historic deafblind awareness month summer 2011.pdf · jula becomes the first person who is...

All people who are deafblind will live rich meaningful lives

The MonitorA bi-annual publication of

Canadian Deafblind AssociationOntario Chapter

Spring/Summer 2011

Everyone LovesMarineland

2011 Art Show Meaghan Works at Tim Horton’s

Historic Deafblind Awareness Month

Flag Raising Ceremony

All these great articles and more inside this edition of the Monitor!

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In 2000, the provincial government passed legistlation proclaiming that each June would be Deafblind Awareness Month. Each year, CDBA Ontario conducts events and activities to increase the awareness of Deafblindness in Ontario.

This year’s Deafblind Awareness Month featured publicity events of an unprecedented size and scope for CDBA Ontario.

On June 3rd, Julia Seed, a consumer at CDBA Ontario, made history when she opened the market at the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Julia became the first person who is deafblind to open the market at the Toronto Stock Exchange in its 150 years of operation. Julia was joined by senior staff, members of the Board of Directors, TSX staff and her Intervenor for the occassion.

For more information turn to page 3.

Another first for CDBA Ontario occurred at a recent Toronto Blue Jays game. As the photograph on the left shows, it was a great awareness opportunity for CDBA and our Children’s Intervenor Services.

For more information on our big night at the Blue Jays game, turn to page 9.

Top photo: Accompanied by TSX representatives, CDBA staff and Directors from the Board cheer as Jula becomes the first person who is deafblind to open the TSX.

Bottom photo: Steffen Zimmer and his father walking on to the field in Toronto to throw out the first pitch at a Blue Jays game, as seen on the Rogers Centre video board.

The Monitor Spring/Summer 2011

Canadian Deafblind Association Ontario Chapter

This Issue

Message from the Executive Director

Update on Resource Centre

Introducing the New Director of Fund Development

Our Voices Within... Inspired Souls Collection

A Heartfelt Thank You

A Day at the Zoo

Deafblind Awarenes Month Flag Raised High

Q & A with Lynn

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Registered Disability Savings Plan

Ontario Introduces New Photo ID Card

Everyone Loves Marineland

Meaghan Works at Tim Hortons

A Big “Thank You” to Our Summer Intervenors

Deafblind Simulation for V.I.P.s

Nevada Vendors

Multi-purpose Cards for Sale

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Message from the Executive Directorby Cathy Proll

It is my pleasure to welcome all of our members and staff to the 2011 Spring/Summer edition of the Monitor. I would especially like to extend a warm greeting to the 65 students who have joined us in the summer program this year. It is my hope that you find your summer experience to be fun, rewarding, and a valuable stepping stone to your future. The work you perform this summer is a vital link for children who are deafblind to enjoy their summer and all of the wonderful activities that come along with it. So please feel free to share your experiences and stories with us!

My congratulations go out to the many people who have contributed to our newsletter, both this edition and the many others. It is really exciting to read the articles and understand first-hand how Intervenor Services make a difference in the lives of people who are deafblind.

I am always impressed by our CDBA family and the willingness of our consumers, families, staff and chapter members to join together across the province to assist one another and to share information. The articles included in this edition speak to this camaraderie and support. It is an important goal of CDBA to keep these connections working and we appreciate the efforts of all our stakeholders in assisting us.

So please, sit back, find some time to relax, and enjoy this edition of the Monitor. As always we welcome your comments, and of course your stories!

Until next time, Happy Reading….

Cathy Proll

Art Show Draw Winner Announced

Lisa Hill (at left) is shown presenting Bonnie Horton with a lovely Sapphire and Diamond pendant and earring set that she won recently. The jewellery was generously donated by J.D. Hill Jewellers in Brantford for a draw that ran during the art exhibition at the Brantford Arts Block. J.D. Hill Jewellers has been serving Brantford and surrounding areas since 1970 and we thank them for their support.

The Monitor Spring/Summer 2011

All those who are deafblind will live rich meaningful lives

continued - Making History with Deafblind Awareness Month

Update on Resource Cenre

The stock market opening dates back the beginning of the modern stock exchange in the late 1800s and indicates the start of the day’s trading. It has now become a ceremonial action and is typically used by corporation executives and celebrities for product launches.

Before opening the market, Julia Seed and the CDBA staff had a chance to meet executives from the TSX during a light breakfast. The executives had never met an individual who is deafblind or been exposed to concept of an Intervenor and Julia stole the show during the breakfast. Everyone wanted to meet Julia!

