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Annual Report, 2014
Centre 507 is a Day Program of the City of Ottawa, and an Outreach Mission of
Centretown United Church and the United Church of Canada
507 Bank Street Ottawa, ON K2P 1Z5
Phone: (613) 233-5626 ▪ Fax: (613) 233-5088 ▪ Website: www.centre507.org
Charitable Registration No. 11884 8472 RR0001
Centre 507’s Mission
Centre 507 is open to all who would seek a safe, friendly and supportive environment.
Centre 507 and the Association acknowledge the integrity of the whole person. As such, we
work at responding to the changing needs of the participants through a variety of free
programs and services. Individuals choose services appropriate to their needs and personal
growth. We are committed to working in partnership with the people who use the centre
and access its services.
Centre 507 Board of Directors in 2013
Ross Snyder, Chairperson
Paul Durber, Secretary
Karen Walker, Program Committee Chair
Linda Pollock, Personnel Committee Chair
George Teather, Treasurer
William Blais
Myles Frosst
Gordon Howard
Rev. David-IllmanWhite
Karen Jensen
Richard Leblanc
Susan McIntyre
John Patton
Ron Scharfe
Melvin Smith
Mike Velichka
Karen Walker
Christine Williams
Joe McKendy, shared
with Matt Bonsall
Centre 507 Staff as of December 31, 2013
Richard LeBlanc, Executive Director
Joshua Bridges, Lifeskills Management Worker
Kitty Galt, In Centre Support Worker
Gladys Aghahowa, In Centre Support Worker
Heather Wherry, In Centre Support Worker
Christopher Dalton, Rooming House Tenant Support Worker
Gladys McClement, Rooming House Tenant Support Worker
Celina Mcdonald, Relief Worker
Kate Fleming, Relief Worker
Jon Lorch, Relief Worker
Brendon McKay , Outreach Worker
Nick McKenna , Outreach Worker
April Rutherford, Relief Worker
Tanya Vasalic, Relief Worker
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Centre 507, Annual General Meeting
Agenda
Opening Reflection
Lillian Roberts
Motion to Elect Meeting Chair
Paul Durber, Secretary
Welcome
Ross Snyder, Chair Board
Guest Speaker
Tom Sherwood
Approval of AGM minutes, April 30, 2013
Paul Durber, Secretary
Executive Director’s Report and
Introduction of Staff Members
Richard LeBlanc, Executive Director
Treasurer’s Report:
Presentation of
i) Audited 2013 statements, &
ii) 2014 budget
George Teather, Chair Finance Committee
Presentation of thanks to
supporters, friends, contributors
Richard LeBlanc, Executive Director
Recognition and thanks to
Members of the Board of Directors
Ross Snyder, Board of Directors Chair
Nominating Committee Report
George Teather, Nominating Committee
Election of Board Members
Ross Snyder, Board of Directors Chair
Induction of New Board
Adjournment
David Illman-White
Meeting Chair
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Friends of the Board in 2013
Friends of the Board have provided ongoing administrative support involving many unseen (but very much
appreciated) hours of work through the past year in the following roles:
Betty Gross, Correspondence
Nancy Desjardins Centretown United
Aborg Computing, Web hosting
James Chisholm, Newsletter Design
Phil Normand, Webmaster
Funding support in 2013 was gratefully received from:
Centretown United Church
Numerous Private Donors
City of Ottawa, Community Funding Unit
United Church of Canada, Montreal Ottawa Conference
City of Ottawa, Housing Services Branch
Centretown Churches Social Action Committee
United Church of Canada, Ottawa Presbytery
Many Ottawa United Church Congregations
Province of Ontario, Consolidated Homelessness Prevention Program
Government of Canada, Homelessness Partnering Strategy
Project Clear Skies
Centre 507 greatly appreciates all the funding it receives. It is through a combination of monetary donations and
funding, in-kind services, and the donation of goods and services that we are able to provide services to our
participants. Regular donations from the Ottawa Food Bank allow us to provide sustenance to participants through
our Snack Program. Thank you to everyone who contributed to Centre 507 during 2013.
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Volunteers with Centre 507 during 2013
In addition to our extremely committed volunteer Board of Directors and Friends of the Board, a great number of
people volunteer their time in support of Centre 507 It is because of this incredible volunteer energy that many of
our services and special events are made possible.
Many Thanks to...
Brian O'Shea
Jeff Russell
Donna-Fay Maillhot
Ronnie Brunelle
Richard Pfaff Alternate HS Tessa Blaikie
Stephane Paquette
William Blais
Lisa Thomas
Vern O’Carroll
Pat & Bob Renaud
Mike Gerricke
Kerry Kohler
Jeff White
Lillian Roberts
Bill & Audrey Miller
Shimiso Kunako
David McCormick
Jason Leclair
Paola Fabrizio
Cassandra Vernier-Sauve
Brent Harding
Matt Bonsall
Joan Fletcher
Daniel Kangok
Brian O’Shea
Potter
Tom Tanner
Kathryn Peate
Nancy Desjardins
Nancy Jonah
Mary McKennie
Gordon Howard
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Centretown United Church Womens Group
Ricahard Roy
Carol & Brian Waters
Ibrahim Rashid
Bob Dooley
Kevin Warren
Kamil Huseynli
Chris Thompson
Mahmoud Gaabass
Natalia Bercham
Joseph Bridges
Chad Balargion
Claude Contant
Marcel
David
Dennis Lortie
Keith McNamara
Brian Costello
Irene van de Lagemaat
John Belair
Brent Hill
Peter Watkins
Betty Gross
Joe Michniewicz
Nicholas Markusk
Elaine Bignell
Harold Curry
Barbara Potter-Angus
Karen Fee
Wendy Limbrick
Don McKennie
Mackay United Church
Mikayla Jensen
Karen Fee
Dan Litchinsky
Ross Snyder
Jim Farewell
Alyssa Townshend
Natalia Younger
Hassan Hayati
William Fogarasy
Joshua Renaud
Ibrahim Ghadban
Nancy LeBlanc
Rick LeBlanc
Martin and Cathy
Commuity of Christ
Ray Lepine
Mounir Abbadi
Jon Paquette
Carole Ambridge
Keith Ambridge
Marilyn HamilBill
Ed Gratton
Harold Curry
Jim Farewell
Bill Miller
Jeannie
Roy Maddocks
Ismail Searag
Paul McDonald
Eric McLaughlin
Mostafa N.
