Connect With A Peer Mentor
Connecting with someone who has been through it, we all know, has huge benefits - advice, strategies or sometimes, just a friendly ear from someone who understands. Building a Microboard takes time, and sometimes you just want to talk to someone who's been 'through it.' Our Peer Mentors, all at different Microboard journeys, are available for you to connect with on your time, at your convenience. Because we know your days are busy and a formal meeting schedule isn't always in the cards. You can reach out to any of our mentors - they're here to listen.
Kathleen Gifford
Kathleen and her husband, Terry, are proud parents of their wonderful adult children Shannon, Randi and David. David has had a Microboard since 2018, and Kathleen has seen the values, impact and opportunities that come with establishing a Microboard. David continually reminds her of those experiences as he navigates his own path, with his circle of support (inclusive of friends, family and supporters) with the goal of living an enriched life filled with connection, meaning and purpose. Kathleen lives in Ingersoll, Ontario. She can be reached at [email protected]. Alice Mainland
Alice and her husband are the parents of two adult sons, one, Michael, who has a disability. Alice is also a Board member for Community Living St. Marys & Area. Her son Michael lives with a roommate and supportive neighbour in a small duplex and her family is currently working to develop a circle of friends and support network . Once firmly in place, they intend to establish a Microboard to help ensure Michael’s life is filled with community, friends, and continued support doing the things which bring him joy. Alice lives near Stratford, Ontario. She can be reached at [email protected]. Wendy Newbery
Wendy is a parent of two adult daughters. Her 31 year old daughter, Evie has a network and a Microboard, Evie's Good Life Partners, which was incorporated in 2021. Wendy is part of a team co-ordinating and facilitating a support community called A New Chapter through the Waterloo Region Family Network. She is an Expressive Arts Facilitator, an active community artist, and has recently retired from her Independent Facilitation practice. Wendy is in the Kitchener area and can be reached at [email protected]. Carole Vink
Carole and Henry, married for over 35 years, have a beautiful family, Natalie and Rachelle (her husband) Jordan, along with their son Miller. Natalie has had a Microboard since 2019. Natalie’s Microboard has provided her with a voice to be heard. The Microboard, consisting of family and friends, provides comfort and stability for the entire family. Natalie’s Microboard has become our guardian angel. Carole can be reached at [email protected]. |
Have A Microboard? Interested in sharing your experience with others? Become one of our Peer Mentors. Send an email to find out more.