foreword
by executive director LYNETTE POLE-LANGDON
This fiscal year began with a meaningful and emotional milestone—celebrating the remarkable career and retirement of our long-serving executive director, Norah Kennedy. As we gathered to honour Norah's incredible contributions through heartfelt farewells filled with laughter, tears and shared moments, one thing was clear: Family Transition Place (FTP) was well-positioned to move forward with confidence. That assurance came from the solid foundation built under Norah's leadership, in close collaboration with our skilled leadership team, compassionate staff and dedicated board of directors.
Although I have proudly been a part of FTP since 2001, stepping into the executive director role ushered in a year of "firsts" for me—each one an opportunity for growth, reflection and learning. In my early messages to staff during the transition, I shared honestly that, while I may not always get everything right the first time, I remain fully committed to supporting our staff, programs and the people we serve. That belief has guided me throughout the year and continues to ground me in the values we hold as an organization.
I am especially thankful for the groundwork laid by Norah, whose thoughtful and steady leadership left a clear path forward and made the transition as smooth as it could be. I have also leaned on the invaluable support and wisdom of my fellow directors and managers—each bringing unique insight, passion and perspective to the table. Our supervisors play a vital role in bridging leadership and frontline work, providing day-to-day support for staff while helping to operationalize the goals we set as an organization. Our staff have inspired me daily with their dedication, resilience and deep care for our mission. And I am truly grateful to our board of directors, whose encouragement and trust have been a vital source of strength.
This year has reminded me again and again that our greatest asset is our people. The strength of FTP lies in the collaboration, heart and integrity of everyone who contributes to our work—whether through leadership, service delivery, governance or community support.
Of course, the true strength of our organization lies in the women, children and individuals we serve. They are at the centre of everything we do. Each day, they show up with extraordinary courage and determination—choosing healing, seeking safety and working toward the lives they deserve after enduring trauma and hardship. Their resilience is both humbling and inspiring, and it fuels our commitment to ensure they receive the support, respect and resources they need to thrive. Their stories are powerul reminders of why our work matters.
As we look to the future, I feel an overwhelming sense of hope and energy. We will continue to evolve, meet new challenges and serve our community with compassion and courage. I'm excited for what lies ahead and proud to be walking this path with such an exceptional team.
Warmly,
Lynette
welcome message
Now completing my fourth year on Family Transition Place's (FTP's) Board of Directors, I find myself humbled by the great privilege it is to stand witness to the magnitude of impact FTP has within our community.
Having made my career in the not-for-profit sector, I am quite familiar with the intricacies of reliance on revenue through fundraising; municipal, provincial, federal and foundational funding; and oversight from and accountability to third-party agencies. What is truly remarkable is not just how exceptionally the leadership and staff team of FTP navigate these waters, but how they do it with unparalleled determination, and an elegant grace that advances inclusion, protection and belonging for those who have experienced gender-based violence.
To me, this is the definition of strength—to commit yourself to something so wholly, all because of a shared intrinsic belief in the value of doing the hard work to improve the lives of individuals whose voices may otherwise go unheard.
Over the 2024-25 year, the agency saw the transition of leadership as Lynette Pole-Langdon moved into her role as executive director. While this was no small change for the agency to undertake, it has been incredibly successful. Lynette has not only brought her years of experience with FTP to the role, but a confidence and strength that is shared among the leadership team, and reflected throughout the staff. Programming and outreach continued, partnerships evolved, goals were met and exceeded, and FTP remains the strong pillar of love and support that Dufferin and Caledon have come to rely on.
At the board level, this year has been spent focusing on strengthening our contribution to FTP. This has been done through the review and implementation of updated Ontario's Not-for-Profit Corporations Act compliant bylaws (a task that began some time ago, but was completed this year), the regular review of policies, and the updating of our board evaluation and onboarding processes. I am again humbled by the outstanding contribution of our board of directors—all of whom have given countless hours and 100% commitment along the way.
The board continued its diversity, equity, inclusion, and
belonging (DEIB) journey exploring the same educational opportunities as staff. We identified our own biases and expanded our knowledge base and skill set in inclusive practices, and how we can individually and collaboratively make our world a kinder and more equitable place.
On behalf of the board, I would like to take this moment to share my gratitude for this organization; Lynette, the leadership team, the staff, volunteers, donors, community partners, funders, to every person who has been a cog in the FTP wheel in one way or another. Our community is a better place because FTP exists, and it exists because of the people who believe in our mission and align with our values of compassion, integrity, equity, and social responsibility. The agency is stronger because of each of you.
And lastly, thank you to our retiring board members— Laura C., Sheralyn, Rapinder and Denyse. We are so grateful for your selfless contribution to the Board over your time at the table. Our board is stronger for what you have each generously shared with us all.
With gratitude,
Sharyn
Sharyn Ayliffe Board Chair
our board
FTP is governed by a volunteer board of directors comprised of passionate individuals who bring a broad range of experience and perspective to the work. Directors volunteering with FTP’s board have a strong commitment to ending gender-based violence in our community and understand that as FTP board members, they act as ambassadors for this work throughout all aspects of their lives. Their strategic leadership supports the agency in meeting the objectives of the strategic plan, while ensuring that FTP’s mission and values are front and centre.