Jamie Lacombe
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Message from the Chair of the Board—Ross Snyder
2013 marked the 30th anniversary of Centre 507, and we celebrated it in style! We held our first “Fall Fling” in
October in Centretown United Church with a dinner, auction and a variety of entertainment. Enthusiastic people
filled the basement dining hall and raised some $7000.00. Above all, we had fun and enjoyed fellowship. It helped
us to remember how the Centre began in 1983 thanks to the vision of members of the then Macleod-Stewarton
United Church (now Centretown United) and how we have developed to meet growing needs in our community. I’d
like to pay special tribute to one of our staff, Kitty Galt and a creative volunteer, Carol Waters, for their excellent
work in organizing the event.
Overall, 2013 was a time of consolidation and growth at Centre 507. We continued with the modernization of our
accounting and financial systems under the leadership of George Teather, our Treasurer. We undertook a survey of
our participants, which confirmed how much our work is valued by those who benefit from it. We reached out to the
community, and included in our Board additional expertise in fundraising.
We continued to deepen some of the capacities in our Board of Directors. As I reported last year, we moved ahead
with the revival of our Property Committee with Mike Velichka as the Chair. He and James deJonge reviewed some
of the challenges inside our space and worked with Centretown United to undertake some small repairs and
renovations. We also recruited Myles Frosst to enhance our fundraising capacity at a time when our traditional
government and denominational supporters have limited capacity to increase their funding. The gratifying results of
the Fall Fling demonstrated that there is the potential to attract additional support.
In the summer, Shea Kiely, our Executive Director, left to lead St. Luke’s Kitchen, a similar centre at St. Luke’s
Anglican Church. We wish her well in that venture. We moved quickly to hold a competition to find a new Executive
Director and had a large number of applications. In the end, we hired one of our own, Richard LeBlanc, who has
been with the Centre for almost ten years in a variety of roles. You will find a profile of Richard in our latest
newsletter. Richard took on this new role in September 2013 and already we have learned to value his experience,
leadership capacity and his creativity in shaping and developing our programmes.
As always, we continue to enjoy a solid and supportive relationship with Centretown United, including the two
ministers, David Illman-White and David Sherwin. As many of you will know, Centretown is assessing its own future
as a congregation and is considering a number of options on how to move forward. We have been informed that
there will not be quick decisions and that in whatever direction the congregation takes, it has a strong commitment
to the work of Centre 507. Centretown United, the Ottawa Presbytery of the United Church and the City of Ottawa
have all underlined their commitment to continue the journey with us.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to our Board of Directors for the faithfulness, energy and skills they bring to
the work of the Centre. I also am full of admiration for the time and talents our staff and volunteers continue to
bring to their efforts. Despite the challenges we face, I look ahead with confidence to 2014.
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Executive Directors Report
As I reflect back on 2013, I am aware of the many ways Centre 507 has changed. We watched as some old
friends moved on and we welcomed new friends. Throughout all the years and all the change some things
always remains constant at Centre 507. Our drop-in team opens up the doors 6 days a week. Our Outreach
team hits the streets, woods and alleys every day. Our Rooming House team is off at appointments, and
our life skills worker is running groups and doing job searches. The coffee pot is always on and the soup is
always cooking. The faces change but the quality and variety of the services we offer remain strong.
In 2013 our numbers continue to increase as does the need for drop-in services in our community. Last
year we had over 55000 visits!
Centre 507 has a lot to be proud of. We open our doors longer than any other drop-in centre in the City of
Ottawa. We are open 35 hours each week, 1740 hours per year.
We are the drop-in that has the longest food service. You can leave Centre 507 with a full belly 19.5 hours a
week.
I have had the opportunity to meet and truly understand the contribution of so many incredible people
who believe so strongly in the work of Centre 507. I would like to thank the staff team for all the hard work
and dedication they provide. I would also like to the everyone involved with the Centre 507 Board of
Directors for the great work they do. I would like to thank the participants for sharing their lives with us.
Without the support of so many, Centre 507 would not be able to sustain the level of support that we
currently offer.
Richard LeBlanc
Executive Director
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, APRIL 30, 2013
MINUTES
1.
Introduction of the Mayor of Ottawa
The Chair of the Board introduced Mayor Jim Watson, noting that the City is a very important partner of the Centre.
The Mayor entered public life in the early 1990s, and served as both Councillor and Mayor as well as provincial
cabinet minister in several portfolios. While in Cabinet, he ensured that the province take up more of the financial
burden for social programs, providing more financial room to cities for social funding. He has been highly supportive
of social housing and organisations like the Centre.
The audience welcomed the Mayor. He thanked the Centre for its 30 years of service to those who are less fortunate
in our society. The year of our founding was the year he graduated from Carleton University. Though born in
Montreal he fell in love with this city. He praised the City’s partnerships with not-for-profit organisations like ours
and the food banks. He said that we all function through volunteers, and the City could not provide the social
services it does except through the NGOs.
