Who We Are

About

From an idea to reality. Our Neighborhood Living Society’s history dates back to 1994, when a small group of individuals started their own organization to assist in the support of youth in the community. Since then the organization has evolved dramatically, growing steadily and merging as one of the leading support organizations.

Our vision is to provide community based opportunities for individuals who have an intellectual challenge, physical or mental health disability, ensuring a safe and well balanced environment in which to live.

We encourage and support our Residents’ pursuit of self-fulfillment. We support the person in all aspects of their daily lives in partnership with their family and advocates.

We continually redesign our approaches to support the individuals’ needs and wishes. We work closely with other professionals in order to deliver the best possible support.

Commitment to Community and Choice

As an employee of Our Neighbourhood Living Society (ONLS), you are required to uphold the organization’s mission and values, which are rooted in inclusion, respect, and self-determination. ONLS is committed to supporting individuals to live meaningful lives within their communities and to exercise choice and control in all aspects of their daily living. As a Residential Counselor, you are expected to fully adhere to these principles in your practice. Commitment to community participation and individual choice is a condition of employment. The workplace is the communities in which those we support reside. This an essential part of your professional responsibilities with ONLS.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to deliver person-centred, trauma-informed supports that empower individuals to live with dignity, independence, and a strong sense of belonging in their communities. We are committed to providing safe, stable, and inclusive environments where people can pursue personal growth, build meaningful relationships, and lead fulfilling, self-directed lives. While continuing to operate community-based residential supports in the Halifax Regional Municipality, we will strategically expand into additional service areas to respond to emerging needs across Nova Scotia. Through thoughtful growth and innovation, we aim to offer a range of supports that strengthen choice, remove barriers, and provide Nova Scotians with the resources and opportunities they need to achieve independence and thrive.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide individuals who have intellectual challenges with person-centered supports in a safe home environment.

At ONLS, we define success as achieving a standard of excellence in everything we do. Excellence is not a single outcome. It is reflected in how we support people, how we work together, and how we remain accountable to the individuals, families, and communities we serve.

Success in our organization is guided by clear indicators. The key factors that help us understand whether we are meeting our goals and living our values. These measures act as milestones, helping us evaluate our progress, strengthen our practice, and remain focused on what matters most: person-centered, trauma-informed, respectful, and community-based support. The following are core indicators of individual, team, and organizational success. At the end of each day, we should be able to reflect on these areas and confidently say that our work aligned with them.

1. A reputation for fiscal responsibility
   ONLS is both a mission-driven organization and a responsible community partner. We steward resources carefully so we can continue to provide meaningful, high-quality supports. This means regularly reviewing our processes to ensure they are effective, sustainable, and aligned with our mandate. Delivering person-centered supports in the most responsible and accountable way possible while maintaining our standards of excellence.
2. A reputation for people-focused programs that work
   Our strength comes from our people. We are committed to fostering a respectful workplace culture that attracts, supports, and retains skilled and compassionate staff. We measure success through staff engagement, retention, and feedback, ensuring our programs promote professional growth, accountability, and a shared commitment to quality supports.
3. Development of high-quality, person-centered support plans
   Support planning is collaborative, informed, and grounded in best practice. Plans are developed with the active involvement of the person being supported, informed by data, professional insight, and a trauma-informed lens. They reflect individual goals, strengths, preferences, and safeguards, and are designed to promote independence, inclusion, and meaningful community participation.
4. The highest level of satisfaction for the people we support
   The experiences and voices of the people we support are the most important measure of our success. We seek regular feedback through respectful engagement, listening to what matters to them and adapting our supports accordingly. Their well-being, growth, and sense of belonging in their communities define the impact of our work.

ONLS is a community of professionals who are committed to continuous improvement, accountability, and compassionate practice. Together, we strive to create environments where people feel respected, safe, empowered, and where they have every opportunity to live full and meaningful lives in their communities.

Our success is built as a team, grounded in person-centered and trauma-informed practice, and sustained through strong relationships, shared responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to the people we serve.

ONLS Service Philosophy

In support of our Vision, Mission, Values, and strategic priorities, ONLS is committed to delivering services and supports that consistently meet and exceed expectations. Our primary measure of success is resident satisfaction. We strive to earn and maintain the trust, confidence, and respect of every individual and organization we engage with while representing Our Neighbourhood Living Society.

