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Brand refresh

We’re excited to share that we’ve recently refreshed our brand, marking an important step as we look to the future.

May 1, 2025

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Featured news

Featured news

New homes on the Cranbrook Lot

We are thrilled to announce that, after years of careful planning and construction, the new homes on the Cranbrook lot are officially ready to be moved into! This milestone is a testament to the dedication and hard work of many individuals who have made this vision a reality.

May 1, 2025

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220 Cranbrook Drive


Hamilton, ON

L9C 5V7


Tel: (905) 525-4311


info@rygiel.ca

About Rygiel

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© 2025—Rygiel Supports for Community Living.

Rimjhim Rosaline

Rimjhim Rosaline is a seasoned Product Manager and IT Operations Leader with over 9 years of experience driving innovation and delivering measurable impact for growing businesses. With a proven track record of managing cross-functional teams and scaling operations, she has successfully led projects that have transformed startups and SMEs into competitive and sustainable organizations.

As the Co-founder and Product Head of a technology firm, Rimjhim has been instrumental in delivering cutting-edge digital solutions, including AI-driven products, custom software development, and in-house product building/consulting. She has managed diverse teams of up to [35+] professionals, fostering collaboration and ensuring operational excellence to achieve business objectives. Her strategic approach to problem-solving and her ability to align technology with organizational goals have consistently resulted in increased efficiency and growth.

Rimjhim’s passion for creating meaningful change in people’s lives and community impact inspired her to join the Board of Rygiel Supports for Community Living. She brings expertise in strategic planning, digital transformation, and process optimization to support the organization’s mission of empowering individuals and building inclusive communities.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Rimjhim is dedicated to helping businesses leverage technology to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and drive innovation. She is an advocate for creating opportunities that enable individuals and businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Anthony Frisina

Anthony Frisina was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, but he has never let those challenges hold him back. He is a Mohawk College graduate with multiple certifications and continues to work at Mohawk College and McMaster University. He is a sought-after speaker and consultant on accessibility and inclusion, a TV & podcast host, and an author. 

Anthony volunteers with multiple non-profit organizations, including representing the disability community on the All Abilities Allstars board, Rygiel Supports for Community Living, Hamilton Accessible Sports Council, Sport Hamilton, Mohawk Sports Park, and the Ron Joyce Children’s Health Centre as a cheerleader with children with disabilities.​

Anthony is also an ambassador for The Forward Movement, which reframes the conversation around ability and promotes access and inclusion for people of all abilities.

Anthony’s journey into public advocacy and media began with an appearance on Cable 14’s The Showcase. This opportunity evolved into Above & Beyond TV, now in its sixth season. The show highlights the power of allyship, inclusion, and collaboration within and beyond the disability community to foster universal acceptance.

Expanding on his media efforts, Anthony co-hosts Above & Beyond – The Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, where he explores meaningful ways to break down barriers and build connections.

Beyond the screen and microphone, Anthony consults with businesses, non-profits, and organizations to help create systems, spaces, and experiences that go beyond accessibility compliance and minimum standards, ensuring they embody true inclusion and exceed expectations.

Jeffrey Rouse

Treasurer

Jeffrey Rouse brings over 30 years of experience in senior financial roles with non-profits and charities, including significant expertise in disability services. He has held key positions such as Director of Administration at Community Living Oshawa/Clarington, and CFO at Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf. 

His primary passion lies in addressing social inequities faced by marginalized groups. Through his work, he has always focused on creating meaningful and sustainable change, driven by a desire to improve the lives of those who are often left out of mainstream support systems. This deep commitment to social justice is reflected in the organizations he has worked with and the impact he has made over the years.

As a valued board member of Rygiel Supports for Community Living, Jeffrey plays a key role in guiding the organization’s strategic direction. His extensive financial expertise enables him to provide critical insights into long-term planning and sustainability, ensuring that Rygiel is positioned to effectively support its mission. Jeffrey’s deep commitment to social justice and community development drives his contributions, as he works alongside the board to help shape Rygiel’s future and ensure it continues to thrive.

