At the start of 2024, we adopted new technologies to improve our staff and client experiences, including AlayaCare (our electronic health record) and Teams Phone. Both pieces of technology were new to many members of Team Grandview, requiring us to learn new software and adopt new workflows.

In August 2024, we launched our new 2024-27 Strategic Plan: Powering Potential. Through our new Strategic Plan, we announced we will power the potential of our growing team, our valued partners and the clients and caregivers we proudly serve. Working together, we will support children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs wherever they live, learn and play. 

To close out an already jam-packed year, we moved into The Jerry Coughlan Building. In November, we hosted provincial, regional and municipal government officials, community partners, donors and many of you–members of the Grandview Kids community–to tour our new home. If you are planning your first visit to The Jerry Coughlan Building or want to learn more about the space, please visit our website to review all the key details. On this page, you can access a social story to help prepare your child or youth for their first visit. Please watch our social media channels closely over the coming months as we prepare to release a video tour of the spaces you will interact with most in the building. 

A selection of photos taken at The Jerry Coughlan Building.

From left to right: Atrium, building exterior and gymnasium.

As we said farewell to our outgoing Oshawa Headquarters and the Whitby Mall and Airport Blvd. sites in 2024 to prepare for our move, we continued operations at many of our other locations throughout the Durham Region. These include the Bowmanville Health Centre, Oshawa – Dwyer, Port Perry – S.A. Cawker, and Whitby – Abilities Centre sites. We look forward to continuing to provide care close to home for clients and families in the Durham Region. 

I am also excited to share that, in December, Grandview Kids proudly released its new book, A Place Where Everyone Belongs, which is this month’s Project Spotlight (read more below). Carefully crafted by the Family Engagement Team, the book reflects the diversity of experiences and needs of Grandview Kids clients and their families in both the story and pictures. The book is available for purchase at Grandview Kids Café in The Jerry Coughlan Building, and I encourage you to pick up a copy at your next visit or check it out at the Ajax Public Library Grandview Kids Express Branch. Proceeds collected for the book directly support the Family Engagement Program. 

Thank you, Team Grandview, for your incredible adaptability, skills and passion to make these initiatives and transitions happen in 2024, all motivated by our shared vision of every child and youth living at their full potential. 

On the heels of a busy 2024, 2025 is already shaping up to be an equally exciting year, full of enhanced collaborative efforts among Team Grandview, our community partners, clients and families.  

If you have yet to hear the news, earlier this year, on January 14, Grandview Kids announced its new fundraising structure by establishing a Centre-led Development Department. As part of the restructuring, Grandview Kids Foundation will wind down its operations over the coming months as the Centre assumes fundraising responsibilities for Grandview Kids going forward. To assist with the transition, the Centre appointed Linda Flynn as Interim Executive Lead of Development to ensure the continuity of development activities, develop strategic priorities and focus on donor care. The restructuring will be implemented over the coming months, and I look forward to sharing more with you as the Development Team transitions its operations to the Centre. You can learn more about the transition on our Frequently Asked Questions page. 

In addition to our fundraising structure, I am pleased to share changes to the Senior Leadership Team at Grandview Kids as two members achieve significant life milestones. Leslie Suite, Executive Lead, Clinical and Client Services, is set to retire at the end of this month, and Avori Cheyne, Executive Lead, Strategic Communications, Partnerships and Engagement, recently started her parental leave. To ensure continuity and sustainability for the organization as Avori is on leave and Leslie departs, we introduced changes to our leadership structure and accountabilities.

To support Leslie’s transition to retirement, we welcome Joshua Theodore (previously one of our Directors of Clinical and Client Services) and Dr. Taryn Eickmeier (previously the Executive Lead for Research, Innovation and Knowledge Mobilization & Human Resources, People and Culture) into two new Executive Lead for Clinical and Client Services roles. While assuming the same title, Joshua and Taryn will oversee differing programs and services to ensure each leader’s accountabilities are managed equitably across the organization. We also welcome Adrian Polidano as Acting Director of Communications and External Relations from his previous Communications and Marketing Manager position to support Avori’s portfolio while on leave. 

