By Georgina Stergiotis

Lakeshore Arts has been a partner with Community Living Toronto since 2009. They have supported various events that help to promote Etobicoke artists at Judson and Creative Village Studio. Lakeshore Arts has supported events such as: The Etobicoke Arts Collective, Art on the Move and Kaeja Dance at Montgomery Inn.

In 2014, Dale Makino, was approached by Susan Nagy, Lakeshore Arts, Executive Director; intentionally seeking to employ an individual with an intellectual disability as a part time Gallery Attendant.  After a mutually developed selection process, Kadeem Parchment, became the successful candidate. Kadeem’s employment began in September 2014, and after more than 2 years he continues to work there.

Kadeem came to Community Living Toronto in 2012 and is in the Supported Independent Living (SIL) program.  He lives in a one bedroom apartment in Etobicoke and also works at Loblaws. Kadeem is a George Brown College alumni, enjoys Anime, movies, super heroes, and travelling. Kadeem has traveled to Jamaica to visit his natural family and he recently went to Trinidad with his girlfriend.

At Lakeshore Arts, Kadeem works in an environment where he is welcomed and treated with respect. His love for art has allowed him to learn and to develop new skills.

On Monday November 21st, 2016, Community Living Toronto presented Lakeshore Arts with the 2016 Employer of the Year Award at their AGM. The event was attended by Brad Saunders-Chief Executive Officer, Dale Makino-Program Manager, and Angela Bradley-Director of Public Relations and Fundraising.

In addition, Lakeshore Arts generously presented Community Living Toronto with a donation.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Lakeshore Arts.  We want to continue to do innovative projects and events, open doors for individuals with an intellectual disability, and make a meaningful difference in our community.