Living in Hamilton with his wife and two dogs, Jeffrey is deeply committed to his work and his community, bringing a strong sense of service and dedication to everything he does.

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Tony Tigani

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Mauris neque magna, gravida nec mauris ac, convallis condimentum arcu. Aliquam tortor nisi, sollicitudin id magna eu, congue convallis mauris. Proin aliquet, velit eu semper feugiat, tortor elit gravida diam, eget iaculis sapien risus eget dui. Duis mi massa, faucibus in libero non, luctus auctor purus. Aenean sit amet semper sem. Aliquam scelerisque hendrerit nibh, quis pellentesque enim auctor non. In malesuada nisi ipsum, id lacinia magna euismod in. Nulla vitae faucibus nibh. Integer mattis nunc id velit eleifend feugiat. Fusce tincidunt rutrum turpis vitae consectetur. Integer iaculis at ligula vel malesuada. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Nunc blandit est vel enim egestas feugiat. Donec sed fermentum enim, in blandit nunc.

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Emilia Bozzo

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis et enim nec justo pretium maximus. Praesent ex mi, ullamcorper a dapibus non, mollis et elit. Nunc porttitor libero urna, non commodo nulla eleifend in. Cras quis dui orci. Ut vel varius ligula. Aenean nec eleifend sapien, eget placerat diam. Vestibulum luctus velit massa, elementum dictum magna facilisis sit amet. Phasellus aliquet dictum diam. Aliquam mattis nec mi eget vulputate. Praesent lacinia efficitur ornare. Aenean ut libero sapien. Nunc mi nulla, vulputate a dignissim nec, varius sed urna.

Mauris neque magna, gravida nec mauris ac, convallis condimentum arcu. Aliquam tortor nisi, sollicitudin id magna eu, congue convallis mauris. Proin aliquet, velit eu semper feugiat, tortor elit gravida diam, eget iaculis sapien risus eget dui. Duis mi massa, faucibus in libero non, luctus auctor purus. Aenean sit amet semper sem. Aliquam scelerisque hendrerit nibh, quis pellentesque enim auctor non. In malesuada nisi ipsum, id lacinia magna euismod in. Nulla vitae faucibus nibh. Integer mattis nunc id velit eleifend feugiat. Fusce tincidunt rutrum turpis vitae consectetur. Integer iaculis at ligula vel malesuada. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Nunc blandit est vel enim egestas feugiat. Donec sed fermentum enim, in blandit nunc.

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David Cunliffe

Vice-Chair

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis et enim nec justo pretium maximus. Praesent ex mi, ullamcorper a dapibus non, mollis et elit. Nunc porttitor libero urna, non commodo nulla eleifend in. Cras quis dui orci. Ut vel varius ligula. Aenean nec eleifend sapien, eget placerat diam. Vestibulum luctus velit massa, elementum dictum magna facilisis sit amet. Phasellus aliquet dictum diam. Aliquam mattis nec mi eget vulputate. Praesent lacinia efficitur ornare. Aenean ut libero sapien. Nunc mi nulla, vulputate a dignissim nec, varius sed urna.

Mauris neque magna, gravida nec mauris ac, convallis condimentum arcu. Aliquam tortor nisi, sollicitudin id magna eu, congue convallis mauris. Proin aliquet, velit eu semper feugiat, tortor elit gravida diam, eget iaculis sapien risus eget dui. Duis mi massa, faucibus in libero non, luctus auctor purus. Aenean sit amet semper sem. Aliquam scelerisque hendrerit nibh, quis pellentesque enim auctor non. In malesuada nisi ipsum, id lacinia magna euismod in. Nulla vitae faucibus nibh. Integer mattis nunc id velit eleifend feugiat. Fusce tincidunt rutrum turpis vitae consectetur. Integer iaculis at ligula vel malesuada. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Nunc blandit est vel enim egestas feugiat. Donec sed fermentum enim, in blandit nunc.

