Stephanie will be the Chair of the Board for 2024-2026 

[October 01, 2024 – Toronto, ON] – Community Living Toronto is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephanie Gawur as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Stephanie brings a wealth of experience in government relations, issues management and strategic advice, having served in various leadership roles across the health and community sectors. 

With a background deeply rooted in politics, Stephanie leads Santis Health’s Ontario government relations team, supporting health care organizations as they navigate, influence and respond to changing political landscapes. Over the course of her career, she has successfully driven change for countless health-sector clients, including associations, pharmaceutical companies, and health tech firms. 

Her political involvement spans municipal, provincial, and federal campaigns, including three consecutive successful Toronto mayoral campaigns and contributions to Progressive Conservative leadership campaigns in Ontario. Stephanie also served as an Executive Assistant to a Member of Parliament, managing community outreach. 

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair of the Board of Directors at Community Living Toronto. I deeply appreciate the support and dedication of our Board Members and staff, whose commitment to our mission inspires me every day,” said Stephanie Gawur. “Together, we will continue advocating for more inclusive communities, ensuring that people with intellectual disabilities have the rights and opportunities they deserve.”  

Actively engaged in volunteerism, Stephanie currently serves on the Board of Directors for Community Living Toronto and chaired its Government Relations Committee from 2022-2024. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queen’s University and a Master of Science from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Stephanie is the proud mother to her one-year-old son, Teddy, and lives in Etobicoke with her family.  

Stephanie also took a moment to thank the outgoing Board Chair, Valérie Picher, for her exceptional leadership over the past two years, “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Valérie Picher for her commitment and guidance. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing our mission and making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.” 

Brad Saunders, CEO of Community Living Toronto, welcomed Stephanie to her new role and expressed his gratitude to all Board Members, “We are delighted to welcome Stephanie Gawur as the new Chair of the Board. Her vast experience and dedication to our mission make her an ideal choice for this role. We look forward to her leadership and the positive impact she continues to bring to our organization. I would also like to thank all our Board Members for their time, leadership, and continued dedication to our organization.” 

– 30 – 

About Community Living Toronto 
Community Living Toronto has long been a source of support for people with an intellectual disability and their families since 1948. Community Living Toronto offers a wide range of services including respite, person-directed planning, employment supports, supported living, and community-based activities. 

Community Living Toronto is proud to support over 4,000 people with an intellectual disability, and their families in more than 80 locations across Toronto. The “community living movement” began with families who wanted their children to live in the community, rather than institutions. Today, Community Living Toronto continues to advocate for inclusive communities and support the rights and choices of people with an intellectual disability. 

For more information, please contact: 
Petronilla Ndebele 
Director, Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Relations  
media@cltoronto.ca 
416-356-1532 

Facebook @CLToronto  
X @CLToronto  
Instagram @CLToronto 
LinkedIN @Community Living Toronto