Ontario Shores and Abilities Centre Announce Expansion of Joint Research Ethics Board

Durham Region shines as a beacon of research excellence, a vibrant "hub" where innovation melds seamlessly with ambition, sparking a transformative journey poised to reshape the very essence of healthcare's future. Amidst this ever-evolving landscape, Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario Shores) and Abilities Centre welcome Grandview Kids into their Joint Research Ethics Board (REB). The grand unveiling of this expansion occurred on November 3, marking a milestone in the extraordinary journey of these visionary institutions. This expansion is not merely a partnership; it stands as a resounding testament to the unwavering dedication of each partner to propel research forward, transcending not only the boundaries of Durham Region but reaching far and wide.

The Joint REB, now expanded to include Grandview Kids, exemplifies Ontario Shores' leadership in fostering community research initiatives. This collaborative effort introduces a new era of streamlined and efficient ethical research review processes while opening doors to broader research collaboration. It symbolizes the region's resolve to lead in the pursuit of innovative healthcare solutions, shaping the future of healthcare not just for its residents but for the world. With Grandview Kids joining our collaborative effort, we are building upon the sturdy foundation of Durham Region's ongoing journey in research and innovation, propelling it even further. The ripple effect of this expansion will resonate widely, amplifying the forward-thinking purpose that defines our rapidly expanding 'hub' of research excellence.

Key Messages:

• Strategic partnership: The Joint REB expansion demonstrates Ontario Shores' dedication to purposeful partnerships that advance equitable access to care across the healthcare continuum.
• Supporting research collaboration: This expansion directly supports the "Research Collaboration" pillar outlined in the Abilities Centre–Ontario Shores MOU, enhancing the research landscape in Durham Region.
• Facilitating research: The Joint REB facilitates research collaboration among its partners. It provides a structured framework for onboarding potential research partners in the future.
• Exploring new research avenues: With Grandview Kids now part of this collaborative effort, the expanded Joint Research Ethics Board (REB) signifies our shared commitment to advancing the field of childhood disability research. This expansion streamlines ethical research review processes and creates exciting opportunities for Ontario Shores, Abilities Centre, and Grandview Kids to explore new research avenues, pursuing innovative areas that extend beyond traditional boundaries.

The partnership expansion marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of excellence in research, and its application to improve the mental health and well-being of individuals within the Region of Durham.

Quotes:

•  "We are delighted to welcome Grandview Kids into our Joint REB partnership. This expansion exemplifies our commitment to fostering research collaboration and promoting equitable access to mental health care." – Karim Mamdani, President and CEO, Ontario Shores.
• " The Joint REB expansion underscores our shared commitment to research and its pivotal role in enhancing mental health services. We look forward to the opportunities that this collaboration will bring." - Pinder DaSilva, VP-Programs, Partnerships & Impact, Abilities Centre
• "Grandview Kids is excited to join forces with Ontario Shores and Abilities Centre in this Joint REB partnership. Together, we aim to explore new research avenues that benefit our community." - Tom McHugh, CEO, Grandview Kids
   

Photo Caption:

Distinguished leaders and key figures in the Joint Research Ethics Board expansion ceremony (from left to right):
1.    Emilie Michalovic – Director, Research – Abilities Centre
2.    Tim Pauley – Director, Research & Academics – Ontario Shores
3.    Karim Mamdani – President & CEO – Ontario Shores
4.    Tom McHugh – CEO – Grandview Kids
5.    Ross Ste. Croix – General Manager and COO – Abilities Centre
6.    Taryn Eickmeier – Executive Lead, Research, Innovation, and Knowledge Mobilization – Grandview Kids
7.    Emma Markoff – Joint Research Ethics Board Coordinator & Research Coordinator – Ontario Shores
8.    Shilpa Dogra – Joint Research Ethics Board Chair – Ontario Shores (and Associate Professor, Ontario Tech)
 

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact:

Julie VanHartingsveldt 
External Relations Specialist, Communications and Public Affairs  
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences
905-430-4055 ext. 6574
289-387-1813
@email

Pinder DaSilva
Senior Director, Programs & Services
Abilities Centre
905-665-8500 ext. 112
289-278-4430
@email

Avori Cheyne 
Chief Communications 
Grandview Kids 
1320 Airport Blvd, Oshawa, ON L1J 0C6
Office: 905-728-1673 x2240
Toll Free: 1-800-304-6180 x2240
Cell: 647-631-2668
@email

About Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences:
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences is a leader in mental health care, providing a range of specialized assessment and treatment services for people living with complex mental illness. Patients benefit from a recovery-oriented environment of care, built on compassion, inspiration and hope. Ontario Shores engages in research, education and advocacy initiatives to advance the mental health care system. 
Learn more at ontarioshores.ca

About Abilities Centre Durham:
Abilities Centre provides accessible and inclusive programs and services of the highest quality and value. We support members of the community, no matter their ability, age or background, to improve their quality of life by positively impacting health & wellbeing, social inclusion and economic participation. Abilities Centre, a community hub and inclusion incubator, is committed to building accessible and inclusive communities through programs and services in the areas of education, employment, sport, recreation & leisure, research and life skills.’

Learn more at abilitiescentre.org

About Grandview Kids:
Founded in 1953, Grandview Kids is a family-centred, independently operated non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs. Through specialized programs,rehabilitation services and outpatient clinical therapies, Grandview Kids supports children and youth to live life at their full potential. 
Learn more at grandviewkids.ca.