FAME coopSpeak

Apologies for the long absence....

2010-04-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

Blooms are up. I couldn't help but to notice the Magnolia trees as I drove along Burnhamthorpe Road the other day. With new blooms always comes the reminder that there is new life. We've been busy here at FAME what with preparing for the divas event and our Taking Back Your Life presentation. There are no quiet days here at the office.

My last post was dedicated to the announcement and the invitation to be a part of the Toronto Police Services Board subcommittee on Mental Health. Well late yesterday afternoon I sat in my very first meeting. The room was full and it's members diverse. After years of sitting on committee after committee, seeing report after report, I am trying to remain buoyed that something concrete will actually be realized through this committee. There is no question in my mind that there are systemic problems for the policing community in addressing mental health issues. While I have been highly critical of in introduction of new weaponry, specifically the conductive energy weapon (more commonly know as a taser), I don't walk in the shoes of the police and so for now I will reserve my judgement and wait to see what will unfold out of this committee.

In the meantime, it's business as usual over here at FAME. One small reminder though...take a few minutes to enjoy the new spring blooms.

An invite from the Toronto Police Services Board

2010-01-19T06:51:00.000-08:00

I'm a girl with an opinion. Oh c'mon now, you can't possibly be remotely surprised with my disclosure of that little tidbit of information. Those who know me also know how passionately and outspoken I've been with respect to police and their dealings with the mental health community. I have been a staunch anti taser activist and have not held back one iota in my position about the use of these viscious killing weapons by police all across this country.

Did we not learn anything from the Robert Dziekanski debacle at all? The message was glaringly loud not only about abusive use of tasers by police but also about the fallout of attempts to cover up and mislead the public about what really happened in the Vancouver airport that fateful day. A cover up and behaviour exposed by this country's national police force that should have resulted in the resignation of not only the four complicit officers but also of William Elliot, the head of the RCMP. Of course that never did happen now did it. Mr. Elliot continues to remain in his post and those four officers still continue to serve.

There have been incidences here in Toronto, although none quite of the public magnitude of the Dziekanski case, but none the less, the Toronto Police Force has had its moments under the microscope. We should never ever forget what happened to Edmund Yu, a former medical student, diagnosed with schizophrenia, shot 3 times on a Toronto streetcar. These are somber reminders that there is much for our law enforcement forces to learn and understand about the issues of mental health.

Just recently the Toronto Police Services Board has reached out to the mental health community and has decided to strike a sub committee on Mental Health. I would like to applaud the current chair of the TPSB, Alok Mukherjee, for being proactive and taking steps to finally form this sub committee. I am buoyed at the thought that dealing with mental health issues in the community have finally been put on the table at this level. FAME has been invited by the TPSB to participate and be a member of the sub committee and I have jumped at the chance to bring the family perspective to the table.

I am being careful not to come forward with criticism and anger towards the police because I really believe it'll only shut doors. Rather I'm taking the tact to be positive and open, to speak reasonably and to listen. I'm of the mind that you catch more bees with honey. It is important to effectively deliver our messages, our concerns and our input and do it in a way that will have it be received with an open mind and a view to improving the relationship between the police and the community of mental health.

This committee will begin to meet in late winter/early spring. I will keep you all up to date with how this unfolds and what it will mean to our community.

For now, it's a new year. New optimism. New hope.

Respectfully,
Christine

FYI - Info Update for our families!

2009-10-20T09:27:00.001-07:00

ONTARIO SUPPORTS REGISTERED DISABILITY SAVINGS PLANS
McGuinty Government Helps Families Save For Children With Disabilities
NEWS
November 30, 2008
Ontario is making it possible for social assistance recipients to take advantage of Registered Disability Savings Plans (RDSPs).
Like the Registered Education Savings Plan, RDSPs allow family members and loved ones to save money tax free until withdrawal. The program helps people plan for the future needs of children and adults with disabilities.
Changes to Ontario’s social assistance rules will make sure that both RDSP assets and withdrawals are fully exempt. This means:
•
RDSP contributions do not impact eligibility for social assistance
•
People on social assistance can take money out of an RDSP without affecting their social assistance payments.
To further help social assistance recipients with disabilities save for their future, Ontario is also increasing the amount they can receive as a gift or payment from a trust from $5,000 to $6,000 a year.
QUOTES
“This is about making it easier for families to save for their children with disabilities,” said Minister of Community and Social Services Madeleine Meilleur. “We are making sure that people can put money in an RDSP without it affecting their eligibility for disability support.”
"The message from the Ontario government is clear. It trusts families to help their relative with a disability and has opened the door for them to secure the future for their loved one. In twenty years, we’ll look back on this as a watershed moment for people with disabilities." said President and Co-Founder of Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network Al Etmanski.
"What will happen when I'm no longer here is a sentiment shared by many families caring for a relative with a disability. The future for their loved ones was almost certain poverty. But with today's welcomed announcement, the Ontario government has cleared the way for families and communities to invest in a new vision for Ontario citizens with disabilities,” said Ontario RDSP Working Group Chair Jeff Dobbin.
QUICK FACTS
•
Any individual that is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit may establish an RDSP
•
British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland have also announced that they will fully exempt both RDSP assets and withdrawals.
LEARN MORE
Find out more about the federal Registered Disability Savings Plans.
To establish a RDSP, you must qualify for a Canada’s Disability Tax Credit.
See how employment supports help people on the Ontario Disability Support Program.
Learn more about the province’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities.
Kevin Cooke, Minister’s Office, 416-325-5219
Chris Tidey, Communications and Marketing
416-325-5760
ontario.ca/community-news
Disponible en français

Wine Tasting & Epicurean Evening for Two up for Bid! Support the United Way!

2009-08-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

"Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly, any other purely sensory thing." - Ernest Hemingway

Here's your chance to spend an evening at a Private Wine Tasting where you and your guest will get to try some of the finest old world red wines that Italy produces and at the same time you'll be supporting the United Way of Peel. It doesn't get any better than that!

This private wine tasting will focus on the wines of the Piedmont region in Northern Italy (the killer B's....Barolo, Barbaresco and Brunello!) as well as the local cuisine of that region. Wine doesn't get much better than this. Four of the wines served in this tasting have been personally carried from Italy by the evening's Hosts.

A food tasting will be included, featuring Wild Mushroom Risotto with Tartufo Cream,as well as foods local to the Emilia Romagna region. Charcuterie and Artisenal Cheeses will also also be a large part of the evening's epicurean experience. Quebec & Prince Edward County along with specialty Proscuitto from Pingue Prosciutto will enhance these incredible wines. One of the evening's guests is a Cheese Monger currently working at one of Toronto's finest Cheese boutiques.

The tasting will start out light with the sparkle of Prosecco, followed by the Killer B's and then on to the most luscious of the Veneto wines, the gorgeous rubies in a glass known as Amarone. Capping off this trip down la strada de vino (the road of wine) will be a Super Tuscan & a Chianti. Nothing says loving like the wines of Tuscany.

"Leave the gun, take the cannoli." - The Godfather Traditional Italian sweets shall not be overlooked as well! Hold your breath because this tasting will finish up with some kick it up a notch Italian Grappa. La Dolce Vita!

The value of this wonderful evening is approximately $250.00. This will get you a ticket for two. There will be a total of 8 people present at the tasting, including a Chef! Tasting will be held in a Caledon location (Bolton) and will take place some time during the month of October or the early part of November on a Saturday evening. Date to be arranged.

The opening bid starts at $50.00 and the bids will close on Wednesday, September 30th. To place a bid or for more details please email: coopspeak@gmail.com

Stay tuned to this blogpost for current bidding updates.

Meet the man behind those fabulous Diva costumes!

2009-05-14T06:24:00.001-07:00

Meet Juul Haalmeyer who in our opinion is just the most fabulous costumer this side of the Great Lakes! Juul so carefully and lovingly dressed, primped and accessorized our gorgeous divas. He made each and everyone of them feel like the diva they are. For those of you who don't know he Juul is he is a benchmark and an icon in the costuming and theatre industry. He's the who's who and knows the who's who. He's dressed Anne Murray, Dolly Parton, Alice Cooper, Jethro Tull, Katarina Witt (best legs in ice skating!)....the list goes on and on. He is also the Juul Haalmeyer as in the Juul Haalmeyer Dancers in the iconic SCTV series, where he designed the costumes for all those amazing SCTV characters.

Check out his facebook page.... Juul Haalmeyer Dancers (in Iceland) or just Juul Haalmeyer (his own personal page). Sign up! We love Juul and his part of making "simply divas" simply spectacular is so appreciated.

Signing off,
the Executive Diva,
Christine

The magic behind the magic.....

2009-04-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

If you go to the "simply divas" webpage www.simplydivas.ca and you click on the button that plays the promo reel you cannot help but to be charmed and impressed by the event that is "simply divas". As many times as I have watched it (and that's not because I'm in it!!!) I am always in awe of the talent, the magic and the commitment that the 75 people who work so hard on divas gives of themselves to make it happen. So many people work so hard, for days, weeks, months....rehearsing....chasing donations....making incredible food....creating advertising materials....waiting tables....doing big hair....donating costumes....selling tickets.....

and then it all comes down to a few hours....and a handful of lovely young women who sing their hearts out. It is, without question, very magical.

