Community Chats

In this episode of Community Chats, Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, is joined by Sherri Kroll, Executive Director, Middlesex Community Living, for a conversation about creating inclusive communities where belonging is not just an idea, but something visible in everyday life.Sherri talks about her journey and how both her professional and personal experiences have shaped her understanding of inclusion. The conversation explores how communities can move beyond good intentions to real, practical inclusion, and how belonging is built through everyday actions, relationships, and shared responsibility. As we conclude Community Living Month this May, Sherri also reflects on their Welcoming Community initiative, which encourages local businesses and organizations to create spaces that foster accessibility, inclusion, and belonging for all.

In this episode of Community Chats, David Lepofsky, Chair of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Alliance, joins Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, for the first conversation in our new Belonging series. This six-episode series is part of our #WeAllBelong campaign celebrations for Community Living Month.David shares his reflections on what belonging means through lived experience, advocacy, and decades of work advancing disability rights in Canada. He talks about the importance of inclusion in schools, the evolution of disability rights under the Charter, and why real progress depends not only on legislation, but on action and accountability in everyday systems. From personal stories to landmark advocacy moments, David explores how belonging is built intentionally, and not by chance.Tune in for an insightful conversation about belonging, advocacy, and what it takes to build communities where everyone is seen, valued, and able to fully participate.

In our last episode of Community Chats Season 3, Deanna Strazzella, Senior Director, Specialized Services and Mita Hans, Support Worker, join Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, for a special conversation on leadership, authenticity, and the impact of women in the developmental services sector. Deanna and Mita reflect on their journeys and the early experiences that have shaped how they show up as colleagues and leaders, and what it means to work in this sector. Their conversation explores creating space for people to be themselves at work, the changing nature of caregiving, and the importance of inclusive environments in strengthening the support we provide to people and families. They also share personal insights for young women and remind us that leadership is not defined by titles, but by actions, empathy, and the willingness to lift others along the way.Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on belonging, changing roles and the everyday leadership we celebrate this International Women’s Day.

In this episode of Community Chats, Lee Smith, Senior Manager, Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Britney Bryan, Fundraising Coordinator, Community Giving, Events, and Stewardship, join Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, for an honest conversation about leadership, identity, and belonging in the workplace.Lee and Britney reflect on their work at Community Living Toronto and share what itis like being Black women navigating professional spaces. As we mark Black History Month, they speak about responsibility, visibility, barriers that can exist within workplace environments as well as the importance of creating space for authentic participation.The conversation also explores the value of Employee Resource Groups in fostering connection and strengthening community across the organization. From listening with intention to taking personal responsibility for continuous learning, they reflect on how Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion efforts shape day-to-day experiences and influence the quality of supports and services we provide.Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on growth, learning, and creating a culture where people can show up as their true selves at work and beyond.