When asked her feelings about the day, Julia says “It was an interesting experience, and it feels good being on the tv for everyone to see!”

Footage of Julia opening the TSX was broadcast live on

Business News Network (BNN). The opening can also be seen on the TSX YouTube Channel. Type “CDBA opens Toronto Stock Exchange” on YouTube, Google or your favorite search engine to see this historic moment.

Thank you to the TMX Group for providing us with this amazing awareness opportunity.

Some of you may have heard of ‘Project 2011’, a dream that started back in 2008. The vision was to be able to purchase a piece of property and turn it into our own Resource Centre. In the Fall/Winter edition of the Monitor we told you about our conditional offer for a vacant elementary school in Paris (County of Brant). CDBA Ontario is happy to announce this time has come! As of May, our Ontario Chapter is the proud owner of the former Sacred Heart School.

Continued in the special insert.

The vacant Sacred Heart School in Paris Ontario will be the new home for CDBA Ontario’s Resource Centre.

Letter From the Editorby Devin Shyminsky, Communications Coordinator

Welcome back to another great edition of The Monitor!

As you’ll see when you read this newsletter, the Ontario Chapter of CDBA has been very busy.

You’ll read about events related to Deafblind Awareness Month. It was a resounding success. We ran our biggest awareness events in the history of the organization, with a ceremonial first pitch at a Toronto Blue Jays game, and opening the Toronto Stock Exchange. These events exposed a lot of people to our organization. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to make this

edition what I think is our most comprehensive newsletter to date. I know that there are many other amazing stories waiting to be shared so please get in touch with me so that we can tell your story. These stories help us inform the public about deafblindness and illlustrate how people who are deafblind live rich meaningful lives with the support of an Intervenor.

All the best.

Devin Shyminsky

Julia practices on the monitor that will open the TSX while her Intervenor Heather Arseneault explains how the ceremony will work.

Spring/Summer 2011The Monitor

Introducing the New Director of Fund Developmentby Gil Scott


From the Director of Fund Development (A new po$ition!)

I am happy to report that the Board of Directors of the Ontario Chapter of CDBA found it advantageous to develop a new role. On Monday, April 18, I started my first day as Director of Fund Development.

My fundraising career actually began up in Bracebridge, where I owned a retail art gallery/bookstore called Scott’s of Muskoka. Among other things, my community service got me involved with the local hospital as a volunteer Trustee. After a few years there, I was invited to join their Foundation where I became Chair in my second year. I have always taken pleasure from the idea of nice people donating money that bought equipment and provided services to make peoples’ lives a bit better.

Over a seven-year period, I took a bunch of fundraising courses and attended many educational conferences. Still a volunteer, I wrote and passed the CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive) exam. I think I’m still the first and perhaps only person to have done that who was not already working in the profession.

That was the turning point, as an opportunity to change careers presented itself. After thorough discussion as a family, we decided that I should throw my hat in the ring and see if anyone would hire me. Since then, I’ve had successful placements at Sunnybrook in Toronto, where I ran the Planned Giving program; Headwaters Healthcare in Orangeville where I managed a small Foundation; and Brantford General and Willett Hospital Foundations where I spent eight years managing both medium and small sized hospital Foundations.

My transition from healthcare to social services was not difficult, as my mandate for both is to raise money to ensure a better quality of life. However the learning curve is huge.

I have become aware of a whole new world that I did not know existed. Each day I am amazed by another consumer or Intervenor, as I watch the many variations of signing and other forms of communication. Every day I am in awe at the intelligence, drive and good humour our consumers and Intervenors.

My role at CDBA is to start up and develop a well-rounded

fundraising program. Many people rightly think

that getting solicitation letters and attending events is about fundraising. Though true, there is much more to it than that.

Fundraising is all about people, relationships, trust, integrity and education. One of our ongoing challenges will be to continue to increase the profile of CDBA throughout the province and tell more people our story. It is through that educational process, that mutual trust is built. The process takes varying amounts of time until a significant donation results.

I have always believed that ongoing stewardship is one of the most important aspects of fundraising. I never look at the ‘gift’ as the end. It is just the beginning of a relationship. And, it is important to foster that relationship as a means of generating additional donations as time goes on.

We have done several mail campaigns to various groups who already know our organization and there are more in the works.

In closing, I have one more important thing to say. The reason you are receiving this newsletter is because of your current relationship with the Ontario Chapter of CDBA.

If you have not already made a donation to the organization this year, please consider doing it. It could even be a gift in celebration of a birthday, graduation or anniversary.