So, with all of that being said, I just would like to take these few moments and give some major props to all those who really help create the magic. Without you, none of it happens. You give selflessly to an organization who could never, in a million years, ever be able to do this without you. You help us to create a special forum where for a few minutes we get to forget about how tough living with mental illness can really be, not only for the person who is ill, but also for their family who live and support their family member. That makes all of this even more special and even more appreciated.

To those reading, I'd like to take this opportunity to say, pick up the phone and order your tickets. What we've got lined up for this year's event is just simply not to be missed. There is magic in the air....and we call it...."simply divas".

the Executive Diva,
Christine

Where do the days fly?

2009-03-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

Time flies. Ya blink and it's right by you! By now I'm sure that many of you have seen the new and vastly improved version of the FAME newsletter. The wow factor is monster! We are absolutely thrilled to bits with the production of this quarterly news piece from the agency. The feedback has been very positive.

Days are busy here at FAME. With divas on the horizon all the beehive is a buzzing on Dundas Street. Tickets have been selling well in advance and we are buoyed at the thought of putting on an event that could possibly sell 500 tickets. Imagine that. This is our fourth year and for us its very special since this year benchmarks FAME's 20th anniversary year. We are like the little engine that could....just chugging along. For us though, it is all about the families.

We've almost finished the renovations at Dundas St. You wouldn't even recognize the place! If you are in the neighborhood, stop by, we'll make you a cup of tea and have a chit chat. We love visitors in the office. Currently we are searching for family members who are interested in giving us a sound bite for our FAME clip that we are working on with Andrew Brown. Andrew is the very talented volunteer who helped us put together the simply divas clip that you can see at www.simplydivas.ca It is such a cool, cool clip and we are very proud of it. The new piece we are working on is more focussed on FAME and its role for families. If you are comfortable and would like to share on camera what FAME has meant for your family then by all means, give us a call and we'll get the cameras rolling. We love to hear from our families.

Hopefully spring in the offing. I'm dreaming of tulips, daffodils and hyacinth....which gets me to thinking about Easter....and of course that gets me to thinking about chocolate. :) Hey, what can I say, around this place, chocolate is the manna of our lives.

Here's wishing all our friends and family members happy soon to be spring days!

The E.D.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada....back from the roundtable discussions....here's your update!

2009-02-24T05:34:00.000-08:00

Last week approximately 30 people (by invite only) gathered with Howard Chodos, Director of the National Strategy, in downtown Toronto to have a round table discussion about the draft document recently released by the MHCC. As you'll see from my earlier posts you'll know I was one of those 30 invitees. I thought I'd just quickly touch base and give you a quick update on what that discussion was like and where I think this draft doc. will be heading.

It's funny to come to the realization that not everyone in the mental health community are on the same page. You'd think, that a group that wants, begs, has been clamouring for reformation, would have much common ground. What you think you'd see, isn't always what presents itself. Of course, most people there come with their own agenda and as we know we all want what we all want. What consumers want may differ from what families want which may differ from what the clinical community wants. It's a bit of a carousel. Then there is the wordsmith's exercise. The use of words such as "recovery" and terminology such as "circle of care" etc.

At the end of the day we can all agree on one thing, change needs to be made. Change must be made. The upside of the document is that families are recognised in Goal 4. Finally. It is my opinion that this goal will remain intact and in place in the document (remember, this is a draft and this roadshow was in part to help them edit, refine, remodel this doc, so things can disappear).

I did continue to press though for such things as access to the Compassionate Care Act as well as speaking up about access to appropriate treatments and medications. In addition to that I also managed to get in a comment about the inequities of the per capita funding in the GTA. Everyone wants their "stuff" to be included, reflected and validated during a process such as this one. All in all, I'm sure they got our message.

So now what? Ok, here's the thing. I think every single family member, including their family member who is affected by the illness of mental health, needs to get in to the action mode and start by writing, faxing or emailing both their federal and provincial representatives. At the end of the day, the biggest changes that will be effected will only come through ongoing public pressure. So write them, tell them, demand from them, pressure them....make them realize that changes need to be made. It'll really come down to us and how much work and time we are willing to put forth to make our legislators realize the need for change and a broadening of the system that is supposed to address mental health needs and issues all across Canada.

It starts with you.

Respectfully,
the ED

Pssssssssst.....did you hear.....

2009-02-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

So much going on at FAME these days! So much to share, so little time to type! Ok, so here goes.....well.....first off let's give a big shout out once again to Lembi Buchanan and her organization, the Nickel-A-Drink Foundation. If you scroll down through my earlier posts you'll see that we doff our cap to Lembi and her support to FAME but making FAME the recipient of the funds they raised at the Andre Picard dinner!!!! Lembi tells me in an email that they have another $2,000 to donate to FAME in support of our amazing fameKids program!!!! How fantastic is that! This rocks! Thank you so much to the NAD for their support. Make sure to check them out (scroll down as I've pasted in the links to their website!).

