Ottawa-Carleton Lifeskills Inc.

Today, we celebrate an incredible milestone as Merle retires after more than 25 years as a Direct Support Professional with OCL. For over two decades, Merle has made a lasting difference in the lives of the people she supported through her kindness, dedication, patience, and unwavering commitment. Her compassion and genuine care have touched countless lives and helped create meaningful opportunities for the people she served. Merle's impact extends far beyond her daily work. She has been a valued colleague, trusted mentor, and cherished member of the OCL family. Her contributions have helped shape our organization and strengthen our community.

Thank you, Merle, for 25+ years of service, heart, and dedication. We are deeply grateful for everything you have given and wish you a retirement filled with happiness, good health, relaxation, and new adventures.

Darren and David spent some time biking around the neighborhood. David loved every minute of it, taking in the sights and enjoying the ride. A great reminder that healthy living starts with getting outdoors and staying active.

Hands-on projects create real opportunities to build life skills. Pat and Taylor worked together to build 4 planter beds for the backyard, practicing teamwork, responsibility, and patience along the way. Looking forward to seeing what gets planted this spring.

Scott and Doug took a trip back in time at the Triumph and April Wine concert at the Canadian Tire Centre. These two have known each other since 1988, which is longer than both of the Direct Support Professionals attending with them have been alive! As they put it best: “Welcome to our Time Machine.” It was a night full of music, memories, and friendship.

Bake the world a better place.
That’s exactly what our recreation program set out to do during their recent bread-making session. Nothing brings people together like fresh bread.

We’re looking forward to being part of the Connecting Families, Empowering Futures Resource Fair & Parent Engagement Night this evening from 5-8pm at Clifford Bowey School, hosted by Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB). If you’re attending, come say hello to the OCL team—we’d love to meet you.

Kim is getting her hands dirty and loving every minute of it. Inside the kitchen, she’s planting tomato seeds with support from Emma, a Direct Support Professional. It’s a moment that brings growth, learning, and a real sense of accomplishment.

For two decades, Robyn has made a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals we support at OCL and at SIL. She shows up with kindness, patience, and heart in ways that truly matter. Her work has helped create a more inclusive, caring community at OCL and we are so grateful for the impact she continues to make every single day. Thank you for 20 incredible years, it’s an honor to celebrate you 🎉

Thank you to everyone who stopped by OCL’s table at today’s Algonquin College DSW Career Fair. It was great connecting with so many of you. We truly appreciate your time and interest, and we look forward to staying in touch. The future looks bright with such promising students!