Meet Paige

When Paige asked her parents, “When do I get to live on my own like my sister?” it fuelled an inspiring journey toward independence that began years earlier at Reena.

Born with complex medical challenges requiring multiple surgeries and intensive care, Paige’s early years were filled with uncertainty. Then, 15 years ago, her family discovered Reena’s Sunday Friends Club, and everything changed. This outgoing and social young woman finally found her community – a place where she could truly thrive, build lasting friendships and develop the confidence that would shape her future.

Through Reena’s programs, Paige blossomed from a young girl into a determined young woman. The Sunday Friends Club became her foundation, offering not just social connection, but the self-assurance to think beyond what others expected. When her younger sister left for university in 2020, Paige’s question about living independently wasn’t just curiosity – it was readiness.

Today, Paige is working toward her goal through Reena’s Respite Program. What started as weekend stays has become essential practice for independent living. She’s mastering daily life skills, building confidence in new environments, and showing herself – and everyone who knows her – that her dreams aren’t just wishful thinking. They’re goals within reach.

Paige’s story reminds us that independence isn’t just about living on our own – it’s about having the confidence to pursue your dreams and knowing you can have the skills to make them happen.

1,000+

Individuals supported by Reena

1,200+

Hours given by dedicated volunteers

860

Caring Employees

Unlimited

Impact

More Stories That Inspire

Matthew’s Journey

Get to know Matthew and his transformation from a quiet young man into a confident community member. His breakthrough moments in communication and independence show how special individualized support can be, and how much lasting change it creates.

More Stories on the Way

Each month brings a new story of empowerment and joy. Do you know someone whose life has been changed by Reena? Nominate them to be the next featured hero in our series!

Call to Action

Nominate Our Next Reena Hero

Centred Content

A Year of Impact

Every day we’re honoured to witness incredible transformations happening right in our community – and we couldn’t be more proud to spotlight these stories for you.

Our Year of Impact celebrates the real people behind our mission. From Paige building skills for independent living, to Matthew pursuing his career dreams, these stories showcase what happens when we believe in potential and provide the right support.

We’re proud of the life-changing moments we help create, of the confidence we help build, and the independence we help achieve. But most of all, we are proud of the incredible individuals we serve who inspire us every single day to keep creating possibilities. Thank you for the positive impact you leave on us.

How you can help make an impact

Donate image

Donate

Your support helps us to continue making an impact for those we serve and in our community.

See Ways to Donate
Volunteer image

Volunteer

By joining our volunteer team, you will directly contribute to the exceptional experiences and life-changing support we deliver every day.

Join Our Team
Share image

Share

Amplify the story of someone you know in our Reena community and share the life-changing impact of our programs.

Share Our Stories

Frequently Asked Questions

Reena supports over 1,000 individuals with developmental disabilities through a variety of services:

  • Housing: 32 group homes and 60+ supported independent living apartments
  • Community Programs: Flexible day programs tailored to individual interests and schedules
  • Employment Support: Job coaching and career development services
  • Respite Services: Short-term relief and support for families
  • Specialized programs: Services for autism, mental health challenges and other developmental disabilities

For more information about the services we offer, reach out to 905.889.6484 or info@reena.org

Your support directly helps fund transformational housing projects and vital programs, including day programs, respite services and employment support.

Your impact helps:

Housing: Helps address the 12,000+ person waitlist for specialized housing in Ontario

Programs: Funds equipment, activities, and services beyond the scope of government funding

Employment: Supports job coaching and career development services

Individual growth: Enables more journeys to independence and community engagement, helping all individuals to thrive

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us! We are always looking for dedicated and caring individuals to join our team.

For full information on our volunteer recruitment process, visit reena.org/volunteer