Who We Are
About Community Living North Perth
Our Story
Community Living North Perth is a not-for-profit registered charity. We champion and advocate for the inclusion and citizenship of people with developmental disabilities in North Perth.
Community Living North Perth began in 1958 as a group of concerned parents in need of a school for their children with developmental disabilities. It has evolved into an organization that is committed to providing unique, individualized support to people with a developmental disability in partnership with their families, friends and the larger community.
Today, our supports can range from 30 minutes a week helping to balance the cheque book to 24 hours a day helping with cooking, personal care, and anything else anyone needs to do in a day. We listen to what a person wants out of life and then help them formulate a plan to reach their goals and dreams.
Community Living North Perth is partially funded by social service, as well as by donations, fundraising and community support.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to promoting quality of life through education, advocating inclusion, realizing dreams, and supporting people to be contributing members of their community.
Our Vision
Supporting Individuals in a welcoming community.
Our Values
Respect
Inclusion
Empowerment
Integrity
Innovation
Land Acknowledgement
- We acknowledge and give thanks for the land on which we gather as being the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee/People of the Long House and the Anishinaabe.
- We recognize the First Peoples’ continued stewardship of the land and water, and that this territory is subject to the Dish with One Spoon Wampum under which multiple nations agreed to care for the land and resources by the Great Lakes in peace.
- We also acknowledge and recognize the treaties signed in regard to this land including Treaty #29 and Treaty #45 ½. Our roles and shared responsibilities as treaty people mean we are committed to moving forward in reconciliation with gratitude and respect with all First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous Peoples.
Commitment to Indigenous Sovereignty, Truth, and Reconciliation
- We recognize and respect indigenous sovereignty in Canada as recognized and affirmed in Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and are dedicated to truth and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
- We recognize and respect Indigenous peoples’ right to self-governance and ways of knowing.
- We are committed to creating cultural safety by hearing, understanding, and responding to the concerns of Indigenous peoples in order to co-create a new path forward that is grounded in trust, respect, reconciliation and partnership.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism
We are committed to:
- Becoming more safe, equitable and inclusive for ALL.
- Addressing all forms of discrimination, including but not limited, to anti-racism, gender bias, and rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
- Aligning with the HPA-OHT vision for a sustainable people-driven system that strives to provide a positive experience for all.
Audited Financials
2024 Audit
2022-2023 Audit
2021-2022 Audit
2020-2021 Audit
Annual Reports
2025 Report
2024 Report
2023 Stats Infographic
2023 Report
2022 Report
2021 Report
MEET OUR TEAM
OUR SENIOR MANAGEMENT STAFF
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BEN UNDERWOOD
CHAIR
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.
KAREN HUBER
1st VICE CHAIR
Karen was born and raised in Millbank. She has worked in children’s mental health and developmental services sectors for 30 years. Currently, she is the FASD Coordinator for Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre and is involved in many provincial initiatives that raise awareness and understanding of FASD. Karen is passionate about equitable, inclusive and culturally safe communities. She works towards this through her work at Sunbeam, her private consultation practice and her involvement in volunteer work. Karen has twin boys, Jacob and Justin. She enjoys time at the cottage, hiking and reading.
VIRGINIA DUNBAR
2nd VICE CHAIR
Virginia was born and raised in Listowel where she and her husband Bruce still reside. They are parents
of 3, Michael, Steven, and Kelsey, and proud grandparents of 3, Meika, Connor, and Lucas, and looking
forward to another grandchild in the fall of 2022. She has been employed since 2005 at Libro Credit
Union and currently fills the role of Community Manager. Virginia is passionate about supporting our
business community as well as having a focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Her hobbies include
knitting, reading, and camping.
BETHANY DINSMORE
SECRETARY
Bethany Dinsmore has worked at Thames Valley Children’s Centre for nearly 17 years and is a Manager of Clinical Services in the Autism & Behavioral 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.
She brings a host of leadership experience and an enthusiasm for human services to the CLNP Board of Directors.
LISA SCHAEFER
DIRECTOR
Lisa grew up and currently resides in Listowel with her husband Tyler and two daughters, Keira and Brooke. She is a Health and Wellness Officer at the Avon Maitland District School Board and brings a wealth of in-depth experience and knowledge in human resources. Lisa is passionate about supporting her community and promoting North Perth as a place to live, work and play for everyone. If she is not running her kids around, you will find her at home reading, walking around town or hiking the Bruce Trail.
MICHELLE WHITNEY
DIRECTOR
Michelle obtained her Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree from Fanshawe College, and then continued on to obtained her Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation in 2020. Michelle has worked in public accounting for nearly 15 years, with the last 8 being at BDO Canada. Currently, she works out of the Waterloo office as a Manager in Audit and Assurance, serving a variety of clients including many in the not-for-profit sector. Michelle moved to Perth East in 2022 and was looking for a way to get involved in the community. She is looking forward to sharing her accounting knowledge with the board. Michelle’s hobbies include golfing, reading and spending time with her dog Oliver.
