As we reflect on 2024, the District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB) celebrates a year of growth, innovation, and community-focused achievements. Guided by a commitment to excellence, DRRSB has made significant strides in leadership, service delivery, and collaboration. These accomplishments showcase our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the Rainy River District and set a strong foundation for the future.

Here are just some of the accomplishments for 2024:

• Welcoming New Leadership – The District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB) welcomed Charene Gillies as the new Chief Administrative Officer. Charene, originally from Fort Frances, brought extensive experience in social services and community leadership.
  
• Advancing Emergency Medical Care – Rainy River District Paramedic Services deployed new state-of-the-art equipment in April, including the LUCAS 3 Chest Compression System and MegaMover® Plus. These tools enhance CPR efficiency and patient transport, demonstrating a commitment to improved patient outcomes and first responder safety.
  
• Addressing Paramedic Shortages – DRRSB began to tackle a 30% paramedic shortage by adopting a 3-ambulance model and prioritizing recruitment. All avenues, such as seeking public suggestions, collaborating with municipal and provincial partners, and attending recruitment events, are being used to help stabilize emergency services.
  
• Completion of HOPE Centre – DRRSB celebrated the completion of the HOPE Centre (Housing, Opportunity, Progress, Empowerment) located in Fort Frances. The facility includes transitional housing, the Out of the Cold Warming Centre, and the Safe Bed program. This milestone reflects a collaborative effort to address homelessness and provide essential services within the district.
  
• Conducting Enumeration in Atikokan – On November 20, 2024, DRRSB partnered with local agencies to conduct a Point-in-Time Count in Atikokan. This effort aimed to better understand homelessness by collecting data on housing situations and conducting detailed surveys with individuals in unstable or temporary housing. The data will shape future efforts to address homelessness in Atikokan.
  
• Raising Awareness on Homelessness – The “There’s No Place Like a Home” campaign highlighted homelessness in Fort Frances. The campaign culminated in the “Hockey & Homelessness” event, collecting winter accessory donations and fostering community dialogue. It underscored the importance of collaboration and awareness.
  
• Promoting Early Childhood Education – The “Join the Journey” event celebrated Early Childhood Educators and encouraged career exploration in the field. Held on October 24, it featured interactive sessions, career guidance, and community engagement, emphasizing the critical role of ECEs in shaping the future.
  
• Recognizing Outstanding Achievements – The DRRSB proudly celebrated the accomplishments of several outstanding paramedics in 2024:
  • Medals for Paramedic Bravery: Paramedics Syed Ali and Raphaël Désautels received the Ontario Medal for Paramedic Bravery on May 27. The two were honored for their heroism during a March 2023 fire response, where they risked their lives by entering a smoke-filled residence to rescue an individual.
  • Exemplary Service Medals: Primary Care Paramedics Stanley Vlotaros, Donna O’Sullivan, and Deputy Chief Christopher Wielinga were awarded the Emergency Medical Services Exemplary Service Medal in October. This prestigious honor recognizes professionals in pre-hospital emergency medical services for their exemplary conduct, diligence, and efficiency in service to their communities.
    
• Strengthening Community Health – The Community Paramedicine program expanded its reach, delivering proactive healthcare to vulnerable residents across the Rainy River District. By providing in-home assessments, chronic disease monitoring, and wellness checks, the program helps reduce hospital visits and enables seniors to age safely in their homes. The program also engaged with residents by participating in senior wellness fairs and community events throughout the district.
  
• Strategic Plan Development – The completion of a five-year Strategic Plan sets clear priorities for DRRSB’s mission and values. Extensive feedback shaped actionable goals to guide service delivery, ensuring alignment with community needs and organizational principles.

As we look ahead to 2025, DRRSB remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community well-being. Building on the successes of 2024, we aim to address emerging challenges, strengthen partnerships, and continue delivering high-quality services. Together, we can achieve a brighter future for the Rainy River District.