The Journal - Issue No. 2024-1

#OACFPHERE4YOU

A DAY OF EMPOWERMENT AND INCLUSION: REFLECTING ON THE 2024 WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM

Held on March 6th, this event marked a milestone in advocating for inclusivity and empowerment within our profession. Check our our recap of the highlights and key takeaways from this transformative gathering.

OACFP'S FOCUS –STRENGTH BY ASSOCIATION

From changes in technology and social norms, to the make-up of our multicultural society, our Members are constantly forced to evolve and adapt. How can OACFP help your organization? Find out in this quarter’s President’s Update.

#INSPIREINCLUSION

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE

JOHN PERROTTA, HAMILTON MUNICIPAL CEMETERIES

OACFP'S FOCUS – STRENGTH BY ASSOCIATION

Strong Communities

Did you know that our organization was founded in 1913 as the Ontario Association of Cemeteries? I find it hard to wrap my head around the changes our predecessors have gone through: in society and in our sector.

From changes in technology, to social norms, to the make-up of our multicultural society, every year and decade requires our sector to respond and, dare I say it, pivot.

To outsiders, our sector may seem staid or perhaps stuck. After all, the difficult realities of death and death care haven’t changed. But what has changed – and will always change – are the values, expectations, and social norms for grieving. OACFP members move with the times because they are an integral part of their communities. We are there in the towns, neighbourhoods, and virtual communities we serve.

More than this, let’s not forget the invaluable open spaces many of our members caretake: Ontario’s cemeteries. Now, more than ever, they provide a vital connection to our past, our histories; they provide a place of desperately needed quiet and solitude in our busy world. I personally observe this every day in our Hamilton cemeteries, where people come to seek out green spaces for better mental health in our busy, densifying communities.

I know this is all true, as do you. But not everyone has the luxury to stop and think about us in this way. For me, this is why our Association exists – to ensure that those who need to understand it, do.

THE OACFP IS A TRADE ASSOCIATION THAT LEADS A STRONG AND EVOLVING BEREAVEMENT SECTOR IN ONTARIO. IT DOES THIS BY PROVIDING THE SECTOR’S EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES WITH UNIQUE BUSINESS RESOURCES, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND ADVOCACY, DESIGNED TO ENABLE THE SECTOR TO UNDERSTAND AND RESPOND TO THE CHANGING SOCIETAL AND BUSINESS CONTEXTS WITHIN WHICH OACFP’S MEMBERS OPERATE.

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE.....CONT.....

A Strong Sector

Just as our members have changed over the years, so has our Association. We have a lengthy tradition of responsiveness. For instance, in 2003, significant legislative changes led to the expansion of our scope as a trade organization which means we are focussed on the organizations and businesses of the whole sector. This inclusiveness has become one of OACFP’s hallmarks, the importance and significance of which was reaffirmed with our new value proposition strategy. It drives the pace of our evolution as a Trade Association. We must move with Ontarians’ needs to grieve, which can sound today more like: “online,” “personalized,” and “environmental.”

To this end, here are just a few of the things OACFP is doing to help all our members be stronger. Together, we are:

Starting a new environmental sustainability committee. Approved by the board in July 2023, this committee will advise the board on new environmental protection and enhancement opportunities, advise on stakeholder and legislative matters, and seek a balance between social, environmental and economic aspects of our sector.

Developing a bilingual mental health training program. This initially free, research-based program will enhance location and line managers' skills in supporting the mental health and wellness of staff. Program details can be found on the OACFP event calendar.

Empowering individual professionals to keep learning. We support member organizations by offering training, specialized sector education and CE credits for licensure or by just having a resource to turn to who really understands your day-to-day challenges; we know that individuals contribute to the success of our organizations and that we all need support.

Navigating Rapid Change: OACFP Membership in Action

But there is more for us to do. OACFP’s members face unprecedented workforce issues such as recruitment, retention, and succession planning challenges. Anticipating potential legislative changes, navigating crematorium emissions regulations, and understanding the implications of Priority of Persons legislation add further complexities and are just a few of the issues that OACFP is committed to addressing head-on, providing support and guidance to our members.

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE.....CONT.....

OACFP is not just an association; it is a community committed to progress We encourage members to participate in our activities. Reach out to Darren Denomme, our dedicated Executive Director, to express your interest and be part of the positive change.

I invite you to stay engaged; comment, volunteer, support and discuss issues with us There is much to do, but I know we can do it together: for your community, your business, and your association.

