2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT
See how our vision is
transforming communities.
A transformational
partner in the
journey to build safe,
inclusive and barrier
free communities.
About Us
Banyan is a not-for-profit organization that has provided quality services to the youth justice, children’s services, and seniors’ community support sectors since 1978. Banyan is committed to improving the mental, physical, and social well-being of at-risk populations in our service areas of Hamilton, Niagara, Brant, Norfolk, and Wellington.
For more information on Banyan’s services, please visit our website.
Our Values
Respect & Dignity • Integrity & Ethical Conduct • Equity & Inclusion • Advocacy & Social Justice • Accountability & Transparency
Message from our Leaders
The 2023-24 fiscal year was outstanding for Banyan; we celebrated several
achievements, program expansion, and the opening of our Manor location
at 490/500 Mohawk Road East in Hamilton, Ontario.
During 2023, our dedicated staff worked hard to deliver our existing programs and services while at the same time launching six (6) new program offerings:
This achievement is none other than astounding, one
which expanded our capacity to deliver positive
impact in all that we do for those we serve.
Providing client-centered, quality care to individuals and families with
complex needs. Supporting people to build independence, resilience, life
skills and connection to community through a multidisciplinary approach.
Breaking down
barriers to
achieve real change
in people’s lives
through community
connections.
Engagement Day
On September 23, 2023 Banyan Community Services brought together 28 community partners and service providers from across Hamilton to discuss the residence at The Manor and the needs of local young parents and potential opportunities to partner and strengthen ongoing work within the community.
Guided by our Strategic Plan | 2026, The vision to inspire. The passion to care. and our Mission, Vision and Values, Banyan’s Board of Directors met on February 6, 2024 to discuss the recommendations brought forward as a result of the extensive community collaboration and engagement initiative. As a direct result of Banyan’s efforts and advocacy, and the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services’ positive response to meet the need, Banyan launched its Community HUB approach for delivering innovative young parent program services.
Young Parent Program
Remove barriers and engage parents.
In January 2024, Banyan launched its collaborative Young Parent programming at 500 Mohawk Road,
Hamilton. The following themes and priorities encapsulate the program design of the Community HUB:
Client-Centered Approach
Recognizes the individuality and autonomy of young parents. This is gained through offering choice, autonomy, and a client-driven approach to decision-making.
Case Management Approach
Case management through a self-led assessment tool that supports young parents in identifying their needs and connecting them to values-aligned partners.
Support Throughout Pre and Post-Pregnancy
Provides support for young parents throughout their parenting journey. Recognizing the critical role of infant mental health programs in supporting young parents, programming supports knowledge-building around infant care pre and post-pregnancy.
Support for Fathers and Families
Recognize the importance of providing trauma-informed, inclusive programming for fathers. Family programs contribute to the overall well-being of both infants and parents, aiming to build stronger and more resilient families by creating nurturing environments.
Banyan’s Young Parent Program provides accessible, high-quality programming tailored to young parents and their children.
This HUB model focuses on developing partnerships with external providers to ensure that the HUB is supporting young parents
throughout their journey to parenthood. (Read More)
Call 289-246-9064 or email YPPreferrals@banyancs.org to find out more about Banyan’s individualized ongoing support for pregnant and parenting youth and their children who live in the Hamilton area.
Transforming Stories
Helping Adults
Banyan’s Grocer-Ease program is part of a network of community support services that enables people to live independently in their own homes. Seniors are matched with a shopper in their area. The program is completely accessible, involving no technology, which is often a barrier for many seniors seeking service. Grocery lists are taken over the phone and payment can be cash or cheque. Staff can also assist with putting groceries away.
Supporting Youth
Angel first became a client of Banyan Community Services at the young age of 13. A highly volatile youth with a history of neglect and trauma, created an inability to be able to communicate her needs and vulnerabilities. Angel was criminally entrenched, participating in a high-risk lifestyle with little care of the consequences.
Our People
The Employee Service Awards and Recognition dinner was hosted by Banyan Community Services on October 26, 2023 at Winona Vine Estate to recognize employees’ service contribution. There were 16 service awards and a service award of excellence presented.
Banyan by the Numbers
*unaudited
Corporate Profile
Our organization has a deep and rich history serving some of the most vulnerable populations in our City.
Banyan has been providing programs and services since 1978. In that time, we have acquired a diverse range of knowledge and expertise to assist children and young people in need of support and advocacy throughout the Niagara, Hamilton, Simcoe, Haldimand and Brant regions. We are known for our quick response to emerging needs and innovative approach to service.
Meet our Board of Directors and team members:
Board of Directors
Angela Morgan (Chair)
Jill McKenzie (Vice Chair)
John Laratta (Treasurer)
Glenn Cooke (Past Chair)
David Borsellino
Donnaa Fredrick
Mark Garcia
Yvonne Kaczanowski
Miles Markovic
Katharine Short
Goran Zivkovic
Senior Management Team
Kim Ciavarella
Chief Executive Officer, Board Secretary
(Ex Officio)
Fran Doodeman,
Director, Community and Professional
Practice
Stephen Pringle
Director of Corporate Services
Cam Uhler
Director of Operations
Community Member
Julie Lajoie
Locations
Corporate Office
Clinical Support Services
Arrell Youth Centre
George R. Force
Peninsula Youth Centre
The Manor
For more information on Banyan’s services, please visit our website.