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.
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