Employee Spotlight

My name is Charlsie Rheaume and my title is Manager of Mental Health, Addictions and Community Support Services. I've been working for SSCHS for 12 years. I started on a one year contract and eventually got hired full time and worked as the Communication and Risk Management Coordinator, then moved on to Community Supervisor and finally on to my current role. However, previous to that, in the early 2000s, I had worked at SSCHS for several summers as a student Activation (recreation) assistant as well as temporary Activity Coordinator for a year. So, although I've been here for the last 12 years, I like to brag about the fact that my cumulative time with the organization is over 14 years!

Can you describe what a typical day is like for you?

My role involves administrative supervision of SSCHS's mental health and addictions program as well as our community home support program, the meals-on-wheels program, seniors' fitness and community recreation program, congregate dining and I also manage Cedar Grove apartments.

My work days vary quite a bit and every day is different. I start my day by catching up on emails and administrative tasks. I usually have a quick meeting with the community PSWs to discuss any new clients or scheduling changes for the day. I meet with the Turning Point team to discuss projects and any outstanding issues. The rest of my day is usually comprised many tasks such as working on projects, scheduling, reporting, meetings, funding applications, touch base with clients or tenants, billing to ministry, policies and procedures, monitoring department budget and staffing hours, etc.

Who do you interact with the most at work?

I interact most with the PSWs who work in the community along with the Turning Point social workers and receptionist. I also interact a lot with our Care Coordinator/Discharge Planner, our Seniors Fitness Instructor as well as our Occupational Therapist. Since my office is located at Cedar Grove, I also interact a lot with the tenants who live here as well as the seniors' clubs who attend activities here.

How do you think your co-workers would describe you?

I think my coworkers would describe me as dependable and approachable. I'm a team player and very respectful of my coworkers and the great work that they do. I also like to have a bit of fun with my coworkers and have been known to be on both ends of a good prank!

What's the best part about your job/working for SSCHS?

The best part of working for SSCHS are my coworkers and the great team that I work with. It's also a great feeling to know that in some way, I have contributed to helping someone get the services they need to allow them to stay in their homes longer.

What made you decide to get into this field?

I've always had an interest and great respect for seniors. After high school, I received my first B.A. in Gerontology and worked in the Recreation Department. The job was so rewarding that I knew that I wanted to continue in the healthcare field in one way or another.

Tell me a little about yourself. Hobbies, interests, favorite places, etc.

I think most people know that I'm a HUGE sports fan! I rarely miss a Raptors, Blue Jays or Leafs game on TV. I also love working out and enjoy cross-country skiing and running. I'm currently training for my first half-marathon. I love hanging out with friends and family and it's no secret that I have an extreme obsession with Christmas!