Ok, next (as she takes another deep breath) soooooooo.... I'm out at the United Way of Peel Celebration Dinner last week and I bump in to Sandra Solonik from the Region of Peel. Late last fall FAME submitted a community funding support request to the region but to date we hadn't heard anything. So, being the opportunist that I am so well known for being (hey a girl has to make the best of every situation right?) I decided to inquire after the status of the community submissions. Sandra says "oh, haven't I called or emailed you? FAME's been approved for community funding...". That community funding is worth $20,000 in support of FAME's family programming! So how amazing is that!!! Boy oh boy....are we on a roll here or what?

Busy, busy, busy.....and next week I'm off to the Mental Health Commission of Canada round table discussions to put in our two cents on their draft strategic document. We are one of only 30 who have been invited to this round table. It's buoying to know that the MHCC values the input of families. I will keep all of you very close to my heart next week.

Please note the date for our AGM this year, which will benchmark our 20th anniversary is Monday, September 21st and will be held out at the World Vision Bldg. in Mississauga. It'll be a very special evening to acknowledge friends, families, both present and past.

By the way, the Dundas St. office is under construction/renovation/expansion. We've added another space across the hall. We are painting, plastering, putting down some new flooring and adding what will be a really nice family intake room because for us, it's all about the families.

Finally....buy divas tickets will ya! It's a new event this spring with a new date....a bigger, better, hipper and more fun (I know that's hard to believe would even be possible) but it will be. A lot of people put their heart, soul and voices into this event. We have more than 50 volunteers who work to make this event happen and they do this all in support of FAME. Show them your support and buy a ticket!!!!

Stay tuned for more news and bits and bytes....!

much respect,
Christine

Meet the divas!

2009-02-04T11:23:00.001-08:00

Introducing "simply divas" 2009! What an amazing crew of songbirds we've got lined up for you this year. The divas are hard at work already rehearsing their numbers and the songsheet is 18 deep which means there will be lots of amazing songs to blow the doors off of the hall. Speaking of the hall....it's announcement time! This year "simply divas" 2009 will have a new home, a new venue and a new date! As much as we loved the Great Hall it was time to move it on up to the east side, the east side of Queen St. that is. We are still on Queen Street just on the other end at the oh so fantabulously, incredible, historical and oh so hip Berkeley Church Event Venue. (located right on the corner of Berkeley & Queen, just east of Sherbourne St.).

This amazing venue, is similar in style to the Great Hall but allows us to create an event that will be even more magical (hard to believe that is even possible but trust me....we'll rise to this occasion!) that missing it would an absolute faux pas on your part.

Next part of this announcement includes a new event date. "simply divas" 2009 will take place on Sunday, May 31st 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door!

For more information or to order tickets call us here at FAME at (416) 207-5032.

Yours in divine diva'ishness!

the E.D. (that would stand for Executive Diva! :)

National Commission on Mental Health Wants to hear from us!

2009-01-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

Just over a year ago I had the very good fortune to have a personal invitation to address the National Commission on Mental Health as they began the first part of their community consultations. The commission, chaired by the Honorable Michael Kirby, has a ten year mandate to undertake a national reformation on mental health care. It is one of the most significant undertakings in addressing the systemic problems that Canada faces on a day to day basis in meeting the needs of those challenged by mental health issues. It is a well known fact that 1 in 5 Canadians are affected and that means there is hardly a person in this country whose life has not been touched in some way or another by mental health. Mental health knows no boundaries, no gender, no culture, no age, no geography. Just about anyone who works in the mental health care system knows who Michael Kirby is and we have been buoyed at his leadership because we are hopeful for positive changes.

I have just received my second invitation to participate in further discussions with the NCMH to review the document that was gleaned out of the first round of community consultations. I was absolutely thrilled to be invited back to participate. FAME is only family based organization invited to be a part of this review. Over the whole GTA, there have been only 30 invites sent out and we got one of them! I think, as the Executive Director, what makes me even more hopeful is that pretty much one year after the commission began this undertaking, they are following through and producing documents with directions and recommendations. The current document they about to unveil will list 8 major directives for this country's steps towards reform. The input they want from us now is basically to ask us if these are what they heard as the 8 top priorities.

The document will arrive here in the FAME offices some time over the next few weeks, giving me a chance to read, mull, think and bring forth our position on this important document. I am hopeful, that since we have been asked once again to be a part of this process, that the commission has recognized that families have a major role in the participation of recovery and management for a family member affected by mental health issues.

I will continue to press for what I spoke to the commission about in my prior presentation. Things like consideration for the Compassionate Leave Act, pressure to the province to broaden the approved medication lists, pressure for funding support for family based support programming and a reminder that even children can become caregivers and that they too have needs that need to be met.

