EASTER SEALS ONTARIO AND ONTARIO PERSONAL SUPPORT WORKERS ASSOCIATION JOIN FORCES TO ENHANCE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND YOUNG ADULTS WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES
ONTARIO, February 15, 2024 – Easter Seals Ontario and the Ontario Personal Support Workers Association (OPSWA) are proud to announce a new and impactful partnership regarding Easter Seals’ accessible and inclusive summer camp programs. This collaboration aims to not only elevate the quality of care and inclusivity at Easter Seals Ontario camps but also to provide valuable professional experience and personal growth to OPSWA members.
Through this strategic partnership, certified Personal Support Workers (PSWs) who are part of OPSWA will have the opportunity to apply for staff positions at Easter Seals Ontario camps. This initiative offers PSWs a unique chance to contribute to fully accessible and inclusive summer camp programs that cater to children, youth, and young adults with physical disabilities.
Easter Seals Ontario operates two accessible camp properties: Camp Merrywood near Perth, Ontario, and Camp Woodeden near London, Ontario. By joining the Easter Seals Ontario camp team, PSWs will not only add to their professional portfolio but also spend their summers immersed in beautiful outdoor environments, providing direct care and support to campers. These dedicated PSWs will play a pivotal role in making a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of campers, sharing the magic of camp and creating lasting memories.
Quotes:
“We are excited to embark on this new partnership with OPSWA and its members,” said Kevin Collins, President and CEO at Easter Seals Ontario. “Having certified PSWs on board will not only enhance the level of care campers receive but will contribute to an enriched overall camp experience. We look forward to working with OPSWA this summer to break down barriers, foster community, promote independence, and make a lasting positive difference on the lives of campers and camp staff.”
“The Ontario Personal Support Workers Association (OPSWA) is delighted to be partnering with Easter Seals Ontario and supporting their accessible and inclusive summer camp programs. Our OPSWA Personal Support Worker (PSW) members stand to gain critical career experience while also giving back to their communities and ensuring that all children and youth can have a safe, fun, and memorable summer camp experience.” – Miranda Ferrier, CEO, Ontario Personal Support Workers Association (OPSWA)
Quick Facts:
- For 87 years, Easter Seals Ontario has been a leader in providing inclusive, specialized recreational programming through its accessible camps. The organization currently owns and operates two properties near Perth (Camp Merrywood) and London (Camp Woodeden) and a remote camp platform.
- Easter Seals camps offer children and youth with physical disabilities the chance to experience fun, friendship and inclusive activities in an environment tailored to their strengths and abilities.
- In 2023, Easter Seals Ontario camps welcomed over 450 camp participants.
- The Ontario Personal Support Workers Association (OPSWA) is the professional association for Personal Support Workers (PSW) in Ontario representing over 62,000 PSWs.
- OPSWA PSWs are fully certified, verified and carry a minimum of 2-million-dollar professional liability insurance, while adhering to a code of conduct.
To learn more about the available positions and how to apply, please visit: EasterSealsCamps.org/job-postings/personal-support-worker
For media inquiries, please contact:
Robyn Visheau
Easter Seals Ontario
Email: rvisheau@easterseals.org
Phone: 416.510.5078
Emily Jean Gallant
Ontario Personal Support Workers Association
Email: emilyjean.gallant@wellingtondupont.com
Phone: 866.723.90
