Message from Our Executive Director

KW Habilitation
2014 - 2015 Annual Report
TC | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Table of Contents
Content
Page
KWH BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Vision, Mission and Values Statement
Executive Director
President
Nominations
Finance Committee
1
2
4
5
6
KWH PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Early Learning, Childcare & Family Resources
Community Participation & Employment Supports
Residential Services
Operations
Human Resources
Quality Assurance
Health & Safety
7
10
13
15
17
19
20
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 1
Our Vision
This vision statement presents a picture of the preferred future of KW Habilitation. While it may not be fully
realized, the vision is still the motivating force for the future of the organization:
“A community where everyone belongs and participates”
Our Mission
Our mission statement defines the purpose of KW Habilitation and highlights what we hope to achieve and
how we will accomplish that purpose:
“Together with families and the community, KW Habilitation provides services and supports to create
opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to learn, work and live in the community.”
Our Values
The fundamental beliefs that guide the actions and decisions of KW Habilitation are reflected in the following
values statements:
Equality and Choices
We treat each person with respect and recognize their rights, choices and contributions.
Inclusion and Community Participation
We are committed to promoting inclusion through public awareness and community participation.
Collaboration and Partnerships
We value collaboration and promote effective partnerships that enable the community to share in the
responsibility of ensuring participation for everyone.
Leadership and Excellence
We believe that dynamic leadership, continuous learning and innovation are essential to achieving
excellence.
Integrity and Accountability
We embrace the values of fairness and honesty in all that we do to ensure our integrity and accountability.
2 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our Executive Director
What a year for KW Habilitation (KWH)! The move to the new building at 99 Ottawa Street has been one of the
most significant events in the history of our organization. Over 500 people joined us for our Grand Opening
celebration that was held last September. The shift from a sheltered workshop environment to a more inclusive,
person-centred setting has had a significant impact on many of the citizens we support. We have all had to learn
how to “live with each other” and great relationships have been built in the process. Several community groups
also use the building now as we continue to create partnerships and collaborations.
A full operations report and update, which identifies the outcomes that have been accomplished in conjunction
with the Strategic Goals of the organization, are presented to the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. This fall,
the Board will undertake another review of the Strategic Plan and set the goals for the next three years.
Our next large endeavour is the affordable housing project which has been confirmed by the Board as an
important strategic direction. This new multiunit building is being planned for the 108 Sydney Street South side of
the property with the goal of being completed by the end of 2016. We are presently in the process of satisfying all
of the ground work for the required permits and assessments.
KW Habilitation’s accreditation process, through Focus Accreditation, represents another major undertaking for
KWH in 2015, with a full review scheduled for this fall. We have been preparing for accreditation for quite some
time by ensuring all of our policies and procedures meet the established criteria and that our Governance Policy
and Procedures are up to date. Board orientation to these updates occurred this past spring.
In September 2014, KWH completed a history video that documents the very beginnings of our organization.
This has been a great way to treasure and archive our past! As I glance at all of the good work being done
throughout KW Habilitation, I am reminded of how far we have come. I am very grateful to have a Senior
Management team that has the expertise to be change agents.
I am also grateful to have a Board of Directors that has vision and is willing to take calculated risks as long as it
will improve the lives of the people we support. Most importantly I am grateful for our employees and volunteers
whose commitment to our vision and mission is seen in their continued dedication to KW Habilitation in making a
difference.
Grand Opening Celebration
Respectfully submitted by:
Ann Bilodeau
Executive Director
Taking the Pledge to End Bullying 2015
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 3
4 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our President
This year has been very busy, not only for the Board of Directors, but also for our Executive Director and the rest
of the staff of KW Habilitation. I thank them for their vision and leadership in meeting the many challenges put in
our path. I am confident that the future needs and goals will be met, to a positive end.
May 2014 marked the transition to our new home at 99 Ottawa Street. While change is always difficult, we are
getting settled into a rhythm and are finding a new “VIBE” developing in this new building. Many heartfelt thanks
to those who have made this dream become a reality. Although there are always a few glitches with any new
construction, the excellent end product is well-deserved and something we can be truly be proud of.
The Board of KW Habilitation continues to govern according to the Bylaws of the Organization. We review a
portion of the responsibilities at each meeting and we are committed to having a Board that responds to the
needs of our community.This past year we undertook the completion of an agency risk management review
which culminated in a thorough Risk Management Plan for the Board and Senior Management. A Crisis
Communication Plan was also developed and implemented along with short and long term succession planning
for the Executive Director. In addition, an Annual Review was completed on our Executive Director in September
2014 and each Board member was asked to complete the annual self-evaluation of the activities of the Board in
April 2015.
The Board of Directors of KWH is proud to have seen our three-year Strategic Plan come to fruition. We will now
take a look at the next three years to continue along the path of success and to build on our strong commitment
to the citizens and families we support. Keeping informed of building progress and participating in the construction
meetings for the new 99 Ottawa Street location took a lot of our attention during the past two years. We look
forward to our next project with the start of planning for a 22-unit affordable housing project on the 108 Sydney
Street side of the property. Yes, these are exciting times for KW Habilitation; however, we also respect the fact
that an efficient and responsible Board is required to meet the accountability demands of the organization.
