Patricia with her Matching Program Friend of 15 years, Sophia
For Patricia, her involvement with ABLE2 has been more than just a job— it’s a mission to advocate for inclusion and remove everyday barriers that many people with disabilities face. As a Planning Facilitator with ABLE2’s Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW) Investment program, she spends her days supporting individuals in navigating the complex housing system, finding resources to develop essential life skills, and working towards a plan for their independence. Most importantly, Patricia helps them believe in their own ability to shape their futures.
The APSW Investment Program, in partnership with Developmental Services Ontario – Eastern Region (DSO-ER) and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) offers support for adults with developmental disabilities who would like to move to a home of their own. The process of finding and moving into a home is an overwhelming process and can be difficult to know where or how to start. APSW Planning Facilitators like Patricia work with individuals to identify their goals, develop a plan and work through any barriers they may encounter. For aging caregivers, planning for their loved ones’ futures through the APSW Investment Program ensures adults with disabilities aren’t left without support when their families can no longer provide it.
Her role is both urgent and deeply personal. Patricia has witnessed firsthand how affordable housing shortages and funding limitations leave many people with disabilities stuck in unsafe or unsuitable conditions, often holding onto hope while on the waitlist for almost a decade. However discouraging the systemic barriers may be, Patricia continues to advocate for her clients’ needs, while working on the necessary skills and confidence to take that step when they are ready. She supports them in developing financial literacy skills such as budgeting and keeping track of expenses, cooking, taking public transport, and even obtaining employment.
“The most rewarding part of my work is seeing that confidence grow,” Patricia shares. “When someone finally moves into their own apartment and shows it off with pride, that’s when I know we’ve made a real impact.”
Patricia knows the need far outweighs the available resources. Still, she remains committed to helping each person she works with take meaningful steps toward independence, no matter how long the process takes.
A Committed Advocate for People with Disabilities
Patricia’s involvement with ABLE2 began long before she joined the APSW team. She was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to stay involved in the social services field. In 2002, she first learned about the organization through a colleague in the social work field and was drawn to the idea of developing a one-on-one connection with a person with a disability. She then signed up to become a volunteer Ally with the Matching Program, where she met her Friend, Sophia. A friendship turned family— now 17 years strong— became a defining part of Patricia’s journey.
“Having Sophia in my life has given me more meaning and helped me feel more of a part of our community, and just feel more connected to everyone around us,” says Patricia, and adds that stepping out of our own little worlds and expanding who we’re sharing our lives with is a good thing.
When Patricia decided to return to the workforce, she knew she wanted to work with ABLE2. “I had a feeling it would be a good place to join, and I was right. It’s been a great place to work and an excellent opportunity to help more people in the community and support them to change their lives as well,” she shares.
Apart from her work with the APSW team, Patricia has also been instrumental in ABLE2’s events as part of the planning committees.
Why Your Support Matters
Patricia’s work—and the work of the APSW program—is possible because of the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and community supporters. Housing shortages, funding gaps, and a lack of accessible resources mean that far too many people with disabilities remain stuck in situations that limit their potential.
With your continued support, ABLE2 can empower more individuals to take control of their futures, gain independence, and build lives of meaning and joy—just as Patricia has helped so many do.
Join us in supporting programs like APSW and ensuring that every person with a disability can build lives of meaning and joy.