Drop me a line anytime

John Perrotta, President

John.Perrotta@hamilton.ca

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EXPLORING PROFESSIONAL AND CULTURAL HORIZONS: REFLECTING ON MY VISIT TO AUSTRALIA

I am excited to share with you the incredible journey I recently embarked on to Australia, an experience that profoundly impacted me both personally and professionally. Supported by the unwavering encouragement of the OACFP Board of Directors and the generous assistance of Joe Campbell from Phoenix Foundry who sponsors the Bereavement Profession Excellence Award exchange program, as well as Ben Kelly, CEO of the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association (ACCA), this trip was a transformative voyage of discovery but also underscored for me the common values that all bereavement sector professionals share: care and compassion for the families we serve.

EXPLORATION AND LEARNING

My time in Australia was a captivating exploration of the cemetery and funeral sector, characterized by insightful site visits and personal meetings with Australian professionals. From observing innovative practices in cemetery and crematorium management to gaining firsthand knowledge of funeral traditions in that country, every encounter enriched my understanding of our industry and sparked new ideas to bring back to our members here in Ontario.

What struck me most was not so much the differences between the way our sectors operate in each country, and there are many, but the commonalities and struggles we both face. Whether it is issues with seamless collaboration between the funeral, cemetery and crematoria segments of the sector, the shortage of land for future cemetery development, challenges with new forms of disposition, or adapting to serve ever-changing consumer demands, we share more common challenges than not.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.......

CULTURAL IMMERSION

Beyond the confines of business, I was able to immerse myself, as much as one can in one week, in the vibrant tapestry of Australian culture. From the iconic landmarks of Sydney & the Gold Coast to the serene beauty of the countryside, each moment was a celebration of diversity and mutual respect. I am deeply grateful to the Joe Campbell and Ben Kelly for their warm hospitality, which allowed me to experience Australia's rich heritage firsthand and forge lasting connections with professionals from across the globe.

FOSTERING RELATIONSHIPS

One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey was the opportunity to cultivate meaningful relationships with colleagues from the Australian cemetery and funeral sector. Despite the geographical distance, we shared a common passion for our profession and a commitment to serving our communities with integrity and compassion. These personal connections will serve as a source of inspiration and collaboration in the years to come.

JoeCampbell,PheonixFoundry

LaurenHardgrove,PresidentACCA

Rob Smart, Board Chair, Cemeteries and Crematoria Association NSW

Ben Kelly, CEO ACCA & Tania White, CEO of Centenary Memorial Gardens

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.......

LOOKING AHEAD

As I returned home, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm for our work. The insights gained and relationships forged during my time in Australia will continue to guide me as I strive to uphold the highest standards of service within our industry. I am immensely grateful to the OACFP Board of Directors, Joe Campbell, and Ben Kelly and all the members of the the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association for their unwavering support, which made this journey possible.

My visit to Australia was a journey of discovery and growth, both personally and professionally. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and look forward to sharing the knowledge and experiences gained with our esteemed members.

Doorway to Hope Memorial, Woronora CemeteryMemorial Estblished for Australia’s Missing Persons

Australian War Graves Section, Rockwood Cemetery

Australian War Graves Section, Rockwood Cemetery

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR....... Macquarie

Park Cemetery

Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens & Cremaotirum

French’s Forest Bushland Cemetery

A

THE

DIRECTOR.......

Nerang Cemetery

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.......

Centenary Memorial Gardens

Toowong Cemetery

A DAY OF EMPOWERMENT AND INCLUSION:

Reflecting on the 2024 Women’s Symposium

“REALLY WONDERFUL JOB BY THE INCREDIBLE NEW HAVEN TEAM IN HOSTING AND KUDOS TO THE COMMITTEE FOR ORGANIZING AN EXCITING AND ENERGETIC EVENT!”

“IT WAS VERY EMPOWERING AND ALOT OF GOOD INFORMATION TO SHARE WITH MY COLLEAGUES”

On March 6th at New Haven Funeral Centre we succeeded in our goal to #InipsireInclusion as we held our fourth annual Professional Women’s Symposium. This year we welcomed over 200 attendees who joined both in-person and virtually, signifying a strong, engaged community. Our event, hosted by MC Minnelle Williams and our own Kate McMaster, fostered a spirit of unity and inspiration Thank you to the dedicated staff and committee, including Heather Earle, Sandra Aguilar, Shelley Challenger, Shari Yearwood and Hazel Moyo, who played crucial roles in orchestrating this symposium. And as a special thank you to the entire team at New Haven for hosting us again for this special event.

