2011 President’s Award recognizes Katherine Webster for her work on behalf of children with autism

June, 2011 – Kinark Child and Family Services is pleased to name Katherine Webster as this year’s recipient of Kinark’s President’s Award, in recognition of her dedicated work in support of children with autism and their families. Katherine, a busy businesswoman and the mother of three children – including a son who received an autism diagnosis at 18 months – has been instrumental in the development of an autism parent advisory committee for Kinark. This group provides valuable input into the services and supports for parents on the waitlist and in service with the Central East Autism Program (CEAP), and offers parents encouragement and information on system navigation. In addition, Katherine chairs Autism Parents Talking (APTalk), which she helped to create in 2010 to provide parents with a safe forum for productive dialogue about autism, and to influence decision makers on how to improve the integrated system of supports and services for families of children with autism. Katherine credits her son as the driving force behind her work to support others in their journey with autism.

Each year, Kinark’s President’s Award recognizes the work of an individual who is making a meaningful difference in the lives of children, youth and families. Dale Biddell, Kinark’s Board President explains this year’s selection: “Katherine’s energy and work have already – and in a relatively short time - made a positive impact on the autism landscape in the Central East region and across the province. Her enthusiasm for children and the strength of families, and her demonstrated belief in the power of positive dialogue sets a standard that we at Kinark want to honour and recognize.”