The Board of Directors is grateful for the ongoing support of our founding partners: The KW Kinsmen Club and
the KW Association for Community Living. The KW Kinsmen Club spends countless hours in their fundraising
efforts to support the work of KW Habilitation and other charities. The Kinsmen TV Auction, the Blue Jays Trip,
and the Group Home Christmas Lights, are just a few of the projects that support KWH. Thank you for the work
you do and for your continued partnership with KWH. The KW Association for Community Living is always
supportive and continues to help with volunteering at events and is a valuable partner with KWH. I would
especially like to thank the KW Association for Community Living and the KW Kinsmen Charitable Foundation for
their ongoing financial contributions to KW Habilitation.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank the management, administration, as well as all of the
other employees and volunteers of KW Habilitation for providing excellent service to the people we support. All
of you are the most important assets of KWH! We continue to see your dedication and commitment in so many
ways, including Five Oaks, Staff Recognition (at a great Christmas Party), and, above all, the wonderful work you
do each and every day with the citizens you support. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank
Ann Bilodeau, our Executive Director for her passion and commitment to KW Habilitation.
I thank all the members of the Board of Directors for their dedicated volunteer service over the past year. I
particularly want to recognize and thank those whose tenure on the Board will come to an end this year: Steven
O’Melia, Denis Turenne, Dave Garratt, Peter Hood, and Ron Johnson.
My term as President of the Board of Directors will also be ending this June 2015. It has been an honour and
a privilege to serve in this capacity over the past three years. I am, however, looking forward to continuing as a
Member of the Board for the next two years. 2015 holds new opportunities and challenges, and I am confident
that our Board of Directors, management and staff will continue to work hard to forge a successful future for KW
Habilitation!
Respectfully submitted by:
Dave Faller
President
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 5
Message from Nominations
2015 – 2016 Board of Directors
According to the Bylaws of KW Habilitation the number of members of the Corporation (Board of Directors) shall
be 12, of whom:
1. Six shall be elected by the members of the Corporation and approved by the Executive
of the KW Kinsmen Club, sponsoring organization.
Dave Faller
Brian Burchatzki
Jane Tuer
Gabriel Flatt
Jim Moore
Jeffrey Collins
- Standing for election – 2015 - 2016
- Standing for election – 2015 - 2016
- Standing for election – 2015 - 2016
- Standing for election – 2015 - 2016
2. Six shall be elected by the members of the Corporation (Board of Directors) and approved by the Executive of
the Kitchener-Waterloo Association for Community Living, sponsoring organization.
Mike Staub
Charlotte Craven
Kathy Lantz
Nancy Oswald
Kimberly Hart
Bea Borsato
- Standing for election - 2015 - 2016
Ex-Officio Members
K-W Kinsmen Club
President: Rick Willeart
K-W Association for Community Living
Association Rep: Marty Bauman
KW Habilitation
Executive Director: Ann Bilodeau
Officers of the Board of Directors : Standing for election 2015 - 2016
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
Charlotte Craven
Kathy Lantz
Kimberly Hart
Mike Staub
Governance Committee : Standing for election 2015 - 2016
Charlotte Craven
Kathy Lantz
Kim Hart
Mike Staub
Dave Faller
President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
Past President
The Executive Director of KW Habilitation, Ann Bilodeau attends all Governance meetings.
There are currently no vacancies on the Board of Directors.
Respectively submitted by:
Kathy Lantz, Past President
Nominations
6 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our Finance Committee
The Finance Committee’s primary responsibilities are to oversee the financial information of KW Habilitation,
and to report and make recommendations concerning the financial position to the Board of Directors. During
the 2014 - 2015 year the Finance Committee met regularly to review the organizations operating results,
external audited financial statements, financial policies and procedures, budgets and government funding
reporting.
This year the Committee also reviewed proposals and heard from several investments firms regarding their
wealth management strategy, and how it would apply to the contingency fund of KW Habilitation. After careful
review and consideration, a recommendation was made to the Board of Directions to continue to use the
wealth management services of Rae Lipskie for the management of the contingency fund. The contingency
fund closed the year at a value of $1.3 million.
After an exciting first year at 99 Ottawa Street and demolition of the building on Sydney Street, the
Committee recommended to the Board that Melloul Blamey, the Construction Manager of 99 Ottawa be the
future Construction Manager of the anticipated affordable housing project on Sydney Street.
Two successful KWH fundraising events were the Scotch Tasting at its Finest which helped raise $22,000
and the Golf Tournament which helped raise $12,000. The ongoing support from MCSS and MCYS is
indispensable to the ongoing operations. The Committee is thankful for the workplace stability funding that was
received this fiscal year, as wages and benefits continue to be the largest operating expense.
On behalf of the Finance Committee, we are extremely grateful to all of the donors, volunteers and funding
partners. Your financial support and commitment to the organization allows KW Habilitation to provide
opportunities and enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Although the audited financial reports revealed an operating statement deficit, this was a successful year for
KW Habilitation. We were able to provide an Employee Assistance Program, continue to keep wages
competitive, complete necessary repairs and maintenance and acquire two vans that were needed for the
residential homes. Thank you to the Management who worked so hard to demonstrate fiscal responsibility.
