New Executive Director Joins the Canadian Helen Keller Centre

The Canadian Helen Keller Centre is pleased to announce that Patricia Grant will assume the position of Executive Director effective September 1st, 2003.  Patricia has been involved with the Deaf-Blind community since 1991 in the capacity of Intervenor, volunteer and student.  She graduated with honours from George Brown College’s Intervenor for Deaf-Blind Persons Program and is now enrolled in the part-time Disability Studies Program at Ryerson University.

In addition to Patricia’s experience in social services, she has worked extensively in the corporate sector and is experienced in administration, graphic design and customer service.

"As the new Executive Director, I am pleased to report on the Centre’s progress since May, 2002. Several consumers have successfully completed courses at the Centre, some coming from as far as British Columbia.  CHKC’s comfortable living quarters enable Canadians from all regions to access our training opportunities and services.  We are proud to report that two of our graduates have become employed at the Centre."

An Usher Support Group meets monthly at the Centre. CHKC supports the Group by providing Intervenors to interpret topics under discussion and to facilitate participation. For individuals unable to attend in person, support is extended via online support groups.

The Centre continues to expand its training services and opportunities. To find out more, please read the latest version of our newsletter, "Bridging Hands".

The CHKC is a non-profit, charitable organization presently providing training for the Deaf-Blind community and we hope to expand into outreach Intervenor services in the future. Funds are needed to continue these services and donations are greatly appreciated.

If you would like to become a student at the Centre, or if you are looking for employment, volunteer or student placement opportunities, please contact me at (416) 225-8989. I look forward to speaking with you.

Patricia Grant