Joanne Peach, Program Assistant at Carefor’s Carling Adult Day Program, was recently honoured by Carleton University’s Department of Health Sciences with the Outstanding Placement Supervisor Award. The award recognizes her commitment to guiding students through their year-long placements and helping them connect their academic studies with real-world experience.

Carefor has partnered with Carleton University since 2019, welcoming health sciences students for placements that run from September to April. Each student spends one day a week immersed in programs, contributing to projects while completing academic assignments. Joanne says she sees her role as more than a supervisor: “I try to guide them in a way that connects with their own goals. An undergrad is a stepping stone for these students, and I want to help them figure out what comes next.”

Last year, Joanne worked a day a week over the previous school year with a student named Lenka, who nominated her for the award. As Lenka was planning on going into psychology, she was placed in the Let’s Get Together program that supports seniors dealing with mental health challenges. In this program Lenka created projects such as handmade Christmas ornaments with clients and a wellness package focused on natural approaches to managing anxiety and depression. “They loved it. We loved it.” says Joanne.

As a Carleton alumna herself, Joanne believes her success as a supervisor comes from balancing structure with flexibility. Students are encouraged to choose projects that align with their career interests—whether in medicine, occupational therapy, or psychology—while learning the realities of community health.

Now mentoring two new Carleton students at the Carling Adult Day Program, Joanne continues to see each placement as an opportunity for growth, both for the students and for the programs they support. “You learn better in an environment you enjoy,” she says. “If they leave here with skills, confidence, and good memories, then I’ve done my job.”