OCSA Community ReConnect 2023 Conference

October 30, 2023

The Home & Community Support Innovation Centre team had the privilege of participating in the recent Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) Conference held in Markham earlier this month. This vibrant event brought together key players from the Home and Community Care Support sector from across Ontario. We were honoured to listen to inspiring speakers, participate in enlightening Lightening Labs and breakout sessions and get a glimpse of what’s happening across the province in Home Care, all while networking with our peers and colleagues.

Deborah Simon, CEO of OCSA, was an eloquent host and facilitator. She brings a wealth of experience in the field of home and community care, along with a broad background in the healthcare sector, encompassing acute, long-term care, and rehabilitation sectors.

Deborah Simon wearing glasses and a necklace is smiling in front of a plant.

Ron Tite, CEO of Church + State giving a presentation in front of a large screen that says think do say

During the first day of the conference, we were honored to listen as Ron Tite, CEO of Church + State, gave an enlightening keynote speech focused on his guiding “Think, Do, Say” philosophy and how that sentiment relates to Home and Community Care.

One of the conference’s most dynamic features was the Lightening Lab Breakout Sessions. Our team actively participated in several of these innovative brainstorming sessions, which covered a wide range of topics:

HHR (Human Resources)
Volunteerism
OHT (Ontario Health Teams)
HCC Redesign (Home and Community Care Redesign):
Technology

These Lightening Labs sessions provided a platform for participants to identify what’s working, pinpoint obstacles, and pose questions phrased as “how might we…” to problem solve and brainstorm innovative solutions to current obstacles in Home and Community Care.

A group of people are sitting around a table with sticky notes on the wall behind them

Two pieces of paper with sticky notes on them are hanging on a window.

Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa standing in front of a podium

Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a Canadian physician and advocate who has been recognized for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the medical field. On day two of the conference she gave an exceptional keynote speech about her story, providing hope and reassurance for POC in Home and Community Support.

The Innovation Centre proudly presented a poster at the Poster Exhibition during the OCSA conference. Our poster provides a brief overview of the region we serve, our main outputs, and how they align with our mission and vision. Seen here is Quality Lead, Nic Labine, who happily discussed all that we do at the Innovation Centre and how our service model can be useful beyond NE Ontario.

A man is standing in front of a Home and Community Support poster

To close out the conference, Pam Stoikopoulos, CEO of Big Eye Innovation presented an overview of all the Lightening Labs from day one, and spoke about the value of the Lightning Lab process.

The OCSA Conference 2023 was a remarkable gathering of passionate individuals and organizations committed to advancing home and community care in Ontario. The Innovation Centre team was honoured and delighted to attend, and we have brought back ideas, resources, and connections that will help us to continue with our mission to serve the Home and Community Care sector in North Eastern Ontario.

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World Alzheimer's Month

By Kim Marin • September 2, 2026

September is World Alzheimer's Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, challenging stigma, and recognizing the impact these conditions have on individuals, families, care partners, and communities. It is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and the resources available to support people throughout their journey. This year's campaign theme, " The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters ," emphasizes the value of recognizing symptoms early and accessing information, support, and services as soon as possible. While a dementia diagnosis can bring uncertainty and difficult emotions, it can also open the door to education, planning, and a network of support that helps individuals and families move forward with confidence and understanding. At Home & Community Support Innovation Centre, we recognize that dementia affects more than the person living with the disease. It touches families, friends, neighbours, caregivers, and communities. Supporting people living with dementia requires a collective effort, grounded in compassion, awareness, and access to reliable resources. As part of World Alzheimer's Month, we encourage everyone to learn about the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Understanding these signs can help foster important conversations, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals to seek assessment and support sooner. One of the key messages behind this campaign is that dementia is not a normal part of aging, and early awareness can make a meaningful difference for individuals and their loved ones. For those who are concerned about memory changes, supporting a loved one, or navigating a recent diagnosis, there are resources available to help. The Getting a Diagnosis Toolkit provides practical guidance for individuals and families, including information about the diagnostic process, preparing for appointments, and connecting with community supports. The Alzheimer Society of Sudbury-Manitoulin North Bay & Districts and the Alzheimer Society of Ontario also offer education, information, and support for individuals, families, and care partners throughout Ontario. These organizations play an important role in helping people access trusted information and feel supported throughout every stage of the dementia journey.