Executive Director
Rhonda Geyer
Executive Director
Executive Director
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Throughout her career, she has gained extensive knowledge and understanding, adding to her credentials in mental health, addiction, acquired brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairments and palliative care.
When Rhonda is not leading the team at True Experience, she can be found volunteering her time at KINnections Life Centre providing creative programs for youth and adults living with intellectual/developmental disabilities, ABI and ASD.
Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren Mason and Jazlynn and often the three of them can be found in the kitchen doing what she loves most, cooking.
Rhonda has a passion for the population she serves and never stops advocating for those who need help.
“I am most proud of the community partnerships I have built over the years and continue to build. When you can come together as one community instead of one organization working against another for the same purpose, you can achieve beautiful outcomes”
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Rhonda was born and raised in Dunnville and has spent the last 21 years actively working in the healthcare system right here in our community.
Throughout her career, she has gained extensive knowledge and understanding, adding to her credentials in mental health, addiction, acquired brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairments and palliative care.
When Rhonda is not leading the team at True Experience, she can be found volunteering her time at KINnections Life Centre providing creative programs for youth and adults living with intellectual/developmental disabilities, ABI and ASD.
Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren Mason and Jazlynn and often the three of them can be found in the kitchen doing what she loves most, cooking.
Rhonda has a passion for the population she serves and never stops advocating for those who need help.
“I am most proud of the community partnerships I have built over the years and continue to build. When you can come together as one community instead of one organization working against another for the same purpose, you can achieve beautiful outcomes”
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING STAFF
Linda Schouwstra
Housing Coordinator
Housing Coordinator
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Linda prides herself in advocating for those who are not able to advocate for themselves to ensure everyone receives the best care and the upmost continuity and inclusiveness possible.
When Linda is not working she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially her two sons, Addison and Avery and thoroughly enjoys kayaking on the Grand River and travelling near and far.
True Experience is thrilled to have Linda join our team!
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Linda is a long time resident of Haldimand County and is highly valued and respected in the community. Linda has an extensive career in health care and over the last 30 years, has demonstrated a vast knowledge and invaluable skill set in mental health and addictions, autism spectrum disorders, cognitive impairments, palliative care and administration and leadership, to name a few.
Linda prides herself in advocating for those who are not able to advocate for themselves to ensure everyone receives the best care and the upmost continuity and inclusiveness possible.
When Linda is not working she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially her two sons, Addison and Avery and thoroughly enjoys kayaking on the Grand River and travelling near and far.
True Experience is thrilled to have Linda join our team!
J.J Arnold
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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The combination of his lived experience with mental illness and his education makes J.J a great Residential Support Worker.
He first discovered True Experience prior to his return to school, while on the road to recovery. J.J participated in the Community Work Program for almost 3 years which assisted him in regaining his self-confidence and independence. This was the turning point where he knew, he wanted to help people living with mental illness.
J.J continues to be a valued, dedicated member of our team, where he makes a difference in the lives of the residents in our Supportive Housing homes.
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J.J joined the True Experience team in early 2019, upon graduation from Fanshawe College’s Social Services Worker Program where he was on the Dean’s List.
The combination of his lived experience with mental illness and his education makes J.J a great Residential Support Worker.
He first discovered True Experience prior to his return to school, while on the road to recovery. J.J participated in the Community Work Program for almost 3 years which assisted him in regaining his self-confidence and independence. This was the turning point where he knew, he wanted to help people living with mental illness.
J.J continues to be a valued, dedicated member of our team, where he makes a difference in the lives of the residents in our Supportive Housing homes.
Dave Sherk
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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Dave joined True Experience in early 2021 where he continues his passion to provide supports and direction for people in need in all aspects of their lives. Dave truly strives to help individuals to achieve a better quality of life and to live their best lives. His personal and professional experiences give Dave the tools required to assist people in reaching their goals.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys playing music and taking his dog Zsa Zsa on long walks. Dave is an invaluable team member and we are grateful to have him!
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Dave has lived most of his life in Dunnville. He retired from Haldimand Norfolk Social Services after 30 years of service. The position he last held was Community Outreach Worker.
Dave joined True Experience in early 2021 where he continues his passion to provide supports and direction for people in need in all aspects of their lives. Dave truly strives to help individuals to achieve a better quality of life and to live their best lives. His personal and professional experiences give Dave the tools required to assist people in reaching their goals.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys playing music and taking his dog Zsa Zsa on long walks. Dave is an invaluable team member and we are grateful to have him!
Courtney Beckingham
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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Courtney has first-hand experience with mental illness and takes every opportunity to provide supports to those in need. She is an active volunteer within her church running programs for children, and can be found at various events around our community, giving her time and lending support whenever she can.
In her spare time, Courtney enjoys family time and keeps busy gardening. Courtney’s drive and compassion make her a great addition to our True Experience team!
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Courtney has been a resident of Dunnville since early childhood and has a great understanding and knowledge of our community needs and the individuals we serve.
