As a pre-teen, Levi started attending Reena’s after-school sessions and vacation camps — a space to build social and communication skills where he could genuinely thrive. It gave his parents respite and gave Levi purposeful programming that allowed him to thrive. As his teenage years brought new challenges, the late Sandy Keshen z”l, Reena’s founding CEO, recognized that a residential setting would be the right move. “She worked her magic,” says Sarah, and Levi moved into his first Reena group home.
The staff there have become an extension of the Sherman family. “From the top down,” Sarah says, “they have such a can-do attitude — anything in our vision for our son, they carry through.”
Faith is central to Levi’s life, and Reena honours that fully. Every Shabbat, staff walk him to synagogue and back. “Actions speak louder than words,” Sarah says, “and the fact that he’s willing to walk to and from, and the staff are willing to walk with him — we’re so thankful for that.” His programming is equally personal: dance therapy, gym sessions, speech therapy and community participation through Yachad all reflect who he is and what he loves.
For the Shermans, the peace of mind runs deep. Their married daughter lives just a couple of blocks from Levi’s home and visits often. And even within such a large organization, the care has always felt close. Sarah still remembers how Sandy Keshen knew every individual by name — who they were, who their family was. “It feels very hamish,” she says. “Like family.”
Individuals supported by Reena
Hours given by dedicated volunteers
Caring Employees
Impact
From published poet to jewelry maker to student, Talia Flanzraich has built a full life at the Sandy Keshen Reena Residence. After seven years of growth and discovery, she shares her personal recipe for thriving — six honest ingredients that helped her transform independence into purpose.
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.
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