The Adult Day Program Staff
The driving force behind every successful program at Silver Lights includes a dedicated and compassionate team of incredibly skilled professionals who share a common objective of positively impacting the lives of seniors and enabling them to lead fulfilling and self-reliant lives. When you pay a visit to our Adult Day Program for Dementia, you will witness firsthand the warm and inviting presence of these individuals.
DEBARA Recreation Therapist
Debara was born right here in Lindsay but grew up in Peterborough. Her family history has given her a deep feeling of connection and a love of Lindsay and the surrounding area that eventually, she made her way back home to her heritage. A passion for seniors has been a driving force of Debara's working life since her early career as a nurse and then later in life as a Program Manager in Long-term Care. As an creative artist with a post-graduate certificate in Expressive Arts, Debara is excited to incorporate various art modalities to the day service program as well as bring engagement and purpose to all clients. Debara’s educational background includes a Nursing diploma, Recreation & Leisure Services diploma, and certificate in DementiAbility Methods for Dementia.
"Creativity is such a healing force and gives voice when words cannot, bringing on esteem and feelings of purpose and accomplishment".
VANESSA, Personal Support Worker
Vanessa has joined the Silver Lights team as a Personal Support Worker this May 2023. She is dedicated to her passion and career of personal support work. Valuing her experience of working and providing support to individuals of various ages and abilities. She is trained in Gentle Persuasive Approach and in Palliative Care. Vanessa is compelled by a desire to promote compassionate person-centered care. All while helping to maintain dignity and independence for all, she provides care for. As a member of the Silver Lights team, one of Vanessa’s utmost desires is to create an accessible, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone. Vanessa’s vision to provide empathetic personalized care began in her earliest years, always playing “mom” to her friends and always trying to help out. Vanessa has a wide variety of interests including reading, running, biking and hiking. She shares her love of the outdoors and gardening with whoever she can, always happy to swap vegetable growing tips. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, and has a love in her heart for the older generations valuing their stories and experiences.
ERNESTINE, Day Program Assistant
Ernestine comes from Nazareth, Israel, holding a Bachelor’s degree in religious studies. She has 13 years of teaching experience in primary, middle, and secondary levels in Catholic schools. In her spare time, Ernestine uses her culinary talents to cook diverse cuisines and bake assorted homemade breads. When she moved to Canada, she spent 4 years at TJX Canada before starting her family and opting to be a stay-at-home mom. When she relocated to Lindsay, Ernestine re-entered the workforce, seeking assistance from VCCS, whose exceptional services she deeply appreciates. Through VCCS, she became acquainted with Silver Lights, an organization where she feels embraced, likening it to a second home. At the Silver Lights Adult Day Program, Ernestine feels affection and respect from the staff and clients. Welcome to the Day Program family, Ernestine!