Stay tuned, I will blog again shortly after receipt of the document. In the meantime it feels darned good to know that a national commission has got FAME on their radar. Finally, participating in this February roundtable will give us a chance to wave the banner that celebrates FAME's 20 years of serving families all across the GTA.

Respectfully,

the ED

"simply divas" is simply magic!

2009-01-08T13:42:00.000-08:00

Wow. 2009 already! On behalf of the staff and the board of directors here at the Family Association for Mental Health Everywhere I'd like to extend best wishes for a happy and more importantedly a healthy new year filled with hope and wellness.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to begin to encourage our friends, family members and associates to come on out and join us for this year's "simply divas". The divas have been cast and are already busy rehearsing. It's a stellar line up this year with lots of fun and surprises that will leave you feeling diva'fied in a way you never knew you could be! There will be everything from swag bags to the return of the divatini's! The diva chefs are busy cooking and testing new recipes to bring you a whole new lineup of hors d'ouevres inspired by the diva songstresses! It'll be another amazing afternoon in April on Queen Street and you won't want to miss a minute of it.

The diva line up this year include: the incredible, sultry Nina Simone; the kick ass rock'n'roll of Joan Jett; the cool country attitude of Loretta Lynn; some punk'n'fun with young up and coming diva, Pink; Canada's own kd Lang; the timeless icon of Madonna; the 80's rhythm nation Queen, Janet Jackson and the blue eyed soul of the late great Dusty Springfield. The first half of the show is hosted by the diva personna of the incredible Dame Shirley Bassey and trust me lambs, this broad don't pop her cork for just anybody!!!! Danica Brown is back as our Musical Director and will finally get her time to shine as the second half host. It'll be an afternoon to remember.

Make sure to mark down the date and I'll be looking for you!

Yours in song,
the Executive Diva
Christine

A picture is worth a thousand words.....

2008-12-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

A picture is worth a thousand words! What an overwhelming response we have had to our family holiday gatherings this year at FAME! No one, but no one could have prepared us for the magic that our Home Sweet Home themed holiday parties could create for us and for the families that have joined us for these very special occasions. I was so moved at the Mississauga party where one couple informed me that they couldn't recall the last time their family had so much fun and they had heard so much laughter in an evening. It was a very powerful moment for me and I found myself having to catch my breath. What a pleasure it has been so far to share this time with families. This year has been extra special as well in that we finally put on our very first fameKids event, hosting a dozen children (it was a kids only extravaganza!) and they loved every minute of it. We've got one more party to go (out in Scarborough) and we are setting record attendance this year. Go figure. Who'd have thought that gingerbread and candy could bring so much joy.

I'd like to take my hat off to the FAME staff for all their hard work in making this happen this year. Mary, Frank, Paul, Lyndsay, Anie, Afrooz, Michelle & Nicole! Your hard work has paid huge dividends to the families we serve. And to our volunteers....without you, it doesn't happen! Also a big huge shout out to the CHUM-CITY Christmas Wish who so generously help support FAME in our annual holiday parties. All the best to our families and friends this coming holiday season and much good health for the new year!

Christine

Thanks Lembi!

2008-11-25T06:36:00.001-08:00

People have always told me that I was a force to be reckoned with, a bundle of never ending energy and always willing to stand up for causes that everyone else would turn their back too because the uphill climb seemed to be too daunting. Then I met Lembi Buchanan. Let's talk about a force, boy oh boy, this girl could take a lesson from that girl! Lembi Buchanan has been a long time advocate and champion in the community of mental health. Her sheer will and determination buoy me and only makes me want to dig down a little bit more to find that extra effort to make sure that I can bring all that I can and do all that I can do for the community that we live in.

For those of you who don't know all that much about her let me give you a little insight. Lembi, who's husband Jim, who is the complete love of her life, is afflicted with bi-polar and when the government saw fit to refuse Jim the Disability Tax Credit, Lembi decided to take them on. Now we all know what taking on "the man" can be like. It can leave one feeling like a bug on the windshield, simply to be wiped away. Lembi wasn't having any of that. In the end, the Buchanan's won their bid for Jim's DTC and ultimately this all led to changes in that legislation.

When Canada Post announced its original intention of releasing a postage stamp in support of the mental health community everyone was thrilled. The trouble was that the original stamp left many of us feeling that the imagery of the stamp only reinforced the negative connotations about mental health with its swirling insignia.Lembi took this challenge on head first. Imagine what it takes to get a federal postal agency to completely scrap the original stamp template and replace it. Well she did it and just this past October Canada Post unveiled its Taking Steps campaign with the new stamp. Thank you Lembi.

Lembi's commitment to working in this community didn't end with that challenge. Currently the Buchanan's oversee the Nickel-A-Drink Foundation which is looking at petitioning the government to encourage them to levy a five cent taxation on all alcohol sold, with revenues to be directed to the addictions and mental health community. She is relentless and tireless in her pursuit of improving the quality of life for those affected by mental health and addictions.