The board oversees and is responsible for the performance of the executive director. The executive director provides the board with fulsome reports on the activities, projects, and operations of the organization at monthly board meetings. The board is also responsible for recruiting and hiring for the position of executive director.
The board conducts an annual evaluation of their effectiveness to identify areas for growth and development. They are committed to continuous learning, and over the past year have engaged in ongoing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging training, in conjunction with the staff team.
There are two standing committees of the board: finance and governance; both contribute to a large part of the governance work. These committees do not have decision-making authority, however, they make recommendations to the board for approval based on their committee work and perspectives. New board members are recruited by FTP’s governance committee. Areas of skill, perspective and diversity currently missing from the board complement are specifically recruited for each year, as directors exit the board at the completion of their term. Terms are two years with a maximum of three terms allowed. Board meetings are held monthly at FTP’s Orangeville location, with hybrid and remote options available.
GOVERNANCE WORK
FTP’s Governance Committee oversees key tasks aimed at ensuring FTP staff and its leadership team have the tools and resources needed to effectively serve the community. Their work is done thoughtfully, with a commitment to open dialogue and centres FTP’s mission, vision and values as its core operating principles. Governance includes tasks such as policy and procedural review, identifying opportunities for new policies or processes in response to changing community or regulatory expectations, planning for and conducting recruitment and orientation for new board members, sourcing regular training to upgrade board member skills, overseeing the performance of the executive director (ED), and providing guidance and oversight related to the agency’s multi-million-dollar budget. Crucially, governance work is not operational in nature but rather, enables the work of the FTP team as they serve women and children who have experienced abuse, support families and individuals in need of housing, mental health supports, legal support or sexual violence counselling.
This year, the work of the Governance Committee included supporting the incumbent ED Lynette Pole-Langdon and FTP’s FOCUS Accreditation process, improving the board recruitment process, and overseeing policy reviews and a board member orientation review. Committee workflow improved with a switch to Google Workspace. This excellent tool fosters easier access to the tools and resources needed to provide good governance and facilitates methods of member collaboration on joint projects.
Tony Maxwell
Jocelyn Johnston
Denyse Horner
Chair Sharyn Ayliffe
GOVERNANCE WORK (cont'd)
The committee extends sincere thanks to outgoing Executive Assistant Bonnie Waterfield for the expertise, guidance, care and support provided to the board. The committee welcomed Bonnie’s successor, Kolleen Sykes, who has made the transition seamless.
At the board level, three members have fulfilled their six-year term and will be stepping away from their roles. A significant effort in board recruitment took place during the first few months of 2025 to fill these roles and the committee is pleased to report that these efforts were successful. The board looks forward to welcoming the new members in June 2025.
The committee would like to acknowledge the efforts of retiring board members Laura Cameron, Denyse Horner, Rapinder Kaur, and Sheralyn Roman as they helped steer FTP through the formidable challenges of the COVID years.
FTP’s Governance Committee Members: Sharyn Aryliffe, Laura Bryan Kirk, Denyse Horner, Jennifer Innis (Co-Chair), Jocelyn Johnston, Rapinder Kaur, Tony Maxwell and Sheralyn Roman (Co-Chair). Update provided by Sheralyn Roman.
ABOUT US
For 40 years, FTP has provided programs and services in the Dufferin and Caledon communities to women and their children who have experienced abuse, sexual violence or homelessness. Whether those accessing our services need a safe place to live, legal or housing support, or the guidance of a professional counsellor to help them on their healing journey, we offer a warm and welcoming environment of support.
Our housing program operates our emergency shelter at 20 Bredin Parkway in Orangeville for women (16+) and their children fleeing domestic violence or experiencing homelessness. There are 12 emergency shelter units, in which we can house and support up to 28 women, children and their family pets at any one time. We also provide individual, family and group counselling services to families staying in the shelter, as well as to community clients from our Orangeville location and Shelburne and Bolton satellite offices.
FTP also operates second- and third-stage housing programs in six houses located in our community. The women in these programs live independently while continuing to receive support from our compassionate staff and wraparound services. In addition to our housing portfolio, we provide support through our 24/7-Hour Support Line, offer addictions, sexual violence and abuse counselling and workshops for women, men and children, as well as rural outreach, transitional support, mobile crisis and housing services. Thousands of youth also participate annually in healthy relationship education delivered by our youth educators in grade 5-8 classrooms throughout our region.
OUR VISION AND MISSION
our VISION
FTP primarily provides services to women and children who have experienced abuse. We know that abuse has wide ranging impact on peoples’ lives in the community and society in general, so we aspire to:
• A community free of abuse where all individuals are treated with compassion, equity and respect, and live their lives in healthy relationships.
our mission is to support the holistic well-being of those affected by gender-based violence and promote healthy relationships and community, through education
Therefore, we commit to:
Providing SAFETY :
• Providing a safe shelter for those identifying as women and their children.
• Providing referrals and options to help ensure the safety of all individuals who reach out to us for help.
• Creating safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces.
Providing SUPPORT :
• Providing respectful and compassionate counselling and supports to those who have experienced trauma and/ or abuse so that they are empowered as they move forward on their life journey.
