CORNWALL Ontario – When parents separate, access with children may be a problem. Centre York Centre Supervised Access Centre offers families experiencing difficulties a way to cope and has been doing so for over 20 years.
Providing a safe and secure setting where visits and exchanges can take place under the supervision of trained staff and volunteers, the Centre York Centre defends every child’s right to have access to parents and other family members without witnessing conflicts between parties.
“Our primary focus is the children,” says Farhana Meghji, Coordinator for the Cornwall site. “It’s a place where children are cherished.”
A non-profit organization funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Centre’s client-base has grown exponentially over the last 10 years. “We rely heavily on the support of volunteers and there is a growing need to expand our roster,” Meghji notes. For this reason, the Centre York Centre is putting a call-out to the community, seeking adult volunteers. Having recently moved to a new location at 20 Montreal Road, their new space is bigger, brighter and better than ever – and the need for volunteers has never been greater!
The month of May is recognized internationally as Supervised Access Month. Now is the perfect time for individuals with a love for children to give back to the community through volunteering with the Centre. Volunteer tasks include supporting visits and exchanges; assisting with administrative tasks and ensuring the safety of all participants of the program. All volunteers must be over the age of 18 and are given formal training specific to the service, in addition to complementary training provided by the Centre.
The Centre York Centre also invites Social Work-related students, who are within their second year of studies or higher, to submit their application for practicum placements.
If you would like more information about becoming a volunteer please contact Farhana Meghji, Coordinator, at 613-933-1253.
Photo from left to right: – Farhana Meghji – Centre York Centre Coordinator for Cornwall Site – Grant Fraser & Kelsey Coleman – 2nd Year Social Service Worker Placement Students – Jennifer Burke – Access Worker with Centre York Centre for 20 years