Event Highlights

The symposium commenced with a poignant Land Recognition This set the tone for a day of thoughtful dialogue and mutual respect. Our theme, #InspireInclusion, was echoed throughout the event, emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives and equitable opportunities in the workplace, especially for women in leadership roles

REFLECTING ON THE 2024 WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM CONT.

Inspiring Speakers

The line-up of speakers was nothing short of remarkable Siobhan Calderbank's session on "Myths and Monkeys of Change Transitions" was a captivating start, offering fresh perspectives on embracing change. Andrea Sanche's insights on "Women in the Workplace: Demystifying your Rights" provided invaluable guidance on navigating professional landscapes The panel discussion on "Empowering Women in the Bereavement Sector" brought together diverse voices, adding depth to our understanding of inclusion in our field. Professor Maja, with her research on women’s confidence and communication habits, left us with actionable strategies to elevate our presence in any setting

REFLECTING ON THE 2024 WOMEN’S SYMPOSIUM

Engagement and Networking

The hybrid format of the event facilitated interactive sessions and quizzes, enhancing engagement among attendees. The ‘Switch-a-roo’ and Minnelle’s famous call-and-response was particularly effective in building a sense of community Additionally, the customized playlist and personalized walk-up songs for each speaker added a unique and enjoyable touch to the proceedings

Acknowledgments and Forward-Looking

In closing the symposium, we previewed the 2025 Women’s Symposium in Niagara on the Lake, promising another year of empowering discussions and networking opportunities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, including New Haven Funeral Centre, our hosts, and the tireless behind-the-scenes efforts of our staff and committee members.

As we reflect on the successes of the 2024 Women’s Symposium, we’re reminded of the power of collective action in driving change The discussions and insights shared here are not just fleeting moments of inspiration but catalysts for continued progress in our profession and beyond Here’s to fostering an environment where inclusion isn’t just a theme, but a fundamental aspect of how we operate. Thank you for your participation and support in making the symposium a resounding success.

OACFP UPDATES & ARTICLES OF INTEREST

REMINDERS

MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

If you haven’t renewed your membership, please do so before April 30. At that time all non-renewed membership will become inactive. If the primary contact for your organization has changed please contact the office at info@oacfp.com.

ARTICLES OF INTEREST & RESOURCES

CHINESE GOING ONLINE FOR TOMB SWEEPING

FAKE LIVE STREAM SCAMMERS TARGETED MY DAD’S FUNERAL

POLICE UNABLE TO IDENTIFY ASHES RECOVERED FROM FUNERAL HOME UNDER INVESTIGATION

WHY SOME FAMILIES ARE OPTING FOR A CORAL MEMORIAL INSTEAD OF A FUNERAL

POSITIVE WORK CULTURE PROVIDES EMOTIONAL PAYCHECK FOR MOST

4 THINGS PEOPLE MAY MEAN WHEN THEY SAY “I TRUST YOU”

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

CONSIDERATE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICES, ST. CATHARINES - HOW TO HANDLE THE DISCUSSION ON FINAL ARRANGEMENTS IN A CONSIDERATE FASHION

TOWN OF BRACEBRIDGE – WHY IS BRACEBRIDGE DEAD SET ON PROVINCE TAKING ON MORE FUNDING RESPONSIBILITY FOR CEMETERIES?

CREMATION SYMPOSIUM

STILL YOUR FIRST STEP TO OPERATOR CERTIFICATION

This program is open to anyone involved with any aspect of the cremation process including counsellors, funeral directors, full and part-time operators and owners. This program is the first phase towards operator certification.

DINE & DISCOVER & TRUSTED ADVISOR TRAINING

OTTAWA AREA SECTOR PROFESSIONALS.........

WE HAVE TWO GREAT OFFERINGS FOR YOU IN MAY

Our next Dine & Discover education event will be held on May 14th at Capital Memorial Gardens Funeral Home & Cemetery. Come out and join us for an evening of sector support with a special presentation from Sam Laprade, the Host of “An Hour to Give” on Rogers TV Ottawa & Country 101.1 FM, Fundraising Strategist & Coach, and Former Host “The Sam Laprade Show” on CityNews.

Then be sure to join us for our third Trusted Advisor Training session of 2024 the following day.