Inspiring HOPE :
• Educating to promote healthy relationships and end the cycle of abuse.
• Advocating for systemic change; always learning and innovating to create positive impacts on the lives of the diverse individuals we serve.
• Living and promoting the values of integrity, compassion, equity and social responsibility at all times (within the agency and community).
• Providing responsible stewardship of resources and our community’s goodwill through accountable and transparent processes.
OUR VALUES
COMPASSION :
The human quality of understanding a person’s strengths and vulnerabilities along with the authentic desire to offer acceptance and support. We show commitment to this value by actively listening to one another and by showing respect and care to all people, especially to those we serve and support.
EQUITY:
We recognize that in order to achieve equity, we must embrace diversity and recognize that creating an inclusive environment requires intent, self-awareness and investment in training, time, effort and energy. We aim to create a safer environment where everyone can belong.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
It is our responsibility to be actively involved in our community. We commit to working with partners and citizens to create a community that is welcoming and supportive of all. We strive to make a positive difference in our world through advocacy, leadership, coaching and mentoring, and intentional environmental practices.
integrity:
Upholding the fundamental ethical, organizational and institutional principles of FTP in a transparent, trustworthy, honest and consistent manner.
DEIB WoRK
This year, FTP continued to deepen our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) as part of our journey toward becoming a more inclusive and equitable organization. Grounded in our person-centred approach and agency values, this work is not a separate initiative—it is foundational to how we support our staff, serve our community, and shape the future of FTP.
We approached this work with intention and openness knowing that true inclusion requires both systemic change and everyday action. Over the past year, we revised our client surveys to include specific questions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility—ensuring that the voices of those we serve help guide our ongoing improvements. We also began reviewing our existing policies and practices through a DEIB lens, identifying areas for greater equity and alignment with our values.
Staff across the organization, including our board of directors, engaged in the DEIB-focused training Run to the Monster and followed up with conversations, fostering a culture of learning, reflection, and growth. As part of our commitment to belonging, we invited team members to share their important faith and cultural holidays with colleagues—creating opportunities to learn from and celebrate the rich diversity that exists within FTP staff.
Our DEIB work has been both challenging and rewarding, prompting us to ask better questions, listen more deeply, and hold space for growth. We know this is not a destination but a continuous process—one that asks us to lead with curiosity, courage, and compassion.
As we reflect on our progress and prepare for the work still ahead, we remain committed to building a culture where every individual—whether staff, client, or community partner—can experience a true sense of belonging.
strategic plan (2023-2026)
As we enter the final year of our current strategic plan, we do so with a strong sense of purpose and alignment with the strategic vision that has guided us: Family Transition Place is an agency built on caring and compassion. These words continue to ground us in who we are, and more importantly, who we strive to become.
This strategic plan has served as more than a roadmap—it has reflected our values in action. Over the past two years, our staff, leadership and board have taken important steps toward becoming a more inclusive, responsive, and forwardthinking organization.
As we move into this final year of the plan, we remain committed to learning, growing, and staying rooted in compassion, equity, social responsibility and integrity.
CARING CULTURE - Given that people bring their best selves to their work when they feel valued and respected, FTP will continue to foster a culture of caring that nurtures equity, belonging, connection and well-being to cultivate engaged and empowered staff, volunteers and board directors.
EXAMPLEs:
• Hired a People, Equity and Culture Director to focus on intentional hiring.
• Developed and implemented a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging strategic plan.
equitable and empowering services - Given the diversity and complexity in the needs of the people we support, FTP will provide safety, support and hope through responsive and upstream skill-building services that address the whole person and the evolving needs of the community.
EXAMPLES:
• Received additional funding to hire a mobile outreach counsellor to support those who are unhoused or are insecurely housed.
• Continued delivering healthy relationship and sexual violence awareness education programs in schools.
Community connectedness - Given FTP’s commitment to our vision of a community where everyone lives with respect, equity and in healthy relationships, FTP will continue to intentionally partner and collaborate in open and meaningful dialogue to affect positive change in our community.
EXAMPLES:
• Delegations to town and county councils to have gender-based violence (GBV) declared an epidemic.
• Woman Abuse Prevention Month activities and Wrapped in Courage campaign.
• Ensuring the issues of GBV and homelessness are included in the Community Safety and WellBeing Plans.
balanced growth - Given the increasing needs for FTP services in the community and continuous evolution and growth within the organization, FTP is committed to developing foundational, equitable and sustainable Agency infrastructure that will maintain our level of excellence and provide stability to best serve both FTP and the community.
EXAMPLES:
• Conducted an organizational structure review and implemented recommendations to ensure that our structure provides a solid foundation to support the staff and future operations of the organization.
transitional support
FTP's Transitional Support (TS) program is a multi-faceted team that can provide service in three main areas:
1. Legal support
2. Housing support
3. Transitional support
This team is dedicated to helping female-identifying individuals, with or without children, navigate these difficult and ever-changing systems. This program is filled with challenges that require out-of-the-box thinking and client-based solutions. Other than the prevalent lack of safe and affordable housing resources, our clients are sometimes faced with challenges that go beyond resource barriers. The impact of trauma, mental or physical health concerns, or addictions makes the challenge of finding housing even more difficult. We work individually with clients from all different walks of life to ensure a transitional plan is developed to help them work through these issues, towards safety and independence.
