68th Annual General Membership Meeting
On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Community Living Fort Erie proudly hosted its 68th Annual General Membership Meeting at the Fort Erie Legion. This inspiring event brought together nearly 100 board members, staff, supported individuals, and community partners for an evening of reflection, recognition, and celebration.
Together, we honoured those who have made a lasting impact on our mission and renewed our commitment to creating “An Inclusive Community That Only Sees Abilities.”
Welcoming Our 2025–2026 Board of Directors
We are thrilled to introduce our newly elected 2025–2026 Board of Directors – a dedicated group of individuals whose leadership and passion will guide us through the coming year. Their collective experience and commitment are instrumental in shaping a stronger, more inclusive future.
As a small token of appreciation, each member was presented with a gift to mark the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and impactful term.
We look forward to a year of collaboration, progress, and continued success with this exceptional team!
Honouring Service & Legacy
One of the evening’s most touching moments was the celebration of Michelle DellaVentura, who is retiring after a remarkable 37-year career with Community Living – Fort Erie. As Manager of Quality Assurance, Michelle played an integral role in shaping our services and upholding a culture of excellence and care. Her legacy of dedication will continue to inspire us for years to come.
We were also delighted to welcome back three former Executive Directors:
Kathy Stickles, Maureen Brown, and Vickie Moreland, whose leadership helped build the strong foundation we continue to stand on today.
Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Award Winners
One of the highlights of the AGM was the presentation of the Community Living Fort Erie Awards, celebrating individuals who have made outstanding contributions to our mission.
Community Inclusion Award – Austin Kienitz
Congratulations to Austin Kienitz, recipient of the 2025 Community Inclusion Award!
This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate self-direction, initiative, motivation, and personal growth – qualities that Austin embodies wholeheartedly.
Through his active community involvement and leadership, Austin inspires others and brings our vision of an inclusive community to life. His positive spirit and determination remind us what’s possible when we focus on ability over limitation.
Thank you, Austin, and congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
Wendy Henderson Bursary – Claudia Heldstrom
We are proud to announce that Claudia Heldstrom is this year’s recipient of the Wendy Henderson Bursary!
This special bursary is awarded in memory of Wendy Henderson, a beloved Family Support Case Manager who dedicated over 24 years to Community Living – Fort Erie. Wendy’s unwavering commitment to helping youth overcome barriers to education and employment continues to inspire our work today.
Claudia embodies the same determination, resilience, and drive that Wendy championed throughout her career. As a young adult actively pursuing both her educational and employment goals, Claudia’s ambition and focus stand out as a shining example of growth and perseverance.
We are confident that Wendy would be incredibly proud of the promise Claudia brings to her future.
Congratulations, Claudia! Your journey is just beginning, and we are excited to see all that you will achieve.
Jacquelyn Sandelli Award – Penny Adams
We are proud to announce Penny Adams as the 2025 recipient of the Jacquelyn Sandelli Award.
This award, named in loving memory of Jackie Sandelli, honors a staff member who exemplifies:
- A positive attitude
- Excellent attendance
- A commitment to being a true team player
Penny’s enthusiasm, teamwork, and uplifting energy make a lasting impact on everyone around her. She brings light to her role every day and truly honors Jackie’s legacy through her actions.
Congratulations, Penny, and thank you for all you do!
Looking Ahead
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s AGM such a meaningful and memorable evening. Events like this remind us of the incredible dedication and spirit that fuel our mission. Together, with our new Board of Directors, dedicated staff, and supportive community, we are ready to embrace the future.
Here’s to another year of progress, partnership, and purpose!