TWO GREAT EVENTS IN JUNE

OUR SECOND OACFP @THEJAYS FUN NIGHT.........

We have sold out in our first section of tickets.

However, we have been able to secure another group of tickets for this event in an adjacent section. These tickets will not have access to the Third Base Bar but you can still join us at the game.

Please check the details here.

2024 OACFP CHARITY GOLF DAY.........

Help Us Help Families In Need

TheUnforgettablesFundwas established at The Hospital for Sick Children to help families with limited resourcesatacriticaltimeto provide a dignified funeral andburialfortheirchild.

All proceeds from this golf tournament will be donated toTheUnforgettablesFund.

RESOURCES

HOW TO STOP YOUR CONSTANT ANXIETY AND WORRY

THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON LONELINESS

SPECIAL ONE DAY PRESENATION ON JUNE 18THLEADERSHIP FOR CHANGE IN THE BEREAVEMENT SECTOR

Leadership for Change in the Bereavement Sector Workplace is a unique session specifically designed for leaders, supervisors, and managers. This training will explore how we can build a foundation for a psychologically healthy and safe workplace plus foster resilient employees. Sessions will use an evidence-informed approach and integrate practical case examples specific to the bereavement sector workplace culture.

OACFP EVENTS

2024 CREMATION SYMPOSIUM

DINE AND DISCOVER - MAY 14, 2024

TRUSTED ADVISOR TRAINING & CERTIFICATION (OTTAWA)

WEBINAR: THE VALUE OF DNA COLLECTION AND PRESERVATION FOR BEREAVEMENT SECTOR PROFESSIONALS

LEADERSHIP FOR CHANGE IN THE BEREAVEMENT SECTOR WORKPLACE TRUSTED ADVISOR TRAINING & CERTIFICATION (GTA #2)

CHECK OUT OUR EVENTS PAGE OR OACFP FOR ALL OUR EDUCATION OPTIONS

OACFP EVENTS

OACFP ACE

IAN MERRITT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

We are pleased to annouce two winners of this year’s Ian Merrit Memorial Scholarship.

KAREN GIBLON, BATHURST LAWN MEMORIAL PARK

Karen has spent many years working and volunteering in the Toronto Jewish community with charities, her children’s schools, synagogues, and most recently, Bathurst Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Originally hailing from Newfoundland, she moved to Toronto in 1984, married, and raised 5 children. She received a Bachelor’s of Commerce degree from Memorial University, followed by an MBA from Schulich School of Business. Prior to her involvement in the Jewish community, she worked in market research, first for a research firm and then for American Greetings.

“WE HAVE A SMALL OPERATION AND FUNDING IS LIMITED. I WOULD LIKE TO DEVELOP A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE DEVELOPMENTS IN OUR INDUSTRY AND HOW THEY COULD APPLY TO OUR ORGANIZATION.

SEAN PINELLI, ST. ANDREW’S CEMETERY

Sean Pinelli is a dedicated cemetery supervisor at St. Andrew's Cemetery, bringing over seven years of invaluable experience and a profound commitment to maintaining the sacred grounds with utmost care and reverence. With a keen eye for detail and a compassionate nature, Sean ensures that every aspect of the cemetery's upkeep is meticulously attended to, from landscaping to monument preservation. His unwavering dedication to his role not only reflects his professionalism but also his profound respect for the memories and legacies interred within the grounds.

“LIVING IN NORTHERN ONTARIO, WE DON’T HAVE THE ABILITY TO ATTEND IN-PERSON EVENTS OR TRAINING SESSIONS. WE WOULD LIKE TO OPPORTUNITY TO MEET WITH OTHER CEMETERY STAFF AND SHARE OUR EXPERIENCES

OACFP EDUCATION

DON’T FORGET ABOUT OTHER OACFP ONLINE EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES AT OACFP-ACE

The OACFP has long been a leader in providing quality education for all bereavement sector professionals.

We work in conjunction with all our members and sector stakeholders to provide Ontario’s bereavement professionals with the most up-todate, relevant and cost-effective education and training possible.

We offer a variety of online and ondemand education on our OACFP ACE Learning Management System.

Check out some of the new courses by clicking the banners on the left.

