Course Outline

This three-hour workshop will explore the role of community in supporting health and wellness, and how changing perspectives within a community can influence the delivery of services. We will look at how shifts in community context and membership can either support or resist services aimed at people experiencing mental health challenges, substance use, homelessness, or other social determinants of health.

While every community is unique, they share certain common elements. Understanding these elements allows us to learn from each experience and shape services more effectively. Identifying these elements requires ongoing consultation, relationship-building, and reflection.

Through this workshop, participants will gain tools and perspectives to guide this process, with a focus on leadership, governance, and sustained community connection.

Topics covered will include:

• Identifying the priority groups you work with or wish to engage.
• Planning, structuring, and delivering programs or services for ongoing success.
• Understanding how major events such as homelessness crises, pandemics, or the opioid crisis can shift service priorities.
  

Trainer Bio

Lynne Raskin has extensive experience in community, hospital, and institutional healthcare, as well as social services, both in Canada and internationally. Her work spans roles as an employee and volunteer in general healthcare, mental health, addictions, and the development of community-based services informed by the needs of specific populations.

She has led the creation of a community mental health and addictions program in Toronto and has worked across government, hospitals, and community health centres in positions ranging from front-line clinician to Manager, Director, CEO, and Board Member. Her leadership has consistently focused on system-level planning, mental health integration, community involvement, and collaboration—always in consultation with service users, practitioners, and communities of practice.

Lynne’s career includes roles as clinician, supervisor, community developer, partner, and innovator in the growth, delivery, evaluation, and accreditation of standards for services prioritizing marginalized individuals and communities. Her work has addressed the needs of newcomers, people who use substances (harm reduction), individuals who have experienced incarceration, 2SLGBTQI communities, and people with disabilities.

She has served on boards and planning committees at local, provincial, national, and international levels, contributing to learning and development initiatives shaped by people with lived experience. This includes meaningful engagement with First Nations, Inuit, Métis, newcomer, and undocumented community members.

Lynne’s leadership philosophy is grounded in boldness, curiosity, and humility, embracing continuous learning alongside others. She believes that impactful, relevant, and sustainable community services are built in partnership with, and in response to, the communities they serve