MEET THE STAFF
True Experience is proud to have this dedicated team of professionals that are client focused and committed to excellence at all times. Each one brings their unique perspective and expertise to the organization.
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Rhonda Geyer, Executive Director
Rhonda was born and raised in Dunnville and has spent the last 20 years actively working in the health care system right here in our community.
Throughout her career, she has gained extensive knowledge and understanding adding to her credentials in mental health, addiction, acquired brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairments and palliative care.
When Rhonda is not leading the team at True Experience she is supporting her husband’s local business KINnections Life Centre by providing unique & creative programs for youth and adults living with an intellectual/developmental disability, ABI and ASD
Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren Mason and Jazlynn and often the three of them can be found in the kitchen doing what she loves most, cooking.
Rhonda has a passion for the population she serves and never stops advocating for those who need help.
“I am most proud of the community partnerships I have built over the years and continue to build. When you can come together as one community instead of one organization working against another for the same purpose, you can achieve beautiful outcomes.” |
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Sharon Arnold, Program Coordinator
Sharon has been a resident of Haldimand County for most of her life. She is a valued and well-known community member. Prior to her retirement, Sharon had a very productive and successful career in the employment and skills training sector where she helped thousands of people find meaningful work in Hamilton and Haldimand.
The opportunity to work in the mental health field struck a chord with Sharon so she came out of retirement and joined True Experience. Since her arrival, Sharon has been instrumental in the design and development of the True Pantry Program as well as the creation and maintenance of our social media presence.
Following the acquisition of our three Co-living homes, Sharon has overseen the renovations and furnishings to get the homes ready for occupancy.
Sharon is fully engaged with our clients in many activities such as the United Way Car Wash, Dunnville Grand Tour, World Suicide Prevention Day event, on-going White Board Campaign, Food drives for Dunnville’s local food bank, craft and baking sessions.
Sharon`s positive attitude and her desire to bring out the best in people make her ideal for her second career at True Experience! |
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Linda Schouwstra, Housing Coordinator
Linda is a long time resident of Haldimand County and is highly valued and respected in the community. Linda has an extensive career in Health Care and over the last 30 years, has demonstrated a vast knowledge and invaluable skill set in Mental Health and Addictions, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cognitive Impairments, Palliative Care, Administration and Leadership, to name a few.
Linda prides herself in advocating for those who are not able to advocate for themselves to ensure everyone receives the best care and the upmost continuity and inclusiveness possible.
When Linda is not working she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, especially her two sons, Addison and Avery and thoroughly enjoys kayaking on the Grand River and traveling near and far.
True Experience is thrilled to have Linda join our team! |
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Tina Edgar, Residential Support Worker
Tina joined our team in June 2018. She is a qualified Personal Support Worker. Tina is responsible for the daily operations at Opportunity House. She takes great pride in her work and is very passionate and caring when it comes to her clients. Tina really shows the love in her heart for the work that she does. Outside of work, Tina loves to spend time with her furry friends. She also enjoys travelling and her gardens. |
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J.J. Arnold, Residential Support Worker
J.J. joined the team in early 2019, upon graduation from Fanshawe College’s Social Services Worker program where he was on the Dean’s List.
The combination of his lived experience with mental illness and his education make J.J. a great Residential Support Worker. He first discovered True Experience prior to his return to school, while on the road to recovery. J.J. participated in the Community Work Program for almost 3 years. This helped him regain his self-confidence and independence. He knew he wanted to help people living with mental illness.
J.J. continues to be a valued, dedicated member of Team True where he makes a difference in the lives of the residents of Trillium Manor. |
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Ange Fowler, Residential Support Worker & Community Outreach Worker
Ange joined Team True in early 2019. She has lived in Dunnville for over 20 years and is very active in the community.
Ange is peer support certified with certificates in Mental Health First Aid and Safe Talk.
Ange’s life has been touched by mental health struggles which is one of the reasons she is so passionate about being there to support others and trying to make a difference in their lives.
When she is not at work, Ange enjoys spending time with her children and family. Together, they enjoy nature and watching movies.
"Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you!" - Dr. Seuss
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Joanne VanRavenswaay, Program Administrator
Joanne is a lifelong resident of the Dunnville community. She is known for her more than 20 years’ experience helping people throughout Haldimand attain their employment and training goals.
With strong connections to the community, partner agencies and services, True Experience presented a wonderful opportunity to work her passion, delivering a new and exciting nutrition and food program!
Joanne’s mission is to inspire through teaching and coaching everyone to be the best version of themselves, through health, fitness, and emotional well-being. |
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Courtney Beckingham – Residential Support Worker
Courtney has been a resident of Dunnville since early childhood.
Courtney has first-hand experience with mental illness and takes every opportunity to lend a hand to those in need. She volunteers with her church programs for children and truly enjoys helping out the community.
In her spare time, Courtney likes to keep busy by enjoying family time and gardening. |
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Dave Sherk, Residential Support Worker
Dave has lived in Dunnville for most of his life. He retired from Haldimand Norfolk Social Services after 30 years of service. The position he last held was Community Outreach Worker.
Dave joined Team True in January 2021. He continues with his passion to provide support and direction for people in need in all aspects of their lives. Dave truly wants to help them achieve a better quality of life. His personal and professional experiences give him the tools needed to assist people in reaching their goals.
Outside of work, Dave enjoys playing music and walking his dog Zsa Zsa. |
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Glenn Tocher, Work Program Supervisor
Glenn joined True Experience in July 2019 as a Work Program Supervisor. As such, he oversees and supports our clients on the lawn maintenance and snow removal crews. Glenn is also the key person in charge of equipment repairs and general upkeep of the True Experience properties.
As a self-driven individual who takes pride in his work, Glenn is an excellent role model. He believes teamwork is a key to success and works hard to encourage that while providing motivation and development opportunities for our clients.
In his spare time, Glenn enjoys spending time on the water fishing or playing a round of golf. It’s a pleasure having Glenn on Team True. His warm and friendly personality is valued by everyone.
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Lindsay Briand, Work Program Supervisor
Lindsay joined True Experience in September 2015 as a Residential Support Worker on a part-time basis.
She quickly became a client favourite thanks to her warmth and sense of humour. Prior to joining the organization, Lindsay graduated from Niagara College with a diploma from the Child & Youth Worker program. She was the first person in her family to graduate from high school and college. When asked what motivated her, Lindsay is quick to respond “Nobody thought I could do it because of my learning disability. I wanted to prove them wrong. And I did.” Lindsay’s determination and strong work ethic lead to her new position as a full-time Work Program Supervisor. Lindsay supports clients in the social enterprise operated at True Experience.
She is a valued member of Team True and we couldn’t be more proud of her. |
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“Rusty”, Greeter and Mascot
Rusty is new to True Team and knows that he has big PAWS to fill. He’s a 6 month old Cavachon who is serious about snuggles. Rusty loves to greet clients and visitors…especially those that offer to rub his tummy! His sociable personality makes him a natural for bringing people together. Rusty aspires to be a “PAWS-ITIVE” addition to the team. |
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Other Supporting Team Members
True Experience counts on key supporting people to keep things running smoothly.
Audrey Kamel is a business systems analyst/consultant who administers the reporting that is required by the funders. She is also a valuable resource in every aspect of the operations at True Experience. We are very fortunate to have Audrey on our team!
Providing opportunities for students to gain career related experience in their chosen field is something that True Experience is committed to. Throughout the year, students come to the organization and work in various capacities including social work, event planning, residential support, and lawn maintenance. It’s all part of the goal to build a strong community. |
A PEAK INSIDE OUR OFFICE
 
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