After completing college programs at Seneca and graduating with honours in Recreation and Leisure Services, Talia moved into the Sandy Keshen Reena Residence in 2018. “I was excited and nervous,” she recalls. “Moving out of my family home was a big step, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.”
At Reena, Talia found more than a place to live — she found a space to grow. “Reena gives me safety and independence,” she says. “It’s helping me heal from my past and design a better future.”
Through her time at Reena, Talia has built friendships, learned how to navigate relationships, and developed empathy for others. She’s learned to balance her own needs with respect for the people around her — a skill she now considers one of life’s most important lessons.
Today, Talia works two part-time jobs, runs a small handmade jewelry business, and has published two books of poetry — Up and Down the Ladder and Scrapbook — with a third on the way. She’s also studying part-time to obtain her Library and Information Technician diploma online through Mohawk College. She continues to write, create art, and mentor others, often sharing her experiences to inspire those around her.
When asked what she’s learned from her seven years at Reena, Talia smiles and shares what she calls her “Six Ingredients to a Successful Life at Reena”:
1. Find what makes you happy. There’s something for everyone here — explore and discover it.
2. Trust your own experience. Don’t let others define what Reena will be for you.
3. Be open and curious. Everyone comes from different backgrounds — learn from them.
4. Work on yourself. Reena helps, but growth comes from within.
5. Treasure true friendships. Even one or two close friends can make all the difference.
6. Respect the staff. They work hard and deserve kindness, just like you do.
“Reena’s magic works when you give it a chance,” Talia says. “It’s not perfect — nothing in life is — but it’s a place where you can build a future and become the best version of yourself.”
Individuals supported by Reena
Hours given by dedicated volunteers
Caring Employees
Impact
For over 25 years, one volunteer has turned storytime into something extraordinary at Reena. What started with a single colourful picture book became a cherished tradition that creates calm, sparks conversation and builds genuine connection—proving that sometimes the simplest acts leave the deepest impact.
Follow Sophie’s journey from her grandmother’s garden to professional success at the Reena Community Farm. Discover how connecting passion with opportunity helped Sophie build both her career and lasting confidence.
Every month, we share a new story of transformation, hope, and of course, impact. Help us showcase the incredible journeys in our community by nominating the next featured hero in our series – a program participant, a dedicated volunteer, or supportive family member!
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.
Your support helps us to continue making an impact for those we serve and in our community.
See Ways to Donate
By joining our volunteer team, you will directly contribute to the exceptional experiences and life-changing support we deliver every day.
Join Our Team
Amplify the story of someone you know in our Reena community and share the life-changing impact of our programs.
Share Our StoriesReena supports over 1,000 individuals with developmental disabilities through a variety of services:
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