SCOPE OF WORK
For over 15 years I have worked on diverse projects that have deepened and broadened my skill set. I have learned how to be a better leader because of the people I have met and had the privilege of working with. Here is a snapshot of three of my work experiences.
As the Project Coordinator for the Welland Neighbourhood Project I collaborate with and nurture a strong working collective of multiple, diverse community groups, leaders, agencies, and the City of Welland to define and deliver a coordinated, neighbourhood based approach to address issues related to poverty. With the loss of major industry in Welland, many people found it difficult to get back on their feet and imagine a future for themselves or their children. The formation of WNP was a response to the needs that people were expressing in their neighbourhoods. The reach of the WNP is vast and we have seen neighbourhoods revitalized as we collectively share our resources to meet needs, close gaps, create new opportunities for people to be empowered and carve out spaces for people to learn, contribute and belong.
At Partners for Planning, a family formed and led organization committed to empowering individuals with a disability, I managed partnerships and conducted community outreach. It was an exciting opportunity as I looked to strengthen and build new partnerships across the province with organizations and community groups who shared the resources on the Planning Network. As my role evolved, I also had the opportunity to provide person directed planning (facilitation) which laid the foundation for me to open my own practise CFAST CONSULTING as an independent facilitator.
Working with the members of People First Ontario will always be among my most favourite positions . It was a deeply meaningful and profound experience for me as I worked with the members on the "Our Community, Our Lives" Federal Project to identify and overcome obstacles to inclusion and full participation in community life. I enjoyed working with the members to develop a wide range of tools and resources and assisted in the creation, marketing and promotion of a national video series. Working with the members on this project was the catalyst for me to pursue and complete my MA thesis, The Un-making Of Difference at Brock University. My research focuses on humanness within the context of the de-institutionalization movement.
As a result of the diversity of my work I have become proficient in writing content, managing small and large scale budgets, and navigating various online platforms, databases and CRM software. I also am experienced in fund development and event planning.
AWARDS
- Spirit of Brock Medal
- Jack M. Miller Excellence in Research Award
- Mary Anne Christoff Community Service Ruby Award (Welland Pelham Chamber of Commerce)
- Paul Harris Fellow (Welland Rotary Club)
- City of Welland Volunteer Appreciation Award
PUBLICATION
"Institutionalized Intimacies", Brock Review, Aug, 21, 2021
https://brockreviewonline.wordpress.com/2021/08/21/carolyn-fast-institutionalized-intimacies/
PODCAST
"Difference, Disability and Deinstitutionalization, "Forward: Introducing Humanities Podcast, May 11, 2022
https://foreword.podbean.com/e/disability-difference-and-deinstitutionalization-in-ontario/