CHECK OUT OUR OACFP ACE HELP VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

LOSING AN ADULT CHILD: AN ARTICLE FROM BEREAVED FAMILIES OF ONTARIO

Losing an Adult Child

When a young child dies there is an immense outpouring of sympathy from everyone and the very thought of a child dying carries so much hurt that people want to gather around the parents and show their concern Strangely though, when an adult child dies and the older parent is the survivor, the attitude can be very different. When Mary was told that her son, aged 57, had died at work from a heart attack she simply could not believe the words. She said that she was stunned, thought her heart would stop, found she couldn’t breathe, and yet she responded and asked when it had happened, who was with him, where was his body, and did his wife and children know She said that she moved her emotions to her daughter-in-law and felt that was where the grief should be focused At the funeral home she watched as everyone moved to the side of her son’s family to offer condolences Some people came over to Mary in what she said appeared as an “afterthought” She said that she felt totally alone in this grief and she also felt that she should not be looking for anything extraordinary since she was old and having lived so long was expected to understand better than the younger family members what death was all about

But the hurt of losing a child knows no age barrier and the number of years lived will not make a child’s death any easier. It is as devastating for an 80-year-old as it is for a 30-year-old. And, in many ways grief becomes a much lonelier path for the older parent. Many older parents are alone since the spouse had died. Many live on their own with their other children spread out across the country Many seldom see their grandchildren in these hectic times of school, work, and other interests Many have lost their contemporaries through death and many no longer are in their own homes, but are now in nursing homes or residences for older people Sometimes, there is a feeling of isolation that separates them from the rest of the world

“I found that there was no one I could talk to – my friends didn’t know what to say and my family didn’t want to upset me.” mentioned Mary.

When her son died, she was living in her own home but approaching a time when she would have to move to a facility which could offer some extra care for her failing health She was reluctant to leave her home because she had memories of her son in everything she saw there – in the yard, the living room, the big kitchen table where her family had solved the problems of the world over a hearty meal and a good laugh Now it was all gone and her soul was empty

But, with her son’s death she was prompted to sell her home and move to smaller quarters. She found this, coupled with the death, too much to cope with and she fell into ill health. With the shock of death, it is important to time any new changes such as a move with utmost care. Perhaps, her family simply didn’t realize the depth of her sorrow because she was so quiet in her grief.

Because there is so much going on at the time of a death, family members may not realize how intense an older person’s grief really is and it may be dismissed as just another condition of the aging process In the case of a grandmother whose grandson was killed suddenly in an accident, the family didn’t realize that the glassy stare and lack of words were really a state of shock It is extremely important that the older parent or grandparent be given attention and help at the time of a death and in the months and years to follow.

Bereaved Families of Ontario is here not just for young families, but also for the older parent who has lost a child. Sometimes that contact is a vital link in coping with a death that is so difficult to comprehend. Bereaved Families of Ontario is here to help

Just being able to talk to someone about the lost hopes and dreams can help to ease the pain

From “Time to Remember” by Barbara Klich

FUNERAL DIRECTOR LICENSE CLASS

1 OR 2 - GLENDALE FUNERAL HOME, ETOBICOKE

PRE-PLANNING DIRECTOR –

CARDINAL FUNERAL HOMES LTD.

FUNERAL SERVICES ASSISTANT -

DIGNITY MEMORIAL, CAMBRIDGE

FUNERAL DIRECTOR/EMBALMER -

DIGNITY MEMORIAL, CAMBRIDGE

OFFICE MANAGER - DIGNITY

MEMORIAL, CAMBRIDGE

FULLTIME/SEASONAL CEMETERY

MAINTENANCE - AURORA CEMETERY

LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR -

DIGNITY MEMORIAL, GREATER

TORONTO AREA

OACFP & CHATTERHIGH

OACFP has worked with ChatterHigh to bring valuable information regarding a rewarding career in the bereavement sector to Ontario Educators We ask our members to share this information with High School Guidance Departments in your area Click the banner below for more information

WE ARE PLEASED TO WELCOME THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS!

REGULAR MEMBERS

SALONS FUNÉRAIRES LAURENT HILL

BAY GARDENS FUNERAL HOME (ARBOR)

BAYVIEW CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM (ARBOR)

CHAPEL RIDGE FUNERAL HOME

SUPPLIER MEMBERS

ADVANCE BUSINESS SYSTEMS

NATIONAL BANK TRUST PÉRENNIA

STARMARK LOCAL BEGIN URNS

GOLDEN HORSHOE SERVICES LTD.

AFFILIATE MEMBER

3 - INDIVIDUAL AFFILIATE MEMBERS