The Committee would like to thank Denis Turenne for his valuable contributions and many years of volunteer
service on the Finance Committee. Denis has resigned his position on the Committee.
I would like to thank all of the 2014-15 Finance Committee members including:
Denis Turenne
Brian Burchatzki
Dave Faller
Marty Mathieson
Mike Staub
Frank Thompson
Ann Bilodeau
Sue Agley
Lorri Detta
Catherine Hartung
Community Representative
KW Habilitation Board
President
KW Association for Community Living Representative
KW Habilitation Board
K-W Kinsmen Club Representative
KW Habilitation Executive Director
KW Habilitation Controller
KW Habilitation Director of Finance
Auditor, Graham Matthews LLP
Respectfully submitted by:
Kim Hart
Chair of the Finance Committee
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 7
Message from Our
Early Learning, Child Care & Family Resources
Over the last year in the Early Learning Program at KW Habilitation, transformative change continues to drive
our service. Early Learning, Child Care and Family Resources supports the unique needs of children and
their families who are enrolled in licensed care programs throughout the Region of Waterloo. Our qualified
staff assist in ensuring that the developmental health needs of children are addressed, as we implement the
changes that are taking place in services for children across the Province of Ontario.
In 2014, our program moved forward in our partnership with the Waterloo Region’s Special Needs
Resourcing Collaborative. Involved in that collaboration are Family and Children’s Services, KidsAbility,
KW Habilitation and the Region of Waterloo. Family and Children’s Services provide resource consultant
services for families who are involved with the child welfare system to support their transition to licensed
early learning and care programs across the Region. KidsAbility provide all kinesiology, occupational therapy,
physiotherapy and speech and language services to licensed early learning and care programs in the
region. KW Habilitation provides all resource consultant services, enhanced staffing, volunteer and student
placements, as well as psychology services to licensed early learning and care programs throughout the
region, for all specialized needs. The Region of Waterloo continues to provide leadership supporting Special
Needs Resourcing Services as transformative change continues to evolve.
As part of the Special Needs Resourcing Collaborative we remain child-focused. Children are the centre
of service delivery and are viewed in context of their family and the Early Learning and Child Care setting.
All support services focus on supporting the full inclusion of the child in the licensed Early Learning and
Care setting. This is accomplished by ensuring that services are easily accessible, culturally responsive
and adaptive to individual needs. We remain committed to our Goal of Excellence – providing high quality,
inclusive child care programs and service providers who are knowledgeable and responsive to the needs of
every child. This is demonstrated through our positive relationships in the community.
Highlights of 2014-15
We continue to value the opportunity for staff education and development in the field of Early Learning.
Developmental opportunities and community participation over the past year have included the following:
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The Deveraux Early Childhood Assessment
(DECA)
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Neuro Development
Leadership Training - OASIS
Hawaii Early Learning Program (HELP)
Tools for Life
Evaluating Community Impact
Emergent Curriculum
Raising the Bar (RTB)
Autism Services of Waterloo Region
Children’s Planning Table for the Region
of Waterloo
Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Forum
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Learning Strategies in the area of sensory loss including
vision and hearing
Developmental Screening at Community Health Fairs
Internal Committee participation and sharing of
knowledge
Internal Lunch-and-Learn Seminars
Special Needs Resourcing Collaborative Leadership
Team
Waterloo Child and Youth Services Planning Council
Program Advisory Council (PAC), Conestoga College
K-W Volunteer Action Centre
United Way of Cambridge and North Dumfries
Special Needs Strategy Planning Table
(Waterloo Region)
8 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our
Early Learning, Child Care & Family Resources
Our Early Learning and Child Care staff have worked on a number of exciting initiatives over the first full year of
our service. When we came together as a new model of service, we established 21 working clusters, or areas,
throughout the Region of Waterloo. Establishing 21 geographic clusters allowed for each of our Resource
Consultants to have a designated working area. Built into each area are an assigned number of licensed child
care spots. Each consultant holds responsibility for one of these areas.
As we continue to work in this model, we are always evaluating the need to make changes that result from
shifting demographics, whether it is based on area development or the establishment of new programs and
schools. KidsAbility works with us within these clusters and each group of clusters has assigned therapists that
provide the specialized services on a needs basis.
We have learned that allowing ourselves to be flexible provides the resilience to navigate through the exciting
changes that are occurring throughout our field.
In January 2105, we were able to solicit the support of four additional psychologists. Each year, we coordinate up
to 50 psychological assessments throughout the Region for children in licensed care programs. The support of
five psychologists with various backgrounds and expertise allows us to remain current in our ability to continue to
provide this valuable service.
Our Student and Volunteer Placement Program
continues to bring new and fresh ideas and faces to our
agency. Throughout the Region, we have established
many partnerships with organizations, schools and
other services to provide volunteer and student
placements opportunities, based on need,
aspirations and a genuine desire to help.
Our partnerships with the local colleges,
universities and other organizations provide
a wealth of experience and opportunities for
all those involved. We maintain membership
with the K-W Volunteer Action Centre and the
United Way of Cambridge and North Dumfries.
