Before she became a catering superstar, Terri Lynn spent five happy years working for Empower Simcoe in their Orillia office. She worked in the Supported Independent Living (SIL) program, helping people with intellectual disabilities move into the community from institutions and family homes. So it was particularly rewarding for Terri Lynn and the entire team from Shaws Catering to be on hand at the recent Empower Simcoe staff and family BBQ at Springwater Park as they celebrated their 70th anniversary.
About Empower Simcoe
Established in 1953 by parents wishing to offer intellectually disabled children with an alternative to institutional placement, Empower Simcoe has grown to become one of the larger employers in Simcoe County. Powered by a belief that everyone can contribute to their community and supported by over 550 full and part time staff, the not-for-profit organization provides services for all ages from pre-school to adult. Accredited by the Council of Quality and Leadership, Empower Simcoe, formerly known as Simcoe Community Services, serves Simcoe County from 6 administrative and 41 residential sites. Treating everyone with respect and dignity, Empower Simcoe delivers services designed to empower people to live a full and inclusive life.
Springwater Park
Located just outside of Midhurst, Springwater Park proved to be the perfect spot for the Empower Simcoe staff and family bbq. The park has a number of picnic shelters and can accommodate groups of up to 400 people. There are three comfort stations with running water and flushable toilets, including one that is heated in winter. The park also has playing fields and a children’s play area. Barrier free access to some picnic shelters and washroom facilities are enhanced by paved walkways that go through the main park area. Perhaps most notably, Springwater was the first Provincial Park to be managed by an indigenous nation. In 2015, the Beausoliel First Nation successfully negotiated a co-management agreement with the Province and has been managing the park ever since. The park certainly served as a great location for the Empower Simcoe staff and family event.
Congratulations and Thanks!
Our heartfelt congratulations to Empower Simcoe on 70 years of successfully supporting Simcoe County. Thank you for including us in your celebration. It was wonderful to share in your special day and see so many happy faces enjoying the face painting, bbq, and games. All the best for your continued success. We look forward to sharing many more staff celebrations in the future.
