Clements Centre 2023/24 Annual General Report

Annual Report Fiscal 2023/24

Hope.

Belonging.

Independence.

Table of Contents 01

Land Acknowledgement

02

From the CEO and Board Chair

03

Meet the Board

04

Financials

05

Service Statistics

06 - 07

Our Gratitude

08

Early Childhood Intervention

09

Adult Community Living

10 - 11

Social Enterprise

12

Advocacy

13

Years of Service

Land Acknowledgement

01

We feel grateful and honoured to provide our services on the traditional and ancestral territories of the Lyackson, Stz'uminus, Puneluxutth', Meluxuh, Halalt, Dididaht, Pacheedaht, Pauquachin, Quw'utsun, and Ts'uubaa-asatx peoples.

We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit), respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.

Clements Centre Society recognizes that residential schools and other acts of colonization have resulted in broad inequities for Indigenous people in Canada. These inequalities create significant barriers for Indigenous children, youth, adults, and families trying to access programs and services. The Society envisions a community in which all individuals are accepted, valued, and celebrated and acknowledges its responsibility to work toward reconciliation with Indigenous communities.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion Clements Centre Society is committed to inclusive practices, providing equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups including women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and LGBTQIA2S+ applicants. We are dedicated to building an inclusive workforce that comprises individuals who have an array of identities, abilities, backgrounds, cultures, skills, perspectives, and experiences that are representative of the current and evolving population.

From the CEO and Board Chair

02

Throughout the 67-year history of the Society, our steadfast beacon is

Our mission We bring hope, belonging, and independence to children, youth, and adults with developmental needs and their families by offering programs and services that promote participation and engagement.

on working with others to build a community where all individuals are included, valued, and celebrated. During that time, we have witnessed remarkable transformations.

Change is a constant. For Clements, change is accelerating and, to navigate the shifts, the board and senior leadership need to understand the world in which Clements exists. That means taking advantage of the opportunities and mitigating the risks that come with change.

Fundamental to doing this is the importance of relationships. The

Our vision Clements Centre Society envisions a community in which all individuals are included, valued, and celebrated.

support of community, donors, members, and volunteers is essential to create sustainable, impactful programs, services, and infrastructure that address the changing needs of the Cowichan region.

Over the past year, the volunteer board of nine directors has dedicated countless hours to acting as a safety net for the mission. Through volunteering their time, offering sage advice, and making personal financial donations, the board works with people served and staff in finding innovative ways to meet changes taking place in the economy and society.

To enhance the quality of life for the people we serve by providing support across their lifespan – “from twinkle to twilight” – critical investments are needed. The Society is using its financial and staff resources to address changes in the need for housing, employment, mental health services, community collaboration, and the needs of children and youth.

Supported by the board, our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly during the last year to respond to the evolving needs of our community by developing innovative programs and engaging in training and development. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional people that comprise our staff and board of directors. Their unwavering commitment, hard work, and passion have been invaluable. We thank them for their dedication and for making our mission possible.

This annual report highlights some of our most significant achievements and moments from the past year. We hope you enjoy reading these

Dominic Rockall CEO

Leslie Welin Board Chair

stories of how Clements has a profound and positive impact on the lives of the individuals and families we serve. Finally, it is through the ongoing support of you - our members, the community, funders, and donors that the Society can foster hope, belonging, and independence for the children, youth, adults, and families we have the privilege and honour to serve.

Meet the Board

03

Leslie Welin

Richard Calverley

Carreen Unguran

Board Chair

Vice Chair/Treasurer

Secretary

Catherine Hudson

Nicole Diachuk

Nancy Dower

Director

Director

Director

Jean Scholefield

Spencer Schmidt

Ray Anthony

Director

Director

Director

Our values Equity

Access

Inclusion

Autonomy

All people have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

All people should have access to needed services that achieve maximal outcomes.

All people are entitled to live and participate as full citizens in the community of their choice, with the same rights, obligations, and responsibilities as other citizens.

All people must have their personal autonomy protected, with every effort made to nurture and enhance selfdetermination.

Financial Summary

04

As a vital charity in the Cowichan Valley, Clements Centre is contracted by Community Living BC, the Ministry of Children and Family Development, and the Ministry of Education and Child Care to provide services to a wide-ranging population. We are unique in having expert-led programs and services to meet the needs of an entire lifespan—for infants, children, and youth with support needs, as well as adults and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The demand for our help exceeds the funding we receive, and we work hard to provide services beyond our contractual obligations. It is the demonstrated commitment of our donors, partners, volunteers, and staff that, together, make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Where the money came from in 2023/24 and how we used it to accomplish our mission

Donations and grants 3.4% Service contracts 94.3% Community Living BC 60.3% Ministry of Children and Family Development 30.7% Ministry of Education and Child Care 3.3%

Early intervention, child, and youth services program delivery 33.7% Children’s services 16.4% Supported child development 13.5% Child care resource and referral 3.8%

Program spaces 2.3% The buildings and offices we need to do our work

Social enterprise 1.3% REVENUE Other income 1%

EXPENSES

Adult community living program delivery 55.6% Supported homes 25% Community inclusion 16.5% Semi-independent living 4.5% Supported employment 4.0% Home sharing 3.6% Social enterprise 2.0%

Managing the work 8.4% To succeed, we need equipment, supplies, administrative professionals, and to reinvest some money into raising even more money and awareness

To request a copy of our audited financial statements and invest in our mission, please reach out to donations@clementscentre.org.

Service Statistics

05

Adult community living

19 - 30

Age

Service

27%

19%

29%

31 - 40

209 Adults served

18%

41 - 50

7%

Home sharing

Staffed homes

Community inclusion

32% Through 9 locations

51+

26%

Supported Living and Employment

42%

Early intervention, child, and youth services

10 - 14

15 - 18+

79%

57%

11%

2,315 children and families accessed one or more services

4%

6-9

Service

6%

0-5

Age

10%

8%

From 14 communities

25%

Early intervention

Supported child development

School aged supports

Child care resource and referral

Our Gratitude

06

Legacy giving Thank you to those caring and compassionate people who have included a gift to Clements Centre Society in their will. In her lifetime, Jennifer Demedash was a frequent donor to Clements who knew that a bequest was a straightforward and meaningful way to extend her values and financial support beyond her lifetime. Now, her generosity and kindness continue to impact the lives of those we serve every day.

We honour the memory of Jennifer Demedash.

Are you inspired to join our family of supporters?

07 Heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has supported our mission of bringing hope, belonging, and independence to children, youth, and adults with developmental disabilities here in the Cowichan Valley.

This fiscal year, the following donors and grantors and businesses have helped us build a community in which all individuals are included, valued, and celebrated. We appreciate you.

$100,000+ Inclusion BC

$50,000 - $99,000 Estate of Jennifer Demedash Province of British Columbia (Gaming)

$10,000 - $49,000 Coastal Community Credit Union Catherine Hudson Island Savings, a Division of First West Credit Union Pacific Blue Cross Health Foundation Vancouver Island Health Authority

$5,000 - $9,999 Closson Classic Ball Tournament The Duncan Dabber Bingo Society Gift Funds Canada The Municipality of North Cowichan Tim Hortons

$1,000 - $4,999 Bev Angus Anonymous Beverly Corners Show & Shine Society Nancy Brennan B.P.O.E. Duncan Lodge #69 (Elks) Grant & Lynne Clement Shirley Cunnin Sean & Nancy Davison Duncan Lions Club William Flynn John & Ruth Howells Norma Irving Kroffat Brake & Wheel Malahat Lions Mr. Mikes Steakhouse / Dream Chase Ventures Ltd. Our Cowichan Communities Health Network Loretta Ramirez David Robertson Rotary Club of Duncan Tacey Ruffner Spencer Schmidt Krystyna Thomson Darrel & Leslie Welin Western Communities Foundation

$500 - $999

This list is based on contributions received during the fiscal year (April 1st, 2023 through March 31st, 2024). We have done our best to ensure the accuracy of this list. If you do not see your name, please contact us at 250-746-4135.

Jo Bodard Duncan Christian Reformed Church Donna Hobson Kiwanis Club of Duncan Lucille & Alfred Kocurek Mill Bay Lions Real Canadian Superstore (Loblaws) Royal Canadian Legion Branch 134 Minke Vanderweide Raymond Wheeler

$200 - $499 Aisuhdasui Auih Ray Anthony Kathleen Birnie Braithwate Richard Calverley Kayla Clarke Linda Davis Discovery Honda Nancy Dower Drumroaster Coffee Wendy Frejd Lois Gage Alison Garnett Jan Huggan Nicolette Jacobsz Kahuna Burger Lloyd Kincade Laura King Marilyn Klizs Sue Koch Sonia Latter Raymond Lundahl Lori Mackenzie John McCulloch Arina McLean Frances Montgomery Roy & Dorothy Napier Joanna Neilson Pacific Industrial Marine Ltd. Adriana M. Palasz Patricia Parker Neil Peters Susan Peterson Sharleen & James Phelan Jennifer Polack Jean & Pat Scholefield Maureen Stone Tania Tripp Nancy van der Weide Aude Volstad Amber Woodworth

Please contact us today at 250-746-4135 or donations@clementscentre.org.

Early Childhood Intervention

08

Maria's journey with the Clements Centre for Families Child Development Team began over seven years ago when she accessed services for her first child, continuing now with her second. Throughout this time, Maria describes her experience as consistently positive and helpful, emphasizing that she has never encountered a negative interaction.

She has utilized a variety of services offered by the centre, including Individualized Development Plans (IDP), Occupational Therapy (OT), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), family playgroups, and parenting courses. Maria highlights that, whenever she’s had questions about her children or parenting, she’s trusted the team to provide accurate information and connect her with relevant resources. This support spared her from the time-consuming task of navigating extensive internet searches.

Maria appreciates that the team provided her with awareness of what to observe and what concerns were less pressing. At times, their guidance provided her with the encouragement needed to persevere. The flexibility of home visits was particularly beneficial for Maria's family, as it was challenging for her to take her children out of the house. The familiarity the team developed with her home environment made their visits comfortable and reassuring for Maria and her family.

She describes the program as not only helpful but also compassionate, highlighting the kindness and supportiveness of everyone with whom she has worked. Maria felt the team consistently pointed her in the right direction and helped her understand the process of accessing various services.

Overall, Maria's story underscores the profound impact of the personalized, supportive services provided by Clements Centre, enhancing her family's journey through both developmental challenges and parenting.

Adult Community Living

09

Lydia has been with Clements since her youth. Our staff share that she may have started out as a somewhat shy teenager, but has grown into a confident and caring self-advocate who has a great sense of humour. Her tenacity, self-awareness, and calm presence have combined, creating the perfect mix of motivators to venture into conquering a long-term goal.

Lydia has been an avid reader for as long as she can remember. For many years, she dreamed of finding paid employment in her dream job as a librarian or librarian assistant. Her love of books and reading manifested in a home library that she and her family created together.

When her goal of paid work in a library was shared with her Vocational Counsellors in the Supported Employment Program, they began assisting in the search for a perfect match. The journey of being accepted into this employment role was not as straightforward and instantly successful as everyone had hoped. Soon, Lydia experienced the reality that many job seekers do: a kind but clear “Maybe get some more training or experience first.”

Undeterred, Lydia took up this advice with intention, enrolling in Vancouver Island University’s WEST (Workplace Essentials Skills and Training) program and taking additional English courses, as well as engaging in a volunteer-based work experience at the local public library.

She is now employed three days per week as a Library Page at Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) here in Duncan. To say that Lydia was ecstatic about being hired would be an understatement. Through her resiliency and determination this past year, she found her perfect match.

Lydia shared that her employer welcomed her and treated her as a member of their QMS family right away. She has been loving her work environment, feeling welcomed by both her staff colleagues and the students.

Queen Margaret’s School has been an inclusive and equitable employer for many years. We feel proud to have a strong and sincere working relationship with them. They acknowledge the skills and talents of all people. We value them creating welcoming and empowering workplaces for people of all backgrounds.

Lydia’s words of advice for anyone working on a long-term goal are “Don’t give up!”

Congratulations, Lydia, on reaching this milestone.

Social Enterprise

10

The Mindful Mouthful is one of Clements Centre Society’s flagship programs.

As a social enterprise - a business with social purpose - it is a resounding success. Our bakers (pictured here), work diligently every day to create delicious products renowned in our community and beyond.

We have a strong following: customers’ standing orders continue to grow year after year. New customers contact us all the time, asking if they can sell our products. And no wonder: we use only the best ingredients, and our talented team carefully crafts every one of our products, including our famous cookies, meat pies, sausage rolls, squares, soups, and more.

What is the history of this inspiring business? Many years ago, things weren’t as they are now. Clements Centre, like many similar organizations, ran sheltered workshops in which enriching activities were carried out by individuals with developmental disabilities. Those involved in the workshops produced many fine products, but were not appropriately compensated for their work How things have changed. “Real Pay for Real Work” is our slogan at The Mindful Mouthful. Each member of our Mindful Mouthful team is a full, respected, and properly compensated employee of Clements Centre Society.

