Friday 27 February 2015

The Duchess in Smiths Falls

Not THE Duchess, but non-profit Duchess Boutique.


Last year, before health issues compounded our schedule, I was volunteering with the Susan Shirley Program in Smiths Falls. I was popping in one day a week to tutor them.  Some were still in high school and others were preparing for college. Having volunteered facilitating a Creative Writing program in Beaver Creek Institution, I thought it would be a good use of my training and skills. Sadly, life got in the way and I couldn't commit to the weekly visits at Susan Shirley.

Nicole Anderson, Executive Director, runs an amazing program for young mothers. Staff take the pregnant women in, and provide them with training in many facets of a healthy life: nutrition, child rearing, as well as working on their own self-esteem. I have an M.Ed. in Curriculum, and I was astounded with the creativity of the women who created this program.
The Susan Shirley Program is currently accepting referrals & self referrals to our support program. If you or someone you know needs a supportive environment as they progress through their pregnancy or in the first few months after their babies are born, call today for a tour and information regarding the program. We currently have one opening, these will go quickly!Call 613-205-1643 Or www.susanshirleyprg.ca for an application.
The store profits are intended to be a sustainable income source for the program. We were very pleased to purchase some products. (I can't tell you what they were as they'll be 'Close Eyes' for our girls!)

7 comments:

eileeninmd said...

Sounds like an awesome program! The profits are being put to good use.. That is wonderful. Have a happy weekend!

Nancy J said...

Wonderful program, and such goodies there, I see they have a Facebook page too. Yes, life has a way of interfering with what we would like to do and help out elsewhere, but home and men seem to take priority when things happen. AOK down here so far, just the wait now for a new appt., lots further than our usual hospital, so a driving challenge for me!!

Elizabeth Edwards said...

i love those wall dividers .... i think that was Big Ben? very cool. i don't really have any where to use one but they are super cool. very cool decor element. ( :

William Kendall said...

It does sound like a good concept.

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful program.

Yamini MacLean said...

Hari OM
Love love love these sorts of arrangements! YAM xx

Powell River Books said...

Looks like my kind of place. Our Economy Shop is run by the hospital auxiliary and the proceeds go to purchasing needed hospital equipment. They make an astonishing amount each year because of all the local donations, volunteer workers, and purchasers. It feels good to shop there. - Margy