There are seven members of our TS team, all of whom deal with housing and legal issues in different aspects. Our Support Within Housing Counsellor, supports individuals with moderate to severe mental health issues who are having difficulty finding or maintaining housing. In a day, they could see several clients within the community, or in the client's home, but would be regularly communicating with other clients by phone in between. Some of the tasks that might be completed in a day are working with the client to fill out housing applications, crisis management, conflict resolution, support with household tasks, and conducting community drop-in groups.
Our Transitional and Legal Support Counsellors help clients navigate the legal and housing systems while supporting them with goal setting. The individuals they assist are all looking for something similar: stability. This may mean safe and affordable housing or the settling of a tumultuous court case. They will assist with connecting clients to community resources such as Legal Aid Ontario, lawyers or housing supports and are able to see clients throughout Dufferin and Caledon.
One of the challenges for the whole TS team is explaining the reality of the current state of housing in our community. It feels very discouraging to tell clients that we cannot provide housing to them. Often, they come to us with the hope that we can solve their problems, but unfortunately, we have no control over the housing market and rent rates in our community.
Within our control, however, is reaching out to people in the community and ensuring that they are connected to resources. Our Housing Support Counsellor and Community Outreach Counsellor do this all the time. They are constantly out in the community working with individuals living in precarious circumstances such as encampments. Through their respectful and compassionate work, they can connect with people that are homeless or recently housed and help support them to be successful. These two positions are funded through Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada funding. Through Coordinated Access we work with Choices Shelter and Support Services and Dufferin County Community Services to ensure that folks are supported throughout their journey.
Our Second Stage Housing Counsellor does everything from rent calculations for a client moving into one of our housing units to working with clients in the shelter who are looking for housing to successfully move on from the shelter. No easy task when there is such a lack of affordable housing.
All of our staff meet clients where they are at—literally wherever they are in the community, but also where they are at in their journey. Many clients are in crisis and the skill of the staff to walk beside and support clients in crisis is second to none. Staff empower women to be safe and to reach their full potential.
DID YOU KNOW?
• There is an average of 4.75 year waitlist for rent-geared to income housing.
• Our Family Court Support Program can also support men who are going through family court system.
• The shelter portion of Ontario Works is $390 for a single person. An average room for rent is $750.
myths and FACTs
There are often misconceptions about our work, both about the violence against women sector and FTP's unique services. As our organization has grown over the last 40 years, so too have the services we provide.
To help deepen our community's understanding of the important work we do, we have provided some common “myths," alongside the truths.
Myth: FTP only offers support for women with children. Fact: FTP supports female-identifying individuals (16+) with or without children who are experiencing or have experienced abuse or homelessness (with or without their children) in our shelter. Children who have been exposed to abuse are supported through our child witness program. Men have access to support through our community homeless outreach, mobile crisis services, sexual violence counselling and family court support programs. FTP, in partnership with Dufferin Child & Family Services, also co-facilitates the Caring Dads program designed for fathers who have used violence in the home and are looking to improve relationships with their children and their children’s mothers. FTP also offers Youth Education programming to local schools (grades 5–8).
Myth: A woman must leave her abusive partner if she wants support from FTP.
Fact: Our counselling is “client-centred,” which means our staff will meet clients where they are, and help them to create and work towards clear, meaningful and personalized goals. Clients will never be required to leave a partner to access support or any of our services.
Myth: When a woman accesses shelter, she will be sharing a bedroom with other families.
Fact: Our emergency shelter units are self-contained. Each private unit has a bathroom, living space with a TV, kitchenette and bedroom. We have shared on-site laundry, dining facilities and outdoor spaces.
Myth: FTP only supports victims of domestic violence.
Fact: FTP supports anyone who has experienced or is experiencing unhealthy relationships or abuse. Additionally, we support anyone (all gender identities) who has experienced or is experiencing sexual violence, homelessness, is unhoused, or in an unsafe living environment.
Myth: My pets can’t come with me if I’m accessing shelter.
Fact: Families staying with us will have private accommodations. We welcome most companion pets into the shelter and continue to have long-standing partnerships with local veterinary services, kennels and foster families and the OSPCA through the SafePet Ontario program that can assist in keeping pets safe.
Myth: FTP is a fully funded government agency.
Fact: FTP’s services and programs are supported by more than 10 different funding sources (see page 22 for funders). Even with these various generous funders, we rely on private donor and corporate support as well as grant opportunities to make up the shortfalls in our operational budgets and to allow us to facilitate our Youth Education Program and Caring Dads program—both delivered almost exclusively thanks to donor support. Annually, we must raise over $500,000 to support our critical programs and services. Unfortunately, fundraising has been more challenging in the last year. The current economical and political climates have affected donor behaviours and interests, and funding from the government has not increased in the same rate as our service demands.
Myth: FTP only offers in-person services.
