Community Connect

The Role of Community Partners in Advocacy & Support


BY: PATTI OLIVEIRA, COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

INTERVIEW BY: CHANTELLE QUESNELLE, MENTAL HEALTH LEAD

GUEST: NATASHA SHAKESPEARE
PARENTS AGAINST RACISM SIMCOE COUNTY (PARSC), FOUNDER

NOVEMBER 18, 2024

To listen to the full episode of the Beyond the Bell Podcast, click on the audio player below: 

We’re proud to present our new mini-series, Community Connect, which shines a light on the incredible work of our community partners. While we strive to support every student and family, we know we can’t do it all. This is why we value organizations that step up to provide care, create safe spaces, and ensure no one is left behind.

Advocacy is about listening to voices that might otherwise go unheard and standing alongside those who need help finding a sense of belonging. This work is at the heart of what community partners do every day.  


Whether they’re creating safe spaces, providing vital resources, or simply offering a shoulder to lean on, community partners champion those facing challenges others may not see. Their work ensures that vulnerable individuals and families aren’t overlooked—that their voices are heard, valued, and amplified.  


As a Catholic school board, we recognize that “it takes a village to raise a child.” We strive to meet the needs of our students and families, but we can’t do it all on our own. That’s why our community partners are so crucial. They step in where support is needed most, acting as advocates, allies, and safe havens. For many, these organizations are the ones you turn to when things get tough.  


Their impact goes beyond offering services. They remind us that change starts small—sometimes with just one voice being heard. They also remind us that every act of kindness and every moment of advocacy can make a profound difference in someone’s life.  


Community partners embody the spirit of connection and care, working tirelessly to create an inclusive world where everyone has a place to land.. They inspire us to do the same—lifting others, amplifying their voices, and ensuring they know they belong.  


To celebrate and spotlight these important organizations, we’re proud to present our special podcast series, Community Connect. In this series, we spotlight just a few of the many amazing community partners serving Simcoe Muskoka. From providing mental health support to offering culturally affirming care, these organizations play a vital role in building stronger communities.


Tune in to hear powerful stories of resilience, learn about the programs making a difference, and discover how these partnerships continue transforming lives across our region.


Click the buttons below to explore these helpful resources to support mental health system navigation. They provide valuable guidance for understanding and accessing mental health services in your community.

A guide to mental health resources for children and youth in Simcoe County and Muskoka. (PDF)

To listen to the full episode of the Beyond the Bell Podcast, click on the audio player below: