Click here to download the 2009 Symposium Book (PDF)
Central Branch of the Probation Officers Association of Ontario hosted Symposium 2009 from November 1st-4th, at the Holiday Inn Toronto/Markham.
This year the Symposium embraced the theme Serving Communities, Supporting You and Empowering Our Profession. The several aspects of this theme were selected to highlight the good work Probation and Probation and Parole Officers do in their daily duties as well as the communities they live in. This theme incorporated motivating and inspirational keynote speakers starting with Dr. James Reese on Monday afternoon. Delegates were then touched by the words of Michael “Pinball” Clemons at the Tuesday banquet dinner. The keynote presentations ended with a very hands-on demonstration by the York Regional Police K9 Unit officers and dogs Diesel and Basco Wednesday morning.
Over the course of the four-day conference numerous workshops were offered including offsite options. Workshop choices ranged from murder investigations to financial advice and even making soap as part of a wellness initiative. All workshops received fantastic reviews and we would like to thank all presenters for taking the time out of their busy schedules to contribute to the conference.
The Annual General Meeting provided an opportunity for delegates to gather and attend to the business of the Association. Congratulations to the incoming 2010 Executive Board.
During break time we were lucky to have exhibitors from various community agencies to share information with delegates and enhance the opportunity for learning and networking.
The always-important social aspects of symposium cannot be forgotten. This is a great time to catch up with colleagues you have not seen in a while and share stories and memories. As part of Symposium 2009 there was a daily social event; Sunday the wine and cheese reception, Monday night social at the Owl and Firkin and Tuesday the dance following the awards. I hope everyone enjoyed these features of the conference. Thank you to all who supported our raffle and helped us raise over $1200.00 for our chosen charity L.O.F.T Community Services.
This year’s venue was the Holiday Inn Toronto/Markham. I would like to acknowledge all the hotel staff that worked so very hard to make us feel welcomed and well taken care of during our stay with them. There were numerous contributors to Symposium 2009 that made it a success. I would like to thank the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, The Ministry of Children and Youth Services, OPSEU Local 551, Tourism Toronto, McCain Foods Ltd, The Owl and Firkin and all colleagues and members that helped plan and implement this great event.
It was wonderful to have the opportunity to meet so many delegates. On behalf of the planning committee I would like to thank you for attending and hope you enjoyed the event. The numerous evaluation forms you completed were helpful in providing feedback and direction for future years.
Wishing you a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
Hope to see you all at Symposium 2010 in Ottawa
Sincerely,
Kimberley Ridgers,
Symposium Chair 2009