Key initiatives for 2024-25
The past year was one of significant change at the Distress Centre. The following highlights some of the key changes which took place, as well as other events which celebrated some important milestones.
Upgrading to Modern Technology
Over the past year, the Distress Centre undertook one of its most significant changes since the early 2000s.
In September, all Responders were introduced to an entirely new technology to support them while helping people in need. From Wildix, a cloud and browser-based unified communications system, to iCarol, a client management, information and referral system, to Better Impact, a volunteer management software, Distress Centre’s volunteer Responders are now better equipped to handle the rigours of crisis response, whether they work in DCOR’s Call Centre or remotely.
To accomplish this daunting task, DCOR staff developed an implementation plan, complete with training videos for current and upcoming volunteers, as well as a 24/7 support team which was available to volunteers and leaders.
Office Makeover
In conjunction with all new technology, with a supporting grant from The Ottawa Community Foundation, we undertook a fresh makeover for the Call Centre, training room and our office spaces. Renovations included painting, replacing the floor and the workstations in the Call Centre, and replacing the tables and chairs in the Training Centre.
We also upgraded much of our aging technology, including desktops in staff offices and the Call Centre, as well as laptops for office staff and the Training Centre. Other equipment included audio-visual equipment used for external professional development sessions.
Visit from Minister Saks
On November 28th, to mark the anniversary of the launch of 9-8-8, DCOR welcomed special guests:
The Minister of Mental Health and Addictions & Associate Minister of Health Ya’ara Saks, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and to the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Elizabeth Brière, the Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health Yasir Naqvi, and the Vice-President, Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention, Michael Collins.
Following a tour of the Centre where our visitors got to speak with staff and responders, we participated in a collaborative round-table.
This was an excellent opportunity for our staff and Responders to share their thoughts on 9-8-8 and relay what the service has meant to Canadians since its launch one year ago.
By-Laws in Compliance with ONCA
Following a thorough review of DCOR’s By-Laws by legal counsel, the By-Laws were adopted by the General Membership during the 2024 Annual General Meeting. The review and update of the By-Laws ensure that they are in full compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA).