Laureen Hanson has lived on her own and in the same apartment for 33 years, a feat that wouldn’t be possible without the help of an organization that supports people like herself who face challenges.
Hanson is a participant with the Citizens All Association, a registered non-profit that provides residential and supportive living services and adaptable programs to adults with intellectual disabilities.
Hanson was one of dozens of participants and their families who attended the association’s 50th anniversary tea party at Church of Our Lady on Sept. 20.
“I like it. It’s a lot of fun,” she said about the organization she has been with since 1980. “I like to go to Timothy Eaton’s for lunch (on my own by bus).”
Hanson worked for 34 years at Diversified Services before retiring at 65. Laughing, she said she likes not working anymore and enjoys the freedom. With another laugh, she said that while she is 76 years old, she looks younger than that because she has no kids, no boyfriend or husband and doesn’t smoke or drink.
“I love my life,” she added.
Carol Irvine has been a participant since 1986 and also loves the organization, especially going on outings with her supportive living case workers (SLCW), including Marilyn Collier and Wendy Bennett, who are friendly and funny.
It’s nice to have several case workers because they possess different personalities and introduce different activities she can pursue, such as sports or playing with animals, she continued.
“I love animals. I have a budgie named Sammy,” Irvine exclaimed.
Irvine, 71, also lives on her own and loves being independent and making her own decisions. While her SLCW offer suggestions, she can do things without consulting them.
“I think (Citizens All is) great. I got lots of friends,” she added. “I like to play on my iPad, and when I have a problem, I can ask for help.”
Marilyn Collier and Kyla Kletzel have been supportive living case workers for more than 25 years. They say they’ve enjoyed their time since the work is rewarding, while they’ve seen many changes and growth in the organization.
Both work in the independent program, where participants live in their own apartments and often work part-time at places such as SARCAN or restaurant kitchens. Conversely, other programs have participants living in group homes.
Some areas on which the SLCWs focus are helping people with their medical needs — such as driving them to appointments and ensuring they take their medications — and daily activities, such as teaching people how to wash laundry, pay bills, grocery shop and manage their time.
“It’s a very hands-on job,” Kletzel chuckled. “I like that it’s different every day and that you’re working with people … (and) that you’re assisting them to live a rewarding life that’s independent.”
Collier agreed, saying she enjoys making a difference in people’s lives. Moreover, she has created close, rewarding friendships with participants, while a favourite memory is going camping with them.
“I’m just proud to have been a part of this (for nearly three decades) … ,” she continued.
It’s great to recognize Citizens All since it was one of the few places — aside from Valley View Centre (VVC) — to support intellectually challenged people decades ago, Collier added. Some former VVC clients are now participants and have proven they can live independently in the community.
Executive director Nicole MacKenzie said while the anniversary party was busy, she was thrilled with the turnout and enjoyed celebrating 50 years with staff and participants.
She has worked for the organization for 27 years and is passionate about helping people with disabilities. She has performed many roles over the years and has made good connections with staff and participants.
“So I feel like I’m very fortunate and very blessed,” MacKenzie added.
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