Fact: Our services are designed to be as accessible as possible for anyone. We offer in-person services at our Orangeville office (20 Bredin Parkway), Shelburne office (Mel Lloyd Centre – 167 Centre Street) and Bolton office (Royal Courtyards – 18 King St. E.). Virtual and phone appointments are also available, along with texting and interpreter services. In some programs, we offer mobile and rural outreach where we can meet clients at an alternate location. Emergency transportation is available if transportation is a barrier to accessing service.
Myth: I need to be referred to FTP and pay for services.
Fact: Because of our various funders and generous donors, our services will always be offered at no cost to our community. To access our services, simply call our 24-hour Support Line to be connected to a counsellor or program. There are no referrals required.
Storage is limited for us and we are only able to accept brand new essential clothing items like socks, underwear, pajamas and slippers. Generous donors will contact us regularly to offer pre-owned clothing and an effective workaround to our storage issue is a partnership with As We Grow—a consignment clothing store in Orangeville.
As We Grow will accept gently used and washed clothing items on our behalf. When items donated under our account sell, we receive a credit and our clients can shop there—at no cost to them—for the items they need for themselves or their children.
client-centred
The relationships we have with our community partners are part of providing support to the individuals we serve. It's important us to work together to bridge gaps for clients across programs. Orangeville Food Bank's food share program is a critical component ensuring folks in the community have food security.
We were grateful to be the recipient donations from our friends at Fiddle as part of their Fall Community Agriculture (CSA) Share program. donations provide opportunities chef to prepare meals with fresh, organic for the women and children
As noted on page 14, 21 clients with cats and 24 clients with dogs stayed in our shelter over the last year. Pets are part of the family and their care is as much of a priority for us as their human family members. We're grateful to the Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Animal Centre for organizing a nail trim clinic with pet groomer Michelle (left) who owns Michelle's Paw-Fect Pets Day Care & Grooming. Michelle generously donated her time and expertise to give our furry friends a bit of a spa day.
An accessible shower is available for FTP community clients who are precariously housed at our Orangeville location. We are happy to provide shower essentials (shampoo, soap, towels, etc.) when individuals come in to use the shower and it is cleaned after each use. The need for this shower has increased in the last few years due to housing challenges and the everchanging needs of our clients.
client-centred support
are an integral important for programs. The component to security.
recipient of ongoing Fiddle Foot Farm Community Supported program. CSA share for our on-site organic produce we serve.
Caring Dads is a program—facilitated in partnership with Dufferin Child & Family Services—to help fathers improve their relationships with their children by ending controlling and abusive behaviours towards their children's mother. This group offers a unique opportunity for men to connect as fathers by using non-threatening and non-judgmental strategies, and by combining active group discussions and exercises.
FTP's Sexual Violence Community Engagement Facilitator provided Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Training (AHST) to all grade 7 and 10 students within the Upper Grand District School Board in Dufferin County, which translated to 1,044 local students in the last year. The AHST training is approximately 90 minutes and includes a presentation and the use of “The Trap"—an interactive tool that allows youth to experience what it feels like to be targeted and recruited by a sex trafficker through an immersive chat experience. The presentation features scenarios based on real-life experience to help students learn the skills they need to stay safe.
FTP's DEIB Strategy Committee (see more about this committee on page 8) updated our client surveys with inclusive language, inclusive service experience questions and a section to provide optional demographics information to help us determine if specific groups of people are experiencing our services differently. Client surveys are available to complete online and as hardcopies.
Clients transitioning into new spaces often need start-up items like household goods and furniture. While we do have a generous network of donors who offer items like this on a regular basis, we are unable to take those items into the shelter due to limited storage. Fortunately, FTP has a wonderful partnership with the Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Orangeville). They generously provide (when available and at no cost) furniture and household items for clients moving on from shelter.
There was a notable increase in access to our Community Homeless Outreach program from last year's numbers (11 Women and 7 Men, 2023–2024). Please read more about how housing challenges affecting communities across Canada are impacting our work on page 10.
continue adapting our programs and services to accommodate the needs of our service users and our community to support lives free from abuse.
risks & challenges
The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) requires FTP's executive director (ED) to complete a standardized Risk Assessment to determine the level of organizational risk.
Last year, MCCSS introduced an upgraded Risk Assessment for Violence Against Women funded agencies. This Risk Assessment questionnaire has 41 questions across the following eight categories:
• Human Resources/People
• Financial
• Information & Information Technology
• Program Design & Delivery
• Legal
• Emergency Management
• Governance
• Reputational
AGENCY RISK: LOW RISK
The risk rating for the agency is based on the likelihood and impact of risk for each of the 41 questions giving the agency a weighted risk rating score of 3%, which falls within the overall Low rating between 0–10%.
Of the five categories that FTP reported having a Medium risk rating, MCCSS determined the risks are adequately being managed by the agency and no additional action was required.
While this risk assessment was not required (at the time of this report) by the ministry to be completed again this year, FTP re-evaluated our position using this assessment to ensure we are still attaining the same Low risk rating. FTP's ongoing accreditation plan also allows us to examine policies and procedures with an in-depth focus to ensure risk management is in place.
In addition to completing the ministry's risk assessment questionnaire, FTP's ED presents a "Spotlight" risk assessment dashboard to the board of directors on a quarterly basis with all risk mitigation plans, ensuring the board is fully aware of areas of potential concern. Current areas for mitigation include funding gaps, organizational transition and housing/economic factors affecting the women and individuals we serve.