We are very proud to fill these critical leadership roles from within the organization, demonstrating the incredible in-house talent we have at Grandview Kids. 

This month, I also want you to join us in celebrating our incredible Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Team for TR Month. As our February Program Spotlight, we share details about the TR program at Grandview Kids, highlighting key facts and sharing touching quotes from parents and caregivers on their experiences with the program. 

I wish you a wonderful, healthy New Year and look forward to connecting again next month. 

Sincerely,



Tom McHugh

CEO, Grandview Kids

February 2-8: Feeding Tube Awareness Week

Feeding Tube Awareness Week, observed from February 2 to 8 this year, increases the understanding of feeding tubes and their critical role in supporting the health and well-being of children with medical complexities. The week promotes best practices, innovations and the lived experiences of families who rely on tube feeding. This month, Grandview Kids highlights Jamilah and Henley's stories and their parents' experiences supporting their children's use of

feeding tubes.

Visit our blog to read about Grandview Kids client Henley's story >

Visit our blog to read about Grandview Kids client Jamilah's story >

February 1-7: Eating Disorder

Awareness Week

Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) occurs from February 1 to 7 annually across Canada. This week is dedicated to raising awareness and developing understanding about eating disorders and how they impact people’s lives. Eating disorders come in various forms, each with its unique set of challenges and symptoms.

Visit our blog to read more about Eating Disorders Awareness Week and Grandview Kids client Ryan's story >

February 28:

Rare Disease Day

Rare Disease Day is an international event held on February 28 to raise awareness about the impact of rare diseases on people’s lives and to emphasize the need for research. Canadian families with rare illnesses are facing extraordinary challenges. These include misdiagnosis, unnecessary surgeries, social isolation, financial hardship and lack of treatment options.

Visit our blog to read Owen's story >

Upcoming programs, workshops and events

Family Engagement

Information Night: Durham College Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program

When: Wednesday, February 19, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Jerry Coughlan Building (Grandview Kids’ Ajax Headquarters)

Join us for an Information Night about the Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program offered at Durham College and other colleges throughout Ontario! This event is designed for prospective youth and their parents and caregivers. The CICE program offers a unique blend of academic and practical work placement experiences tailored to support students with diverse learning needs post-high school. This program accepts graduates with an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or Certificate.

With personalized learning plans, small class sizes, and dedicated learning facilitator support, students thrive on a college campus, in both an inclusive classroom and CICE-focused environment. The program includes cooperative education placements, providing hands-on experience in various fields to enhance skills, confidence and independence.



During the Information Night, you'll learn about the program's structure, the application process and possible graduate paths. CICE staff will be here to answer your questions and help you explore the opportunities that the CICE program offers. Explore if this is a good fit for your future.



Register here > 

Self-Care Series for Parents: Create your self-care kit

When: Thursday, February 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Grandview Kids Ajax Public Library Express Branch

Discover self-care strategies to help you focus on yourself. This workshop will teach mindfulness and the importance of self-care and help you build your self-care toolkit. 

Register here > 

February Caregiver Cafe 

When: Thursday, February 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Jerry Coughlan Building (Grandview Kids’ Ajax Headquarters)

Join us for a fun-filled evening of games, laughter and relaxation at our Caregiver Games Night & Social! This February, take a break from your busy schedule and connect with fellow caregivers in a casual, welcoming space. Whether you're into board games or card games or just enjoy great conversation, there's something for everyone. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, recharge and share some lighthearted moments with others who truly understand the caregiving journey. Come for the fun, stay for the camaraderie! 

Register here > 

Project Spotlight: Grandview Kids’ new book “A Place Where Everyone Belongs!”