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Bruno Uggenti

Chair

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis et enim nec justo pretium maximus. Praesent ex mi, ullamcorper a dapibus non, mollis et elit. Nunc porttitor libero urna, non commodo nulla eleifend in. Cras quis dui orci. Ut vel varius ligula. Aenean nec eleifend sapien, eget placerat diam. Vestibulum luctus velit massa, elementum dictum magna facilisis sit amet. Phasellus aliquet dictum diam. Aliquam mattis nec mi eget vulputate. Praesent lacinia efficitur ornare. Aenean ut libero sapien. Nunc mi nulla, vulputate a dignissim nec, varius sed urna.

Mauris neque magna, gravida nec mauris ac, convallis condimentum arcu. Aliquam tortor nisi, sollicitudin id magna eu, congue convallis mauris. Proin aliquet, velit eu semper feugiat, tortor elit gravida diam, eget iaculis sapien risus eget dui. Duis mi massa, faucibus in libero non, luctus auctor purus. Aenean sit amet semper sem. Aliquam scelerisque hendrerit nibh, quis pellentesque enim auctor non. In malesuada nisi ipsum, id lacinia magna euismod in. Nulla vitae faucibus nibh. Integer mattis nunc id velit eleifend feugiat. Fusce tincidunt rutrum turpis vitae consectetur. Integer iaculis at ligula vel malesuada. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Nunc blandit est vel enim egestas feugiat. Donec sed fermentum enim, in blandit nunc.

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Valerie Dalgetty-Righton

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Duis et enim nec justo pretium maximus. Praesent ex mi, ullamcorper a dapibus non, mollis et elit. Nunc porttitor libero urna, non commodo nulla eleifend in. Cras quis dui orci. Ut vel varius ligula. Aenean nec eleifend sapien, eget placerat diam. Vestibulum luctus velit massa, elementum dictum magna facilisis sit amet. Phasellus aliquet dictum diam. Aliquam mattis nec mi eget vulputate. Praesent lacinia efficitur ornare. Aenean ut libero sapien. Nunc mi nulla, vulputate a dignissim nec, varius sed urna.

Mauris neque magna, gravida nec mauris ac, convallis condimentum arcu. Aliquam tortor nisi, sollicitudin id magna eu, congue convallis mauris. Proin aliquet, velit eu semper feugiat, tortor elit gravida diam, eget iaculis sapien risus eget dui. Duis mi massa, faucibus in libero non, luctus auctor purus. Aenean sit amet semper sem. Aliquam scelerisque hendrerit nibh, quis pellentesque enim auctor non. In malesuada nisi ipsum, id lacinia magna euismod in. Nulla vitae faucibus nibh. Integer mattis nunc id velit eleifend feugiat. Fusce tincidunt rutrum turpis vitae consectetur. Integer iaculis at ligula vel malesuada. Interdum et malesuada fames ac ante ipsum primis in faucibus. Nunc blandit est vel enim egestas feugiat. Donec sed fermentum enim, in blandit nunc.

Sam Cino

Sam Cino has over 30 years of senior management experience in the health care and social services sectors, having completed 20 years with Good Shepherd Centres as Chief of Corporate Services and Human Resources. Sam’s full career has been in supporting the vulnerable sector, including seniors in long-term care, and persons experiencing poverty, homelessness, physical, mental and cognitive disabilities with a special interest in serving individuals supported by Rygiel as a volunteer board member.

Sam also brings his experience as a life-long volunteer with several other community agencies and provincial bodies, currently serving on the St. Leonard’s Society of Hamilton Board, Sicilia Canta, the Sicilian Cultural Society of Hamilton, and other community organizations. Past community engagement includes the Festitalia Corporation, the St. Joseph’s Immigrant Women’s Centre, Volunteer Hamilton Centre of Community Engagement, member of the Mayor’s Advisory Council Against Racism and Discrimination, and the Health Care Health and Safety Association of Ontario.

