Board of Directors

Connie Heasman: joined the Board of Directors on March 31, 2008. Connie has spent over 18 years working in the developmental services sector and is currently now employed at Georgian College as the Health and Safety Coordinator. “I am very pleased to be able to contribute to such a caring organization as Catulpa.”
Carolyn James: joined the Board of Directors on May 28, 2007. Carolyn currently works for York Region Early Intervention Services as an Early Interventionist. She has been in the field for 17 years, supporting families with children with special needs. She is also the Vaughan Local Team Facilitator for the Children's Treatment Network of Simcoe York. "Being a part of Catulpa is truly a wonderful experience and one that I am very grateful for, what a dynamic and dedicated group of individuals we have here!"
Tracy Johnson: joined the Board of Directors March 31, 2008. Tracy currently works for the Children’s Aid Society in Simcoe County but prior to CAS, she worked in the Developmental Services Field. “I like Catulpa’s philosophy of Community Partnership, inclusion and support in the work they do and I am honoured to be a part of the organization.”
Tara Maxwell: joined the Board of Directors on August 27, 2001 and has been Secretary/Treasurer since September 25, 2006. Tara is the Coordinator of the Family Mental Health Initiative of Simcoe County; she provides support and education to the family members of persons experiencing a serious mental illness. “Being involved with Catulpa is an enjoyable and positive experience where new skills have been gained and the opportunities to participate and contribute along side Catulpa’s staff, clients and families are my most valued memories.”

Jessie Paquette: joined the Board of Directors on October 25, 1999. Jessie’s background is in education and she retired from the Associate Registrars position at York University. “My desire to give back to the community and joining an organization that was progressive in their thinking led me to Catulpa.”

Michael Pearce: joined the Board of Directors, April 20, 2009.
A Quality Assurance professional with experience in many industries, I am currently Director of Quality for Vector Inc, a designer and manufacturer of battery maintenance technology for various advanced electronic assemblies. Since I am a father who has received valuable assistance raising two special needs children from organizations like Catulpa, I found serving on the Board to be a way of giving something back to my community.
Ann Reed: joined the Board of Directors on November 25, 2002 and has been Vice Chair since September 25, 2006. Ann is a parent of three adult sons, one of whom has autism. “Catulpa's wonderful support for my son and my family since 1981 has made it possible for him to participate in many capacities of his community and to fulfill his dreams and goals of what he wants to do. Being on the Board has given me a great learning experience as a parent to help others find ways to accomplish their life dreams as well as being supported and inclusive in society.”

Velma Smith: joined the Board of Directors, May 6, 2009.
I have spent over 12 years in the financial industry and currently work as a Financial Advisor for the TD Canada Trust Bank. I volunteered as a Board member of Catulpa because of the positive impact Catulpa has on the community and I wanted to give back to my community.

Leah Wuttke: joined the Board of Directors March 31, 2008. Leah is a mature student enrolled in her second year in the Social Service Worker program at Georgian College in Orillia and also works for the Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office as a Rights Adviser. “My goal when finished school is to go and work at Queen's Park in Social Policy to do my part in making positive change.”
Board members have joined Catulpa for many reasons:
- "I work in social services and I wish to volunteer in a different capacity."
- "To donate my talents, and gain new skills in governance and board operation."
- "I want to give back to an organization that has been so helpful to our family."
- "The individuals, programs and inclusive philosophies are inspiring."
- "To participate in a group that truly values all people's contributions."
We welcome your application to join our Board:
- Six meetings per year
- Orientation provided
- Carver/Consensus governance (i.e. minimal committee activity)
To apply for a position on our Board please send your resume to:
sdale@catulpa.on.ca
or
Ms. S. Dale
Catulpa Community Support Services
Re: Board of Directors Application
165 Ferris Lane
Barrie, Ontario
L4M 2Y1