Quality Initiatives – Raising the Bar (RTB)
Each year Early Learning participates in the quality
initiatives program entitled Raising the Bar. This initiative is
supervised and completed by the Region of Waterloo and
is a community-based peer accredited set of quality
standards. The goal of Raising the Bar is to ensure that
licensed early learning and child care programs (child
care centres, home child care agencies, special needs
resourcing agencies) in the Region of Waterloo, are
engaged in an ongoing process that actively supports
healthy child development in settings that are safe, clean
and focused on high quality.
9 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our
Early Learning, Child Care & Family Resources
Quality Initiatives – Raising the Bar (RTB)
We are pleased to report that during the review dates of May 2014 – May 2015 our program was awarded the
triple gold status. This triple gold bar award includes a Quality Assurance Cycle, Best Practice in Child Care
Management and Staff Professional Development. Once again this demonstrates the commitment of our
dedicated staff in ensuring that our standards are met on a daily basis. Kudos for all the hard work in achieving
this goal.
In closing, the Ontario Government’s Bill 10, The Childcare and Modernization Act received Royal ascent in
December 2014. Throughout this calendar year the process of regulatory change will take place to assist in
the implementation of this new act. We continue to look forward to embracing the projected changes and being
instrumental in ensuring we perpetuate a community where everyone belongs and participates.
Respectfully submitted by:
John Martin
Director
Early Learning, Child Care & Family Resources
10 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our
Community Participation & Employment Supports
Community Participation & Employment Supports (CP & ES) – 400 + participants: The Vibe, Always
Doing Something (ADS), Our Farm, The Studio, LEG Up!, Community Participation Supports and
Employment Supports.
We are in full-swing making community connections, developing options and creating opportunities that focus on
belonging, learning, volunteering, working, recreation and leisure.
What a difference a year makes! If I were to pick two buzz words that would communicate the changes this past
year, they would be “Transformation and Transition”.
Transformation: noun: a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance
Transition: noun: the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so to save on words here are some of the transformational
highlights from this past year!
Our Farm
From this…
to this…Our Farm 115 University Ave.
From this...
to this…Our Farm DFR location
K W H 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 1 5 A N N U A L R E P O R T | 11
Message from Our
Community Participation & Employment Supports
From Our Farm Market at 99 Ottawa…to Grant’s Café or to your table!
ADS: From this at 115 University Avenue....
To this…a wonderful pond-less waterfall addition generously donated by Grand Valley Garden
Village, Aquascape, and Inspired Landscapes (see full story at www. kwhab.ca)
12 | KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Message from Our
Community Participation & Employment Supports
More than the obvious changes to our environments, the
“Your Day Your Way” mindset has been a focus of our
transitional efforts over this past year. Person-centered and
person-directed approaches have continued to evolve, be
better understood by everyone, and put into practice when
developing activity schedules or when assisting people to
choose from the many options available at our hub locations
and throughout the community.
Collaborative efforts and community partnerships have
made win/win opportunities possible and added richness
to our experiences. This was powerfully demonstrated
when we hosted CTV’s “Take the Pledge to End
Bullying” launch in November.
Joining us for this community event were Police Chief Bryan Larkin, guest speaker Emanuel Sandhu, partner
agencies (Community Living Cambridge, Parent for Community Living, Christian Horizons, Aldaview Services,
Sunbeam Development Centre) Representatives from the Kitchener Rangers, both School Boards, the YMCA
and Rockway Mennonite, Grand River Transit and local dignitaries and interested citizens.
I would like to express a sincere thank you to the CP & ES staff for their dedication, trust, flexibility and
commitment. Our eyes have been opened to the endless possibilities that exist! With that being said, it would
appear that Community Participation and Employment Supports will continue on this journey of change and
transition. Our vision “A community where everyone belongs and participates” is our ultimate goal.
Buzz words to communicate goals for the next year are “Passport/individualized funding/ fee-for-service-for
options” which will enable us to expand and enhance community participation supports. “Employment
Supports” a major effort will focus on employer engagement, skills training and community development.
“Desire is the key to motivation, but it is determination and commitment to an unrelenting pursuit of your goal - a
commitment to excellence - that will enable you to attain the success you seek.” - Mario Andretti
Respectfully submitted by:
Tracy Franks
Director, Community Participation & Employment Supports
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT |13
Message from Our Residential Services
Supporting a good life for people with developmental disabilities is what Residential Services is all about. Through
KW Habilitation’s vision and our person-centred plans each person expresses their true desires for an enriched
life of choices and self-direction.
The support for this action is individualized for people who require minimal assistance to those requiring
twenty-four hour care. The following are stories illustrating the lives of people, their wishes, desires and dreams
and who are supported by Residential Services…this is what we do.
Making a dream trip become a reality… Janet, John and Sue spent a week traveling through the United States of
America to reach the home of their idol Elvis Presley. They traveled the bumpy highways with a birds’ eye view of
the scenery while sitting on the top level of the double-decker bus.
Upon their arrival, they spent a day taking in all of the excitement Beale Street and Downtown Memphis had to
offer. They chose to end their evening with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets they had explored
earlier. The following day everyone was up early so they could venture over to the Graceland Estate where they
peered over the graffiti-filled stone fence surrounding the estate before walking the halls of Elvis' very own home.
