Telling Our Stories

Meet Will, a wonderful member of our Mental Health team at the Centre. Each day Will works with individuals of all ages helping them navigate life's challenges and to realize their potential. For him, being part of a multidisciplinary team isn't just about collaboration - it's about making a meaningful impact on our community's well-being.  

"To me, community health care means providing accessible and holistic support that meets the needs of all individuals within the community. It's about creating equal opportunities for everyone to receive care and addressing both physicial and mental health in a collaborative way".

It sounds like things are very stable with your support in place. The client's daughter is able to maintain her job and other committments knowing her parent is in good hands. Kudos! - A thank you to our Assisted Living Team received from a Coordinator with Health at Home Community Care.

Taraesa is a vital part of our Assisted Living team, dedicated to helping residents in West Elgin remain in their homes by providing essential support. What drives her every day? The wisdom, joy, and heartfelt appreciation of the seniors she serves.  

Community health care, to Taraesa, means connecting residents in the community with resources, classes and events of interest. The community knows that they can rely on the Centre and the trust that has been built is vital.

Outside of work, Taraesa enjoys volunteering, attending local events, spending time with her pets, and serving on her municipal council. She loves the close-knit, welcoming spirit of West Elgin where "we are all each other's neighbours."

Betty-Jo Drent, our dedicated Assisted Living Coordinator at the Centre, is part of the Community Support Services for Seniors.  Betty-Jo leads a team of Support Workers who provide compassionate, client-centred care to high-risk seniors, helping them live independently with dignity. Her role is all about empowering her team to make a positive impact in the lives of seniors ensuring that they receive the care and respect that they deserve.

With 14 years of experience with the Centre, Betty-Jo has witnessed countless heartwarming moments from supporting clients in their final moments to watching her team go above and beyond for those in need. Her passion for meaningful, community-focused work shines through every day.

When she is not at work, Betty-Jo enjoys gardening, kayaking, and spending quality time with her grandchildren. She loves the small-town feel of West Elgin - from local fairs, community gardens and farmers markets to the beautiful walking trails.

Hi Kaitlyn,

It has taken a while to get this email to you... but I wanted to let you know how much my children enjoyed the teen cooking box last month!! All three of my children worked together to make dinner for the family that night. They were so proud of what they made. They set the table beautifully and we're so excited to cook and share what they had made.  It was a beautiful experience. ~ JW, Community Member

I've had the opportunity to work together with Shelly on several mutual clients over the past few years. Recently we have had some particularly difficult mutual clients. I am always in awe at how Shelly goes above and beyond to support the people of the West Elgin Community. Shelly thinks outside the box and makes every effort to support every one that needs it. Shelly is never one to avoid the issue or shy away from a difficult situation. She is quick to respond to calls/emails and always has great ideas for how to best support the client. Shelly is kind, knowledgeable, and non-judgemental of the clients she serves.  

The role of systems navigator/health promoter is so important but what Shelly brings to the role is even more important. ~ JJ, Care Coordinator

Working with the Centre for over 7 years, Debra has a strong sense of belonging and immense pride being a part of the West Elgin Community Health Centre. With the ongoing series "Humans of WECHC", Debra is inspired by the outpouring of appreciation for our staff, programs and services. For her, the community feedback speaks volumes about the difference the Centre makes and the vital impact the community health model has on our clients' lives every day.

As a certified HR Leader, Debra embraces the Centre's values and tries to bring joy and kindness to our workplace. She shares that "it's a privilege to walk along side and support such a dedicated and amazing healthcare team". Debra noted that working at the Centre was like coming home as she attended middle school here many, many years ago! Upon reflection Debra simply said "a heartfelt thank you has always been the most precious gift someone can give me".

Outside of work? Soccer, soccer, soccer! Go Manchester United! And, of course, her adorable grandchildren Nolan and Rain who brigthen her days and fill her heart.

Meet Larry Schneider, Board Director, passionate volunteer, and community leader. Larry dedicates his time to the Rodney Community Garden, shares stories about the Centre in the local newspaper and online, and continually educates himself about Ontario's healthcare challenges to be an effective Board Director.

For Larry, leadership means stepping up, advocating for change when needed, and always keeping staff and the community's well-being in mind. One of his most memorable experiences was the Centre's 30th anniversary celebration where the Centre's vital role in the community shone through despite the rain. "Community care means all of us wrapping our arms and hearts around everyone else, to make a positive difference in their lives" said Larry.  Beyond the Centre, Larry's love for singing, acting, reading, and speaking as a part-time minister keeps him connected to the community, bringing joy wherever he goes.

This is Michelle Johnston, an amazing member of our Community Support Services team at the West Elgin Community Health Centre. Michelle plans, implements, and provides support for various programs and activities catering to seniors and adults with disabilities in our community such as Meals on Wheels, Congregate Dining, and Caregiver Support. 

What makes Michelle come to work each day is the vital role she plays in enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life for seniors and adults with disabilities, making each day meaningful for them. To Michelle, community health care involves collaborative efforts to enhance health.  Outside of work, Michelle loves camping, reading, and traveling. She also has a deep appreciation for West Elgin and a strong sense of community it fosters.

Dawn Maziak is the new Board Chair at our Centre. She was employed with the Centre 30 years ago as the Centre's first Social Worker and has been part of the community ever since. Now, as Board Chair, Dawn guides the strategic directions and ensures fiscal accountability to support local health care services. Reflecting on her new role, Dawn shared that attending the Centre's 30th anniversary and seeing the first Board member champion and hearing his story was a heartwarming experience.