At Carefor, we believe the most powerful tool we have in supporting seniors is not expensive medical equipment or high‑tech facilities—it’s the skill, compassion, and expertise of our staff. Unlike hospitals or clinics, our team members bring care directly into people’s homes, and their knowledge and training are what make the difference. That’s why continuous learning is our secret weapon. By investing in staff training, we ensure seniors across Eastern Ontario receive exceptional, inclusive, and safe care every day. Here are some recent examples of how we’re supporting seniors through education and training.
Building Inclusive Care
Carefor serves people from diverse backgrounds, and we are committed to ensuring our care is equitable and inclusive. On November 26th, Beth Monaco, Manager of Equity and Culture, presented a pilot training on Inclusive Care for the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Developed in collaboration with University of Ottawa students, this training was offered as part of staff orientation to raise awareness about the impact of prejudice and exclusion on 2SLGBTQ+ individuals receiving care in their homes.
This initiative is unique among home care agencies, and we are proud to lead the way. Beginning in 2026, Inclusive Care training will become a standard part of orientation for all staff, ensuring every client feels respected and supported.
Nursing Skills Review Day
Two things Carefor staff bring into people’s homes every day are their passion for delivering high‑quality care and their clinical expertise. To keep those skills sharp, we hosted our second annual Nursing Skills Review Day at our Belfast office in Ottawa on November 26th.
Nurses were invited to connect with vendors and our Professional Practice Team, receiving refreshers and hands‑on practice in areas such as urinary catheter care, wound care, tracheostomy care, and peripheral IV insertion. These sessions ensure our nurses remain confident and up‑to‑date, so seniors receive the safest and most effective care possible.
Supporting Lifelong Learning
Carefor also invests in staff education through our bursary program. Thanks to donor support, in the spring we will award $1,000 bursaries to 10 staff members to help cover the costs of continuing education. This program empowers our team to pursue advanced training and certifications, strengthening the quality of care we provide across Eastern Ontario.
Donations also make it possible for staff to attend professional conferences, such as The Ottawa Hospital Patient Safety Conference, where they gain new insights into best practices, safety standards, and innovations in care. These opportunities ensure our staff remain leaders in home and community care.
Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training
Mental health challenges are increasingly affecting clients, sometimes creating difficult situations in home and community care environments. To prepare staff, Carefor is offering Non‑Violent Crisis Intervention Training, made possible through the Bell Let’s Talk Grant. This training equips staff with strategies to prevent and manage challenging situations, keeping both clients and caregivers safe.
Why Training Matters
Every training initiative, whether focused on inclusivity, clinical skills, continuing education, or crisis intervention, reinforces our commitment to seniors. Staff training is not an add‑on; it is the foundation of the compassionate, high‑quality care we deliver. By continuously helping our staff learn, we ensure that seniors in Eastern Ontario receive support that is not only professional but deeply human.
Help Make Training Possible
These programs are made possible through community and donor support. By contributing to Carefor, you help our staff grow their skills, attend conferences, and provide exceptional care to seniors across Eastern Ontario.
Donate today at www.carefor.ca/donate and be part of the difference.