If you are not in a position to make a gift, consider something else. Hold a garage sale, bake sale, car wash, host a dinner party or do something else that will raise money for CDBA. Contact me, I’ve got ideas!

There are a great many children and adults who are deafblind, who will benefit and be thankful for your generosity.

Gil ScottDirector of Fund Development(519) 759 - 0520 (x108)[email protected]



Our Voices Within... Inspired Souls Collection

CDBA Ontario’s second annual art show at the Brantford Arts Block (B.A.B.) took place from May 27 to July 2. This year’s art show was titled Our Voices Within... Inspired Souls Collection - and what an inspiration it was!

This year’s celebratory gala took place on Saturday the 28th of May to accomodate families and friends travelling from communities such as London and St. Catharines. Most of the artists were in attendance for the event.

Tthere was a brief introductory speech at the gala by Executive Director Cathy Proll, as well as a welcoming from City Councillor Marguerite Ceschi-Smith. Chantelle, a contributing artist and art show committee member, closed with a speech talking about the importance of this art show for artists who are deafblind.

Hundreds of people walked through the art gallery’s doors on the Saturday. They saw an eclectic collection that included watercolour and acrylic paintings, woven placemats, woodworking, jewelry, pottery, as well as a 3-D bird head adorned with yellow tissue paper and a giant orange beak.

“Our Voices Within... Inspired Souls Collection” would not have been possible without the support of the Brantford Arts Block. The Brantford Arts Block is a registered

Canadian charity. The gallery’s stated goal is to be a centre that inspires, stimulates

and encourages imagination and artistic growth. This year’s art show in support of Deafblind Awareness Month has certainly inspired, stimulated and encouraged the imagination and artistic growth of these talented artists.

This year’s art show was a huge success. We can hardly wait for next year! I’m sure that many of the artists are already preparing for next year’s exhibition.

CDBA Ontario thanks the Brantford Arts Block for once again making this amazing art exhibition possible. For more info on the B.A.B., please visit www.brantfordartsblock.ca.

Good Evening.

I have been asked to close out tonight’s ceremonies with some thoughts regarding the impact Intervenors make. Well I can say many things and they are all good. So don’t worry this won’t be a roast of Intervenors.

Everybody sees what you do with Deafblind people and how amazing it is. At the opening of the TSX a week ago Friday, Julia and her Intervenor Heather stole the spotlight. They had the TSX staff mesmerized in amazement on how they were constantly communicating. That in itself provided so much awareness in such a short amount of time to the gracious staff at the TSX. People here tonight have become quite used to this phenomena and do not realise how utterly amazing the work you do is. I certainly commend your efforts and your results.

I would like to look at your impact in a different light. As all parents know, raising a child and even young adults, there are lots of things to stress about. We can get so stressed out over the smallest things. When you have a child who is lacking in anything the stress levels are naturally higher. Their wellbeing; their safety, health, opportunities all become bigger than life. Throw in someone from the outside that you don’t know and the challenge for the parent to maintain a sense of control (and as we all know that parents want to feel like we are in control), you have a challenging environment. You all have been put in a similar position at some point. What you provide in short order is phenomenal.

Almost instantly you are seen as our child’s best friend, guardian, health supervisor, consoler, educator, disciplinarian (even when the parents can’t or won’t

discipline), moms sounding board and advisor, event planner, arts and craft teacher, the ventee if there is such a word and oh so much more. How can one person mean so much without being the Mom or Dad or big Sister/brother and you achieve this notoriety in such a short time. Where do you find the patience and understanding? You just get it! You know when and how to make a difference at the right moment. I am sure you all can relate to some of these experiences where you have made a difference. I can tell you that you have no idea how big an impact you make and how often.

Our child’s program was in the home as some of you here can relate too. Our intervenors did not come to work and sit at an assembly line. They weren’t baby sitters. They were there to interact with our daughter, however they brought a lot more into our family. Knowing our daughter they were able to troubleshoot seeing little signs that Kim may not have seen that allowed us to keep Katie happy and motivated. On stressful days it’s often the little things that make the big difference. The, I’ll take over you go and have a break or get some food. It’s listening to what’s going on and giving some friendly advice on age appropriate clothes, or letting Dad know the other siblings need some help or attention or Mom for that matter.

