Who We Are

Stephanie Gratton was born and raised in the Listowel area. She has worked in the Developmental Services sector in different roles for over 25 years and most currently work as the Office Practice Manager for the North Perth Family Health Team. Presently, she is Vice Chair on the Board of Directors for Community Living North Perth. Steph resides in Atwood with her husband Stephane and has 3 Children, Courtney, Chase and Jenna.

Velma Hamilton retired after over thirty years from Trillium Mutual as a commercial property underwriter. Velma joined the CLNP board of directors in 1990, wanting to learn more about the organization. At that time Velma’s family were fortunate to receive supports at CLNP for their daughter Cindy. By joining the board Velma wanted to help other parents in the transition of finding supports for their child. Since that time CLNP has joined with Listowel District Secondary School to connect with parents before their child has finished high school and also provides a summer support program for young teens. Velma sits on committees for CLNP and Vacation Bible School at her church. Velma’s hobbies and interests include scrapbooking, enjoying life with family and friends. Along with her husband Ron, they have their daughter Cindy, son Kent and his wife Julie, and their children, Bryce and Laci , and daughter Kelly and her husband Greg, their children Cody, Jadyn and Harley.

Bethany Dinsmore has worked at Thames Valley Children’s Centre for nearly 17 years and is a Manager of Clinical Services in the Autism & Behavioural Services program (supporting families of children and youth with an autism diagnosis). She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst ® and is passionate about supporting individuals of all abilities to build fully integrated and inclusive lives within their communities of choice. After moving to the Gorrie area in 2001, when she joined her husband on his family farm, Bethany has enjoyed working with countless families and community partners throughout Huron, Perth, Grey and Bruce counties. She brings with her a host of leadership experience and an enthusiasm for human services as she joins the CLNP Board of Directors, June 2021.

Mary Jane (MJ) Bender has lived her whole life as part of the North Perth community. She grew up in Atwood and now resides on their 6th generation family-owned farm just outside of Listowel. She spent her professional career as a Child and Youth Worker in many aspects of the social service field, including Community Living and Avon Maitland District School Board. MJ is semi-retired and is presently driving school bus which she loves. She is looking forward to her term with the Board and CLNP.

Ben was born and raised on a farm in Wingham before pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from McMaster University. Ben moved to Listowel in 2020 to start a career in CIBC Commercial Banking and was looking for a way to give back to his new community. In 2021 he came across an opportunity to join the board of directors for CLNP. Ben is looking forward to providing his financial knowledge and eagerness with the board. Ben’s hobbies include sports, reading, and exploring nature with his dog Link.