As mayor he recognised the difficulty of funding social housing. He once (while a provincial cabinet minister) chaired
a federal-provincial-territorial meeting on housing. He knew about the long waiting lists for affordable housing in
Ottawa. That proved also be a serious problems across Canada. Reasons for the problem may vary with location, but
all provinces came together to pressure the federal government to provide a five-year housing funding block. (It has
now lapsed, but a good deal of building was done through that support.) The job creation benefits from the building
were recognised by the two levels of government.
In 2010, the Mayor campaigned to put $14 million from the “uploading” of provincial social funding into City housing
budget, and is a permanent part of the program. He monitors the expenditures with staff, looking at target for
people helped through rent supplements for example. The social housing wait list is down about 10% from the longtime ten thousand. Rent supplements have been increased, helping people to stay in housing that may have become
unaffordable to them. Some funding has also gone to employment help for youth. Summer jobs have been funded,
for example.
He recognised that the Centre is also helpful, for example through access to the Internet, community building and
counselling. These are great helps. There have been hundreds of volunteers, the faith community, the board of
directors and staff who have provided these supports. There is still a lot of work to do even in a city as well-off as
ours. The City tries to advocate the other levels of government that they should be more active in helping those in
need, for example by having a national housing strategy.
The Mayor also invited Diane Holmes to come forward as he presented the Chair of the Board with a City
proclamation on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Centre.
2. Opening Reflection – Lilian Roberts
This is really a birthday party, celebrating our past year of life, and looking forward to the future year. Betty Gross
must also be wondering how the Centre could be 30 years old already. One of her early Presbytery meetings was
held at Centretown United (then McLeod-Stewarton Church), when Betty and Gordon Gross gave the presbyters a
tour of the vision they had for the Centre. Now we have a strong and professional staff. What has grounded the
Centre from the beginning is an understanding of what makes us a community together.
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She spoke of Matthew 25, “I was thirsty and you gave me drink….” Whenever one does such an act to someone in
need, he gives to God. We need to give to those who are sometimes invisible. We experience the divine through our
connection with others, especially those in need. All are blessed in this connection -- volunteers and those who
receive. Such relationships are a reflection of our values, “open to all adults….” We recognised the integrity of the
whole person, having their own dignity.
Over the 30 years, we have found new ways to be in a new world. The gifts of staff and volunteers have helped the
Centre to learn, to grow to be an independent adult. Faith in our vision and openness to God have been important.
Having our roots in the United Church has been important in that grounding.
Wishing us a happy birthday, Rev. Lillian Roberts led the meeting in prayer.
3. Music from Mikayla Jensen
Among her selections were “Like a Rock”.
4. Election of Chair and Secretary of the Meeting
Moved and seconded by John Patton and Joe McKendy: that Ross be elected Chair and Paul Durber as Secretary.
5. Minutes of the Last AGM
John Patton and Lillian Roberts moved and seconded to accept them as read – agreed.
6. Report of the Executive Director
Shea Kiely thanked all to come to this our 30th AGM, and noted the progression of the Centre during our 30 years. A
“Time Line” has been put together, by Kitty, in text and in photographs that are up on the wall. The founders of our
Centre, Betty Gross and Albert Tichner, and Centretown United Church have been instrumental in our existence. She
thanked all in the Church congregation.
She presented a long list of those to be thanked, including the congregations of the United and Lutheran churches
that provide monthly meals, as well as the many congregations who give frequent “white gifts”. Fresh bread is
provided by the French Baker; a discount, by Glebe Metro; gift cards and tickets to sporting events from Giant Tiger.
She introduced the staff of the Centre – Richard, Kitty, Gladyce, Brendan, Joshua, Craig, Nicholas, Katy, Chris and
Gladys. Teamwork is a key component of the work of the Centre, and all cooperate with one another and support
the Executive Director. Two of our staff have been with our Centre for many years. Shea presented Gladys with a
certificate of long-term participation. A certificate of appreciation was also presented to him.
Linda Pollock, Director and Chair of Personnel Committee presented Shea with a long-term certificate of appreciation
for her six years with the Centre.
7. Treasurer’s Report
George Teather noted that the Centre has grown to a budget of over $660 thousand a year, while remaining both an
organisation of both professional services and volunteer work. The funding has been important from many donors,
including that from the United Church. He thanked all volunteers.
He noted that the good news in the financial situation is that we have a solid financial system and a professional
bookkeeper. The $67 thousand deficit arises in part from one-time charges, including building a financial system and
having a full audit. Another reason for the continuing part of the deficit of about $30 thousand is that we spend more
on food – some $10 thousand, and that is to the good and fits with our mission and goals.
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We have been fortunate to receive a $10 thousand gift from a donor.
For the coming fiscal year, we will have a deficit of at least $20 thousand, depending on whether we are successful in
our goal of seeking more funds from non-governmental funders.
He moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report – Linda Pollock seconded. Accepted. He also moved acceptance of
the proposed 2013 Budget, seconded by Christine Williams. Accepted. Ross thanked George for all his work in
leading the Centre to adopt a modern accounting system.
8. Thanks to Friends and Collaborators – Ross Snyder
He referenced the meeting to pages three and four of the Annual Report. He made special mention of all three levels
of government for their funding of our program, which are dependent on those revenues. As well as the United
Church, thanks were offered to Centretown United for housing and supporting the Centre. Their support to many of
our activities has been essential. The Crabtree Foundation gave a cheque in 2012. The Community Foundation gave
funds for the purchase of boots.
A special presentation of flowers was given to Margaret for her life skills work over the years. Flowers and a place
were given to Betty Gross with thanks for her role in our founding and support for 30 years. Mikayla was given
flowers and a plaque for her Sunday music. Conner Hildahl had volunteered his time for many months of maintaining
computers in the Centre. John Lebrun had given us stained glass windows – for which we gave him a plaque and
flowers. Roy Maddocks came forward in recognition of his 14 years on the Board. Linda Pollock asked Bill Jay to come
forward. He was the Minister of McLeod-Stewarton when the Centre was founded. She presented him with flowers.