They were there and paid attention and helped in so many ways. By being accepted, you the intervenor are in a unique position to make a difference. You elevate the quality of life for everyone in the family and

not just the Deafblind child. How does a parent get the courage to let their child out to explore the world without them. They get it by the trusting in you and believing in you. That is a huge compliment. You become an extension of the family. We had nurses that helped us out and sick or healthy we would be more comfortable having our intervenors with Katie. Why? Because they knew Katie. They could read her almost as well as Mom and Dad and sometimes better because they could step back and look from a different vantage point. They could sense what was needed.

Continued on next page.


A Heartfelt Thank Youby Dave Walker, President


Editor’s note:On June 11th, Dave Walker, President of CDBA Ontario, addressed the assembled crowd at the Staff Appreciation Night in Brantford. We have included a transcript of his speech so that others may know and understand how important Intervenors are to the families of individuals who are deafblind. Thank you Dave for sharing your story with us.

People here tonight have become quite used to this phenomena and do not realise how utterly amazing the work you do is. I certainly commend your efforts and your results.

“

”



A Heart Felt Thank You , continued.

All of you intervenors somehow learn how to take the smallest signs and turn them into early warning signals. You see trends. You see changes in mood or spasticity or attention and it means something! You know what to do with that to help ensure the situation or the experience is the most complete possible.

At one point in Katie’s adult program, I recall feeling jealousy. I am not the jealous type. What I was hearing and what was being described of Katie’s program to me by Kim, who had the privilege of experiencing it firsthand, made me want to be there and see it. It just felt so awesome. There was this enthusiasm, this passion for life that was so grand that it made me want to hear every little tidbit about how Katie responded so that I could know her experience. I lived it through them and my wife even though I wasn’t there. I cannot thank our intervenors enough for those experiences. I would guess that you the Intervenor do not realize how much we parents live our child’s life by hearing you recant what you did today and how our child young or old made out in this event or excursion. Whether you tell the whole story or only add to the story your charge is telling means so much.

In closing I will leave you with one last thought. We can all relate to dreaming about our child doing something great like scoring the winning goal or getting the highest mark. It is especially great when someone else tells you about it so that you can savour the moment. Well let me tell you that you are that “Someone Else” to so many of us parents. Every time you provide a positive portrayal of the day’s activities or describe how an excursion went, you are allowing the parent to experience what they did not see and help them feel good about what their child has done. After all as a parent you just want the best for your child and you are the best for our children.

-Dave Walker, President

I would guess that you the Intervenor do not realize how much we parents live our child’s life by hearing you recant what you did today and how our child young or old made out in this event or excursion. ”

“On Monday, June 20, 2011, Katie and two of her Intervenors; Meagen and Shannah, took a trip to the Bowmanville Zoo. Of all the different animals at the zoo ranging from goats to tigers, Katie enjoyed the animals she could interact with the best. Some of these animals included alpacas, goats, deer and a yak.

With the assistance of an Intervenor using hand-under-hand assistance to ensure her hand stayed open and flat, Katie enjoyed having the opportunity to pet and feed the different animals corn feed. After her Intervenor initiated interaction, Katie independently started wheeling herself towards the animals with her hand out-stretched to pet and feed them. Katie found it quite funny when a young goat tried to climb up her wheelchair and into her lap in order to some of the corn kernels that had dropped in her lap.

This was a new experience for Katie and one that she hopes to repeat again.

A Day at the Zooby Meagen MacPherson, Intervenor



Deafblind Awareness Month Flag Raised High

On June 6th, a flag raising ceremony was held at Brantford City Hall to honour Deafblind Awareness Month. It was the third consecutive year that the City of Brantford has honoured this special month with the ceremony. It is also the third year in a row that City of Brantford has passed a proclamation dedicating June as Deafblind Awareness Month. The City of Brantford and Council continues to support individuals who are deafblind with this event.

This year, Lynn had honour of raising the Deafblind Awareness Month flag. For more info on Lynn, see the Q & A listed below.

The event began with world-renowned Town Crier David McKee’s reading of the proclamation. The proclamation states that “increased public awareness of this disability is crucial to increase opportunities for those who live with it.”

The City of Brantford’s recognition increases deafblind awareness in our community, which has led to increased opportunities for individuals who are deafblind. Individuals are working at coffee shops, retail stores or

otherwise engaging in social and recreational activities.

CDBA Ontario is grateful to Mayor Friel and Brantford City Council for their unwavering support of Deafblind Awareness Month.

From left to right: Mayor Chris Friel, outgoing Fire Chef Garth Dix, Lynn Colette, Intervenor Angela Lavis, MP Dave Levac, Councillor Debi Dignan-Rumble, incoming Fire Chief Jeff McCormick and Police Chief Jeff Kellner.