DAVID CAPEK
DIRECTOR
David Capek, CPA, BMath, is an accomplished professional with a strong background in finance and accounting. Holding a Bachelor of Mathematics from the University of Waterloo. Currently serving as the volunteer Treasurer of the Saugeen Bluffs Seasonal Committee, David has a proven track record of fiscal responsibility and organizational leadership. With past experiences as the volunteer Treasurer of the Family Education Centre and the Mississauga Arts Council, David has demonstrated his commitment to community involvement and financial stewardship.
Additionally, he currently serves as the secretary on the board of the Halton Peel CPA Association, show casing his dedication to professional development within his field. David’s professional journey includes roles such as Director of Finance at Community Living Burlington and Controller at Surex Community Services, where he honed his expertise in financial management and strategic planning. Recently relocating to Listowel with his wife of 20 years, Deborah, along with their beloved dog Ellie Mae and cat Cheer. David is eager to continue his community involvement. He looks forward to contributing his skills and experience to the Board of Community Living North Perth, furthering his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
TAMMY NORTHAM
DIRECTOR
Tammy moved to Listowel very recently. Prior to that she resided in the K-W area for 30 years. She has two adult children Zack and Justine. Tammy worked as an Executive Director for fifteen years; most recently with Marillac Place, a women’s shelter in downtown Kitchener, and previously for two national cancer charities. Tammy has a degree from the University of Western Ontario, a Certificate in Human Resource Management and is a Certified Fundraising Executive. Tammy is passionate about volunteering for organizations that make a real difference her community and for those who she cares about. She is recently retired and is looking forward to utilizing her experience in fundraising to assist CLNP as it moves forward with plans to enhance services in the community. In her free time Tammy enjoys teaching fitness, walking her dogs and refinishing antiques.
ASHLEY FOX
DIRECTOR
Ashley was born and raised in Harriston before pursuing a practical nursing diploma from Georgian College in Owen Sound. She resides in Palmerston with her husband and daughter. Currently, she is the Community Outreach Coordinator and a Nurse Case Manager with Promyse Home Care. Known as being a Jack of all Trades, she is also in various positions of healthcare advocacy and volunteer support. She brings with her a host of leadership and governance experience from past board experience with the College of Nurses of Ontario and the Canadian PSW Network. Ashley’s hobbies and interests include reading, gardening and ongoing education opportunities.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Jennifer Croft
Executive Director
Jennifer has over 30 years of experience in health and social services. She is passionate about collaboration, improving care experiences, and helping people live fuller, more meaningful lives. Known for her community focus, Jennifer thrives on finding practical solutions that make a difference. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors with her husband and their three dogs. She is the proud mother of three grown daughters and a son, and has a love for travel and discovering unique places around the world.
Sondra Scott
Program Manager
Sondra Scott has been with Community Living North Perth for over 30 years and currently serves as the Program Manager. She began her career as a part-time support worker before moving into roles as a Support Coordinator and Manager. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities to live meaningful and inclusive lives within their communities. She brings not only extensive experience in the field of developmental services but also a deep-rooted commitment to person-directed care and a strong familiarity with the North Perth community. A long-time resident of Palmerston, she lives with her husband and is the proud mother of two sons—Joshua and Trevor. Her family, including three grandchildren, is a central part of her life. She brings her leadership, compassion, and decades of front-line and managerial experience to the work of Community Living North Perth.
Abdon Aguillon
Business Manager
Abdon was born in Central America and resides in Teeswater. He oversees the financial operations and the general business management of the organization. He brings over 30 years of management and leadership expertise while working in the international development sector.
In his free time, Abdon enjoys photography, landscaping, home renovations and time with his daughters in the GTA.
Susan Underwood
Strategic Initiatives Lead
Susan was raised in the GTA and has called Huron and Perth Counties home for over 40 years, now residing in Wingham. She has worked in the non-profit health care sector for over 20 years and currently serves as the Strategic Initiatives Lead at Community Living North Perth. Susan enjoys project management, quality improvement, and policy development. She is also the Vice Chair of the Huron Perth Alzheimer Society. Susan and her husband John have four married children and three wonderful grandchildren. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling and cherishing time with her growing family.
Tracy Wareham
Community Engagement Lead
Tracy has spent her entire life in the community of North Perth, where she has also dedicated 35 years of service to Community Living North Perth. Throughout her career, she has taken on many roles within the agency, including SIL Worker, Support Coordinator, Supervisor, Manager, and currently, Community Engagement Lead. Tracy has seen many changes and improvements in the developmental services sector, but her passion remains strong—supporting people with developmental disabilities and keeping their needs at the center of her work. She lives in Listowel with her husband, Bill, and enjoys spending time with her grown children, their partners, and her granddaughter, Rose whenever possible.
