Lynne Cheliak Works to Increase Access to Community Services for Women in Temiskaming
Lynne Cheliak, Executive Director of Pavilion Family Resource Centre in Temiskaming Shores, is the first Northerner of 2014 to be named a Healthy Change Champion for working with partners to create person-centred care in the North East LHIN region. “Lynne is a northerner who puts the needs of the women she serves first, including making sure that Francophones in her area get the help they need in French,” said Louise Paquette, CEO of the North East Local Health Integration Network (LHIN). “What makes her a great Healthy Change Champion is her ability to build relationships with other partners in the community to better coordinate care.” Cheliak joined Pavilion Family Resource Centre in 2001. Although it is currently in the process of changing its name to Pavilion Women’s Centre, Pavilion will continue to provide counselling for women survivors of sexual assault and sexual abuse in a linguistically and culturally sensitive manner. “I see health care changing in way that better serves patients/clients,” says Cheliak. “Focusing on the patient experience, listening and integrating those experiences, will result in a more positive experience for the client. Adjusting the model of service delivery should be fluid and changing to meet the needs of our community.” Cheliak says the strength of Pavilion’s program is its vision of a comprehensive approach to wellness. Pavilion works with women on the emotional aspects and impacts of the abuse they have endured, yet stresses the importance of a holistic, integrated approach to overall wellness (physical, medical needs, nutrition, physical activity, mental wellness). “The counselling we provide to women is strengthened by the partnerships we have developed over the years within the District of Temiskaming,” says Cheliak. “We are a focused and committed group of providers who pride ourselves on an integrated network of service delivery.” Pavilion has played a leadership role in the Temiskaming Domestic Violence Coalition. It has worked toward its goal of “connection and education” on the issues surrounding women abuse through educational opportunities/trainings, engagement of participating members (ranging from justice members to health members and other local service providers). It recently developed a campaign, to be launched this month, called Stand UP 4 Your Friends/Défendez des Amies. The Stand UP campaign is geared to youth and involves information and engagement strategies to deal with youth dating, sexual violence, and healthy relationships (including sexual health). Through the Mental Health and Addictions Group, Pavilion participates in program planning and networking with other providers to ensure collaboration, communication, networking and seamless service delivery at the local level. In an effort to serve women comprehensively, it has completed work on assessment/screening tools to include mental health, addictions and woman abuse. Cheliak recognizes that working in isolation is not a ‘healthy’ approach to health care. “My focus is very strong on the building of relationships within our service network,” she says. “In my opinion, the service partners in Temiskaming are very client/patient oriented. It is for this reason we strive to build our system. The drive and dedication I witness – the willingness to collaborate and partner – is incredible and we are fortunate to be part of such a supportive group.” Background Information – Pavilion Family Resource Centre:- · The North East LHIN provides support for 2.5 counsellors under the Adult Survivors of Sexual Assault Program, which covers the entire Temiskaming District.
- · Francophones are also served under the program, which is designated under the French Language Services Act.
- · Pavilion recently received additional provincial support through the North East LHIN for women to access its community services through a sexual assault counselling and prevention program, with a focus on outreach to First Nation communities.
- · Who is Eligible? North East LHIN health service providers (HSPs), employees and volunteers of providers, as well as, health care leaders, community leaders, and other Northerners who are contributing to building a stronger health care system in the North East.
- · What kind of work does the NE LHIN Healthy Change Champion recognize? Those who are transforming the health care system so that it becomes more patient/client-focused, integrated, and easier to access. These are people or organizations who are reaching out to others in the course of their work to improve the system. Their work may be small or large in scope, but it’s significant in that it is making a difference in people’s lives.
- · Who can nominate? Any Northerner can suggest a Healthy Change Champion. We just ask that you tell us in one or two paragraphs why you believe the person or organization deserves this recognition. Send your nomination to[email protected] or 555 Oak Street East, Third Floor, North Bay, ON, P1B 8E3.
- · How are they picked? Nominees are reviewed by our senior team. Consideration is also given to individuals and organizations advancing the care for special population groups within the North East LHIN including seniors, Aboriginal/First Nations/Métis, and Francophones.