Q & A with Lynn the flag bearerWhere do you live now? • London ON with mom and dad

Where did you go to school? • In Brantford at W. Ross McDonald for 11 years

What did you do when you graduated? • Got a job as a volunteer at daycare

How many years have you worked at the Daycare? • 22 years

What are your responsibilities at the Daycare?• Set the tables. I like to set the tables.• Have lunch with the kids, I pour the milk and put it away.• Clean up the trays.• Lots of dishes to put away.

• Turn on the dishwasher.• Clean the counters, sinks and stove.• Clean up the snack trays on Fridays

What do you enjoy about the daycare?• I love working at the daycare. I’m a good volunteer. I like to clean the kitchen. I like to listen to music in the kitchen. All the kids, I like the kids. My best friend Irene. It will be 17 years for Irene and I in February.

What kind of activities do you enjoy?• swimming, coffee with my friends,bowling, mini golfing in the summer, going to the movies, out for dinner, gym - working out for the summer, friend ship club - church on Tuesday nights, talk with my friends, picnics in the summer, going to the beach, I like to go shopping



Ricky Romero autographs

ball for Steffen

And here’s the pitch!

Steffen, siblings and

pitcher Mitch Talbot

More of the CDBA Community

CDBA community stands for national anthems

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!Photos courtesy of Michelle Zimmer & Devin Shyminsky

The Toronto Blue Jays provided CDBA Ontario with the opportunity to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at a recent game on May 30th to celebrate Deafblind Awareness Month.

Steffen Zimmer had the honour of making the pitch. Steffen is a nine year old boy with CHARGE Syndrome, and his family has been using our Children’s Intervenor Services for a number of years. While he is not attending school, Steffen is without the support of an Intevenor. CDBA Ontario funds Intervenors to fill the service gaps during March Break, Christmas and the summer.

Over 160 friends, family, staff and consumers came out to support Steffen and celebrate Deafblind Awareness Month. People came from as far away as Windsor to show their support!

CDBA Ontario was featured on “A News” (Barrie channel) on multiple occasions as well as in numerous newspapers like the Barrie Examiner and the Bradford Times. CDBA Ontario is grateful to the Toronto Blue Jays organization for providing us with this unique awaress opportunity.

Steffen on the Jumbotron!

Interview with A News

Steffen gets distracted by Ace!

A proud dad!



Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)By Ted Isard, Board of Directors

The RDSP is designed to provide for the long-term financial security of a person with disabilities. Contributions, with the added benefit of government grants and bonds, combined with tax deferred growth, make RDSPs a powerful investment tool.

Eligibility

The person to whom the benefits of an RDSP accrue is referred to as a beneficiary. Any person can be a beneficiary if they:

• Are eligible to claim the Disability Tax Credit (DTC),• Have a valid social insurance number,• Are a Canadian resident, and• Are under the age of 60

Only one RDSP per qualified person and only one beneficiary per RDSP are allowed.

Contributing to an RDSP

The person who establishes an RDSP is referred to as the account holder; however anyone can contribute to an RDSP provided they have written permission of the account holder. An adult who qualifies for the plan can be both the beneficiary and the account holder.

In case the beneficiary is a minor or is not legally able to enter into a contract, another person will be qualified to become the account holder if that person is:• A legal parent of the beneficiary (legal parents can both be account holders under a plan)• A guardian, tutor, or curator of the beneficiary or an individual who is legally authorized to act for the beneficiary; or• A public department, agency, or institution that is legally authorized to act for the beneficiary.

In case the beneficiary has reached the age of majority but is not legally able to enter into a contract, the qualified persons who can become the account holder are:

• A guardian, tutor, or curator of the beneficiary or an individual who is legally authorized to act for the beneficiary; or• A public department, agency, or institution that is legally authorized to act for the beneficiary

The beneficiary can be added as an account holder once they have reached the age of majority and are legally allowed to enter into a contract.

The account holder does not have to be a resident of Canada provided the beneficiary was a resident of Canada when the plan was opened and contributions were made to the plan. The account holder can also change during the lifetime of the plan.

Building the value of an RDSP

There is no annual contribution limit to an RDSP. However, each RDSP has a lifetime contribution limit of $200,000 per plan. All contributions must cease

• by the end of the year the beneficiary reaches age 59,• or the beneficiary no longer qualifies for the Disability Tax Credit,• or is no longer a resident of Canada • or upon the death of the beneficiary.

