The Fall Area Meeting this year was hosted by SI Humber, Credit Valleys and Brampton on Saturday October 18. It was a packed agenda with speakers from SIA Headquarters, including an inspiring workshop with SIA President Alice Wells. Leontyne Anglin, the SIA Membership Director, conducted a hands-on presentation on how to match the needs of the clubs with the skills and interests of it’s members.
One of the after noon speakers was Clare Freeman, Executive Director of Interval House and Making A Difference for Women winner for the Eastern Canada Region. Her heart felt story was emotionally charged as she explained her life story and the challenges she faced on her path.
Clare’s story was supported by Alfredo Marroquin from the Ontario Domestic Violence Initiative: Neighbours Friends and Family. His presentation and 15-minute documentary provided critical information about how neighbours, friends and families are impacted by woman abuse and illustrated the importance of community-based strategies for ending woman abuse.
There were so many opportunities to support other clubs – diabetic jam, raffle tickets, handmade note cards. We raised $180 on a draw on a 20″ strand of 5.5mm Akoya pearls from Japan. Congratulations to the winner, MaryLynn Koekkoek from SI Peterborough, and thank you Sandy Gray for being so prepared and making the Hallowe’en earrings and pins.