Sam is the Principal Consultant for the Ontario Work Life Group (OWL), a Human Resources and Labour Relations consulting group, a part-time Executive Consultant with Good Shepherd Centres and the Administrative Officer for SeeNo Pest Control. He is a graduate of McMaster University (Psychology major), the University of Toronto/St. Michael’s College (Health Care Leadership) and the Canadian Institute of Management (CIM).

Sam also spent several years as a Labour Relations professor for the Mohawk College Human Resources Post Diploma Program, and as a Human Resources Management instructor in the Mohawk Not-For-Profit Leadership Program.

Jess Wharram

Senior Manager of People and Culture

jwharram@rygiel.ca

Jess Wharram brings extensive experience in human resources leadership, with a strong background in labor relations, workforce planning, and strategic HR initiatives. Throughout her career, Jess has partnered with leadership teams to develop and implement HR strategies that support both organizational priorities and employee engagement.

With a deep understanding of HR policies, Collective Agreements, and employment legislation, Jess excels at navigating complex workplace matters, including grievance resolution, talent management, and health and safety practices. A practical and forward-thinking leader, she balances immediate operational needs with long-term workforce planning to ensure sustainable growth and success.

Passionate about aligning HR with business objectives, Jess takes a hands-on approach to fostering workplaces that are both efficient and supportive. She thrives in collaborative environments and is committed to helping organizations build strong, engaged teams.

Outside of work, you can find Jess exploring local trails, playing boardgames with her friends, and working in the garden with the “help” of her puppy.

Amanda Blake

Finance Manager

ablake@rygiel.ca

Amanda Blake is an accomplished accounting and human resources professional with over 20 years of experience. She has developed a strong reputation for her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple roles efficiently in fast-paced environments.

Amanda obtained an Associates Degree in Business Manager (Human Resources) in 2003 from the College of the North Atlantic in St. John’s, NL. Upon graduation, Amanda made the bold move to Ontario in search of better career opportunities.

Throughout her career, Amanda has worked in a variety of industries, from child care services to automotive parts, and has accumulated a wealth of experience in payroll management, full-cycle accounting, and compliance with government regulations.

Her professional journey has seen her take on roles such as Payroll & Accounting Coordinator at Today’s Family Early Learning & Childcare and Financial & HR Administrator at Hamilton Discount Auto Parts & Supplies. At each of these positions, she has built strong relationships with both staff and management, ensuring seamless communication and the effective handling of payroll, financial reports, and HR functions.

In her most recent role as Finance Manger at Rygiel Supports For Community Living, she excels at analyzing financial data and implementing improved processes, always striving to support her team and contribute to the smooth operations of the organization.

Outside of her professional life, Amanda is deeply committed to continuous learning and improvement, always seeking opportunities to expand her skill set and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

Nick Lazar

Community Inclusion Manager

nlazar@rygiel.ca

Nick has dedicated his career to advocating for accessibility, inclusivity, and breaking down barriers for individuals facing challenges in their communities. With a wealth of experience spanning various roles, Nick is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Nick is proud to serve as the Community Inclusion Manager at Rygiel Supports for Community Living, where he helps create spaces where everyone belongs. Nick’s journey has been rooted in community and care, from his current role as a Board Member with DARTS, to coaching with passion as the Linebackers Coach for McMaster Football since 2017. Nick has had the privilege of managing programs at Cornerstones Special Needs Services and supporting families through various roles at Ogwadeni:deo (CAS Six Nations). His earlier work includes over a decade with the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board and 14 incredible years as a Treatment Foster Parent. Whether volunteering, coaching, or leading programs, Nick’s always been driven by a love for connection, inclusion, and making a positive impact.

Nick resides in Brantford, Ontario, with his wife, Kathleen, and their son, Nickolas Jr. Passionate about empowering others and advocating for equitable opportunities, Nick continues to work towards a more inclusive and supportive community.