An RDSP may be eligible for federal incentives called the Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG)

and the Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB)

Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG)The CDSG is based upon the adult beneficiary’s net income and the amount of the annual RDSP contributions. Where the beneficiary is a minor, the CDSG is based on the net income of the beneficiary’s family and the annual plan contribution.

The maximum CDSG is $3,500 per year for the beneficiaries or families with net income of less than $75,770. The grant will contribute $3 for every $1 contributed on the first $500, and $2 for every $1 contributed on the next $1,000, up to the $3,500 annual maximum.

Beneficiaries or families with incomes in excess of $75,769 can receive a maximum annual grant of $1,000. The grant will contribute $1 for every $1 contributed up to $1,000.

When the beneficiary turns 18, the CDSG payments are based on the beneficiary’s net income (and spouse if applicable).




Registered Disability Savings Plan, continued.

The maximum lifetime CDSG is $70,000 per RDSP beneficiary and CDSG eligibility ends December 31st in the year in which the beneficiary turns 49.

ExampleJohn and Mary make annual contributions of $1,500 for six years on behalf of their young son, George, who is disabled. The following chart illustrates their annual income, contribution amount and CDSG.

Once George reaches 18, the CDSG annual maximum reverts to $3,500 based on $1,500 annual contributions and assuming his income is below $75,770.

Contributions in excess of the amount required to receive the maximum annual CDSG will not attract additional CDSG. The maximum annual CDSG from the government remains either $1,000 or $3,500 per beneficiary depending on beneficiary or family net income.

Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB)

The CDSB is available to beneficiaries or families with a net income of less than $37,885. RDSP contributions are not required to be eligible to receive for CDSB.

Beneficiaries with a net income of less than $21,288 may be eligible to receive government CDSB payments of $1,000 a year into an established CDSB. Where net income is more than $21,287 but less than $37,885, a pro-rated CDSB payment of less than $1,000 will be paid into the RDSP.

Where the beneficiary is a minor, the CDSB is based on the net income of the beneficiary’s family. When the beneficiary turns 18, CDSB payments are based on their

net income (and spouse if applicable).

The maximum lifetime CDSB is $20,000 per RDSP beneficiary and CDSB eligibility ends December 31st in the year in which the beneficiary turns 49.

Withdrawals from an RDSP

There are two types of payments from an RDSP: Lifetime disability assistance payments (LDAP) andDisability assistance payments (DAP)

LDAPRecurring annual payments that, once started, must be paid until either the plan is terminated or the beneficiary has died. LDAPs may begin at any age but must commence by the end of the year in which the beneficiary turns 60. These payments are subject to an annual maximum withdrawal amount based on the beneficiary’s life expectancy and fair market value of the plan.

DAPThis is a lump sum payment made from the RDSP to the beneficiary or the beneficiary’s estate. DAPs may be requested by the beneficiary when they turn 27 provided the total CDSGs and CDSBs are greater than all account holder contributions at the beginning of the calendar year.

Both LDAP and DAP can be used for disability or non-disability related expenses. Only the beneficiary will be permitted to receive payments from the plan.

Assistance holdback amount

CDSBs or CDSGs received from the federal government within 10 years of receiving either LDAP or DAP must be repaid to the government. This is known as Assistance Holdback Amount.

LDAPs or DAPs are comprised of contributions and earnings made from the contributions (e.g. interest, capital gains, dividends).

Any assets that continue to grow inside the RDSP are allowed to grow on a tax-deferred basis.Contributions are not taxable when withdrawn from the RDSP.


George’s Age12131415161718

Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Year 6Year 7Total

Family NetIncome$45,000$47,500$55,000$76,800$78,000$80,000$20,000-----------

Contribution

$1,500$1,500$1,500$1,500$1,500$1,500$1,500$10,500

CDSG

$3,500$3,500$3,500$1,000$1,000$1,000$3,500$17,000



Ontario Introduces New Photo ID CardThe Ontario government recently announced a new photo card for Ontarians who do not drive. The Ontario photo card will make it easier for non-drivers to perform everyday transactions.

The card will allow non-drivers aged 16 years and over to access government, financial or business services that require proof of identity, such as cashing a cheque, opening a new bank account, obtaining a credit card, boarding a domestic flight, returning merchandise to a store, obtaining hotel accommodations and renting a home video. The Ontario photo card mirrors the same security features as the driver’s licence to help prevent fraud and identity theft

Individuals may apply for the photo card at 21 select ServiceOntario centres. To find the nearest ServiceOntario location with the Photo ID Card, visit www.mto.gov.on.ca or contact the CDBA Ontario office

for assistance. Based on demand, rollout to additional communities is planned for 2012.

