The CWSDS team provides leadership and ensures excellence in our services and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the Central West Region of Ontario, and beyond.
Leadership
Patricia is an accomplished executive with two decades of experience within government and not-for-profit agencies. Her career has expanded over a few different sectors – health, social services and developmental services. Most recently, she served as CEO at a Mental Health Association as well as being the Assistant Deputy Minister, Families and Communities within the Government of the Northwest Territories. She has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and more recently earned a M.Sc. in Healthcare Quality, Risk and Safety from Queens. Patricia also holds an Art Therapy Graduate Diploma form the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute. Outside of work, you can find Patricia traveling, collecting and creating art and enjoying hiking and camping.
Denise was elected to the Board of Directors in 2017. She has been past Chair of the Governance Committee and a member of the Fundraising Committee.
Her 30-year career has been focused in the area of Addiction and Mental Health where she has worked in both Clinical and Community Relations roles. Denise has worked to promote services, provide consultation and to strengthen collaboration with community partners. She has also been a strong advocate for improving services for clients and has been consistently recognized for her facilitation skills, as well as her ability to operationalize initiatives and policy. She is pleased to be a member of such an accomplished Board and looks forward to her continued work with Central West.
- Denise Mitchell, Chair
- Monica Bettazzoni, Vice-Chair
- Shahroz Jafri, Treasurer
- Paul Bourque, Secretary
- Sultana Bennett
- Aisha Ghafoor
- Omar Hashem
- Monique Mascoll
- Mike Nero
- Dr. Olivia Ng
- Jason Taylor
- Scott Waterhouse
Project Transform – Our Future
Project Transform, our strategic plan is all about making life better for the people we support. It’s about moving towards a future where everyone feels included, where our services are excellent, and where we’re there for each other every step of the way.
Because here’s the thing: YOU are the heart and soul of what we do. Whether you’re a cherished colleague, one of the incredible people we support, or a family member, we’re in this together, as one big family. Your voice is the heart of our journey to belonging.
Together, we’re an unstoppable force of positivity, inclusion, and empowerment. Let’s make magic happen!
Our strategic framework ensures we break down silos, enhance services, foster collaboration, and strengthen the foundation that supports people, families, and our team.
Our Vision and Purpose
Vision: Driving excellence in specialized services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex needs
Purpose: To improve the quality of life for the community of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have complex needs by providing specialized services and supports
Our Branding
For over 50 years, CWSDS has been a leader in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, specializing in complex needs. Through Project Transform, we are evolving —enhancing services, strengthening community ties, and embracing innovation to create a more inclusive future.
Our refreshed brand reflects this commitment, symbolizing care, stability, and growth. With a new website on the way, accessing support will be easier than ever.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more inclusive future—join us on this journey!
