Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Names New Interim Executive Director

The Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough (DSP) has appointed Laura Geffert as Interim Executive Director.

LinkedIN.

Geffert has a background in clinical social work and community leadership.

She currently serves as Clinical Team Lead at CCRC and is also a sessional instructor in the Department of Social Work at Trent University. She brings a personal connection to DSP with a child who has Down syndrome.

“I am honoured to step into this role at such an important moment for the DSP,” said Geffert. “This organization represents something deeply personal to me the belief that every person deserves to belong, to be seen, and to be supported. I look forward to walking alongside our members, families, and community partners as we build on the DSP's legacy and write its next chapter together.”

“Laura brings both professional and lived experience to this role. The Board is confident she will provide thoughtful leadership as the DSP continues to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families while helping guide the organization through this transition and into its next chapter" said Travis Doak, DSP Board Chair.

This follows the departure of Vanessa Bruce, the former executive director who left the role on June 26 after a three-year tenure to become a service delivery manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough.

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Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Executive Director Steps Down From Role

Vanessa Bruce, Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough executive director, has announced that she is stepping down from the role with June 26 as her last official day.

LinkedIn.

“Serving this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Bruce. “Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside extraordinary individuals, families, staff, board members and community partners who have continuously inspired me with their resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. The work we have done together will always hold a special place in my heart, and leaving is not without a great deal of emotion and gratitude.”

Bruce became the executive director in February of 2023 and held the position for over three years. She leaves the Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough to become a service delivery manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough.

“I look forward to beginning this next chapter with an organization that is equally committed to strengthening community, supporting young people, and creating meaningful connections that change lives,” said Bruce.

The outgoing executive director was a Fleming College graduate and has previously worked in child care with organizations such as the YMCA and Compass Early Learning & Care, according to Bruce’s LinkedIn page.

Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough is sharing information regarding the transitional process and future plans in the coming days.

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100 Women Peterborough Raises More Than $10,000 for Hearts 4 Joy

On Sept. 17, 100 Women Peterborough gathered at Fleming College to support individuals with intellectual exceptionalities (21+).

Photo by 100 women peterborough.

The event, hosted by the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office, benefited Hearts 4 Joy, a group that has been advocating for and enhancing the lives of young adults with Down Syndrome, Autism, or Learning Disabilities since 2020.

The initiative began in the backyard of one of Hearts 4 Joy’s co-founders and current board member, Norma Christensen.

“We are proud to nurture the talents of individuals with Down Syndrome, Autism, and Learning Disabilities,” said Christensen. “With the generous support from 100 Women Peterborough, we hope to purchase a new kiln and expand our product line.”

“I am incredibly proud of our group for donating over $10,000 to this remarkable organization,” said Rosalea Terry, a founding member of 100 Women Peterborough. “It’s a testament to the power of collective giving and the impact we can have when we come together.”

Hearts 4 Joy has seen its program membership expand to include 14 artists with intellectual exceptionalities, who have found a dedicated space to create and sell their work in the Charlotte Mews, called the Hearts 4 Joy Artisan Shoppe.

“We are overjoyed and thankful for this support,” said Debbie Quinlan, Hearts 4 Joy co-founder. “These funds will help us hire a web designer to create, launch, and maintain our first Hearts 4 Joy website, showcasing our unique products, raising awareness for upcoming events, and facilitating monthly donations.”

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Curve Lake Man Writes Heartwarming Campaign To Bring Brother With Down Syndrome To New York

Tim Jacobs, a 23-year-old electrician from Curve Lake near Peterborough, has written a heartwarming campaign to bring his older brother, Mike, 38, to New York City. 

Mike has Down syndrome, and it's been his lifelong dream to go to New York. Mike, who is blind in one eye, is "a really amazing peson and is always eager to help anyone in need," Tim writes. "Mike is unable to work due to his disability but he's always cutting grass or shoveling driveways to make some cash."

Mikey

"He's my older brother, though most of the time I take it upon myself to be his," says Tim. "He's really smart and enjoys playing all kinds of sports. I remember when I was little and would play hockey he would always be on the bench right next to me cheering me on! He called himself my coach."

Tim says as long as he remembers, Mike has always talked about going to New York to meet Vincent from Beauty and the Beast and going to the top of the Empire State building like Kevin did in Home Alone.

"Any time my parents and him are going out for a drive, he always tells me they are going to New York," Tim writes, adding that he is worried with his brother's Down syndrome, that he might not live long enough to ever realize his dream.

"This would mean a great deal to me and even more for him if I could take him on this trip of a lifetime. I love my brother and I would do anything for him, and anyone that knows Mikey would do the same. He's one of a kind, so let's make his biggest wish come true!"

Help Mike realize his dream and give to the campaign here.

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