Janet enjoyed spending time in the Meditation Garden. Everyone was excited to see all of the Elvis merchandise
available to be purchased and enjoyed posing for pictures with the life size cut-outs of their idol.
After spending the day at Graceland, The Group enjoyed a walk through a local park to lay sights on the
Mississippi River and wind down before the adventure continued in Atlanta, Georgia. While in Atlanta, the group
wandered over to the Coke Museum where they were able to pose for a picture with the Coke Bear, enjoy a 4D
ride, and even taste hundreds of different Coke products offered all over the world. After a long day of exploring
Atlanta by foot, it was time to end the trip with the bus ride home. An enjoyable and memorable vacation for all!
A Unique Way to Fundraise…..The Canadian Tire Way
Every year Tom has his sights set on purchasing a new electronic gift for his birthday. This year, Tom decided
to purchase a new stereo. This planning starts the day after Christmas and continues right up until July 8th, his
birthday. However, in light of limited funds and weekly spending on Tom’s favorite things and must haves (chips/
chocolate bars/pop), Tom initiated a creative budgeting/fundraiser to save and get money a different way for that
stereo at Canadian Tire. One wintery afternoon, staff was completing petty cash and, low-and-behold, some
Canadian Tire money was wrapped up in one of the receipts. Tom spotted it right away and told staff he was
going to use it towards his stereo.
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 14
Message from Our Residential Services
Word spread like wildfire and the contributions began to pour in from other KW Habilitation friends, families and
staff. Tom, of course, had to purchase a large black bag to keep all his money in! Tom counts his money twice a
week, reminds staff daily there is still more room in his pouch for money and he is definitely getting closer to
getting the stereo.
To date he is at $55 and is still collecting to reach his goal of $80. Tom is determined to reach his goal as he has
been seen kissing his pouch of Canadian Tire money whispering “SOON!” with a big smile on his face!
Sadie Joins The Buddy Choir
Enthusiasm and the love of music was the motivation for Sadie to join the Buddy
Choir in September 2014. The Buddy Choir is sponsored by the Waterloo Region
Down Syndrome Society. It is an inclusive company that invites anyone to join.
This year, the youngest member is 5 years old and the eldest is 55 years:
participants are people with all different abilities, family, friends and anyone else
who wants to join. The choir practices Monday nights; they have many
performances at various venues throughout the year within the K-W community.
Sadie is passionate about music; she loves to sing and dance, both of which she
does as a choir member. Sadie very much looks forward to Monday evenings as
well as to all the scheduled performances. She has made many new friends since
joining the Buddy Choir!
Enthusiasm and transformation continue to influence the work of residential
services. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the citizens we
assist, their families and friends, staff, volunteers and the Kinsmen/Kinettes for
all of their contributions to make the lives of the people we support more
enriched.
Respectfully submitted by:
Chris Gefucia
Director of Residential Services
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT |15
Message from Our Director of Operations
KW Habilitation’s Operations Department had another eventful year! It’s been one year since we moved to our
new home at 99 Ottawa Street South and said good bye to the Kinsmen Training Centre at 108 Sydney Street
South.
The excitement and anticipation of moving to our new home was greeted with the task of establishing a
functioning, highly communicative and efficient operating plan for a building with many departments and a unique
personality such as ours! It wasn’t long before Sydney Street became a distant memory and we all settled into
our new home.
As we were settling in; many of us took advantage of the east facing windows at 99 Ottawa. From these windows,
we had a bird’s eye view of the demolition of 108 Sydney Street. Last summer many of us took the time and
watched as our former home came down and was hauled away. For many, it became a time to reflect on how
far we had come, and more importantly our future! Clean up of the former building and some environmental
remediation lasted most of the summer and into early fall. With construction wrapped up at 99 Ottawa and
demolition completed at 108 Sydney, the high priority for Operations would turn to our four storey affordable
housing project.
Working closely with our team, including Tim Welch (TWC-Affordable Housing Consultant) ABA Architects,
Bill Dahms (Miller Thomson) and Golder Associates, we began to take our next steps. After presenting to the
Committee of Adjustment at Kitchener City Hall, we were given our to-do list over the next 12 months. As we
work towards land severance, record of site condition, permits etc. we have hit a few bumps in the road but
continue to move forward.
Construction Management Services for the affordable housing project went to tender last November. After
reviewing our proposals, the successful company was again Melloul-Blamey. Once MB was on board, we could
begin focusing on the building itself, in particular design comments from Structural (MTE), Mechanical (Collins)
and Electrical (Mighton). Monthly meetings with this team began in January 2015 and continue. With such a
strong need in our community for affordable housing and with the backing of our Board, we continue to work with
our construction team, environmental team and the Region of Waterloo (funders) to try and make this project a
reality.