Wioletta Gut

Inclusive Living Manager

wgut@rygiel.ca

Hello, my name is Wioletta Gut, and I am the Inclusive Living Manager. I’m originally from Poland and I came to Canada with a degree in Special Needs Education (Pedagogy) and began my career in teaching.

I started my career at Rygiel as a personal support worker, and after a few years, I took on the role of team leader, eventually stepping into a supervisory position in 2008. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to support individuals in various roles over the years. These experiences have allowed me to build strong relationships and develop empathy and compassion, enabling me to deliver the best possible service tailored to each person’s unique needs.

My passion for Rygiel began early, and I’ve now been a part of the team for 25 years. I’m proud to be a part of the Rygiel team, which has provided me with countless opportunities to professionally grow and experience exceptional care in developmental services. I’m forever grateful for these experiences and look forward to the many, many more.

Lindsay Spry

Senior Manager of Quality, Compliance, and Education

lspry@rygiel.ca

With nearly two decades of healthcare experience, Lindsay Spry specializes in quality improvement, regulatory compliance, and staff education. Her background in both clinical and leadership roles has shaped her dedication to high standards of care, process optimization, and professional development in the developmental services sector.

Lindsay’s passion for person-directed care has been central to her career, spanning front-line nursing to leadership in care coordination, quality assurance, and risk management. She holds a Diploma in Practical Nursing from Conestoga College, along with certifications in Dementia Care, Rehabilitation and Restorative Care, and Data Management.

With expertise in compliance, risk mitigation, and performance analysis, Lindsay has led interdisciplinary teams, streamlined reporting systems, and enhanced staff training programs. A champion of continuous improvement, she has played a key role in policy development, regulatory adherence, and resident safety initiatives. Her leadership in coaching teams, optimizing workflows, and leveraging data-driven decision-making has resulted in improved care quality and operational efficiency.

Lindsay remains committed to supporting teams in delivering high-quality, compliant, and person-centered services that exceed regulatory standards.

Jamie Toner

Director of Inclusive Supports

jtoner@rygiel.ca

Jamie Toner brings 15 years of nursing expertise to her role as Director of Inclusive Supports and Experience. She is deeply passionate about fostering inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and connected. Jamie holds specialized certifications, including Infection Control from Queen’s University, Competent Supervision, and Health & Safety training tailored for group home facilities. Her additional credentials in nursing, physical assessments, and navigating legal aspects in care reinforce her commitment to quality and safety.

A lifelong learner, Jamie also attended Humber College’s Developmental Services Worker program, expanding her skills to better support individuals with diverse needs. Her lived experience is equally inspiring; Jamie and her husband spent years residing in a group home, supporting five individuals, and providing treatment foster care for at-risk youth.

Known for her advocacy, networking, and ability to educate, Jamie collaborates with others to promote inclusion and ensure that every individual feels a sense of belonging within their community. Her leadership is rooted in compassion, expertise, and a commitment to creating meaningful connections that empower others to thrive.

Jennifer Steffler

Executive Director

jsteffler@rygiel.ca

Jennifer Steffler is Rygiel’s passionate and energetic leader. She’s on a mission to build a world where everyone—regardless of ability—belongs. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University and nearly two decades of experience in developmental services, Jennifer brings a mix of expertise, heart, and just the right amount of humour to the role.

Before stepping into the ED position at Rygiel, Jennifer honed her leadership skills at Community Living Toronto, working across multiple roles over 17 years. She believes in person-directed approaches that champion choice, self-determination, and meaningful community connections. For Jennifer, leadership isn’t just about strategy and big ideas—it’s about people. #TeamRygiel is at the center of everything she does, and she’s dedicated to fostering a workplace where innovation, inclusion, and laughter go hand in hand.

Jennifer is a proud mom outside of work, which keeps her on her toes and fuels her drive to create a more inclusive and equitable world. She’s also a passionate advocate for women’s rights and equality, believing that real progress happens when diverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered.

With Jennifer at the helm, Rygiel isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. She’s leading with purpose, pushing boundaries, and making sure that every step forward brings more people along for the journey.