CHALLENGES:
This past year brought continued economic challenges that impacted funding across the sector. Despite our best efforts, we were unsuccessful in securing the Genderbased Violence (GBV) grant, highlighting the ongoing gaps between critical community needs and available resources. Fundraising, donations and grant applications continue to help cover the shortfalls, however, demand outpaces supply.
Organizational transition continued to happen this year, as several long-term staff members retired or moved on from their roles. While their departures were deeply felt, their lasting contributions have created space for renewal and new voices to shape the next chapter of our work.
Equity and inclusion work has continued to challenge staff to learn and unlearn through agency-provided training and personal growth. FTP recognizes the importance of this work given our growing and diverse community.
Women and other clients continue to face challenges securing safe and affordable housing in our community. The shelter and second-stage housing programs remain at capacity most of the time, as women struggle to find safe housing to move to.
events & donations
FUNDRAISING EVENTS CAMPAIGNS
In addition to grants, provincial, municipal and federal funding, individual and legacy donations, FTP also receives generous community support through both third-party and fundraising events hosted annually by FTP. Historically, FTP has hosted two major fundraisers—a celebratory luncheon in honour of International Women’s Day (IWD) in March and Heidi’s Walk for Hope (formerly The Ferguson Memorial Walk third party event) in the fall.
Heidi’s Walk for Hope
After careful thought and consideration—and a conversation with the Bogner/ Ferguson families—we made the difficult decision to no longer run Heidi's Walk for Hope. A legacy fundraising event, Heidi's Walk for Hope was initially run by Penny and Gus Bogner as The Ferguson Memorial Walk in honour of their daughter Heidi Lee Ferguson (née Bogner). Heidi lost her life during a tragic domestic dispute on September 12, 2009. The Bogner family raised over $120,000 (2012–2019) supporting our largely unfunded youth education programs.
In recognition of their commitment to our work and in honour of Heidi, Gus, and Penny, we invited Gus and family members to our Orangeville office for a small ceremony to unveil a tribute plaque placed in our front garden.
While this may be the end of a fundraising chapter for us, we will always be full of love and gratitude for this family and the tremendous hope they have given this community.
IWD Celebration Event
On Friday, March 7, 2025, our annual IWD Celebration Event took place at Hockley Valley Resort featuring Tracy Moore—TV journalist and former host of Citytv's CityLine Tracy sat down with FTP’s executive director, Lynette Pole-Langdon and board chair, Sharyn Ayliffe for an intimate “fireside chat” and then spent time engaging and taking photos with the crowd. Guests had an opportunity to bid on over 50 exclusive silent auction items and beautiful floral centrepieces donated by Orangeville Flowers, Ltd. In addition to revenue raised at the event
and through registrations, sponsorship, donations and revenue raised through ad sales in our Celebrating Women magazine, the event raised over $92,000. It is a sign of the times that we were unable to achieve our fundraising goal of $100,000. As noted on page 11, fundraising is challenging across the country right now due to the unstable economic and political climates. It is with these challenges that makes us even more grateful to those who were able to contribute to the success of this event.
MONTHLY DONORS
Monthly donations provide us with a consistent and reliable source of income. We are continually working on ways to grow our monthly donor program. In 20242025, we were able to count on over $25,000 for the year in monthly donations. This amount includes donations by staff who also contribute to our monthly donation program, on a bi-weekly basis, through payroll deductions.
AWARENESS EVENTS
International Overdose Awareness Day
The Dufferin-Caledon Drug Strategy Committee—of which FTP is a proud founding member—hosted an event on August 29, 2024, to acknowledge International Overdose Awareness Day. The community was invited to the Orangeville Opera House (Theatre Orangeville) to learn about how overdoses are impacting our community and hear from a panel of people with lived experience and local advocates (see photo on page 21). Annual events like this provide the community with an opportunity to discuss ways to end overdose, reduce the stigma, and remember those we have lost.
Take Back the Night
In partnership with Georgian College (Orangeville Campus), FTP hosted Take Back the Night —a global movement to stand against sexual violence and support survivors— event on September 26, 2024. This wellattended event featured guest speakers, information tables and an empowerment march (just over 1.5 km). Participants of the walk were passionate and enthusiastic, encouraging passers-by to take notice. Take Back the Night events take place around the world in September and this local event has potential to grow substantially within this community.
Wrapped in Courage Campaign
FTP participated in the 12th annual Wrapped in Courage campaign—an annual initiative developed by the Ontario Association of Interval & Transition Houses in recognition of Woman Abuse Prevention Month (WAPM). This initiative emphasizes the ever-existing importance of ending gender-based violence. Throughout November, we shared information and resources on our website and social media pages. Other community activities, such as flag-raising ceremonies and proclamations were organized with local municipalities.
National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
Each year, FTP hosts a ceremony in recognition of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (December 6th). This annual event is not only a time to remember and reflect but it is also a reminder and a call for action. This year's event featured guest speakers and a temporary (due to weather) installation of a beautiful sculpture donated by clay artist, Ann Randeraad (pictured below—bottom row, third from left), named “Infinitude.” This sculpture will be permanently installed at our Orangeville location in the summer of 2025. You can read Ann’s powerful artist’s statement by scanning the QR code above.