Besides all the excitement at 99 Ottawa, the Operations Department had a number of focus areas throughout the
agency including:
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Working closely with our three Fire Departments, Waterloo, Woolwich and Kitchener, we are developing
strategies to deal with the Ontario Fire Marshal’s changes to the Code. Specifically dealing with staffing
levels in care occupancies, care and treatment occupancies and retirement homes. This past year, the Fire
Departments toured all our homes and we have established a working plan for each home to comply with
the code. Kitchener homes currently are requiring the bulk of retrofitting. As an agency, we have committed
to installing sprinklers at Frederick Street (completed), Forest Hill (completed), Third Avenue (in progress),
with Avalon and Pinnacle to be completed by the end of 2015. Also, in an effort to meet compliance, we are
working with Kitchener Fire to install Direct Detect monitoring systems in our homes.
2013
2014
2015
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 16
Message from Our Director of Operations
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Sub leasing our location at 124 Sydney Street, which allows us to utilize their parking lot and meeting hall and
partner with tenants in the space. We are working closely with landlords at this location as well as LEG Up! and
The Studio.
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Working closely with the City of Waterloo (Municipal Enforcement Services Division) at their request. With
changes to the Fire Code, they have decided to restructure how their “Group Home” license renewal process,
criteria is completed.
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Working together with concerned business owners on Ottawa Street, regarding the Region’s Ottawa Street
expansion as well as the light rail construction planners from the Region and consultants from MTE have sat with
us to review potential lane increases on Ottawa Street. While most around the table are concerned about impacts
on their business, parking etc. our focus remains the safety of our participants. Meetings to address these issues
continue.
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The K-W Kinsmen’s generous financial support through the KW Kinsmen Charitable Foundation continues to
provide our homes with significant and needed upgrades. The Foundation again this year has paid for scheduled
upgrades, and will address many emergency, short notice projects. Some of the larger projects that the Foundation
paid for this year include the complete renovation of Third Avenue (Kitchen, flooring throughout home), complete
window replacement at Batavia, and much more. Thank you K-W Kinsmen!
•
Ministry Infrastructure Surveys for all KWH locations continue to be updated and serve as a tool in forecasting the
needs of our properties, as we continually assess the balance between needs and budget.
•
Some substantial Minor Capital, and Partner Facility Renewal funding dollars received from the Ministry.
Projects this year included:
•
115 University - fire panel replacement
•
Lexington - foundation and bathroom renovation
•
David Fisher Residence - new roof, 2 furnaces, 3 water Heaters
•
Stirling - complete window replacement
•
Extra discretionary funding, for specialized furniture and equipment funding for a number of smaller projects
•
A couple of changes to our fleet of vehicles this past year, the most significant being replacing Wordsworth’s
lift van. We purchased a new 2014 Chevrolet Express van and had it modified to accommodate 3 wheelchairs.
We currently have 30 vehicles in our fleet, 19 of them leased and 11 owned. Jim Pattison Leasing (our Fleet
Management Company) completed its first year audit with us and presented its findings. Overall, repair costs are
down on the vehicles due to Pattison technicians closely monitoring all service work. As well, convenience of
the fleet card is a benefit to the locations with a vehicle. We will continue with Pattison Leasing running our fleet
management.
•
The Operations Department continues to follow the directives set out by the Broader Public Sector (BPS). This
procurement procedure allows full transparency for tendering and awarding contracts.
•
Some changes to the Operations/Maintenance Department include adding two staff supported through Employment
Supports. These two employees work part-time hours and complete custodial duties at 99 Ottawa. Roycerin and
Aaron join full time custodian Don Boucher, full-time Maintenance, Ron Couch and our Supervisor, Tony Ward.
We are looking forward to more exciting times as we move forward on our Affordable Housing Project!
Respectfully submitted by,
Brian Pitts
Director of Operations
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT| 17
A Message from Our Human Resources
This has been another exciting year for KW Habilitation! We celebrated the first year in our new building
at 99 Ottawa Street. We have made good use of this location for meetings, employee training sessions,
networking events, and celebrations. It is a positive step to have so many employees representing various
service areas all working together under one roof.
We have had some exciting developments in the area of employee benefits and remuneration during the
past year. We were able to add some vision (eye care) benefits and an Employee Assistance Plan to our
Equitable Life benefits program. In addition, the “workforce stability funding” announced in the recent
Government of Ontario Budget enabled us to make some advances in the wages paid to our developmental
services employees. These enhancements to our overall compensation package have been well-received
by our staff.
We continue to benefit from having a sizeable cohort of long-term employees who can draw on their
well-developed skills and extensive experience to provide excellent support to the citizens accessing our
programs. The average length of service remains close to 10 years for our Full-Time staff and almost five
years for our Part-Time staff. It is encouraging to see so many employees demonstrate a long-standing
commitment to the mission and work of this organization. This also speaks positively to the ability of KWH to
attract and retain quality staff.
We experienced an increase in our Part-Time and Full-Time staff turnover rate. Not surprisingly, the rate for
Full-Time staff turnover remains lower than that for Part-Time staff. To help ensure we continue to attract and
hire qualified employees, we have integrated core-competency and person-centred support concepts into our
interview procedures for direct support staff.
The Human Resources Department provides ongoing consultation, support and communication in a variety
of areas such as disability management, return-to-work planning, benefits administration, employment
standards, corrective action and positive employee relations. A significant amount of the Human Resources
function at KWH involves collaboration and cooperation with members of the management team. In addition,
the management and worker representatives who make up the Joint Health and Safety Committee continue
to work diligently to promote our commitment to safe and healthy workplaces.
