2016 Annual Report | Continuing The Dream

One Community,

Countless Dreams!

CORE VALUES

The Centre for Dreams celebrates the abilities and differences of each individual and takes pride in the diversity of our organization. Each person has the right to a life filled with dignity and respect.

1) The members are the quintessential focus that is the driving force of our organization

We strive to create an oasis for our clients. The Centre for Dreams is a positive learning environment where all clients are accepted and where all accomplishments are celebrated with great pride. All members are inspired and encouraged to take risks in order to develop their skills and achieve their dreams.

2) We offer educational and innovative programming

The personal growth of each individual requires both cooperative and collective action allowing our members to determine and reach their fullest potential. As a cohesive unit, we establish all aspects of programming to ensure the highest level of excellence. Individualized and challenging programs are offered which are dynamic, enriching and meaningful to all members in a lively and empowering environment.

3) Employees must have a genuine care and concern for our members

All employees of The Centre for Dreams are encouraged to appreciate that Dreams is an unconventional environment whereby professionalism and passion are equally important. Despite the eccentric environment, all employees will provide our members with exceptional curriculum through mentorship and energizing leadership.

4) Each person has an unquestionable worth and the right to free participation and full integration in all aspects of their community

The Centre for Dreams participates fully in the greater community. We create partnerships with similar organizations, act as a source of information expanding worldwide, and participate in a number of corporate initiatives. Through the opportunities that we provide to our community, we will cultivate individuals to become leaders of our community. We strive to create access and encourage social interactions all the while providing a safe environment for our members.

5) We will gain stability through meaningful relationships and innovative fundraising

The Centre for Dreams is dedicated to establishing superior relations with donors and volunteers through our appreciation and recognition programs. A sense of security and equitable standards among staff will be achieved as a result of the financial stability of our organization.

6) A strong foundation is built through genuine qualities

Applying personal values to the workplace releases fresh energies, which always attracts success, achievement, and well-being. All individuals participating in the operation of The Centre for Dreams believes that when personal values are applied, great accomplishments and success are sure to follow.

OUR VISION

Our vision is for all individuals living with a developmental disability to be recognized for their inherent worth and unique contributions in society, as well as having full access to community resources and social supports in an accessible and non-judgemental setting.

OUR MISSION

The mission of The Centre for Dreams is to enhance the knowledge of our clients, with developmental disabilities in a variety of settings, within their community, to empower them to become independent, dignified and respected members therein. We are dedicated to providing the opportunities and the means for our youth, adult and elderly members to focus on their abilities and not their disabilities through educational, social and life skill programs. We are one community with countless Dreams.

A Message From the Chairman of the Board

Dear members, families, staff, volunteers and board members:

As we close out 2016, I too am wrapping up my formal association with the Dreams' board. After 8 years of service, I felt it was the right time for me to stand down to allow for new board members and new leadership to shape the future of the organization.

Here is what I have learned over the years:

Dreams is a very special place.

The members that spend their days with our team are some of greatest people I have ever met and I am a better person for having gotten to know them.

The volunteers are wonderful people. Saturday mornings, late night clean ups, Sunday afternoon events - they have given their time and their hearts to a great cause and I am grateful for all their efforts.

Under the great leadership of Michelle Del Carmen, the staff all get a big thank you from me. They not only tirelessly support the charity but are each in their own right passionate, capable and inspiring individuals. Please keep up the good work and know that I remain in your corner.

To my fellow board members - past and present - I thank you all for your time and leadership. The single-mindedness of always trying to do what we all think is best for Dreams has propelled this group through many meetings, evenings and weekends and over the many hurdles that have popped up over the years.

To the families that enjoy the services at Dreams - please know you are in good hands. The team has never been stronger. The staff are valued and appreciated, the board well-appointed and the charity very focused.

However I do want to say to everyone to please not take Dreams for granted. A place like this is special and worth fighting for... and to keep Dreams around, everyone will need to pitch in to help.

Under Elaine's determined leadership, she and her family have created a wonderful place. To the Vollett and Del Carmen families - I thank you all for everything you have given to make Dreams into what it is today... and believe me, I know you have given a lot.

I wish everyone well and will conclude by saying that I may be leaving the board, but I am not leaving the charity. As my official Board status comes to a natural conclusion, my support of Dreams remains unwavering.

Very best,

Doug Smith