Grandview Kids is proud to introduce its new book, A Place Where Everyone Belongs! This is a book about belonging, inclusion and acceptance. It shows readers all the different ways that people may move, communicate, play or learn. Grandview Kids is a place that celebrates and supports these differences. It’s a place where everyone belongs. 

The Family Engagement Team carefully curated the story and pictures to reflect the diversity of experiences and needs of Grandview Kids clients and their families. It is a deeply meaningful, thoughtful reflection of who we serve and why we do this work. 

We are grateful to Lyn Coughlan, and her late husband, Jerry Coughlan, for believing in the Family Engagement Team and providing funding to kick-start the book. The book can be purchased via debit or credit for $15 at Grandview Kids Café in The Jerry Coughlan Building at 1461 Harwood Road in Ajax. Proceeds support the Family Engagement Program.  

The book may also be borrowed from the Ajax Public Library. Please feel free to stop by the Grandview Kids Ajax Public Library Express Branch, located on Level 1 of The Jerry Coughlan Building in the Family Resource Centre, to borrow a copy for yourself today! 

For more information, please contact familyengagement@grandviewkids.ca. 

Participate in the Grandview Kids Ambassador Program!

We are looking for Grandview Kids clients, caregivers and families to join the Ambassador Program! 

Ambassadors are important members of Team Grandview. They play key roles in communicating the value of Grandview Kids and its services to our audiences. Our Ambassadors share their stories at events, in the media, or through photos and videos in marketing materials for Grandview Kids.

There are many ways to get involved, and our dedicated Ambassador Advisor coaches you throughout the process so you feel comfortable telling your story in a meaningful way to you. Every story matters, and your level of participation is up to you! 

Please email Grandview Kids Ambassador Advisor, Abby, at Abby.Valenciano@grandviewkids.ca for more information about the program. 

Program Spotlight: Therapeutic Recreation

February marks National Therapeutic Recreation Month in Canada. This month, we invite you to learn more about the Therapeutic Recreation discipline at Grandview Kids and join us in celebrating our dedicated Therapeutic Recreation Team. 

What is Therapeutic Recreation? 

Therapeutic Recreation (TR) is a systematic process utilizing recreation and activity-based intervention to achieve psychological and physical health, recovery and well-being for clients. This means Recreation Therapists use play and specific leisure activities to help support your family and your child’s goals. These goals can relate to physical functioning (fine motor or gross motor), emotional functioning (self-regulation, winning/losing or coping strategies) or social functioning (developing meaningful relationships with peers or family members). 

What are the benefits of Therapeutic Recreation?

 

Participating in TR can improve or maintain physical or cognitive functioning, increase confidence and self-esteem and provide opportunities and skills required for social engagement. Through participation in TR services, one can foster greater community involvement in recreation and create the foundations for a healthy leisure lifestyle. By participating in play and recreation, one can feel a sense of accomplishment, improve coping skills and navigate several social situations to develop meaningful relationships. 

What can your Recreation Therapist do for you? 

A Recreation Therapist can provide one-on-one or group interventions to target specific goal areas collaboratively with caregivers. Recreation Therapists can complete a leisure strengths assessment to help guide and support your child’s participation in community recreation. Recreation Therapists also support families in accessing funding support, reducing anxiety and removing barriers to participating in recreation activities. 

What Grandview Kids parents and caregivers are saying about the

Therapeutic Recreation program 

How do you access Therapeutic Recreation services at Grandview Kids? 

Any child actively accessing Grandview Kids’ core services is eligible for TR. This can be through Preschool, School Years, Adolescent and School-Based Rehabilitation programs. Grandview Kids serves clients ages 1-21 as long as there are active needs and a clinical diagnosis.

