2025-2026 ANNUAL REPORT

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.

At the event, 25 employees were recognized for their years of service, while two individuals and one team received the Service Award of Excellence in recognition of their dedication, achievements, and longstanding commitment to the organization. The evening offered an opportunity to honour both long-serving employees and newer team members—reflecting the depth of experience, passion, and impact that define Banyan’s workforce.

Set in a warm and welcoming environment, the event brought staff together from across programs to connect, reflect, and celebrate. The combination of a vibrant atmosphere, live music, and shared experiences created a memorable evening that highlighted the strength of our team and the relationships that support our work.

More than a celebration, the evening served as a reminder of the collective impact our people continue to make in the lives of those we serve. It is through their dedication, compassion, and collaboration that Banyan is able to navigate complex challenges and create meaningful change.

As we look ahead, we remain deeply grateful for our staff and committed to fostering a workplace grounded in appreciation, connection, and care.

“At Banyan, it is our people who make every step of the journey possible.”

Service Award of Excellence Recipients

Individual Category

Adam Coleman, Clinician

Recognizing Excellence in Care and Commitment

Adam Coleman, Clinician within the Counselling and Assessment Program and Youth Mental Health Court Worker (YMHCW), was recognized with the Service Excellence Award for his exceptional contributions to Banyan Community Services.

Since joining the organization in June 2022, Adam has played a critical role in supporting youth navigating the Youth Criminal Justice System. As Banyan’s sole Youth Mental Health Court Worker, Adam provides trauma-informed clinical support to youth on probation—offering counselling, coordinating referrals to community and psychiatric services, supporting reintegration planning, and working collaboratively with probation officers to ensure a coordinated approach to care.

Beyond his primary role, Adam’s impact extends throughout the organization.

He actively contributes to multiple programs, including Residential Justice and the Young Parent Program, while also supporting internal referrals and participating in the clinical on-call rotation. His willingness to step forward where support is needed reflects both flexibility and a deep commitment to the people Banyan serves.

Through his compassion, professionalism, and collaborative approach, Adam strengthens service delivery across programs and helps ensure that youth and families receive consistent, high-quality care at every stage of their journey.

His recognition is a reflection not only of individual excellence, but of the meaningful difference that dedicated, client-centred practice can make.

“Excellence in service is reflected in the commitment to show up, support others, and make every interaction count.”

Barbara Howatt, Young Parent Navigator

Honouring a Legacy of Dedication and Impact

Barbara Howatt, a dedicated member of Banyan Community Services for more than 20 years, has been recognized with the Service Excellence Award in honour of her exceptional contributions and lasting impact on the organization and the individuals it serves.

Throughout her tenure, Barbara has been known for her compassion, authenticity, and unwavering sense of responsibility. Her work has been instrumental in the development and continued success of the Young Parent Program, where she has supported youth and families in achieving meaningful outcomes – including housing stability, educational attainment, and pathways to employment.

Barbara’s impact extends well beyond her role.

Recognized for her resourcefulness, problem-solving abilities, and strong community connections, she is often a trusted point of contact for support and guidance across programs. Her ability to navigate complex situations with care and clarity has made her a valued colleague and an important source of stability for both staff and clients.

Her steady presence, willingness to go above and beyond, and deep commitment to the well-being of others have shaped the experience of those she supports and strengthened the culture of the organization.

Barbara’s recognition reflects not only years of service, but a legacy of care, connection, and dedication that continues to make a lasting difference in the workplace and the broader community.

“A lasting impact is built through years of showing up with care, consistency, and commitment.”

Service Award of Excellence Recipients

Group Category

APSW (Adult Protection Service Workers Program)

Patricia Harvey
Krystal MacCullam
Kathi Soules
Keston Roberts
Marie Allan
Cynthia Connors

Expanding Access, Strengthening Support

The Adult Protective Service Worker (APSW) team plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families through advocacy, education, and connection to essential services. Working closely with community partners, the team strengthens access to resources while helping clients navigate complex systems with confidence and care.

Since the program’s launch in May 2023, the APSW team has made meaningful progress in improving service access – reducing wait times from approximately four years to one year and eight months. This significant shift reflects a focused effort to respond more effectively to community needs and ensure that individuals receive timely support.

Collaboration remains central to this work. By partnering with organizations such as Hamilton Health Sciences, the APSW team supports safe, coordinated discharge planning, helping to ensure continuity of care and smoother transitions back into the community.

What distinguishes the team is its flexibility and commitment.

Recognizing that needs do not always fit within traditional structures, APSW staff regularly go beyond standard service delivery—meeting clients where they are, whether in homes, community spaces, or residential settings. Their work often includes practical, hands-on support, offering stability and guidance during times of uncertainty.

Innovation also continues to shape the program’s evolution. The development of a comprehensive resource library and life skills initiatives, including a successful cooking skills module, reflects an ongoing commitment to building independence and enhancing quality of life. With additional funding secured, these supports continue to grow—expanding opportunities for the individuals and families served.

Together, these efforts reflect a program that is responsive, adaptive, and grounded in care—ensuring that individuals are supported not only in accessing services, but in moving forward with greater confidence.