Applicants will be required to provide original identity documents that prove legal name, date of birth and signature. The photo card will cost $35 and will be valid for five years.

The photo card will be purple and will look very similar to a driver’s licence. It will include the card holder’s name, photo, signature, address, gender and date of birth. The card will have a clipped top-right corner that will help differentiate it from other cards in a holder’s wallet, as well as raised lettering on

the ON Canada, card number and date of birth.

The card is not an Enhanced Driver’s Licence and cannot be used by Canadian citizens to enter the U.S. by land or water.

Registered Disability Savings Plan, continued.

Affect of death or cessation of disability

On the death of the beneficiary, the RDSP structure collapses and the remaining proceeds of the plan, less any CDSG or CDSB payments received in the 10 years preceding the death of the beneficiary (which must be repaid to the government), are directed to the beneficiary’s estate and distributed according to the beneficiary’s will. In case there is no will, the funds will be distributed according to the provincial estate laws. Original RDSP contributions are not taxable however, earnings are taxed as ordinary income to the deceased beneficiary’s estate.

In the event the beneficiary no longer qualifies for the RDSP, the plan is collapsed and the proceeds are paid directly to the beneficiary after any required repayment o the government of the CDSBs and CDSGs. Original

RDSP contributions do not incur income tax however the earnings generated while inside the RDSP are subject to tax at the beneficiary’s marginal tax rate in the year in which the proceeds are received.

RDSP impact on federal and provincial government programs

RDSP does not impact other income-tested federal government programs including Old Age Security, Canada Pension Plan, Goods and Service Tax Benefit to name a few.

Next Steps

Contact your financial advisor to explore how an RDSP may help secure the financial future of someone with a disability.

Above is a sample of the new Ontario photo I.D card. The card is distinguished from the driver’s license by its purple colour and the unique feature on the top right corner. The top right corner is clipped off.



Everyone Loves Marinelandby Theresa O’Connell, Intervenor

On June 25th Jason and I experienced a fun-filled day with a CDBA Ontario group trip to Marineland. Jason expressed through sign what he wanted most out of this special day. Jason wanted to touch a beluga whale at the Arctic Cove and have his picture taken with it.

When it was Jason’s turn to interact with the whale he was ecstatic and had a smile that was from ear to ear. Jason moved his hands back and forth over the whales head and embraced every moment of this experience. Jason also had the opportunity to feed the whale which he really enjoyed.

When Jason received his picture he couldn’t wait to show his Intervenors and was so proud. Jason then told his Intervenor that he liked the white whales and that he had fun.

Jason enjoyed looking at the animals in the park as well! Jason visited with the deer at the Deer Park and was

encouraged to pet one. This was something that Jason seemed to be very hesitant about so I suggested that we pet the deer together and reassured him that it would

be okay. Jason and I hand-over-hand touched the deer, and again he had a huge smile on his face! Jason visited with the bears and when he saw them Jason was very excited and signing brown bears while pointing to them! Jason spent quite some time watching the bears and when it was time to leave he signed “good bye bears”!

To add to Jason’s experience at Marineland he went on some of the rides which included the boats and the space avenger. Jason had the most fun on the

space avenger using the joy-stick to spin his space ship around in circles.

Jason truly had a wonderful time at Marineland and the day brought new experiences, smiles, laughs and memories that will never be forgotten.

“When it was Jason’s turn to interact with the whale he was ecstatic and had a smile that was from ear to ear.”

Meaghan Works at Tim Horton’sby Shari Ernst, Intervention Coordinator

Orville Bernard, General Manager of a Brantford area Tim Horton’s was pleased to give Meaghan Severs the opportunity to volunteer at his store.

She was welcomed by the Tim Horton’s staff from the moment she began, and remains as a significant part of the staff team.

Meaghan’s success is attributed to her hard work and motivation to do a good job through the support of her Intervention team as well as her Tim Horton’s co-workers.

Meaghan volunteers 2 times a week, clearing and cleaning tables off, sanitizing chairs, putting trash in the garbage and recycling. Meaghan has become very independent, completing most tasks without assistance.

Meaghan has enjoyed meeting regular customers, new people as well as getting to know some of her co-

workers. When Meaghan has completed her job she enjoys a cookie and hot chocolate as compensation for doing a good job. Orville Bernard, Cathy Pascuttini and I are very proud of the accomplishments Meaghan has made during her time volunteering.