Community Corner

Ajax Public Library

The Ajax Public Library invites you to attend the following events in February:

• Sensory Storytime: Ages 2-6; drop-in at the Grandview Kids Express Branch on Thurs., Feb. 27 at 10:00 a.m. and at the Main Branch on Thurs., Feb. 13 at 10:00 a.m. 
• Ramadan Storytime: All ages; drop-in at the Audley Branch on Sat., Feb. 22, from 1 to 3 p.m. – Hosted in partnership with the Muslim Women of Durham Region 
• Family Storytime: Ages 3-12; drop-in at the Grandview Kids Express Branch on Sat., Mar. 1, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 
• Homeschoolers Club: Ages 6-12; drop-in at the Grandview Kids Express Branch on Fri., Feb. 28, from 2 to 2:30 p.m. 
• Mixed Roots Workshop (registration required): Adults and children; hosted at the Main Branch on Fri., Feb. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. - Hosted in partnership with the Durham Family & Cultural Centre 
• Town of Ajax Winterfest: Drop-in at the McLean Branch on Mon., Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
• Black History Month: 18th Annual Celebration (registration required): All ages; Hosted ay J Clarke Richardson High School on Sat., Feb. 1, from 4 to 9 p.m. - Presented by Cultural Expressions for CHANGE 
• BlackLit Durham: Hear the Youth Speak! (registration required): All ages; hosted at St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture on Wed., Feb. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. 

Please be advised the Ajax Public Library (excluding the Grandview Kids Express Branch) has new Sunday hours. Visit the Ajax Public Library website for more information > 

Pickering Public Library 

Learn more about program offerings from our community partner, the Pickering Public Library! If you have any questions about the offerings shared below, please contact your local Pickering Public Library branch. 

The Pickering Public Library invites you to attend the following events in February: 

• Neurodivergent Storytime (two dates): Thurs., Feb. 6 and Feb. 27, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., at the Pickering Public Library – Central Branch 
• This storytime takes place in a quiet and safe environment. 
• It includes interactive stories, songs, action-rhymes, fingerplays and sensory activities that promote literacy skills and development. This storytime is ideal for children with sensory processing sensitivities and those on the Autism spectrum. 
• Neurodivergent Drop-in: Sun., Feb. 9, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the George Ashe Library 
• The Pickering Public Library invites families with children who identify as being neurodivergent to come and experience the library before regular operating hours. Children will have the opportunity to socially interact with each other in a safe and welcoming space.

Feeding Tube Awareness Week events hosted by SickKids 

Feeding Tube Awareness Week (FTAW), founded in 2011 by U.S. parent Tracy Nagy, raises awareness about the vital role of feeding tubes in supporting children with medical complexities. FTAW takes place from February 3 to 7 and highlights the importance of feeding tubes in promoting health and well-being for "Tubies" (children who rely on tube feeding). 

The G-Tube Feeding Program at Toronto’s SickKids Hospital first participated in FTAW in 2020, and the event has since grown to include healthcare professionals, patients and families from across Canada. FTAW provides an opportunity for learning, connection and support for those with feeding tubes.  

This year, SickKids will be hosting two events for FTAW:

One-Day Symposium: "Paediatric Tube Feeding: Following the Patient and Family Journey from Insertion to Independence"  

Date: Wednesday, February 5, 2025 

Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Location: SickKids Patient Support Centre, Innovation Room (4th Floor) 

Click  here  for more information and

to register. 

Tubie Family Night

Date: Thursday, February 6, 2025 

Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. 

Location: Virtual via Microsoft Teams

Click  here  for more information and to register. 

Dates of significance

Every month, members of Team Grandview’s Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee research and share blog posts about holidays, cultural celebrations, awareness days and other dates of significance that are meaningful to staff, clients, caregivers, partners and the community. 

In February, we acknowledge Black History Month, World Hijab Day, Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Missing Women’s Memorial March, International Childhood Cancer Day and Pink Shirt Day. Read more on our blog > 

We also acknowledge many holidays and celebrations this month, including Ramadan, Vasant Panchami, Setsubun, Shab-e Barat and Nirvana Day. Read more on our blog >

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Content in Gather is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor. Views expressed in posts and resources listed do not signify endorsement by Grandview Kids.