THIRD-PARTY FUNDRAISING
The generosity of our community and the effort to raise funds on our behalf through third-party events makes up a large portion of our annual revenue. In the last year, third-party events contributed over $23,000 in support of our programs and services.
DONATIONS
The communities we support are incredibly kind and thoughtful. Throughout the year, we receive donations from local businesses and individuals; a few of our many supporters are pictured below.
major donors
The following donors made significant donations ($5,000+) in the last year, which helped provide us with the means to support our essential programs. Fortunately, with these significant contributions and through ongoing support from other generous donors and funding streams, our services continue to be available to those who rely on us.
THANK YOU TO:
Airlie Foundation
Dufferin Community Foundation – Cedar Fund
E. Hofmann Plastics Canada Inc.
Langill, Mary Jane and Irving Morrell, Sarah and Wade
Morningview Foundation
And five anonymous donors.
Pitt, Buddy and Melody
Royal LePage RCR Realty
Royal LePage Shelter Foundation
SG Sales Corporation
Wishart, Ken and Shelley
Yerex, Joan
We respect the wishes of all of our donors and use donated funds responsibly. These significant donations—along with many more through the generosity of our community—have resulted in an unexpected minor year-end surplus. This surplus will be added to our Stabilization Fund to ensure the stability of FTP's programs and services.
Photo of $5,000 Cedar Fund grant donation facilitated by the Dufferin Community Foundation (DCF). (L—R): Michele Fisher (DCF), Brennan Solecky (FTP), Norah Kennedy (FTP) and Shirley Boxem (DCF), April 2024. Credit: DCF.
volunteers
We are fortunate to maintain the support of several dedicated volunteers through their work on our board, governance and finance committees, as well as through program development and our annual fundraising events. The commitment of these volunteers to the safety of the women and children we serve and the preservation of our essential programs and services has been remarkable. We are truly grateful to all who have done what they could to support us in these different areas of our work.* The names bolded below received milestone-service awards this year.
THANK YOU TO:
Sharyn Ayliffe
Laura Bryan Kirk
Laura Cameron
Danielle Churly
Denyse Horner
Kelly Hummel
Jennifer Innis
Jocelyn Johnston
Sharon Jordan
Rapinder Kaur
Brenda Laird
Sarah Lodeserto
Tony Maxwell
Sara May
Helen Mina
Lenora Netzke
Ann Randeraad
Sheralyn Roman
Brian Rooney - 5 years
Robert Sadowski
Andrea Stewart - 15 years
*Only those who have consented to publishing have been named.
Gillian Vanderburgh
Debbie Van Wyck
Karen Webster
Tabitha Wells
Christina Zurowski - 5 years
2024 Celebrate Your Awesome event volunteers (left to right), Tony, Sabina and Denise, joined by Rapinder for the photo.
collaborations
FTP is proud to participate on many committees and sits at multiple collaboration and planning tables in our community. Some key examples are:
HILLS OF HEADWATERS COLLABORATIVE ONTARIO HEALTH TEAM (HOHCOHT)
The HOHCOHT is a partnership of health providers and community organizations working together to unify and improve the health and social care of Dufferin-Caledon residents. FTP, as a funded agency of Ontario Health, has been one of the partner agencies involved in the implementation of this collaborative in Dufferin-Caledon from its inception. FTP participated in the Collaborative Council, the Anchor Council, and in multiple committees of the Mental Health Working Group.
SUNRISE CENTRE SEXUAL ASSAULT SERVICES
A long-standing collaboration between Headwaters Health Care Centre (HHCC), Dufferin Child and Family Services (DCAFS) and FTP to provide supports to those who have been victims of sexual violence. HHCC provides medical response through emergency department intake with specifically trained Sexual Assault Nurses; FTP provides ongoing counselling support for adults who have experienced both recent and historic assaults; DCAFS is available to support children and youth. Through funding from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, FTP's Lotus Centre provides us the ability to serve more people who have experienced sexual violence, support loved ones, and provide important community education.
THE DUFFERIN COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLBEING INTEGRATION TABLE
A group made up of community services, police, and municipal government that is responsible for the legislated community safety and well-being plan. This plan has a focus on housing, mental health, addictions, violence prevention (with a focus on domestic violence) and equity/anti-racism.
COACHING BOYS INTO MEN
The Government of Ontario granted Interval House (Hamilton, ON) funds to roll out a gender-based violence prevention training program—Coaching Boys Into Men (CBIM)—with school coaches across the province. CBIM is an evidence-based program that seeks to involve male athletes and coaches in conversations about healthy relationships, consent, mental health, and building safer and more supportive athletic and recreational cultures.
COLLABORATION IN ACTION
The Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Ontario Health Team hosted two Women's Care Days at FTP's Orangeville location in March 2025. The purpose of this initiative is to provide women who may not have access to health and social care, to connect with several community care providers in one place. More Women's Care Days have been organized to take place throughout Dufferin and Caledon.