Most recently we at FAME have had the good fortune to be the on the receiving end of Lembi's good work. A few weeks ago I attended a fundraising dinner hosted by Lembi, Jim and the Nickel-A-Drink Foundation. It was a great evening with the highlights being the keynote address by Andre Picard, author of the Globe & Mail series "Breakdown - A Crisis in Mental Health Care". The second highlight was hearing from Jesse Bigelow, an extraordinary young man who has reclaimed his life from schizophrenia. At the end of the evening Lembi announced that all proceeds from the evening would be coming to FAME, yes you read that right, coming to FAME in support of the fameKids programming. Lembi had told me that after speaking me about fameKids she's come to realize the gaping holes in support for children in dealing with mental health issues.

This Thursday I will be attending the Nickel-A-Drink Foundation AGM to receive what will be the first installment of a donation. The generosity and support that NAD has shown FAME is so greatly appreciated, as is Lembi's efforts to put FAME out there in the community and make others aware of our programs and services. If you'd like to know more about the Disability Tax Credit improvements, the Nickel-A-Drink Foundation or the Canada Post campaign (which I mentioned in an earlier blogposting) then check out these links:

http://www.disabilitytaxcredit.com/
http://www.nickeladrink.com/
http://www.canadapost.ca/CPfoundation/default-e.asp

Finally, Lembi, on behalf of all the families that we serve, a big fat thanks. You absolutely inspire this girl!

How Sweet It Is!

2008-11-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite like home sweet home! This year, for some fun and to add a different kind of sweet side to the FAME annual holiday parties we've decided to let you build your own home sweet homes!

That's right, it's all about the gingerbread, the candy canes, the gumdrops and licorice whips. Oh wait, something is missing....oh yes...and the chocolate! Spoken like the true chocolate loving woman I am!

We are going to provide our families with Gingerbread House kits, all the trimmings are included and all you have to do is to put them together. We thought it would be an absolute blast and tons 'o fun for families to get together and build their own home sweet homes! The best part of this is that when you are all finished you get to take your gingerbread house home with you so that you and your family can enjoy it over the holiday season. We are also going to give away some prizes for Home Sweet Homes that are everything from the most lopsided to the most candified! You are welcome to bring along your own extra trimmings (I highly recommend things like Smarties, M&M's, ju-jubes etc.) just in case you want to go all out!

If you want in on the fun you have to pre-register with your family outreach worker so we know how many kits we'll have to have on hand. As well you'll need to bring along your own baking sheet or a fairly solid board/cardboard so that you can carry your gingerbread house home!

We look forward to seeing you out at this year's holiday gatherings because here at FAME we know there is more to life!

Christine

In the Presence of True Greatness

2008-10-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say that there have only been a few moments in my life when I have actually been at a loss for words. They have been very few and far between but yesterday was one of them. Being in the presence of absolute greatness will do that to a girl. I was so blessed to have a chance to meet simply one of the greatest men, one of the greatest catalysts to social change, one of the greatest persons who have made significant impacts to poverty in the world, Dr. Muhammad Yunus. I'm sure there are a few of you out there who are saying "who?".

Ok, let me put it to you this way, Dr. Yunus is to social change what Wayne Gretzy, Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali was to sports. If he were a rock star his name would be Bono. If he were an actor he would be a Paul Newman. Ok, so now I'm pretty sure you've got the idea.

Yesterday afternoon, my friend Michelle Bake, who is also the Director of Marketing & Community Development here at FAME (in addition to being the founder of the Etobicoke Make Poverty History Group) and I were at the Metro Convention centre for a day of motivational speakers from Richard Zaslow (co-author of The Last Lecture) to Gary Kasparov (can you say Checkmate) to Barbara Walters (or for some of you Baba WaWa) to Michael Phelps (gold, gold, gold, gold, gold, gold, gold, gold....did I get them all?) to Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

During his speech Dr. Yunus talked about how he began the Grameen Bank, the development of social business and the future of capitalism. In 2006 Dr. Yunus and the Grameen Bank were awarded the Nobel Peace Price for their work in the eradication of poverty and the development of the microeconomics movement in Bangladesh. He is the founder and the engineer of microcredit and is on a mission to try to build a world free of inequality and poverty. He believes that there is a way. When he spoke he was gentle and quiet. He brings with him a softness that makes you wonder how it is that he actually managed to achieve this place on the world stage. Yet there he was, sharing his message and his story. You could hear a pin drop in the room, it was that powerful. At the end of his presentation the room stood on its feet and my friend Michelle turned to me and said do you think there's any chance we'll get to meet any of these speakers. I told her probably not, more than likely they are all scooped up and off to some green room for refreshments and the press junket, after all, these are world renown people.

