As community develops in each Indwell program, tenants take leadership roles in supporting others, participating in the maintenance of the building, and sharing their gifts with others. Here are a few tenant leaders from London, Woodstock, and Hamilton.
Michelle of Woodfield Gate, London
Michelle leads a weekly gaming group at Woodfield Gate that's been gaining in popularity. “I try to invest in something that I know people will be interested in and that's going to bring community together,” Michelle says. “A lot of people like to game.” After playing together, Michelle helps people assemble their own gaming systems. “I get enjoyment seeing everyone have a good time.”
Cullen of Woodfield Gate, London
Cullen runs a bi-monthly schizophrenia support group, modelled on a peer-run group he attended with the Canadian Mental Health Association. Staff encouraged Cullen to share his insights with other tenants: “I enjoy supporting people,” Cullen says. “It’s rewarding to bring an opportunity for people to socialize. I ask how they’ve been with their condition and try to relate to their daily experiences while doing some reflection back to them.”
Dianne of Harvey Woods Lofts, Woodstock
Dianne brings a smile to everyone’s face! She offers transportation to other tenants for appointments and prepares meals for people when they're not well. Dianne also acts as a liaison between Harvey Woods Lofts and the Salvation Army, bringing donated grocery items for regular meals for tenants.
Tony of Perkins Centre, Hamilton
Tony is a part-time tenant employee of Indwell, cleaning at the Perkins Centre. With a history of past custodial work at a hospital and a job at Tim Hortons, he says he enjoys the work at Indwell. “I work by myself,” Tony says. “The hours are good. It’s nice and clean and a calm environment… It’s very easy to take care of.”
Ron of Perkins Centre, Hamilton
Ron is is a part-time tenant employee of Indwell who keeps the exterior of the Perkins Centre looking good. Ron says, “I do cigarette butt cleanup, garbage cleanup, snow removal, all recycling, all garbage, and watering the flowers in the front in the summer.”
