Brenda Poelzer, Community Living Prince Edward
The path that led Brenda Poelzer to Community Living Prince Edward was incredibly varied. Over the past two decades, she’s taught English to students of all ages and abilities in China as well as developed and facilitated programs in the child and youth sector. With a BA in psychology and an SSW diploma, Brenda most recently worked as support staff in addictions and mental health care facilities.
After moving to the area from the GTA in 2015, she took some time to find where she wanted to spend the rest of her career. When a relief staff position at Community Living Prince Edward caught her attention, she thought carefully about the opportunity. The role was an hour’s commute, and she was uncertain about working in a different sector of human services.
But something about the position intrigued her. Brenda shares, “For reasons I can’t explain, I found myself sitting in an interview. It was during this conversation that everything started to change - almost immediately, I had a change of heart. It quickly became apparent that there was a community of wonderful people here and good things were happening. I wanted to be part of it.”
Recognizing an opportunity to use her experience and passion for helping people live their best lives, she accepted a relief position role. Brenda enthuses, “Timing is everything, and I got lucky! After a few months, I was trusted to support people in reaching their goals and enjoying their lives beyond the County. Visiting ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ and Ripley's Aquarium in Toronto, Brockville Tall Ships and CAPE - Cornwall & Area Pop Event are just a few examples of events I’ve supported people in experiencing. Brenda is looking forward to accompanying a woman to visit her father and some family members in Winnipeg. She shares, “I can't believe I get paid for this! I have the best job ever!”
Most importantly, Brenda appreciates the work the organization does to help people live their best lives. “Since joining the team, I've discovered my colleagues are not only genuine and passionate about the work we do. They also believe in the people they do it for - everyone in Prince Edward County. The County is a better place when we can successfully include everyone.”
Brenda shares, “Community Living Prince Edward’s philosophies and core values inherently support people in leading lives filled with dignity, respect, self-worth and adventure! I'm truly delighted to be part of all the lives I've had the good fortune to connect with so far. I'm still in my first year, but I've committed to a full-time role and look forward to all the years to come - it's worth the drive!”
Every day, Community Living Prince Edward team members like Brenda Poelzer help people achieve their goals here in the County.