During the next speaker, who began sounding more like a used car sales man meets Donald Trump, we decided to step out to the lobby and have a look at the books for sale. As I was paying for my copy of Dr. Yunus's latest book, "Creating a World Without Poverty", Michelle elbows me and says...."Christine....it's him!" We look up and there he is, standing there, by himself, no one around us at all other than the woman processing my credit card purchase. We began babbling like a couple of girls who just bumped into Brad Pitt.

Dr. Yunus is just as warm and gracious face to face as he was on the stage in front of 5,000 people. As I spoke with him, he took my hand in his hand, cupping my hand with both of his hands. We asked him if he would mind signing our books. For ten minutes the world just stopped. I told him that my daughter Megan would have been over the moon to hear him and he asked me about her. When I told him she was at university he asked what she was studying and I smiled and said with a huge amount of great pride, International Development and then said "I believe that one of these days she'll be working with you...." I am awed by his presence and his grace. I am buoyed by his joy and belief that we have the innate ability to make changes, even if they are small ones. For the privilege of being here and living our lives we have a moral and social obligation to make a difference in the world. Yesterday, Muhammad Yunus simply reinforced that message in my heart. I am truly grateful for that moment.

Ask yourself this.....Today, what can I do to make this place I live in better, just one small thing. Then do it.

Respectfully,Christine

p.s. a word of thanks to Chair, Gregory Dickson for being so kind in providing this amazing opportunity to myself and Michelle to be a part of that special event. We are indebted to you and grateful for your generosity.

Finding Healing through Creativity

2008-10-15T11:09:00.001-07:00

We've been blessed with a very talented staff here at FAME. Each one comes with their own special talent and their own special way in sharing their talents with each other and more importantly with the families that we serve. I've been giving a lot of thought to different ways that we as an agency are able to reach out and not only work with families but empower them to find healing and solace through ways they had never considered before. It didn't take me long to realize the power of healing through the avenues of discovering the therapy that we call art, in many different forms, can be just as effective and powerful for many family members.

Over the past few years we've witnessed the advent of art therapy and the benefits it has brought to consumers in their recovery. The use of art as a therapy often provided a way for many to find a different path in helping them to understand their illnesses and often a portal back into the world so that others too could understand them. So what if we took this very same approach with families and began to look for ways to incorporate art therapy in their own recovery as a family member. It could be a bridge between a family and their ill family member, a bridge that was different and creative. Creative is good. Different is good. Bridges are good.

Over the next few months I've decided to work with the staff in looking for new pathways for families, incorporating and encouraging the use of art and art therapy as a form of recovery for themselves. Imagine the power to journal and find the words you need to say to help you realize your struggle. Maybe it will be through photography or painting or drama or music. One never knows when one opens that door will it might lead. What we do know is that door needs to be opened.

To the families I say stay tuned. The staff is blessed with writers, artists, musicians and performers. It is a new journey for all of us. No matter what though, we will stay true to the tenet that we, here at FAME live and work by....at the end of the day, it's all about the families.

Peace and love to our families,
Christine

Bravo Canada Post!

2008-10-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Canada Post is really delivering! Bravo to our country's national postal service for stepping outside the box and recognizing the community of mental health and its issues. Canada Post is about to release a special commemorative stamp signifying its support to the mental health community. Ten cents of each stamp purchased will go towards the Canada Post Foundation in support of mental health support services all across this country. You can also donate directly to the foundation as well. This directive was developed through the input of the employees of Canada Post all across the country. Check out their website at www.canadapost.ca

The foundation will begin to distribute funds in 2009 and FAME will be looking to reach out for some support!

Way to go Canada Post! I plan on using these stamps on all of FAME's mailouts, Christmas cards and holiday invites this year. I'll be doing the same for my own personal mailing as well. I'd like to encourage all of our friends and families to do the same and show your support to the mental health community.

Bravo Canada Post! You really deliver. :)

The Ombudsman finally speaks.....

2008-10-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my long absence. A girl has been busy driving through the hills of Tuscany in search of that perfect glass of Chianti. A holiday can be a good thing and an even better thing when one is in a country where the food, the drink and the art is so amazing. It's good to be back. Now on to other things!

Stay tuned....I'd like to write a posting about the long awaited report from the office of the Ombudsman and their review of the Special Investigations Unit of the Police Departments that serve this province. I am in the middle of reading the report (it's a doorstop) and let me tell you, it isn't kind to the SIU.

To all the families who've waited patiently, for what seemed to be an eternity, for this report to release, let me say this. Our hearts and our hope goes out to you.

Most respectfully,

Christine

Laurels & Darts

2008-07-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Every Saturday in the T.O. Star, in the editorial section, they always list two laurels or darts. It's their version of a shout out to someone who's done something really great or done something really stupid. This past weekend the Star posted double laurels and in both cases they speak directly to mental health issues in this country. So I thought it'd be appropriate to tell you who was graced by these most recent laurels.