He gave thanks and blessings for our 30 years.
Ross thanked the members of the Board of Directors for their work over the past year. He said that the members
perform essential roles, especially given our funding and staff and the complicated organisation that requires
managing. Two participant members are departing – Gary Loucks and Gilbert Brooker – and he thanked them for
their participation. There are three participant members, and that is a special part of our governance structure,
ensuring participants have a say in how the Centre is governed.
Ross drew attention to our use of the term “participants”.
9. Nominating Committee
Six were nominated (see pages 23 and 24 of the Annual Report) – five current members of the Board: George
Teather, Linda Pollock, Karen Jensen, Karen Walker, and Susan McIntyre, and a new member – Mike Velichka
(interested in Property matters). One position is left vacant. There being no nominations from the floor, the
members of Centre 507 elected the six individuals to the Board.
The Chair noted that participant members were elected by a meeting of participants, and said that William Blais was
present in the meeting. He added that the two other members are Gordon Howard and Cindy Russell.
They and all Board members present were nducted by Rev. David Ilman-White – and all members were thanked.
10. Adjournment
Karen Jensen moved – accepted. The meeting closed at 8:40.
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Artistic Expressions Studio Steering Committee – 2013 AGM Report
The Artistic Expressions Studio is a joint project of Centretown United Church and Centre 507. The project provides a
fully equipped arts studio where participant-artists can work and receive encouragement and guidance from three
professional community artists, Lisa Thomas, Kerry Kohler and Irene Van de Lagemaat. The Studio Steering
Committee organized the 2nd annual
Exhibit in mid-November. The Exhibit featured the work of 8 artists exhibiting 38 paintings. A total of 13 paintings
were sold for revenue of $1,805. dollars. All sales revenues went to the artists except for 10 % which was donated
by the artists to on-going Studio operations. The Steering Committee wants to thank Rev. David White, the
Centretown Brass Quintet, Bill Blais, the Douglas Coldwell Foundation and Drs. Vincent Lam and Ryan Meili and
Dennis Gruending, journalist and former MP, for donating their talent and time in support of the Exhibit.
Approximately 200 people came to view the artwork over 3 days. Among the 25 volunteers who helped in the
preparation of the event and in its execution we want to thank especially Kitty Galt, 507 Drop-in Staff, Lisa Thomas,
Irene Van de Lagemaat and Kerry Kohler, artist-mentor volunteers with the Studio as well as the Studio artists
themselves who helped with both the set-up and take down of the gallery. Thanks too to Centre 507 Board
members Ross Snyder, Susan McIntyre, Bill Blais and Joe McKendy and the many volunteers from Centretown United
church for their help with ushering, communications, photography and card sales.
Finally The Steering Committee especially thanks Mr. Richard Roy, a Studio artist who sold several of his paintings
during the Exhibit and made a donation of almost $600. to the Studio. Richard explained that he was happy to give
back something in recognition of the support from Centre 507 he has received over several years. This is exemplary
generosity. Thank you Richard.
The members of the Artistic Expressions Steering Committee for 2013 were Catriona Galt, Rev. David White, Betty
Gross and Linda Pollock.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Pollock, April 2014.
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Adjournment: Moved by Gilbert Brooker and seconded by Jim Farewell that the meeting be
Day and Evening Programs
adjourned. Carried.
Drop-in Services, Participant Employee Program, Volunteer Program, Recreation Program
Centre 507 Social Recreation Program – Kitty Gault
“Recreation’s purpose is not to kill time, but to make life, not to keep a person occupied, but to keep them
refreshed, not to offer an escape, but to provide a discovery of life”- Author Unknown
Recreation has had a busy and productive year. We visited museums, the National Gallery, the beach,
Winterlude on the canal, and Mosaika on Parliament Hill. We hooked a rug, decorated sun-catchers, carved
pumpkins, and made centrepieces for the Volunteer Dinner. We celebrated all major events, including
cakes for birthdays, cards for Christmas and Valentine’s Day, green cake for St Patrick’s Day, and red eggs
for Easter.
The most popular event takes place in October. It seems that as soon as summer arrives our participants
start asking about our annual trip to Saunders’ Farm. We charter a bus for one evening at the end of
October and drive to the town of Munster. Saunders’ farm offers thrills and chills with a haunted barn, a
spooky hayride, a Zombie walk, and more. It is a fun-filled evening topped off with hot chocolate. A good
time is always had by all!
Recreation plays a vital role in the Centre. Our activities reduce the isolation and loneliness that many of us
confront. We celebrate, experience and explore together. Above all we have fun together!
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The Sochi 2014 Olympics, Played Out at Centre 507
Heather Wherry
It’s February 20, 2014, The Canadian Women’s Olympic hockey team versus the Americans. There are 54.6
seconds left in the final Sochi Olympic regulation game. Canadian Marie-Philip Poulin makes a comeback against
the Americans, sending the game into overtime. Once in overtime Marie-Philip surprises everyone again with
the next goal, winning the team a gold medal. Huddled around the television Centre 507 is full. Men and women
begin to fist pump, rise out of their seats - united in joy as a result of the winning hockey goal.
Men and Women of Centre 507 participated in spirit with the SOCHI Olympic Games during February 7 - 23, 2014. A
large themed bulletin board was created incorporating daily picture and historical facts. Everyone was kept apprised
of the Canadian medal counts as well as those aboard. If staff were behind in current events, participants took part
to ensure that the board was maintained and updated accurately. Streaming the Olympic Podcast provided for a
change in routine at Centre 507 and a mixture of sports to cheer and learn about. Similarly, the Paralympics on
March 7-16, 2014 were also streamed at Centre 507. Staff were surprised to see everyone glued to the podcast. Our
participants were fascinated by the difficulty, stamina and training it took for athletes to accomplish these goals.