Our investment in staff education includes mandatory courses such as First Aid/CPR, WHMIS, Workplace
Violence Prevention, and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) as well as other workshops and training
opportunities. The format of the training not only includes in-class settings but also video and webcast
sessions. Our “Management Days” (June, December, and May) offered the whole management team
the opportunity for valuable information-sharing and learning. We also used these meetings as a forum
for updating our management plans from the Strategic Plan, professional development (e.g., “Fierce
Conversations” training), introducing new policies, and highlighting Core Competency concepts.
As noted in our Health and Safety report, we undertook a major revision of our Health and Safety Policies
and Procedures in 2014. While drastic changes were not required for the content, an update of the
formatting and organization of the material was long overdue. In addition, a subcommittee from the Health
and Safety Committee created a new in-house WHMIS training tool. The content of our new Health and
Safety manual along with associated training and reference resources are now available for our staff to
access via the “cloud.” We look forward to using these new and improved Health and Safety resources!
As alluded to above, we have continued our integration of the Core Competency program during the past
year. Core Competencies represent part of a province-wide human resources initiative to improve the
level of professionalism within the developmental services sector. Core Competency concepts are being
embedded into our employee recruitment and selection processes (e.g., using behavior-based interviewing
techniques to assess Core Competencies in candidates) and employee development systems. We are
looking forward to seeing the momentum of this program grow in the coming year as we continue with the
process of implementing and embedding Core Competency concepts in our HR practices.
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 18
A Message from Our Human Resources
We have made significant progress in implementing our long-awaited HR information system. While basic
employee data has been transferred into the system, we are in the process of populating the database with
more detailed information from individual employee files. This process of data input is rather time consuming
given the significant care and accuracy required. We have also run a few payroll simulations using this new
system.
KW Habilitation continues to have an active presence with the “South Central HR Group.” This networking
group provides the opportunity for resource-sharing, problem-solving, and professional development. The
group had the privilege of hosting a labour law presentation with Hicks Morley in October 2014. Most of our
Management Team was able to attend this valuable seminar as well. In early February 2015, KW Habilitation
again participated in a larger HR Forum (in Toronto) with attendees representing various developmental
services agencies from across Ontario. The sessions and workshops provided the opportunity for
professional development and networking.
During the upcoming year, we will be implementing an updated and revised Human Resources Manual.
We look forward to synchronizing the Human Resources policies and procedures with those in the Service
Delivery manual.
For the 2014/2015 fiscal year:
Worker Injury Benefit:
Accident Reports – 74
Loss time – 5
Long Term – 1
Medical Only – 5
Disability Leaves (Equitable Life):
- Short Term Disability Claims – 17
- Long Term Disability Claims – 12
Job Postings/ Positions Filled:
Contract – 14
Part-time – ongoing Part-Time/Relief
staffing needs)
Full-time – 15
Director – 0
Manager – 0
Supervisors – 1
Coordinator – 0
Full Time Administration - 1
Staff Count and Termination Data - June 2014 to May 2015:
Staffing
Number of Active Staff
(includes those on Leave of
Absence) at May 31, 2015
Number of Staff Whose
Employment with KWH
ended June 2014-May 2015
Turnover Rate
fye May 31,
2015
Part Time Relief
350
41
11.71%
Full Time
198
9
4.55%
Totals
548
50
9.12%
Staffing
Tenure of Active Staff (includes those
on LOA) as at May 31, 2015
Tenure of Staff whose employment
with KWH ended June 2014 May 2015 (in years)
Part Time Relief
4.74
3.23
Full Time
9.81
11.35
Totals
6.57
4.69
Respectfully submitted by,
Steven Plaum
Director of Human Resources
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT | 19
Message from Our Quality Assurance
The goals for Quality Assurance for the past year included:
1. Continuing with the preparation for Accreditation
• Completed Self-Analysis to be sent to FOCUS Accreditation by the end of June 2015
2. Completion of the final revisions of the new Service Delivery Policy and Procedures Manual
•
Final revisions are completed and Manual will be available on line by the end of June
3. Orientation of staff to the new Service Delivery Policy and Procedures Manual
• Oriented 250 staff members from January to March 2015
4.