Left: Meaghan hard at workRight: Meaghan and Orville Bernard, General Manager, pose for the camera.


Following the flag raising ceremony at Brantford City Hall, a special deafblind simulation took place. Mayor Chris Friel, incoming Fire Chief Jeff McCormick and police chief Jeff Keller all volunteered to experience this unique disability.

Each V.I.P. was paired with a senior staff member who acted as Intervenor for the experience. With the assistance of their Intervenor, each individual had walk in to City Hall, sign the guest book and find their way upstairs to the City Chambers- no easy task for individuals who regularly rely on their sight and hearing.

The simulation showed these influential decision makers the unique challenges faced by indivudals who are deafblind and the important role played by an Intervenor.

Deafblind Simulation for Brantford V.I.P.s


Top: CDBA staff communicate with the V.I.P.s before their walk in to City Hall under deafblind simulation.

Bottom: Katherine Hesson-Bolton uses print-on-palm communication with Brantford Mayor Chris Friel during the deafblind simulation.

A Big “Thank You” to Our Summer Intervenors

As the summer begins to wind down, it is important to reflect on a great summer-time achievement.

This summer, CDBA Ontario’s Children’s Intervenor Services funded students to act as Intevenors for 65 children who are deafblind in the province of Ontario. By the end of the summer, these students will have provided nearly 11,700 hours of Intervention. It would not have been possible without the hard work and perseverance of our student Intervenors.

CDBA Ontario recognizes the achievements of these individuals and is grateful for everything they’ve done for the children they support. Thank you to each and everyone of the amazing students and good luck on your upcoming school year!

This year’s summer Children’s Intervenor Service has been getting rave reviews. Parent Kim Allard says that her daughter’s student intervenor is doing a great job: “I am impressed with her work. She is always coming up with new ideas to try. I am very happy. She is doing a fantastic job.”

Jo-Anne Laframboise agrees with Kim. “The program is great. I wouldn’t be able to function without it.”

Children’s Intervenor Service is unique to CDBA Ontario. This service is not provided by any other non-profit organization in the province.

CDBA Ontario bridges the gaps in Intervenor Service that exist for school-aged children. Children who are deafblind receive Intervenor Service while they attend

school. When the children return to their families during school breaks, they are without the vital support of an Intervenor. CDBA Ontario recognizes the need for Children’s Intervenor Service outside of school and endeavours to fill that need.

The majority of the funding for the service this summer has been contributed by the Federal Government’s Canada Summer Jobs 2011 program. Funding support was once again provided by the provincial governtment’s Summer Experience Program as well. CDBA Ontario also contribued significant funds for this important program.

The program is great. I wouldn’t be able to function without it.“ ”

- Jo-Anne Laframboise, parent


Nevada VendorsSupport CDBA Ontario with the purchase of your Nevada tickets at the locations listed below. We are very appreciative of the vendors who sell tickets on our behalf. Thank you for your support!

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CanadianDeafblindAssociationOntario Chapter

54 Brant Avenue3rd FloorBrantford, ONN3T 3G8

Phone: 519-759-0520Toll-free: 1-877-760-7439Fax: 519-759-1425TTY: 519-759-3597E-mail: [email protected] # 10684 5159 RR0001

The Monitor

CDBA on Social Media

Facebookwww.facebook.com/cdbaontario

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CDBA Ontario is delighted to announce that we now have beautiful cards for sale. Each card features artwork provided by consumers at CDBA Ontario. Each card also has a motivational quote from Helen Keller. They are perfect as birthday cards, thank you cards and any other special ocassion you can think of!

The cards are available in packs of five (one of each card) and can be purchased at the office for $5. The packs of cards can be mailed to you for an additional $1 postage fee.

Multi-purpose Cards for Sale

Postage is an additional $1.

Flickrwww.flickr.com/photos/cdba

Share Your Story Today!We are looking for families, consumers and staff who want to share their story. It is important for CDBA to put a face to deafblindness, as it is a low incidence disability. Sharing a story about equipment funding, Children’s Intervenor Services or any of our other services helps us educate and inform the public. Get involved today by contacting the office at [email protected] or by calling extension 129.

Sign Up for the E-MonitorFrom time to time, we send out an e-newsletter. Sign up for the E-Monitor by sending an email to [email protected]

5 cards for $5

Spring/Summer 2011

historic deafblind awareness month summer 2011.pdf · jula becomes the first person who is...

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