profound impact on children, youth, and families – now and for generations to come.

Thanks, Tom and Avori, for asking me to speak on behalf of parents and families today. But you know, sometimes, us parents go a little rogue. So, I’d like to take this opportunity to say a few thank yous—on behalf of parents and families.

To our elected officials and friends in government, particularly the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services, thank you for not only hearing us but for listening.

We knew you heard us – because let’s face it… we got kind of loud. But you went beyond that. Thank you for listening to our stories and for understanding why this facility was so critical to kids in Durham Region. Thank you for continuing to listen, and for walking this journey with us.

To Team Grandview. And when I say Team Grandview, I mean TEAM GRANDVIEW. From the Board to Senior Leadership, to every staff member from every discipline, volunteers, our friends at the Foundation, donors, partners. Thank you.

I’m not sure you quite know the impact that you make.

Thank you for believing in the potential of our kids.

Thank you for delivering exceptional care and creating welcoming, safe and inclusive spaces for our children to learn and grow – at their own pace, in their own time.

You cheer for our kids as loud as we do – and bring your own pom poms to work every day. You show the same dedication, passion and care whether we are your first appointment of the day, or your last appointment of the day.

You never falter.

We see you. We appreciate you. We thank you.

And finally – to our kids. The very special people who inspired us to act.

Thank you.

Thank you for showing us determination.

Thank you for showing us strength.

Thank you for never losing faith.

We are so proud to be your parents.

You are miracles, you are marvels and you are magic.

This building is your legacy too.

And to the future generation of Grandview kids who will experience amazing ‘firsts’ within these walls. I hope that seeing this massive project become a reality shows you, that if you can dream it, you can do it.

Grandview …. is for the dreamers.

We can’t wait to watch you discover your full potential.

You got this.

To quote the great Dr. Suess….who should be quoted to conclude all parent speeches –

“You’re off to great places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, so… get on your way!”

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Olivia J.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids?

I have been a volunteer at Grandview kids for 8 months.  

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids?

While volunteering with one of the recreation therapy groups, a child communicated their enthusiasm about an activity using an expression that was new to them. Although it was said quietly, the recreation therapists quickly noticed and celebrated this new skill and were excited to share the news with the child’s parents. It was a really sweet moment to witness and also a reminder of how important it is to get to know the children we work with so that we always recognize their achievements.  

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids?

I would encourage anyone considering volunteering at Grandview kids to do so – it’s a really rewarding opportunity to get to know some of the wonderful families and children in the community while learning from and helping support the knowledgeable and dedicated clinicians and staff. 

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you?

One of the best parts about volunteering at Grandview kids is greeting families as they come in for their appointments. Often, children will proudly show me things they’ve brought with them, tell me something about their day, smile, wave, or peek inquisitively over the desk. They are all so sweet and I love welcoming them to the centre.

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back? 

I am inspired by the collaborative efforts of everyone who works together to help children reach their potential – parents, extended families, and dedicated professionals at Grandview kids and within the community. 

People around the world recognize the important role volunteers play in many areas of life. But volunteers don’t work alone. That’s why we celebrate International Volunteer Managers Day every year on November 5.

Here is what Grandview Kids’ Volunteer Coordinator, Tara, shares when asked what leading the Volunteer Program at Grandview Kids means to her

“I am honoured to be part of the Volunteer Program at Grandview Kids.  As a coordinator of volunteers, I enjoy meeting and ultimately introducing a diverse array of dynamic, talented, and caring people within our community to our organization.  When interviewing potential volunteers, it is no surprise to hear the most common response for wanting to volunteer is the desire to give back to the community.  

As we look to the future, it is exciting to grow and develop our program.  Our volunteers can be seen as the “Director of First Impressions” when clients/families enter our Centre, or they may be in the background assisting with various programs, offering their support to our clinical team.  Some offer their enthusiasm and expertise by participating in community events and on committees, and others are very happy to serve up freshly baked goods (and a smile) in our volunteer-run Café.“

This year’s International Volunteer Managers Day theme is “What’s our future normal?” Visit volunteermanagersday.org to learn more.

Did you know?

Grandview Kids is actively recruiting volunteers to support us at our new Ajax-based headquarters and Oshawa-Dwyer site starting this fall.

If you or someone you know is interested in our available opportunities and would like to apply, please visit our blog to learn more.

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Tarana F.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids?

I’ve been volunteering at Grandview Kids since July 2023 until now. 

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids?

Nothing in particular, but the staff have been consistently friendly and helpful. 

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you? 

Seeing the children and youth smile and have fun!

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back?  

My therapist inspires me to volunteer and give back. She encouraged me to seek opportunities beyond my bubble and into community involvement. I’m grateful she encouraged me because I’ve enjoyed my time at Grandview!

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids?

I would tell them to do it! It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with clinicians and support young children in need. Helping with the therapy sessions is also fun and brings you back to childhood. 

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Kerry L.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids?

Since June 2023!

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids?

While volunteering at a Family Engagement art event, a child was reluctant to try the activity, stating, “I am just not good at art.” After some gentle persuasion, he tried it and created a beautiful abstract painting. He was so delighted with the outcome that he created a second artwork. After completing everything, he stated, “I think I am an artist- I never knew this, and I can’t wait to tell my mom!.” Seeing the joy in his discovering his inner talent and potential was beyond heartwarming.   

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you? 

There is a sense of community and caring, where everyone is welcome and belongs. There is a connection at Grandview Kids between clients, caregivers, and staff that you do not find in other organizations. 

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back?  

The children and youth at Grandview Kids are my inspiration.  

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids?

At Grandview Kids, a volunteer is indeed a member of the team. Grandview invests in its volunteers and supports them well by providing comprehensive training, weekly updates, and staff support, all while offering a wide variety of volunteer opportunities.

Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Sylvia H.!

How long have you been volunteering at Grandview Kids?

One year and nine months .

Has anything interesting happened to you while you were volunteering at Grandview Kids?

Each volunteer experience is a new adventure. Some of my most memorable moments have been volunteering with the Recreation Therapy team and the fun activities we have facilitated, such as building a gingerbread house before the holidays, an off-site trip to Putting Edge, etc. It has been so much fun to participate in a variety of activities.

What is the best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids for you? 

The best part of volunteering at Grandview Kids has to be the client interactions. The high fives, smiles, excitement, and conversations are priceless. It is the greatest privilege to make a positive contribution to someone’s day week after week.  

Who inspires you to volunteer or give back?  

My sister Sarah, who passed away when she was 1 year and 3 months old, inspires me to volunteer. We were very lucky as a family to have had so much support from the countless medical professionals, volunteers, etc., who helped us along our journey. I hope that through my volunteer efforts, I can pay it forward in any way, big or small.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Grandview Kids?

I couldn’t recommend volunteering at Grandview Kids enough! Being a volunteer here has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. The variety of opportunities to participate is endless and truly caters to all interests. The staff makes you feel welcome and included, and above all, the clients are phenomenal to work with.

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