Revising and updating the staff training module on PRISMS, Accreditation, and Core Competencies
in enhancing Person-Directed Services within services provided by KW Habilitation
• Updates are completed and training opportunities for all staff will be offered throughout the coming year
5. Ongoing development of the Agency newsletter, third party financial audits, Ministry of Community and
Social Services and Ministry of Child and Youth Services compliance/licensing audits, KW Habilitation
Agency Orientations, staff training and satisfaction surveys
6. KWH Committee participation and activities included:
Committees
Committee for Excellence
Accomplishments
•
•
Co-ordination of mini staff development sessions arranged on a monthly
basis throughout the year featuring KWH staff expertise on a number of
topics such as grief and trauma, self-care, behaviour support, citizenship,
visuals and augmentative communication, facilitating individualized planning
and social stories
Assisting with the co-ordination of Staff Appreciation Day
Medication and Wellness
Committee
•
•
Annual Medication Audits in all programs
Assisting with the implementation of the 7th Annual Health and Wellness
Fair
The Healthy HABit Club
•
Assist with the development of monthly activities to enhance health and
wellness of the citizens and staff connected with KW Habilitation
Behaviour Review Committee •
Reviewed and made recommendations for all behaviour support plans
involving intrusive measures
Abuse Prevention and
Education Committee
•
Assisted in establishing goals, training and resources with respect to the
prevention, awareness and education of abuse issues; specifically involved
in the development of a rights calendar and ongoing training for people
supported
Self-Advocate Group
“Outspoken”
•
Advise and facilitate a group of 20 self-advocates. Highlights included
attending a conference in Port Colborne in the fall of 2014, supported 3
self-advocates in speaking at a public school on the “Power of Words”
Included self-advocates in the process of KWH Orientations for all new staff
Development of an information post-card
•
•
Quality Assurance is privileged to be involved in so many of KW Habilitation initiatives and work. Highlights of
this past year included moving into our new building on 99 Ottawa Street South and observing the pride of people
supported and staff members on the day of our opening ceremony. Being a part of the Self-Advocate group and
supporting the growth of its members has been rewarding and fun. Having so many community partners share in
KW Habilitation events such as Anti-Bullying Day, the Health Fair and fundraising events has also been exciting.
Quality Assurance is an integral part of all aspects of KW Habilitation. It does not rest with one person, goal or
program, but is an accumulation of the efforts of all those who are associated with the Agency and everyone can
take credit for its accomplishments over this past exciting year.
Respectfully submitted by:
Deb Hurgett
Chris Gefucia
Manager of Quality Assurance Director of Residential Services
KWH 2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT| 20
A Message from Our Health & Safety Committee
KW Habilitation embraces a culture of health and safety where occupational injuries/illness are preventable.
Over the past year, the Multi Site Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) again received excellent support in
creating a healthy and safe workplace. We would like to thank the Board, Senior Management, and partners such
as the Public Services Health & Safety Association (PSHSA) for their support. The JHSC would also like to salute
all employees for their ongoing commitment to working smart and safely. Together we are making progress in
preventing workplace injury and illness.
Over the past year, the JHSC demonstrated its ongoing commitment to due diligence and care. We met five
times and covered agenda items such as Air Quality, WHMIS, Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps
(Ministry of Labour -MOL), Workplace Violence Risk Assessments and orientation to the on-line Health and Safety
Team Site. Representatives and liaisons took the lead in completing annual inspections at work sites (other
than their home site) and completing monthly inspections at their primary work locations. These inspections
included recommendations to managers with the goal of promoting a safe and healthy work environment. In
addition, employee accident reports were reviewed throughout the year with the goal of identifying, assessing and
developing programs to control hazards and prevent accident recurrence. The JHSC also successfully completed
a major revision of our Health and Safety program in 2014 which resulted in updated policies and procedures
being presented in a more user-friendly format.
In collaboration with our IT service provider, a Health and Safety Team Site was developed to allow employees to
access the KWH Health and Safety Program electronically. The team site also provides an interactive opportunity
for employees to reach out, ask questions and leave comments.
Ongoing Health and Safety education and training represents an area of focus for the JHSC and KWH
Management:
Certification training of additional JHSC Representatives was an action step taken to advance the sustainability of
the organization and demonstrate our commitment to risk management. Two members recently completed “Part
Two” of their Certification Training and have been designated by the Ministry of Labour as Certified Members. We
currently have six Certified Members on the JHSC.
The JHSC and the Management Team worked to comply with Regulation 297/13 under the Ontario’s Occupational
Health & Safety Act (OSHA) requiring all workers and supervisors to be trained in basic health and safety
awareness. This training has become part of the new employee orientation process. Fire Extinguisher, BBQ,
and Ladder Safety Train-the-Trainer sessions were offered. A sub-committee of the JHSC produced a WHMIS
training video/presentation that more closely reflects the work experiences/environment of KWH employees. A
Back-Care training DVD and knowledge test were also added to the Health and Safety Team Site.
KWH recognizes the importance of continuing to ensure employees have the correct protective equipment as
required in emergency management situations. Under the direction of the Respiratory Coordinator, respirator fit
testing for Direct Support Professionals was conducted twice during the past year.
With the move to our new location at 99 Ottawa Street, committee members continued to work through the issues
associated with consolidating a number of workplaces/work teams and getting the new building set up in terms of
KWH’s health and safety program.
Moving forward, the JHSC’s goals include deepening our understanding of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
in the workplace, and the development of tools for hazard control. In addition, we are looking to enhance our
electronic Health and Safety Team Site with special training video features and helpful links. We will also
continue to revise our WHMIS program to keep up with the transition to the GHS (Globally Harmonized System of
Classification and Labeling of Chemicals).
KWH is committed to continuously improving our health and safety performance. Thanks to all employees and
remember to continue to live safe and work smart!
Respectfully submitted by
Laurene Sprowl & Lorraine Stavenow
Health & Safety Co-Chairs
Steven Plaum
Director of Human Resources
“Together with families and the community, KW Habilitation
provides services and supports to create opportunities for
people with developmental disabilities to learn, work and
live in the community“.