2013 - 2015 Association Board (Officers and Directors)
Welcome to the DDSA's 2013-2015 Board of Directors. The following people are proud to volunteer and donate their time and services toward helping the families and people with Down syndrome within the Durham Region. If you would like to Volunteer or learn more about how you can help, please contact us. To view a copy of our Association's By-Laws, click here.
The Executive Officers
PRESIDENT
Richard Philpot
Although retired since 2012, he finds the volunteer work that he does brings him a lot of personal satisfaction as well as giving back something to his community to make it a better place to live. Richard has a background in management of various size companies as well as running his own business. He has been Executive Director (Volunteer) of a not for profit group working to help with acceptance and integration of individuals into our community who have developmental disabilities. He has also been volunteering in various organisations taking on a variety of roles since he was 18. His volunteer work with not for profit organisations, combined with his management skills, gives him a unique perspective on how to help others help themselves at a board and volunteer level. He has been able to do this with the help and support of his wife, Sandy.
Richard can be contacted by email at: mastermail@ddsa.ca
VICE PRESIDENT
Darwin Ramesar
A husband and father of 2 boys, including his eldest who has Down syndrome and is 3 years old, they are the light of his life. Their son's diagnosis discovered at birth, Darwin has become a strong and supportive advocate for Down syndrome. Heavily dedicated and devoted to family, Darwin spends his time working hard for and with his family and children as well as the Durham Down syndrome Association.
Darwin can be contacted by email at: darwin@ddsa.ca
TREASURER
Rebecca Brown
A wife and mother of a 4 year old boy and 2 year old girl; her youngest having Down syndrome. When she found out about her daughter's diagnosis, she became involved with the Durham Down syndrome Association to learn more and helped plan the DDSA Christmas parties. As she became more involved in the Down Syndrome community, she decided to devote her time to the DDSA in a more dedicated role on the Board.
Rebecca can be contacted by email at: rebecca@ddsa.ca
SECRETARY & Director of Communications
Kathy Wetmore
Kathy can be contacted by email at: mastermail@ddsa.ca
The Directors
DIRECTOR OF SPEECH & LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Jill Clements-Baartman M.A. M.H.Sc., Speech Language Pathologist - SLP [C]
Jill can be contacted by email at: jcb_slp@rogers.com
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS
Liz Wallis
Liz Wallis is the mother of a 6 year old with autism and a 3 year old with Down syndrome. She is a social worker by profession and brings with her extensive experience working with, supporting, and advocating for families. She is excited to have the privilege of serving on the board and helping to create awareness and inclusion for our members and community.
Liz can be contacted by email at: liz@ddsa.ca
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) Reps
Director - SEAC
Durham District Public School Board
Primary Rep: Tara Culley
Alternate: Sharon Komlenovich
Tara is married with 2 boys (Adam, 7 and James, 3). Her oldest (Adam) has Down syndrome. Tara has been the Public School SEAC Rep for the last three years with the DDSA.
Tara can be contacted by email at: SEAC@ddsa.ca
SEAC Representative
Durham District Catholic School Board
Primary Rep: Monica Dorgan
Alternate: TBA
Monica can be contacted by email at: SEAC@ddsa.ca
Board Members
