Community Living Month kicks off 60th anniversary milestone

It’s a milestone Community Living Prince Edward (CLPE) will be commemorating all year long. The local non-profit is celebrating 60 years of championing inclusion, empowerment, and belonging during May is Community Living Month.

“It was evident to everyone who gathered at the recent Mayor’s Lunch at the Elk’s Lodge in Picton that 2025 is going to be an exceptionally memorable year for CLPE,” said Susan Treverton, CLPE Executive Director.

“In 1965, a group of courageous and determined families came together, united by a common dream: they wanted more for their sons and daughters—a life of dignity, of opportunity, and of possibility. These founding families dared to envision a future where people with intellectual disabilities live full, as valued citizens in their communities.”

That dream became the foundation of what is now known as Community Living Prince Edward.

“Today, we support more than 350 children, youth, and adults, along with their families, as they live the lives they choose —lives where aspirations and dreams are not only supported, but celebrated.

“It fills me with pride to see people we support taking on meaningful roles as volunteers, students, artists, musicians, advocates, and employees—making real contributions to the Prince Edward County community.”

Treverton credited tireless efforts of all employees – past and present – as primary reason for CLPE’s success over the past six decades.

“Our team members’ compassion, commitment and unwavering belief in our mission, vision and values are why we’re here today.”

She also thanked supporters and volunteers.

“I’d like to express my deepest gratitude to our community partners. From educators to employers, volunteers to advocates—you have walked this journey with us, breaking down barriers and building bridges to belonging. Our board has set us on a course of continuous quality improvement, and one that is person and family centered – for your support, I sincerely thank you.”

Mayor Steve Ferguson shared greetings from council and noted the critical importance of CLPE’s supports and services as well as being a significant employer in the County. He proclaimed the month of May 2025 as Community Living Month and encouraged everyone to promote the development of a healthy, inclusive community that recognizes and values the abilities of all its members and to advocate for the rights of people with an intellectual disability.

Staff Sergeant John Hatch and Luke Flynn, a multi-medal winning Special Olympics athlete who lives in Picton, and works at the PEC OPP detachment cleaning the cruisers, which Hatch will brag to anyone who will listen that we the County has the cleanest OPP fleet in the province.

Also on hand was PEC OPP Staff Sergeant and detachment commander John Hatch, who is retiring this month. Treverton presented him with a thank you gift and talked about his lasting impact as a CLPE supporter.

“Sergeant Hatch has built bridges, changed perceptions, and helped create a community where people feel safe, valued, and included. He’s been a true partner to our organization, and a passionate advocate for people with intellectual disabilities—championing the belief that everyone deserves meaningful work, real pay, and full citizenship.”

The event also included messages from Board President Hilary Tugwood, and Director Linda Conley, presentations by Robert Smith from Community Living Toronto and Gage Rykman from the County Advocates, as well as greetings from Stephanie Thompson of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.

CLPE Executive director Susan Treverton, left, together with Johanne Strome, right, honoured Janet Burns, for dedicating 42 years of her life and career to Community Living Prince Edward families.

A key highlight was a special commemoration of CLPE’s longest-serving employee. Together with Johanne Strome, the executive director welcomed Janet Burns to the podium.

“Today I’m proud to celebrate Janet Burns who has dedicated an incredible 42 years of her life and career to Community Living Prince Edward, to the people we serve, and to their families.

“Janet has been a constant, a cornerstone, and an advocate for the values we hold dear. Through decades of change, challenges, and growth, her commitment to people, to their dreams, their rights, and their potential has remained steadfast. Through Janet’s work, people have taken on valued social roles—not just as participants, but as contributors. Janet, your influence is woven into the fabric of our organization.”

As Community Living Prince Edward celebrates Community Living Month and honours its past, it also looks forward to continuing to champion inclusion in the County.

“For the people and families supported by CLPE, its employees, partners and our entire community, 2025 is a milestone we can all cherish, celebrate and commemorate together.”

Click here to visit the Community Living Prince Edward website for more on its many supports and services.

Community Living Executive Director Susan Treverton, with board president Hilary Tugwood, Mayor Steve Ferguson and Adam Goheen, Adam Goheen, interim chief administrative officer (CAO).