FTP was one of the selected organizations to be part of the initial phase and we’ve been working closely with Interval House to bring this initiative to our community.
DUFFERIN\CALEDON DOMESTIC ASSAULT REVIEW TEAM (D.A.R.T.)
D.A.R.T. is made up of a group of representatives from criminal justice, medical, child protection, and community service agencies with a focus on woman abuse. Each agency deals with domestic abuse: the victims, children who have been exposed, or perpetrators of abuse. Voices of Courage—a sub-committee of D.A.R.T.—is a strong group of survivors who have experienced domestic abuse and are committed to sharing their stories and providing feedback to D.A.R.T. member agencies.
Dufferin-Caledon Drug Strategy committee
The Dufferin-Caledon Drug Strategy Committee is a community group composed of like-minded agencies that are working together to support and coordinate the development and implementation of local, comprehensive, cross-sector strategies to reduce the harms related to substance use and/or addictive behaviours. The goals of this committee are to raise awareness about the resources available in the Dufferin and Caledon communities for those who are struggling with drug use; to honour International Overdose Awareness Day annually on (or around) August 31st; and to educate the Dufferin and Caledon communities about the stigmas associated with drug use.
PEEL COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELL-BEING PLAN FAMILY VIOLENCE ACTION TABLE
A committee of family violence serving organizations in Peel Region.
SERVICES and Housing in the Province (SHIP)
In collaboration with SHIP, FTP’s Support Within Housing program has access to four units at the new housing space located at 236 First Street.
community partners
FTP is committed to collaboration and investment with community partners. Community agencies and businesses collaborate and work together to support the vulnerable members of our community who need support.
Our partners include, but are not limited to, the following agencies, and services and businesses:
Bethell Hospice
Caledon \ Dufferin Victim Services
Caledon OPP
Canadian Mental Health Association Peel-Dufferin
Catholic Family Services Peel-Dufferin
Choices Shelter & Support Services
Community Living Dufferin
Compass Community Church
County of Dufferin
Dufferin Area Family Health Team
Dufferin Child and Family Services
Dufferin County Canadian Black Association
Dufferin OPP
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Orangeville
Headwaters Health Care Centre
Hills of Headwaters Collaborative Ontario Health Team
Métis Nation of Ontario
Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses
Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres
Ontario Early Years Centre
Orangeville Food Bank
Orangeville Public Library
Polycultural Immigrant & Community Services
Raising the Roof
Services and Housing In the Province
Stir the Pot
Theatre Orangeville
The Brave Canoe
The Salvation Army
Town of Caledon
Town of Grand Valley
Town of Mono
Town of Orangeville
Town of Shelburne
Township of Amaranth
Township of East Garafraxa
Township of Melancthon
Upper Grand District School Board
Victim Witness Assistance Program
White Owl Native Ancestry Association
Photo of Dufferin-Caledon Drug Strategy Committee at 2024 Overdose Awareness Day event. Credit: Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health.
financial report
Audited financial statements are available upon request.
*We ended the year with a minor surplus, which will be added to our Stabilization Fund
The Stabilization Fund has been established to ensure the stability of FTP’s programs and services.
If you have questions about our Stabilization Fund, please contact our Executive Director, Lynette Pole-Langdon: 519-942-4122, ext. 234 lynette@familytransitionplace.ca
FTP’s program and service delivery is made possible by the stable funding and continued support of:
• County of Dufferin
• Headwaters Health Care
• Ministry of Children, Community and
• Ontario Health Central
• Region of Peel
FTP THANKS OUR FUNDERS, DONORS, AND SUPPORTERS FOR ensuring THE ONGOING FINANCIAL VIABILITY NECESSARY TO DELIVER CRITICAL SERVICES IN OUR COMMUNITY.
connect with us
DO YOU NEED SUPPORT?
Do you need information about woman abuse counselling, shelter, or have general inquiries about how to help someone, including yourself?
24-HOUR support line
519-941-4357 | 905-584-4357 | 1-800-265-9178
Voicemail: 519-942-4122
Text: 519-278-5410
Email: support@familytransitionplace.ca
Text/email accounts monitored Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
SUPPORT OUR WORK
Are you interested in volunteering, donating, sponsorship or fundraising events?
Contact: Kelly Lee (she/her) Manager of Fund Development & Communication Strategies kelly@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 243
AGENCY DEVELOPMENT AND Community Engagement
Are you interested in major giving or major project partnerships with FTP? Contact: Brennan Solecky (she/her) Director of Development & Community Engagement brennan@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 240
Send mail to: 20 Bredin Parkway Orangeville, ON L9W 4Z9
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
@familytransitionplace
@familytransitionplace
@familytransitionplace
@family-transition-place
Scan this QR code to view our agency videos on YouTube.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Do you want to join a progressive team of forward-thinking individuals? Contact our board representative admin@familytransitionplace.ca
FEEDBACK ON OUR REPORT OR ANYTHING ELSE We would love to hear from you. Contact: Lynette Pole-Langdon (she/her) Executive Director lynette@familytransitionplace.ca or ext. 234
our commitment
Family Transition Place will remain steadfast in the work we do to educate and advocate for healthy relationships and violence-free lives to help make our world a better place.