One of our regular participants at Centre 507 “Ralph,” stated that the Olympics have traditionally been something he
follows. Living in his current lifestyle without a TV, if it weren’t for Centre 507, he would have likely missed the
Olympics this year. Ralph didn’t expect to watch all the major Canadian Hockey matchups, but was thrilled he did.
Ralph states that without these activities at Centre 507 he would have either missed the Olympics entirely, or he
would have gone to a local sports bar. Neither of these options are ideal. Going to a bar to watch the game is
expensive, you are expected to buy food or drinks and others may become aggressive. Ralph also states that he is
not always into drinking Alcohol. Nor is drinking the best thing for him. Ralph believes that in a different setting,
alcohol would have increased his anger. Ralph believes he would not have enjoyed the highs and lows of the games,
as he had in the healthy environment here Centre 507.
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Volunteer Program
Volunteer Program 2013 “Centre 507 has been good to me. I want to give back”.
The volunteer Program has had a magnificent year at Centre 507. 2013 was filled with so many success
stories. From many of our volunteers gaining full time employment with different organizations to our long
time participant volunteer becoming more engaged in the process.
Thanks to our many volunteers who through their strength and viability made 2013 a successful, from our
participant volunteer, Church groups, community volunteer to the volunteers from various program at the
Salvation Army.
When I look back through the year one volunteer stood out among many successes
Joe B as I would refer to him for confidentiality purposes. Joe B has been a participant at the centre for
over 1o years. Last year he came up to me he said “Centre 507 has been good to me I want to give back”
This is a common saying among most of our participant volunteers. Before he started volunteering, he had
a hard time verbalizing issues around inappropriate behavior. Joe started volunteering around February,
2013. He was enthusiastic, committed and engaging. Always showing up on time every week for his shift.
He sat at a particular position every Sunday making himself comfortable for the task of making sandwiches.
It was obvious that he enjoyed his role. For a full year he grew. He became a lot more stable, knowing
when to ask for help whenever he is struggling. Asking for help from the appropriate sources.
Joe has stated that he feels he had made significant changes in his life as a direct result of his volunteer
activities with Centre 507 which provide him experience and skills to better himself as an individual.
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Street Outreach Program Nick McKenna and Brendon McKay
Since I began working in the Street Outreach Program in November, 2013 I have been able to learn a lot from my
interactions and experiences with both community partners as well as clients. There have been numerous
relationships established, some very short-term and goal oriented to meet immediate needs while others have been
longer-term to address a variety of issues. One example that stands out to me is working with a client named “Eve”
When I met Eve she was panhandling on the street. I introduced myself and explained my basic role as a Street
Outreach Worker. It was a very cold day so we decided to talk inside a coffee shop in a more relaxed environment.
Eve was quickly able to paint a picture of her everyday life and was aware of which areas she felt needed
improvement and what goals she would like to achieve. I was able to assist her in finding help to address her most
immediate need, which she felt was her housing. Eve had recently left a rooming house which she felt was unsuitable
for her needs and lifestyle and checked into local shelter. Through the help of community agencies, Eve was able to
locate housing, which she finds much more suitable and comfortable for her lifestyle. One of the most important
benefits of this new address is the ability to have pets inside. Eve owns a 3 year old dog that she had to separate
from for almost one year as the location did not allow pets on the property as per their policy. In this time, Eve had
to have her father care for the dog and had limited visits. I soon found out through our regular discussions that the
reason she panhandled was not to buy herself food, but to be able to afford quality dog-food and costs associated
with owning a pet.
Eve seems to be much happier in her new living space with her dog, where she has met friendly neighbours, and
feels safe and comfortable. I continue to check in with Eve when I see her and help with any questions or concerns by
offering information as well as referrals to local community social services. Eve is now working towards securing
part-time employment to earn extra income to continue to live a more comfortable life.
The 507 outreach team want to thank all those who allow them into their lives.
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Life Management Skills Program
Joshua Bridges
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
― Winston Churchill
It has been a wonderful year for Centre 507’s Life Management Skills Program. This year participants have taken part
in numerous book clubs, cooking groups, coffee talks, money management sessions and the participant employee
programs. In addition this year participants have also had the opportunity to join in our annual health fair and
Movember campaign for men’s health.
In the year 2013 Centre 507’s Participant Employee Program has seen 14 participants take part in the program. Of
the fourteen participants seven gained employment elsewhere in the community and two went back to school. The
following is an example of one of our Participant Employees.
John was living in a rooming house in the Somerset area and had been actively looking for work for close to a year.
He left his previous job, when they began to cut his hours, thinking he would be able to acquire other employment.
During the year of job searching John was forced to move into a rooming house, put his things in storage and apply
for Ontario Works.
Centre 507’s Street Outreach Program were the first ones to encounter John. They began working with John and
assisting him with a number of issues he had presented. During this time they also informed John of Centre 507’s Life
Management skills program and more specifically the Participant Employee Program. Once the connection was
made things moved rather quickly for John, within the week he was asked to an interview and the following week he
was offered a position in the program which he gladly took.
John has done extremely well in the program here at Centre 507 and has never given up his search for full time work.
He takes full advantage of all the program has to offer and is working very closely with our partners at the YMCAYWCA Employment Access Centre. John is still cooking at Centre 507 but has been interviewed once since he entered
the program and, although he did not acquire the job, he continues to be motivated with his job search.
The Centre 507 Life Management Skills Program sees success in all aspects of our programing and in every
participant! The past year has been filled with many difficulties and many successes. A big thank you to all who make
this program possible, especially all of our courageous participants!