Courtney has first-hand experience with mental illness and takes every opportunity to provide supports to those in need. She is an active volunteer within her church running programs for children, and can be found at various events around our community, giving her time and lending support whenever she can.
In her spare time, Courtney enjoys family time and keeps busy gardening. Courtney’s drive and compassion make her a great addition to our True Experience team!
Alaina Holodniuk
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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Alaina is the newest member to join our team! Alaina was born and raised in Dunnville and has strong family roots in our community. Alaina graduated on the president’s honour roll from Niagara College in Recreation Therapy and has a gifted, natural skill set for understanding the challenges and barriers individuals face living with mental illness. Alaina is a sports enthusiast, especially when it comes to hockey and baseball and enjoys spending time with family and friends. Welcome to our team!
Josh Pritchard
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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Josh is an avid sports fan and can often be found having in depth conversations with anyone about any topic. Josh enjoys playing video games, reading, creating sports content for online platforms and spending time with his family. Josh is married to Courtney, has three beautiful children and three fur babies. Extended family is just as important and, on his days off, Josh can be found talking to his grandparents, in-laws, cousins and aunts & uncles.
Josh is passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in his community. He has experience with mental illness and overcoming challenges. Josh has set goals for himself to include being instrumental in change and will never be found leaving anyone out because of their conditions.
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Josh joined the True Experience team in May of 2024 and brings with him an Advanced Diploma from Niagara College in both Business Administration and Sports Management. Josh is an avid sports fan and can often be found having in depth conversations with anyone about any topic. Josh enjoys playing video games, reading, creating sports content for online platforms and spending time with his family. Josh is married to Courtney, has three beautiful children and three fur babies. Extended family is just as important and, on his days off, Josh can be found talking to his grandparents, in-laws, cousins and aunts & uncles.
Josh is passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in his community. He has experience with mental illness and overcoming challenges. Josh has set goals for himself to include being instrumental in change and will never be found leaving anyone out because of their conditions.
Michaela Passmore
Residential Support Worker
Residential Support Worker
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Michaela is a devoted Mom to two young children and in her spare time, you will catch her at the ball diamond or ice rink watching her son and boyfriend play…but nine times out of ten, she’s at the barn enjoying the freedom horses give her.
“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” -John Green
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Michaela was born and raised in Dunnville and has strong family roots within the community. Michaela graduated from Loyalist College as a Food Service Worker where she pursued her career for 6 years, starting off at Albright Manor in Beamsville and eventually moving her career to Grandview Lodge in 2019. Five years later she decided to take a well-deserved break before joining us here at True Experience. Michaela is a devoted Mom to two young children and in her spare time, you will catch her at the ball diamond or ice rink watching her son and boyfriend play…but nine times out of ten, she’s at the barn enjoying the freedom horses give her.
“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” -John Green
Work Program Staff
Glenn Tocher
Work Program Manager
Work Program Manager
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As a self-driven individual who takes great pride in his work, Glenn is an excellent role model. He believes teamwork is the key to success and works diligently to encourage and display that while providing motivation and development opportunities for our clients.
In his spare time, Glenn enjoys spending time on the water fishing or playing a round of golf. It’s a pleasure having Glenn on our team. His warm and friendly disposition is valued and respected by everyone.
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Glenn joined True Experience in July of 2019 as a Work Program Supervisor and as such, he oversees and supports our clients on lawn maintenance and snow removal crews. Glenn is also responsible for equipment repairs and the general upkeep of the True Experience properties.
As a self-driven individual who takes great pride in his work, Glenn is an excellent role model. He believes teamwork is the key to success and works diligently to encourage and display that while providing motivation and development opportunities for our clients.
In his spare time, Glenn enjoys spending time on the water fishing or playing a round of golf. It’s a pleasure having Glenn on our team. His warm and friendly disposition is valued and respected by everyone.
Lindsay Briand
Work Program Supervisor
Work Program Supervisor
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Prior to joining True Experience, Lindsay graduated from Niagara College with a Child & Youth Worker diploma. She was the first person in her family to graduate from high school and college. When asked what motivated her, Lindsay was quick to respond “Nobody thought I could do it because of my learning disability. I wanted to prove them wrong and I did!” Lindsay’s determination and strong work ethic lead to her current role as full time Work Program Supervisor. Lindsay supports clients in the social enterprise operated at True Experience and also facilitates numerous social recreational activities.
Lindsay is a valued member of our team and we couldn’t be more proud of her and her accomplishments!
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Lindsay joined True Experience in September of 2015 as a part-time Residential Support Worker. She quickly became a client favourite with her warmth and fun-loving sense of humour.
Prior to joining True Experience, Lindsay graduated from Niagara College with a Child & Youth Worker diploma. She was the first person in her family to graduate from high school and college. When asked what motivated her, Lindsay was quick to respond “Nobody thought I could do it because of my learning disability. I wanted to prove them wrong and I did!” Lindsay’s determination and strong work ethic lead to her current role as full time Work Program Supervisor. Lindsay supports clients in the social enterprise operated at True Experience and also facilitates numerous social recreational activities.