First, to Michael Kirby. You may recognize his name. He chaired the Kirby Commission and is in my opinion, one of the most important players in the game of reformation of the mental health system all across this country. Currently Mr. Kirby chairs the National Commission on Mental Health. He is now launching a new charitable organization to raise research dollars for illnesses like depression through what he hopes will become "an army of volunteers" across the country.

The second laurel goes to, believe it or not, the Saskatchewan Police Commission. Yup, you read that right, the Saskatchewan Police Commission. Why? For exercising appropriate caution in making a decision about authorizing the use of tasers by regular municipal police officers, at least for now. The Commission, taking into consideration the recent death of a 17 year old boy involving a taser incident, wants more information on conducted-energy weapons before making a decision. My hats off to the Commission for at least demonstrating the need to be well informed about this particular issue.

When did the word schizophrenic become an adjective?

2008-07-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

I'm totally amazed at moments at the way people lob the word schizophrenic around like it is an adjective. I can't tell you how many times I've heard people use it in everday chatter to describe everything from bad fashion tastes to sports commentary. I remember being heart broken when my beloved Stacy London from tv's "What Not To Wear" said "what is up with this schizophrenic style of dressing!". Chris Berman, a long time veteran sports broadcaster used the word when he was doing his color commentary on a running back who's performance had been inconsistent. To add insult to injury, they use it in a way, that isn't even reflecting what the word means. All this education and awareness around mental illness yet most people think schizophrenia is some sort of personality disorder.

I guess we've got a long way to go.....

Finally, our fameKids Coordinator

2008-07-24T06:00:00.001-07:00

Anie Najarian joined the FAME team approximately three months ago and oversees not only the fameKids programming but is also developing a new area of one to one support for children between 7-12 years of age.

This is the Lynds.....

2008-07-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

Meet Lyndsay Wright. She's works out of Edenplace in Mississauga and is the newest member of the FAME family support team.

There's something about Mary

2008-07-21T18:06:00.001-07:00

That would be something very special about Mary. Mary J. (the J is for Jursinic) is the FAME veteran agency staff member (7 years and counting!) and she has seen many changes over the years.

Meet the boys!

2008-07-21T18:02:00.000-07:00

Meet Paul O'Donnell and Frank Logue .
Paul manages the Scarborough location and is our Dual Diagnosis support person.
Frank manages the Brampton office and has been with FAME for just over two years.

Afrooz Eghbali, Administrator Coordinator

2008-07-21T17:58:00.000-07:00

Afrooz is the Manager of Administrative Systems and she keeps things running very smoothly at FAME central in Etobicoke. She has been with FAME for three years.

Please meet Stephanie Baker.....

2008-07-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Baker is FAME's Manager of Community Development. Stephanie also oversees the volunteer programming.

Introducing the Travelling Gnome....

2008-07-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

Annoying as they are it seems like gnomes are popping up everywhere! So why should it be any different out here in the blog'o'sphere! Here's the deal people. If for whatever reason you get an email from me with the travelling gnome on it you'll have 48 hours to respond by putting a comment or sharing something here on the blogsite. You can easily add your comments.

If you blog....share something.....tell a story....leave a message....there will be great rewards!

Rewards you say? Danegeld? Giveaways?

Uh huh, you read that right. I've got a velvet purse here (insert the sound of tinkling and jingling)....all sorts of really great swag.....iTune cards, chocolate, cards to the Second Cup, things you can lick, chomp, bite, slurp and savour. All of that for a blog moment. C'mon....ya know you want to do it .... :)

Bob Dylan said a mouthful when he penned "ahh...the times they are a changin...."

2008-07-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

These are different times now for many small agencies. So many changes, changes that we are hopeful are for the better. The agency, while tiny, somehow still seems to manage to continue doing its business and being there for families when they reach out.

Reaching out can happen in so many ways. The straight truth on the goods of how we communicate is changing at such an exponential rate of speed that it is almost blinding. How do small not for profits agencies, such as ourselves, keep abreast of how we can be a part of the paradigm shift that we've come to know as Web 2.0

Most are just boon-doggled at that expression. After a few minutes many people will say, oh yeah, we're on Web 2.0, we've got a website, we're with it, we're happening. Websites, are only a very small piece of the communication community engagement pie. So we've decided to expand the horizons of the way we can engage a community, from corner to corner, north to south, east to west, urban & rural, culturally and generationally.

Ok, enough of that blather. At the end of the day this is really about sharing each others days, lives and the moments that fill them. Some are "a ha!" moments, others are quiet and somber. Regardless it's time to share.

Ask my staff what I always tell me, day in and day out......

at the end of the day, for us, it's all about the families.

Respectfully,

Christine