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Rooming House Tenant Support Program- Chris Dalton
The Rooming House Tenant Support Program at Centre 507 provides direct client outreach services to stabilize the
tenancy and address multiple living challenges for participants living in rooming houses. This involves, identifying
goals and accompanying clients to appointments in order to achieve those goals. One participant agreed to share his
success story with the rest of the Centre 507 community.
Amir Djalal was a tenant in a rooming house who was living with addiction and mental health problems. He was
often involved in arguments and fights in his rooming house, between other tenants and the landlord. The police
were called numerous times because of the fighting. Amir felt that the culture of partying and drug use in his
rooming house was not helpful for his physical and mental health, he did not like living there and wanted change in
his life. Amir wanted to feel better and move to a safer place, to attain more control over his drug use and drinking
habits.
Amir came to Centre 507 with the goals of moving out and accessing drug treatment services. Amir was accompanied
by an outreach worker to attend medical appointments. He was referred to a friendly psychologist who performed a
free assessment for him. The psychologist found that Amir was suffering from major depression and post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD). The psychologist claimed that Amir was likely using drugs and alcohol to numb the intense
feelings he had from memories of past trauma. Amir felt that this diagnosis was helpful because he could better
understand why he wanted to drink and take drugs. Amir wanted to improve his life so, he made a concrete effort to
find a new place to live. He was successful and moved out of his old room and into new accommodation in a
different neighbourhood. There Amir was in a better environment to really try to get control of his addiction.
The rooming house worker accompanied Amir to the Royal Ottawa Hospital Addictions treatment program. Amir
registered to get onto the waiting list and had to attend weekly pre-admission appointments. Eventually he was
admitted into the medical detox program. Amir stayed in the program for one month and participated in the
programming that provided detox. Amir had some difficulty with the English language thus he transferred to the
French speaking, Maison Fraternite, in Vanier. He appreciated the residential treatment and the francophone focus.
Amir was very successful at Maison Fraternite and finally felt comfortable moving back into his new home, however,
he still wanted to be involved in groups and counselling. Amir was referred to the Out-patient Addictions and Trauma
program at the Montfort Hospital. This program provides psychologists, psychiatrist and medical doctor oversight,
specifically focused on helping people with past trauma, overcome their addiction. Since attending these groups,
Amir has taken more control over his drug and alcohol use and has begun to enjoy life again. Amir began a beginner
computer training class, he is hoping to back to school for computer literacy and possibly website design in the
future. Amir has also started volunteering at Centre 507 in order to give back the help he was offered. Overall, the
rooming house program was able to support Amir, and have faith in his ability to accomplish goals that he set out for
himself. His motivation to improve his life, despite past traumas and challenges, is inspirational to all of us at Centre
507.
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Rooming House Tenant Support Program – Gladys McClement
I have been fortunate to be a part of the Centre 507 staff for many years. During this time , I have covered a lot of
ground from working in the Centre itself to providing support to the rooming house community. Before arriving at
Centre 507, most of my work experience involved working with women. In my new position as as Rooming House
Tenant Support Worker, i now work only with men. This has made for a long and interesting learning curve for me as
i adapt to working with a different segment of the population that Centre 507 serves. Men express themselves
differently from women so my biggest hurdle is to get them to open up and learn to ask for what they
need. Needless to say, this has not been an easy task.
Paul R. is one of my clients. Like most of my clients, he faces may barriers-economic and social. He doesn’t have any
family members to support him. Some of the challenges he faces are related to his tendency to hoard food and his
sheer physical size. Because of his hoarding issues, we have had to get his room cleaned up and sprayed for bug
infestations. We worked together to accomplish this task. We have gone shopping and he has learned to buy only
what he needs now. He has learned to make healthier food choices and to buy fresh food when he can. Fruit not
chips. Being a large man means he has difficulty finding clothing to fit him. As well, the shower stall in his rooming
house is too small to fit him, so i arranged to have him shower at the Centretown Community Health Centre where
showers and all the necessity are available weekly. Paul has been very receptive to the idea of counselling and has so
far a taken advantage of the services at CCHC. Paul has come a long way in a short time. Both of us have learned to
communicate effectively with each other. He is my first success story in my most recent position at Centre 507, that i
am so proud of doing.
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Property Committee report
The Property Committee was re-established in 2013. The committee is currently comprised of Mike Velichka (chair)
and James DeJonge. The mandate of the committee is to oversee and undertake repairs and enhancements to
ensure that Centre 507 offers a safe and comfortable facility for participants and staff.
During the course of the year most of the committee’s energy was focused on repairs to the main meeting room that
had been subject to significant water damage. Wallboards were replaced, and with a fresh coat of paint, the room is
now much more welcoming. Smaller repairs such plumbing and the cleaning of carpets, made up the other type of
activities that were undertaken throughout the year.
Although other enhancements to the facility had been identified for completion, these projects have been delayed
pending confirmation of the continued availability of space at Centretown United Church.
The committee will continue to strive to ensure a welcoming and functional environment to all those who are part of
the Centre 507 community
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COMMUNICATIONS FUNDRAISING
Centre 507
Fundraising Sub-committee Report
April 2, 2014
Annual Newsletter: This year’s edition, published in November, celebrated the 30th anniversary of Centre 507 with a
cover story titled: 30 Years, 30 Voices. It featured 30 quotes from participants about the impact that the centre has
on their lives. The newsletter also featured a story that introduced new Executive Director Richard LeBlanc.
Special Edition Newsletter: This newsletter, published in the Fall, targeted downtown residents, particularly
newcomers who live in condominiums. It highlights the merits of getting making connections and helping out in your
own back yard.
Glebe Report Article: For a health edition of Glebe Report, we wrote a profile of a Centre 507 client whose health
improved greatly as a result of ongoing work with one of our Rooming House Support workers. It was published in
early 2014.