Lindsay is a valued member of our team and we couldn’t be more proud of her and her accomplishments!
Scott Anderson
Work Program Supervisor
Work Program Supervisor
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In 2023 Scott was promoted to Work Program Supervisor, in a part time role, along side his mentors, Glenn and Lindsay. “Scotty” as he’s affectionately known as, is a perfect example of what can be accomplished with guidance, support, and hard work.
Scotty has clearly demonstrated his ability to take charge and lead his team and True Experience is stronger because of him!
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Scott has been an invaluable member of the True Experience Work Program since 2014.
His friendly and helpful personality contributes to his amazing work ethic. In 2023 Scott was promoted to Work Program Supervisor, in a part time role, along side his mentors, Glenn and Lindsay. “Scotty” as he’s affectionately known as, is a perfect example of what can be accomplished with guidance, support, and hard work.
Scotty has clearly demonstrated his ability to take charge and lead his team and True Experience is stronger because of him!
Mike Gauthier
Work Program Supervisor
Work Program Supervisor
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Mike joined True Experience in the fall of 2022 and quickly demonstrated his ability to be a team player. Mike has developed great leadership qualities and his friendly, helpful demeaner make him an instant success with his teammates, customers, and community members alike. Welcome to the team Mike!
OUTREACH COORDINATOR
Ange Fowler
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Ange is certified in Peer Support, Mental Health and First Aid, and Safe Talk and is an extraordinary Leader in our Community Outreach Program.
Ange’s life has been touched by mental health struggles which is one of the reasons she is so passionate about being there and making a difference in the lives of others with the services and supports she provides.
When Ange is not working, she enjoys spending time with her children and her family. Together, they love being out in nature and watching movies together.
“Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!” – Dr. Suess
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Ange joined our True Experience team in early 2019, has lived in Dunnville for over 20 years and is very active in our community.
Ange is certified in Peer Support, Mental Health and First Aid, and Safe Talk and is an extraordinary Leader in our Community Outreach Program.
Ange’s life has been touched by mental health struggles which is one of the reasons she is so passionate about being there and making a difference in the lives of others with the services and supports she provides.
When Ange is not working, she enjoys spending time with her children and her family. Together, they love being out in nature and watching movies together.
“Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!” – Dr. Suess
Administrative Staff
Joanne VanRavenswaay
Administrative Coordinator
Administrative Coordinator
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With a strong connection to the community, partner agencies and service clubs, True Experience presented a wonderful opportunity to work her passion, delivering a new and exciting nutrition and food program, which in timeless Joanne fashion, she executed perfectly!
Joanne’s mission is to inspire through teaching and coaching individuals to be the best version of themselves through health, fitness and emotional well-being. True Experience is thrilled to have Joanne as part of our amazing team!
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Joanne is a lifelong resident of the Dunnville community. She is known for her more than 20 years’ experience helping people throughout Haldimand attain their employment and training goals.
With a strong connection to the community, partner agencies and service clubs, True Experience presented a wonderful opportunity to work her passion, delivering a new and exciting nutrition and food program, which in timeless Joanne fashion, she executed perfectly!
Joanne’s mission is to inspire through teaching and coaching individuals to be the best version of themselves through health, fitness and emotional well-being. True Experience is thrilled to have Joanne as part of our amazing team!
Courtney Beckingham
Administrative Support
Administrative Support
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Courtney has first-hand experience with mental illness and takes every opportunity to provide supports to those in need. She is an active volunteer within her church running programs for children, and can be found at various events around our community, giving her time and lending support whenever she can.
In her spare time, Courtney enjoys family time and keeps busy gardening. Courtney’s drive and compassion make her a great addition to our True Experience team!
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Courtney has been a resident of Dunnville since early childhood and has a great understanding and knowledge of our community needs and the individuals we serve.
Courtney has first-hand experience with mental illness and takes every opportunity to provide supports to those in need. She is an active volunteer within her church running programs for children, and can be found at various events around our community, giving her time and lending support whenever she can.
In her spare time, Courtney enjoys family time and keeps busy gardening. Courtney’s drive and compassion make her a great addition to our True Experience team!
Audrey Kamel
Business Systems Analyst/Consultant
Business Systems Analyst/Consultant
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Audrey is an intricate piece of the True Experience puzzle, administering reports required by our funders and overseeing statistical data entry along with her famous “checks and balances.” Audrey is valuable in so many different aspects of True Experience and we are very fortunate to have her on our team!
“Rusty”
Greeter & Mascot
Greeter & Mascot
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Rusty is new to True Experience and knows he has big PAWS to fill. He is a year old Cavachon who is serious about snuggles. Rusty loves to greet clients and visitors…especially those that offer to rub his tummy! Rusty’s social personality makes him a natural for bringing people together. Rusty aspires to be a “PAWS-ITIVE” addition to our team!