In this episode of Community Chats, Alexandra Shannan, Housing Navigator, Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) and Julie Sommerfreund, Principal, Innovation, SHS Inc., join Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, for a forward-looking conversation on housing and innovative approaches emerging to help address one of the sector’s most urgent challenges. Alexandra and Julie share more about Solutions Lab, a collaborative initiative under the National Housing Strategy and discuss how partnerships with families and caregivers, community land trusts, and sector leaders are helping test new models for supportive housing. From creating practical tools to setting realistic expectations, the conversation highlights the importance of transparency, shared responsibility, and thinking beyond traditional pathways. Tune in for an insightful conversation about collaboration, progress and building communities where people can live with dignity, stability, and a true sense of belonging.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Arissa and Sarosh, Early Childhood Consultants from Community Living Toronto, share insights from their work supporting children, families, and childcare teams to create inclusive learning environments. They talk about why early, responsive support matters, particularly for children who may benefit from extra support - often before a formal diagnosis. The conversation explores the impact of early intervention, working closely with families and community partners and what belonging looks like when it is done well in child care settings.  Tune into the episode as Arissa and Sarosh join Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, to discuss the role we all play in helping children and families feel a sense of belonging.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Heather McDonald, President and CEO, United Way Greater Toronto, reflects on her journey from nearly two decades at LOFT Community Services to leading one of Canada’s largest charities. Heather shares how her background in person-centered care and social work informs her leadership today, and why she embraced the challenge of stepping into United Way’s top role. She discusses the importance of ambitious civic goals, United Way’s impact in addressing pressing social issues from mental health and homelessness to job readiness and food security and the generosity that drives support for charities and nonprofits across the province. Tune into the conversation as Heather McDonald and Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, talk about the impact of United Way’s network, the meaning of belonging, and how building community lies at the heart of both fundraising and inclusion.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, John Tory, Chair of Community Living Toronto's Patron's Council, joins us to reflect on his journey of leadership, service, and connection to the developmental services sector.  He shares the personal influences that shaped his decades-long commitment to public service, the importance of volunteering, and the role of organizations like Community Living Toronto in supporting people with intellectual disabilities. Together, we look back on caregiving during Covid, celebrate the progress made, and explore his vision for an inclusive Ontario. Tune into this conversation with John Tory and Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto as they talk about lessons learned from leadership and the lasting impact of community service.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Frances Moore and Glen Snyder from Community Living Toronto explore homelessness as one of the challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities. They share their experiences supporting people through transition services and adult protective services, highlight the risks of homelessness, the Bridges to Housing project, and the realities for those who have waited decades for the supports they need. They also reflect on the importance of building trust, the positive impact of their work, success stories that bring hope, and the vision for a future where sustainable housing and inclusive supports are within reach.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Aida Abd El Nor, Director, High Care Association, Egypt and Alexandria Self Advocacy Group shares her journey of advocating for people with intellectual disabilities and building inclusive support networks locally and beyond. She reflects on the self-advocacy movement in Egypt, the challenges and opportunities in the community, and the vital need for resources. Aida also highlights how local leadership and collaboration are driving change, the importance of self advocacy groups in creating spaces where people feel seen and heard, and the partnership with Community Living Toronto and our CLTO Influencers.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Domenic Gentilini, parent, advocate, and founder, Down Syndrome Foundation offers an honest and hopeful perspective on building a brighter future for people with developmental disabilities. From the early days of his son’s diagnosis to creating a foundation that fills critical gaps for families, Domenic’s journey is one of determination, love, and impact. He talks about the importance of early supports, their newly launched Skilled Trades Training Program, and helpful resources available to families navigating similar journeys. Through his lens as both a parent and changemaker, Domenic reflects on belonging and what it truly means to create opportunities where everyone can thrive.

In this episode of Community Chats, Brendon Pooran, lawyer and founder, Pooran Law returns to share his insights on some of the pressing issues and legal developments in the developmental services sector. From the latest on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) legislation to the Canada Disability Benefit, he speaks candidly about what’s working, what’s falling short and offers practical tips for people with disabilities and their families to navigate barriers and access benefits. The conversation also explores supported decision-making, progress made internationally, and where Canada currently stands in advancing legal capacity and decision-making rights.

In this episode of the Community Chats podcast, Valerie Boyle, parent and actor, opens up about her son Richie’s journey and how their family found support through Community Living. She shares her experience as Richie’s biggest advocate, her worries as an aging caregiver, and the future she hopes for herself and other parents in similar situations. Alongside her personal story, Valerie talks about her life in the arts, the importance of community, and her recent audition on Canada’s Got Talent which captured hearts across the country.                                                                  Tune into this heartfelt conversation with Valerie and Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto as they explore resilience, advocacy, and the hope every family holds for a world where everyone belongs.

“Belonging is a necessity of a good life. The responsibility doesn’t just lie on the person who hopes to belong, it lies on all of us to create a society in which people feel that belonging”In this episode of Community Chats podcast, Vassy Kapelos, political journalist and Community Living Toronto’s Patron’s Council member, reflects on her early years and her dream of building a career in political journalism. She shares insights on the importance of accountability in governance, the quiet responsibility on those who can question power, her long standing connection with Community Living Toronto and much more.