Shannon Ostriyznick
Employee Relations Lead
Shannon Ostriyznick is the Employee Relations Lead at CLNP. She has been with the organization for 12 years, beginning her career on the front lines, where she spent nine years. She then served as a Scheduling Supervisor for two years before transitioning into her current role. In her current position, Shannon is responsible for recruitment, planning staff appreciation events, supporting the Wellness Committee, and collaborating with employees to find creative solutions to workplace challenges. She lives in Gorrie with her husband, Steve, and their three daughters—Reese, Abbi, and Natalie. Outside of work, she enjoys watching her daughters play sports.
Brooklyn Wright
Executive Team Assistant
Brooklyn assists the Sr. Leadership Team with administrative and strategic priorities. Her skillset lies in digital communications, graphic design, organizational systems, documentation, and material creation. She graduated from Western University where she studied anthropology and visual arts. She comes to us with experience in long term care, home care, and museum archival work. In her spare time Brooklyn is an avid reader and enjoys gardening, drawing, and tabletop games. She was raised in Wingham, Ontario where she now resides with her fiancé.
Sonia Arnold
Office Administrator
Sonia grew up in Holyrood on a farm and moved to Listowel 24 years ago. She has worked at Community Living North Perth for 20 years—spending 15 of those years supporting individuals before transitioning into her current role. As the office administrator, Sonia is the first point of contact when someone enters the building. Her responsibilities include payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and budget management. In her free time, Sonia enjoys running, gardening, watching her children’s sports, and spending quality time with her kids.
Paige Schalk
Scheduling Supervisor
Paige Viol is the Scheduling Supervisor at Community Living North Perth, where she manages staff scheduling to support seamless care and service delivery to both staff and people we support. A certified Personal Support Worker, Paige has a strong passion for health care and has been a dedicated advocate for others throughout her career. Born and raised in Atwood, Paige spent several years traveling before returning home to settle with her husband and son. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, quality time with her family, and afternoons exploring in the Side by Side.
Connie Mayburry
Community Program Supervisor
Connie has been a lifelong resident of the North Perth area and now calls Atwood home, where she lives with her husband, Randy. She is a proud mom to Holly and Brent, mother-in-law to Clay, and a devoted Grandma to Colton—roles she cherishes deeply. With over 30 years of experience in the developmental services sector, Connie is deeply passionate about promoting inclusion and supporting personal choice for everyone. Her work is a reflection of her values, rooted in empathy and advocacy. Outside of work, Connie enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. She embraces all the joys of being a Grandma and finds happiness in simple pleasures like camping and practicing mindful reflection.
Tiffany Walker
Intensive Support Program Supervisor
Tiffany leads our new Intensive Support home in Listowel, where she is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of both the individuals we support and our team. With an extensive background in healthcare and management, she brings valuable experience to the role. Tiffany is originally from the Minto/Mapleton area, she has recently settled in Listowel with her family. She’s a dedicated mother of two to Kaileb and Nora and enjoys relaxing at the cottage by the water and 4-wheeling in her spare time.
Ray Ebertt
Residential Program Supervisor
Ray was born in North York and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, where he developed a love for fly fishing and the outdoors. He spent 16 years teaching English in South Korea and Thailand before returning to Canada to raise his son in British Columbia. In 2022, he moved to Elmira, Ontario. Ray has managed registration and health records in a North Vancouver hospital and has experience with Community Living BC, FIFA, PHIPPA, and homelessness reduction programs in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. He continues to enjoy fly fishing and gets out on the water whenever he can—even in the rain.
Kimberly MacGregor
Assistant Program Supervisor
Kimberly enjoyed many years living in Fergus raising her three children. Currently Kimberly lives in Palmerston with her partner Everett. She has been in the Developmental Sector for over 20 years working in Residential, SIL, Passports supports. Kimberly facilitated nonviolent crisis intervention and first aid training for 10 years. Her priorities have been to walk alongside the people supported to be actively engaged in their lives building empowerment, capacity, and autonomy for personal growth to make choices that reflect their daily rhythms of life, as everyone does.
Jim (Bert) Miller
Maintenance Lead
Bert Miller, originally from Moorefield, currently serves as the Maintenance Lead at CLNP, where he has been employed since April 2023. In this role, he is responsible for performing minor repairs and general maintenance across CLNP properties. Outside of work, Bert enjoys spending quality time with his family, listening to music, and attending concerts. He and his wife also share a passion for traveling, whether by air or road.
