2025-2026 ANNUAL REPORT
Pathways to Progress
Our Vision
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 Mission
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.
Message from our Leaders
This past year has been one of continued progress, resilience, and meaningful impact for our organization.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am proud to recognize the dedication and commitment demonstrated across every part of our community—from our employees and students to our partners, funders, and stakeholders.
At the heart of everything we do here at Banyan is for the children, youth, and families we serve.
Their resilience, courage, and potential inspire us every day—and it has been the greatest privilege of my career to lead an organization so deeply committed to supporting them.
Our Values
Respect & Dignity • Integrity & Ethical Conduct • Equity & Inclusion
Advocacy & Social Justice • Accountability & Transparency
Pathways to Progress
Over a Decade of Leadership, Growth and Transformation
Over the course of her tenure as CEO, Kim Ciavarella guided Banyan Community Services through a period of remarkable growth, thoughtful transformation, and deepened community impact. Each year reflects a deliberate step forward—strengthening governance, expanding services, and positioning the organization to meet emerging needs.
Call 289-246-9064 or email [email protected] to find out more about Banyan’s individualized ongoing support for pregnant and parenting youth and their children who live in the Hamilton area.
Grocer-Ease
Creating Access: Pathways to Independence and Care
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am proud to recognize the dedication and commitment demonstrated across every part of our community—from our employees and students to our partners, funders, and stakeholders.
Supporting Independence, One Step at a Time
When Bill first connected with Banyan’s Grocer-Ease Program in May 2024, he was navigating daily life with significant challenges.
At 62, living alone and visually impaired, Bill relied entirely on his elderly father—who also faces mobility limitations—to shop for and deliver groceries each week. What began as a meaningful act of support was becoming increasingly difficult, putting strain on his father while gradually replacing the social visits they both valued.
Recognizing the need for a safer, more sustainable path, Bill was introduced to Grocer-Ease.
Supporting our Future Youth
Navigating Change: Stories of Growth and Resilience
Finding Direction Again: Juan’s Journey
When Juan first arrived, the road ahead felt uncertain.
He was navigating instability, struggling with anger, and experiencing frequent behavioural outbursts. His confidence was low, and his connection to family—once a source of stability—had become strained and distant.
At Banyan, the journey began by meeting him where he was.
Bridging Barriers, Building Futures
For some youth, the path to success is anything but linear.
After losing placement in a mainstream high school during a period of incarceration, one student returned to Banyan’s Bridge Program facing significant barriers—but also carrying a determination to succeed.
What followed was a remarkable journey of resilience.
Supporting our Future Youth
Restoring Stability: Pathways to Support and Safety
Restoring Stability: A Journey Back to Support and Safety
When Jaylin completed her probation, it should have marked the beginning of a new chapter.
Instead, it became a moment of uncertainty.
Youth Justice
Preparing for the Path Forward
Equipping Our People for the Road Ahead
Strong outcomes for youth begin with strong, skilled, and supported teams.
Youth Justice
Building Strong Teams for Uncharted Journeys
Building Strong Teams for the Journey Ahead
Delivering exceptional care begins with the people who guide the journey.
Our People
Employee Engagement Dinner
Celebrating Our People
On October 23, 2025, Banyan Community Services hosted its Annual Employee Service Awards and Recognition Dinner at Ancaster Mill—an evening dedicated to celebrating the individuals and teams who bring our mission to life every day.
Our People
Charting a Better Path: Strengthening Systems Through Learning and Improvement
Delivering exceptional service requires more than strong programs—it requires the ability to listen, adapt, and continuously improve.
Banyan by the Numbers
Corporate Profile
Our organization has a deep and rich history serving some of the most vulnerable populations in our communities.
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)
Mark Garcia (Treasurer)
David Borsellino
Donnaa Fredrick
Daniel Harris
Yvonne Kaczanowski
Miles Markovic
Olusola Olumogba
Joshua Rodrigues
Katharine Short
Dr. Richard Dominic Wiggers
Bex Williams
Senior Management Team
Kim Ciavarella
Chief Executive Officer, Board Secretary
(Ex Officio)
Yancey Corden,

Director,Program & Infrastructure
Modernization
Fran Doodeman,

Director, Community and Professional
Practice
Ryan Santos
Director, People and Culture
Luke Sullivan
Director of Finance and Administrative
Services
Cam Uhler
Director of Operations
Locations
Corporate Office
Arrell Youth Centre
George R. Force
Peninsula Youth Centre
The Manor
For more information on Banyan’s services, please visit our website.