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Mary Pat Armstrong, parent, founder of LIGHTS, and long-time supporter of Community Living Toronto. In this episode, they discuss Mary Pat's journey as a mother, mentor, and advocate and the lessons she learned along the way. They also share key insights from decades of building and supporting nonprofit and community organizations as well as how empowering people with intellectual disabilities to live more independently transformed her daughter Jenny’s confidence and community life.

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Erica and Sam, members of CLTO Influencers. In this episode, Sam and Erica share their experiences growing up and importance of advocacy in their lives. They also discuss how they navigate the complexities of maintaining an active social media presence  and how they are contributing the cause that are close to their hearts. Check out the video by CLTO Influencers on Community Living Month: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yk8QYPfhd8

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Marg Spoelstra, CEO of Autism Ontario. In this episode, Marg shares the growing need for services as autism diagnoses increase, and how community partnerships can expand access and awareness. They also chat about the impact of public narratives around “cures” and why language matters, and what’s next for Autism Ontario and their advocacy efforts.Follow the link to learn more about Autism Ontario: https://www.autismontario.com/

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Sherron Grant, parent, advocate and co-founder of Sawubona. In this episode,  Sherron shares how her family navigated their son’s autism diagnosis and found strength in the community. Brad and Sherron also talk about common issues seen by families in racialized communities – and the importance of connection in the caregiving journey as well as how belonging and shared experiences are at the heart of everything Sawubona does and its vision.Learn more about Sawubona here: https://www.loominternational.org/sawubona/

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Brendon Pooran, Founder of PooranLaw. In this Episode, Brendon shares a breakdown of what Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) is and the origin behind its introduction. They also chat about how MAID is approached and accepted in countries around the world, concerns within the disability community about MAID, and much more!

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Helen Ries, co-funder of Siblings Canada. In this episode, Helen shares her journey as a caregiver for her brother, Paul, and the joys and challenges of stepping into a caregiving role for a loved one. They also discuss the importance of prioritizing self-care and mental well-being while supporting a loved one, and the inspiration behind Siblings Canada

Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Melissa Wilson, parent and supporter of Community Living Toronto. In this episode, Melissa shares her son, Michael’s early years, the programs and supports that shaped his life and the importance of community support. They also discuss the challenges they encountered during transition years, their experiences and advocacy efforts to ensure Michael had the best opportunities to reach his full potential, and much more.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From Developmental Services champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.This week, we are pleased to share a special Inclusive Education Month episode. Tune into episode 5 of season 2 of the Community Chats podcast, featuring David Lepofsky, Disability Right Advocate and our Patron’s Council member, Tracey O’Regan, Program Manager - Early Childhood Services at Community Living Toronto, and Stephen MacDonald, Upper Elementary Lead at Taddle Creek Montessori, in conversation with Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From Developmental Services champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Mike Tasevski, parent and member of LIGHTS Board of Directors. In this episode, Mike shares his journey and career path that led him to the Developmental Services sector. They also discuss the importance of future planning, key challenges and turning points in planning support for people with intellectual disabilities, and how connection and belonging help build an inclusive community.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Dr. Vikram Dua, psychiatrist and supporter of Community Living Toronto. In this episode, Dr. Vikram shares his journey into the field of developmental psychiatry and the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist along with their roles in developmental care. They also discuss key issues around overprescription of medications and what can be done to improve outcomes and provide insights into the impact of the Developmental Psychiatry Resource (DPR).

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Mary O'Hearn, a member of CLTO Influencers. In this episode, Mary shares the life-changing accident that reshaped her entire world and challenges of being a caregiver to her kids and husband while navigating daily routines in a wheelchair. She also opens up about experience living in a long-term care home while waiting for a place she can call her own.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Mark Ayles, supporter of Community Living Toronto and one of our 75th Anniversary Storytellers. In this episode, Mark shares The inspiring life and journey of his brother Paul and their family's connection to Community Living Toronto and how their neighbourhood became a mini community for Paul in supporting and caring for him. They also discuss the impact of respite programs for parents and caregivers, providing essential support and relief, and significance of including people with disabilities in all aspects of society.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Chris Beesley, a parent and CEO of Community Living Ontario. In this episode, Chris shares how the search for a good life for their son Mitchell introduced him to the Community Living movement, leading to his leadership role at Community Living Ontario. We also cover some of the biggest challenges the DS sector is facing today, the impact behind the #5ToSurvive campaign, the power of collective action in advocating for change and much more!

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Michael Braithwaite. In this episode, Michael talks about his personal journey and experience in the housing sector, the current state of homelessness in Ontario and across Canada, the importance of taking bold risks to tackle housing challenges, the intersection of housing issues and the impact of addictions, and the idea of building inclusive communities where people can truly thrive.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.Today, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Nick Hadjiyianni, program manager of employment supports. In this insightful episode, Nick talks about his childhood and motivation to work in the Developmental Services sector, the evolution of employment and disability inclusion at workplace. Nick also shares common misconceptions about hiring and fostering workplaces that reflect our communities, as well as tips for young adults, job seekers, parents, and employers. 

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this heartfelt episode, Stephanie talks about her association with the Community Living movement and Developmental Services sector, career in government relations and engagement within the current political landscape, the power of unity and idea behind campaigns like #5ToSurvive, and the importance of inclusion and the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us.”

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this heartfelt episode, Kelly shares her childhood experiences and growing up in different homes, how supports from Community Living Toronto changed her life, her experience as a person with a disability within the 2SLGBTQQAI+ community, her love for “Doctor Who” series, and the power of positive thinking, hope, and determination.

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, and discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this heartfelt episode, Agnes shares her longstanding connection with CLTO through career and volunteer work, advocacy efforts and impact on Ontario’s support for children, the importance of a person-centered approach in organizations, the strength in unity and the value of mutual learning, memories of her husband, Sam, and the heartwarming story behind the Sam Samler Award, and much more! 

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and Juanita Forde, Lead Steward of CUPE 2191. In this heartfelt episode, they dive into Juanita’s connection and journey with CLTO as a long-time employee, recognition for developmental support professionals and the DS sector, the importance of representing diverse experiences, the status of caregiving in the country and its challenges, and much more!

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode, we have a chat between Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, and David Lepofsky, lawyer, Chair of the Special Education Advisory Committee at Toronto District School Board, and member of Community Living Toronto's Patron's Council. Join us as we dive into David's advocacy efforts for including disability in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the challenges of navigating the school system, the critical role of individual education plans, and much more!

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode, we have a chat with Lorraine Bradley and Joshua Splude, members of CLTO Influencers. Lorraine and Josh have a long-standing connection with Community Living Toronto. The work that they do not only brings them happiness and fulfills their lives, but also allows them to bring change to this world by advocating for the causes personal to them and making sure everyone belongs. As Lorraine said during the podcast, “Belonging is when everyone feels accepted and everybody is like family at Community Living.”

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode we have a chat with Jan Stewart, a highly regarded mental health and neurodiversity advocate, author and the recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award for her brutally honest memoir titled Hold on Tight: A Parent’s Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness. Jan’s memoir describes her emotional story parenting two children with multiple mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. 

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode we have a chat with Nadia Elkharadly, a long-time CLTO supporter, one of our 75th Anniversary Storytellers, and an advocate for her brother, Amir. 

Welcome to "Community Chats," bringing you stories and insights from the heart of Community Living Toronto. From frontline champions, advocates, and volunteers to the people we support, their families and friends, together we explore the different experiences, celebrate success stories, share memorable moments, discuss pressing challenges and new developments in the sector.In this episode, we have a chat with Laura Parsonson, a proud parent, teacher, advocate, and member of Community Living Toronto’s Board of Directors, whose goal is to ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have a chance to live, learn, work, and have fun in their local communities.