About
At New Leaf, we set and achieve ambitious goals. We endeavour to provide quality support and services in a rural setting to individuals with developmental disabilities and/or other complex needs. We embrace the values of connections, diversity, equity and inclusion, mutual respect, respect for the environment and safety in all our supports as we assist individuals to live, work and play as valued members of society and the community.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Values
Connections
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Innovation
Mutual Respect
Respect for the Environment
Safety
Services & Supports
New Leaf is a place to live and work together. We own 11 properties across the northeast part of York Region that span over 200 acres of land. Our main site is a 112-acre working farm that includes a woodshop, recreation and expressive arts centre, greenhouses, and a cafe/industrial kitchen. New Leaf embraces its natural environment and works closely with community partners, including the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority and the Town of East Gwillimbury and Town of Georgina. Individuals supported enjoy the benefits of nature and a rural life while being recognized as valuable members of their community.
Typically, people in supported living require some level of support at all times. New Leaf’s homes are staffed on a 24-hour, 7-days-a-week basis. Supports are designed to promote people’s participation and inclusion in the community, personal goals, skills and relationships. Support outcomes are aligned with each person’s individual support plan. New Leaf believes in person-centered planning and will make every attempt to accommodate the wants and wishes of the people we support. Supported individuals enjoy opportunities in their community through a variety of activities and partnerships. New Leaf has worked hard to be a leader in the Developmental Services sector through innovative programming, clinically based supports and collaborations with other agencies to provide the highest quality of life possible for the people in our care.
Community Participation Supports offers a range and variety of activities, experiences, and opportunities for adults with a developmental disability. We offer centre-based programming using our own facilities that includes engaging with farm animals; nature walks; cycling; woodworking; horticulture; expressive arts; Snoezelen; music groups; ceramics; cooking; fitness; and a recreational indoor heated pool. The program also organizes activities in the community that are fun and meaningful for individuals supported. Community Participation Supports are designed to provide adults with meaningful experiences that promote their personal interests, skills, growth and development, and participation in the community.
Under Construction
Please contact us if you are interested in fee-for-service community participation support opportunities.
Supported Living and Community Participation Supports are funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. They are accessed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).
Please contact Developmental Services Ontario (1-855-277-2121) or https://www.dsontario.ca for more information.
To learn more about New Leaf Services and Supports please use our Contact form.
Our History
Since 1984, New Leaf: Living and Learning Together Inc. (New Leaf) has provided services and supports in the community to persons who have an intellectual disability and a dual diagnosis (developmental disability and mental health issue), or developmental disability and other physical/medical complexities.
New Leaf was founded by Stan Smith and a small group of dedicated individuals from Toronto. Stan was the agency’s first Executive Director and served in this role until his retirement in 2006, though he remained involved with New Leaf and provided important guidance and support to the agency up to the time of his death in 2009.
In response to a growing need for community-based services for individuals with developmental disabilities and complex needs, significantly prompted by the government of Ontario’s decision to close the provincial institutions serving this community, New Leaf embraced the move to community-based programming, developing our programming and expanding our services. We are proud to have played a role in this important historical event.
Today, New Leaf employs over 160 full and part-time employees and provides services to over 110 individuals each year. Stan Smith’s original vision is his legacy, enshrined in New Leaf’s mission statement and values.