Web Site Renewal: In late 2013, the Communications Committee began brainstorming on how to streamline the
Centre 507 web site so that it is more up-to-date and easy to maintain. This work is a priority for 2014.
Next Steps: Objectives for 2014 include completing our web renewal project, expanding distribution of our special
edition newsletter for downtown residents and publishing our annual Fall/Winter newsletter.
Fundraising Sub-committee Report
To remain resilient to possible cut-backs in funding from current sources, and to fund possible new initiatives, Centre
507 must diversify its funding sources. To that end, Myles Frosst was appointed to the Board and asked to propose a
Fundraising strategy for the Board’s consideration. The Board is currently reviewing the draft. Some of the proposed
objectives --- and proposed actions to take --- are membership growth, expanded scope of communications and
outreach audiences, and fundraising capacity building. There is much to be done to reach the various proposed
targets; members and other volunteers are encouraged to add their talents to the fundraising effort
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Personnel Committee – 2013 AGM Report
Staffing: In 2013 Centre 507 reluctantly said goodbye to Shea Kiely, Executive Director from May 2012 to June 2013.
Shea is the new Executive Director of St. Luke’s Table. We wish Shea much success in her new job and look forward
to opportunities for our two organizations to share and support one another and the community members we serve.
For an interim period Richard LeBlanc and Katie Galt both acted as Executive Director while Personnel Committee
conducted an open competition to replace Shea. We thank Richard and Kitty and all Centre507 staff members for
helping 507 make a smooth transition during this period.
In Sept. 2013 Richard LeBlanc was appointed the new Executive Director. The Board looks forward to working with
Richard to continue offering the Centre’s excellent services and to address some of the challenges of delivering social
services in the context of ever expanding needs and tight funding.
2013 also saw the departure of two other staff members, Craig Marsden, long-time Outreach worker and Katie
Thorne who served participants both as In-Centre Worker and Housing and Tennant Support Worker. We sincerely
thank Craig and Katie for their dedicated work with 507 participants and we wish them much success in their new
employment. Until the end of 2013 Brendon McKay was appointed acting Outreach Worker, replacing Craig
Marsden, Gladys McClement, acting Rooming House and Tennant Support Worker, replacing Katie Thorne and,
Heather Wherry, acting Drop-In Worker, replacing Brendon McKay.
Job Descriptions: During 2013 Personnel Committee undertook a review and updating of job
descriptions. Revised descriptions were approved for: Life Management Skills, Outreach Worker,
Rooming House Tenant Support Worker, In-Centre Support Workers 1, 2, 3 and Part Time, and Relief
Worker.
Days Off: Richard creatively reworked the staff schedule in order to provide two consecutive days off each week to
all staff members.
Staff compensation for 2013: Taking into consideration the 2014 salary increases proposed for
United Church of Canada and sister community services agencies as well as 507’s current
financial report, Personnel Committee recommends the following Cost of Living increase to
staff base salaries for the 2014 fiscal year:
 an increase of 2% for all Full-time and Part-time regular staff positions.
This recommendation has been incorporated into the proposed budget for 2014.
The members of Personnel Committee in 2013 were Ron Scharfe, Shea Kiely (Executive Director until June 2013),
Richard LeBlanc (Executive Director as of Sept. 2013), Christine Williams and Linda Pollock (Chair).
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Pollock, April 2014.
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Program Committee Report – 2013
Program Committee members:
Karen Walker (chair)
John Patton
Susan McIntyre
Richard LeBlanc (ex officio)
Gordon Howard (participant member)
The Program Committee met to review the many suggestions for improvements to the program identified in the
2013 Participant Survey Report. The suggestions were assessed for feasibility and a number of recommendations
were made and subsequently accepted by the Board. The Committee has been tracking progress on implementing
the recommendations.
The Committee also met with the staff member responsible for the Life Management Skills Program in order to
become more familiar with the program, review the logic model and the data collected to assess program
performance, and discuss any issues or challenges facing the program.
The Committee met with a participant Board member to discuss the possibility of initiating a mentoring program at
the Centre. The objective of the program would be to help participants to complete their education and advance in a
career by pairing them up with a professional who could help them overcome obstacles. Participant Board members
agreed to do further work on the idea and develop a formal proposal for consideration by the Program Committee.
Finally the Committee prepared a Space Needs Analysis that documents how space is currently used as well
as presenting what the "ideal" space configuration would be.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen Walker, March 2014
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Centre 507 Financial Report for 2014 –George Teather, Treasurer
2014 Annual Report
Financial Report
The Centre 507 financial management system is well established and functioning well after a number of years of
development and refinement. Features of the system include direct deposit of salary for all Centre 507 staff. There
are also individual bank accounts for each of the Programs, which allow staff to effectively manage and be
accountable for the expenditures of their program. Under the guidance of the book keeper, the system provides
timely reports required by the Board of Directors and the City to oversee Centre 507 programs.
Centre 507 is fortunate that the federal, provincial and municipal governments have all continued to provide funding
for our four programs. We thank the City of Ottawa, Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada for their
support, which covers over 85% of Centre 507 revenues. However 2013 is the last year of the existing funding
agreements, and new agreements are being negotiated. While transition funding is being provided, there is some
uncertainty about future funding. It is fortunate that the Centre has a reasonable reserve to help carry us through
this period.
For those expenditures not covered by the major funding programs, the Centre relies on financial contributions from
the United Church of Canada, individual Church congregations, and our many corporate and individual supporters.
These contributions are vital to our ability to deliver high quality services to Centre participants.
As noted last year, improvement s to the Centre’s financial procedures including the hiring of a book keeper and a
full annual audit have come at a cost of almost $20,000, which is not covered by the major funders. In addition, a
policy was instituted in 2013 to reward long time staff with a salary increment. There is also a plan this year to
create two senior staff positions. As a result, total salary increases were greater than the increase provided by the
funders. These additional administration and salary costs need to be covered from donations from our Church,
corporate and individual supporters.
