County projects

United Way Elgin Middlesex is looking to deepen its impact in rural communities through an increased investment of time and money to help support housing, food security and other factors that influence poverty. As part of this hyper-localized strategy, the Community Impact Advisory Committees have been established in the communities of Aylmer (Elgin) and Strathroy-Caradoc (Middlesex) to look at services and support available, the gaps, and prioritize how we can support the community and those most in need.

Finding the greatest need in the Counties

Each Advisory Committee provide oversight to the local development, implementation and monitoring of local Community Impact initiatives specific to their community.

Strathroy

Strathroy Town Hall illustration
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Aylmer

The Alymer Community Impact Advisory Committee has been instrumental in recognizing and addressing the community’s most pressing needs. The Advisory Committee is made up of individuals representing local organizations, community services, law enforcement, education, government, business, and those with lived experience. This collective expertise ensures a well-rounded approach to identifying and addressing the community’s needs, fostering collaboration and meaningful impact that aligns with and responds to specific needs in the Aylmer Community.

Through collaborative discussions, the Aylmer committee identified two key priorities for the community: access to essential youth services and food security. As the initiative moves forward, efforts will focus on exploring innovative and practical solutions to address these critical areas while fostering a spirit of collaboration and compassion. While remaining deeply connected to the unique needs of the community, the project is guided by United Way’s mission to improve lives and build community through collective action, and the vision of creating a place where everyone matters.

Together, the committee is committed to driving positive change and building a stronger, more connected community for all.

Impact Advisory Committee Members:

Albert Loewen
The Family Central

Anna Bergen
Mennonite Community Services

Brain Elliot
The INN

Diane Brown
Social Services St. Thomas Elgin

Jamie Chapman
Chamber President, Aylmer Town Council & Business Owner

Penny Hilliker
Corner Cupboard Food Bank

Kyle Johnstone
Aylmer Police Service

Maria Friesen
Lived Experience Low German Community

Olivia Logan
The Family Central-Food Security Programs

Pedro Gavilanez
Every Kid Rox

Mark Egbedeyi-Emmanuel
United Way Board Liaison

Janelle Snyder
Lived Experience

Stacey Suffel
East Elgin Secondary School

Tanya Dale
West Elgin Community Health Centre

William Vanraes
Aylmer Town Council/Business Owner/Fire/Police Board

Charlee Kirby
Youth Voice

Strathroy

The Strathroy – Caradoc Community Impact Advisory Committee has played a pivotal role in identifying and addressing the most pressing needs of the community. Representatives from the Municipality, Middlesex County, local social service leaders, business leaders, and individuals with lived experience, the group bring diverse perspectives to the table, ensuring the project reflects the specific needs of the community.

Through thoughtful discussions and a collaborative approach, the committee has determined that the community’s top priorities are housing, mental health, and food security. As the initiative progresses, the committee will continue to explore how best to support our neighbors in need by focusing on these critical areas. Discussions center around innovative solutions and practical approaches to creating a meaningful impact, emphasizing collaboration and compassion. The project’s local roots ensure that it is grounded in the realities and aspirations of Strathroy-Caradoc, providing tailored support for its residents.

This initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when community members come together, combining expertise, experience, and local knowledge to address shared challenges.

Impact Advisory Committee Members:

Bev Anderson 
Community Member

Jordan Boyd 
Youth Opportunities Unlimited 

Lori Cribley Clark 
CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services 

Sandi Hipple 
Municipality of Strathroy Caradoc  

Dan Kiekens 
Dan Kiekens – Keller Williams Lifestyle Reality

Jamie Kruspel 
Mainstreet Credit Union &
United Way Board Liaison

Elyssa Rose   
Women’s Rural Resource Centre   

Amy Vitez 
Vari-Form Manufacturing 

Joe Winser
Middlesex County 

Dakota HalfpennyCounty projects