Two longtime volunteers were recognized by York Region Children’s Aid Society (CAS) at its annual general meeting in Richmond Hill June 20.
With more than 60 staff, volunteers, foster parents, board members, and community partners in attendance, Hazel Smikle and Beulah Osei received awards recognizing their dedication to the York Region community from Michael Berkow, York Region CAS director of people and culture, and Crystal Chambers, supervisor of access and drives.
They have both been volunteering as drivers for nearly 20 years, according to a CAS news release.
The agency relies on volunteers for the access and drives program, an essential service provided to children, youth, and families who are receiving support, services and care.
"With thousands of kilometres driven and countless songs, discussions, and quiet rides over the years, many volunteers contribute to enhanced experiences for thousands of children, youth and families," the CAS said.
“As a volunteer, we may never know the difference that we are making in a child’s life driving them back and forth, but many of these children view us as their extended family and sometimes the only person they can truly connect with," Smikle said.
In addition to honouring volunteers, this year’s AGM hosted a local youth, Justin Frasca, who spoke openly about his lived experience and journey through the child welfare system in York Region and around Ontario.
“Growing up, I faced many obstacles as a child in care, and through those experiences, I have come out stronger on the other side. I’m grateful to have my voice heard,” he said.
“I’m pleased to share my story, in the hopes that my experiences will help our community understand what life as a youth in care can look like. I think it’s very important for people in rooms like this to remember that there are other people sitting in very different rooms explaining the decisions that everyone here makes. Listening is a powerful tool for change, innovation, and equality, and I’m happy to be a part of that,” Frasca said.
Sharing lived experiences and recognizing volunteers are part of the wider strategic direction York Region CAS is embarking on to amplify the voices of children, youth, and families to better understand how to better serve its communities, the society said.
“The (annual general meeting) presented a great opportunity to host a forum for us to share our progress with our community partners, to celebrate our volunteers, and to open up space for people who have received our services to recount their experiences, helping us learn and improve our services. We shared our new strategic plan, shining a spotlight on equitable, inclusive service grounded in community and informed by those we directly serve,” CEO Ginelle Skerritt said.
Chair of the board Justin Rangooni added, “What a privilege it is to hear from an individual we’ve served and learn about their experiences, as well as honour our incredible volunteers. We are grateful to continue this work and collaborate with our vibrant communities.”