2013 Financial Results
The 2013 budget projected revenues of $677,702 and expenditures of $696,806. Actual revenues were $699,374,
almost $22,000 higher than projected. Revenues were higher in all categories, government, churches, business and
individuals. The 30th Anniversary Event helped raise funds. Actual expenditures in 2013 were $678,898, $17,908
lower than the projected level of $696,806. The result was a surplus of $20,476, compared to a projected deficit of
$19,104
2014 Budget –Governments have provided transitional funding for 2014, with three of the four programs providing
increases of 1.5% and Street Outreach no increase. As a result, the 2014 budget projects a government funding
increase of 1.3% overall. The United Church contribution will drop to $25,500. Centre 507 plans to maintain and
build on last year’s successful fundraising by seeking additional financial contributions from local corporate and
individual contributors, and the budget projects increases of 2% in these categories. Projected revenues total
$715,004, $15,630 more then 2013 actual revenues.
The 2014 budget projects a 3% increase in administrative and management costs, plus $5000 fundraising an d
website redesign initiatives of the Board of Directors. Salary expenditures are projected to be $421,108, 2.3% higher
than in 2013, due to the 2% general salary increase for all permanent staff, and the increase in minimum wage on
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July 1 for participant workers. The additional cost for creating two senior staff positions with increased salaries will
be largely covered by minimizing the use of replacement staff. Costs of supplies are budgeted to be 3% higher.
Projected expenditures are $701,369, resulting in a net surplus of $14,635.
2014 Budget
Category
2013 Actual
2014 Budget
593,693
29,450
26,653
23,162
22,995
3,420
699,374
611,504
25,500
27,500
23,500
23,500
3,500
715,004
Revenue
Government (City of Ottawa)
United Church
Local Churches
Businesses
Individuals
Other
Total Revenues
Expenses
Administration
132,047
141,008
Salary and Benefits
413,608
423,121
Program supplies, cell phones
133,243
137,240
Total Expenditures
678,898
701,369
Revenues - Expenditures
020,476
014,635
Administration includes manager’s salary, rent, bank charges, book keeping, audit, maintenance, etc
2014 Increases
Revenue – overall almost flat ($1,249 increase)
Government – 1.3% overall (increases of 1.5% for all programs except Street Outreach)
United Church – estimate (major reduction from previous year)
Other revenue – projecting minor increases
Expenses – overall 2.9% increase ($20,181)
Administration – 3% increase plus $5000 in Board of Directors Initiatives (fundraising and website redesign)
Salaries and Benefits – 2.3% (2% for staff plus minimum wage increase for participant workers) classification)
Program supplies – 3% increase
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Centre 507 Nominating Committee Report, April 2014
Paul Durber, Board Secretary, has continued the work of the nominations committee with the help of, Roy
Maddocks, George Teather, and Paul Durber.
Following are the key sections of the Centre’s By-Laws concerning elections to the Board:
5.4
The number of members of the Board shall not exceed 18. At least one-third (1/3) of such members shall be
affiliated with the United Church of Canada. The Minister of Centretown United (formerly McLeodStewarton), or an alternate will be an ex-officio member of the Board. The Centre Manager will also be an
ex-officio member of the Board.
5.5
Three (3) positions on the Board of Directors may be filled by active participants from Centre 507. These
representatives must be selected by the participants and must be able and willing to assume the required
roles, functions, duties and responsibilities as Board members. The Executive will make a special effort to help
the participant Directors fulfill their duties.”
As a result of extensive consultations, the following is the recommended composition of the Board of Directors,
effective April 29, 2014. Committee assignments are shown where these have been discussed. Please note that we
currently have no vacancies for regular Board members and no vacancies for participant representatives to the
Board.
Nominations: 2014 Annual General Meeting (Current Members)
Name
Member since
Current/Proposed
Term
Nomination (role)
1. Ross Snyder
(Glebe-St. James
United—Chair)
April 2008
Spring 2014
Chair of the Board
2. Linda
Pollock(Centretown
United)
Spring 2009
Spring 2015
Chair, Personnel
Committee
3. George Teather
(Orleans United)
Spring 2009
Spring 2015
Treasurer, Finance
Committee
4. Paul Durber (First
United)
Spring 2010
Spring 2014
Secretary of the Board
5. Ron Scharfe
(Centretown
United)
Spring 2002
Sprig 2014
Personnel Committee
25
Name
6. Matt Bonsall
(shared with
Stephanie Small
and Joe McKendy)
7. Matthew David
Member since
Spring 2004
Current/Proposed
Term
Spring 2014
(New Director)
Nomination (role)
Communications and
Fundraising
Fundraising Committee
8. Christine Williams
(Emmanuel United)
Spring 2010
Spring 2014
Personnel Committee
9. Mike Velichka
Spring 2013
Spring 2015
Property
10. Karen Jensen
(Glebe-St. James)
December 2010 Spring 2015
Member, Personnel
Committee
11. Karen Walker
(Glebe-St. James)
Spring 2011
Spring 2015
Chair, Program
Committee
12. Susan McIntyre
(Centretown
United)
Spring 2011
Spring 2015
Programme Committee
13. Myles Frosst
September
2013
To be elected
Fundraising
Continued on page two
26
Board members – continued
Date to be
elected
Term
Elizabeth Hiller
New
Spring 2015
Participant elected by participants
Vern O’Carroll
New
Spring 2015
Participant elected by participants
John Belair
New
Spring 2015
Participant elected by participants
Name
Participant or ex officio role
Richard Leblanc
(Executive Director)
Ex officio member
Rev. David IllmanWhite (Minister at
Centretown United)
Ex officio member
* To be elected at Annual General Meeting