Their talent, commitment, and hard work is at the heart of our buzzing business.

Social enterprises like The Mindful Mouthful offer critical employment opportunities in a world in which barriers still exist. This is a place of pride, belonging, and identity. It is a professional home where our bakers gain the clear sense of purpose that employment gives us all.

Visit us at 5856 Clements Street and the mindfulmouthful.ca

11

As a business, how did The Mindful Mouthful do this year? Great! Here are some highlights: Our sales increased by 17% Total revenue increased by 35% Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, we were able to make a critical capital investment: in early 2024, our double-oven arrived, increasing our production capacity New customers came knocking, and we delivered. Victoria businesses and more local companies than ever became a part of our regular roster Our dedication to quality and integrity is apparent in every one of our products, and people want what we make. We delivered on special orders for a provincial Ministry, local schools, and the Chamber of Commerce A business analysis was initiated to ensure we are setting ourselves up for long-term success The crew, inspired by the vision and creativity of Jackie DeJong, our Bakery Manager, carried out innovative R&D on new products, while keeping our classics just as delectable as always We remained fully inclusive in our hiring, from our bakers to those delivering our products throughout the community Are there challenges? You bet. This is a real business. We have bottom line targets to achieve and order deadlines to meet. We have to keep a happy team and happy customers. Ensuring consistent product quality is a must, and we are always striving to be the best we can be, now and into the future.

But, within all the challenges of a typical day, the team spirit, inspirational morale, and commitment to excellence make The Mindful Mouthful more than just a business. This is a true model of inclusive employment and an example of what can happen when talented individuals with diverse abilities decide to come together in pursuit of a business with a purpose.

To the team, thank you for the inspiration you bring to Clements Centre every single day. The Mindful Mouthful is an institution because of you.

Advocacy: a Legacy of Lasting Impact

12

For 67 years, Clements has stood at the forefront of advocacy, holding firm to the belief that a community thrives when all its members are included, valued, and celebrated. What began as a grassroots effort driven by parents who were determined to secure local education for their children has blossomed into a powerful force for change - one that is as vital today as it was at inception.

This past year, we have upheld this tradition with two pivotal initiatives, each addressing key issues facing children, youth, adults, and families in the Cowichan region.

The first arose from an instance of housing discrimination against a person with intellectual disabilities. Far from being an isolated event, this incident underscored the broader, more pervasive challenge of inequality and the chronic lack of appropriate housing for the people we serve.

Through persistent advocacy, this story was brought into the public realm, prompting conversations across media channels and within our local community. More importantly, this advocacy spurred real, tangible action.

Parhar Group initiated discussions with Clements, exploring the creation of affordable housing that specifically includes homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Here, advocacy did not just shine a spotlight on injustice, it sparked a concrete solution and a bridge to meaningful change.

Advocacy also means elevating the voices of those most impacted, ensuring they are heard in the rooms where decisions are made.

Through a project led by Inclusion BC, we helped facilitate community conversations that gathered invaluable input from parents, caregivers, Indigenous communities, and individuals with disabilities. Together, we identified gaps in local services and support for children and families. This initiative has the potential to reshape how services are delivered and funded. Clements is proud to have been a leader in this vital work.

But, as always, our work is far from finished. The need for advocacy - for raising awareness and driving change is as pressing now as ever. We invite you to join us in continuing this legacy. Share our stories. Engage with your networks - family, friends, neighbours - and amplify the voices that often go unheard. Together, we can build on this momentum and create a more inclusive future for everyone in the Cowichan region.

This is your opportunity to be part of a movement that not only recognizes challenges but meets them with courage and commitment. Let’s continue to be that bridge to meaningful change.

Years of Service

13

To the many loyal and long-term staff members who bring their expertise, skills, and smiling faces to work every day without fail: Clements could not ask for a better team to fulfill our mission to bring hope, belonging, and independence to those we serve.

Celebrating 20 years Kate MacLeod John Madden

Celebrating 35 years Celebrating 10 years Kayla Clarke Kathleen Dean Kyle Wadelius

Celebrating 15 years Pavlina Arnostova

Celebrating 5 years Kelly Coopsie

Desmond Callanan Zoe Dalton Christina Kerridge Anna Quist

clementscentre.org

themindfullmouthful.ca

CLEMENTS CENTRE SOCIETY Charitable Registration Number: 107269466 RR0001 5856 Clements Street, Duncan BC, V9L 3W3 250-746-4135 www.clementscentre.org info@clementscentre.org