To provide the highest quality of service and to treat others as we would wish to be treated, all ONLS representatives commit to the following principles:

• We create a welcoming, respectful environment that puts residents, employees, and partners at ease.
• We are responsive to individual needs and adapt our approach based on each person’s communication style, knowledge, culture, and preferences. We demonstrate strong emotional intelligence and awareness in all interactions.
• We are knowledgeable, confident, and prepared. When we do not have an answer, we acknowledge it, seek the information, and respond accurately and promptly.
• We uphold a respectful environment for residents, employees, and community partners. While we approach frustration and conflict with empathy and understanding, disrespectful behavior including personal attacks, obscenities, or aggressive communication—will not be accepted. When necessary, we will pause discussions and resume them at a more appropriate time.
• We manage expectations through clear, honest, and timely communication. We avoid overpromising, remain grounded in facts, and follow through on our commitments. We communicate openly when circumstances change.
• Our purpose is to provide meaningful value, expertise, and support to residents.
• We use technology effectively and appropriately to enhance service quality and accessibility.
• We remain accessible and responsive, including maintaining a 365-day emergency on-call system for residents, staff, and key contacts.
• Our services are recognized for professionalism, efficiency, and resourcefulness.
• We do not simply say “no.” We provide clear explanations and, wherever possible, offer alternative solutions or options.
• We look beyond the limits of our own programs and connect residents with additional supports and opportunities that may benefit them.

Resident Supports Philosophy

Normalization

ONLS believes the principle of normalization provides a strong framework for supporting persons in care. Normalization refers to the use of culturally valued means to support individuals in living conditions and experiences comparable to those of other citizens, while enhancing dignity, status, and opportunities (Wolfensberger). Many of our practices are guided by this principle.

Rights

We believe that persons in our care have the same human and legal rights as any citizen under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act. We are committed to respecting, protecting, and promoting these rights, including the right to make informed choices wherever possible.

Individual Supports

We believe effective support begins with understanding each person as an individual. Planning is based on personal strengths, preferences, needs, and goals, rather than fitting individuals into predetermined programs. We are committed to person-centered services.

Integration

We believe individuals benefit most from participating in everyday community settings alongside other community members. We support inclusive and integrated experiences, access to education within one’s own community, and full access to community services. We also value and encourage active involvement from families and natural supports.

Learning

Families and natural support networks play a key role in shaping values, behaviors, and growth. We are committed to planning processes that include family members and extended supports such as professionals, educators, and clinicians.

Quality Assurance

ONLS maintains a culture of reflection, accountability, and continuous improvement. We actively seek:

• External evaluation and feedback
• New and innovative practices in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Flexibility

We recognize that needs evolve over time. We remain responsive and adaptable, adjusting supports to reflect changing circumstances within the home and community.

Size and Environment

We believe individuals are best supported in small, family-sized environments that foster belonging, connection, and individualized attention. Staff are encouraged to maintain meaningful, ongoing relationships with individuals and their families.

Humane Supports

We are committed to respectful, positive, and non-intrusive approaches to teaching and support. We do not use aversive techniques and instead focus on building skills, confidence, and positive behaviors.

Personal Relationships

We recognize that many individuals have experienced isolation. Developing meaningful personal relationships is essential to growth and well-being. We support opportunities for individuals to build diverse, natural relationships within their communities.

Community Involvement

Active participation in community life is essential to personal development. We support individuals in accessing and engaging in community activities, including recreation, cultural events, faith practices, and memberships in community organizations.

Staffing

Our staff are essential to achieving our mission. We believe individuals are best supported by staff who genuinely care, respect their individuality, and are committed to supporting fulfilling lives. ONLS strives to ensure staff feel valued and supported through fair compensation, benefits, and working conditions within available resources. We are committed to collaborative working relationships and to fostering shared commitment to ONLS’s mission and values.

Trauma-Informed Care: Key Points for Employees

Purpose
Trauma-informed care (TIC) is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into how we support residents, interact with one another, and make decisions. The goal is to create environments that promote safety, trust, choice, and empowerment while reducing the risk of re-traumatization.

What is Trauma?

Trauma can result from a single event, ongoing experiences, or systemic barriers. It may include abuse, neglect, loss, violence, institutionalization, discrimination, or other distressing experiences. Trauma affects how individuals think, feel, respond to stress, and engage with services.

Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters

• Many individuals receiving supports have experienced trauma.
• Trauma can influence behaviour, communication, trust, and relationships.
• Supportive, predictable environments improve emotional safety and well-being.
• Trauma-informed approaches reduce conflict, crisis, and re-traumatization.

Staff well-being and reflective practice are essential to quality care.

Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

1. Safety
Create environments where individuals feel physically and emotionally safe.

• Maintain calm, respectful interactions
• Be consistent and predictable
• Reduce environmental stressors where possible

2. Trust and Transparency
Build trust through honesty, reliability, and clear communication.

• Explain what is happening and why
• Follow through on commitments
• Be open about changes or decisions

3. Choice and Control
Support autonomy and self-determination.

• Offer options whenever possible
• Respect preferences and pacing
• Involve individuals in decisions that affect them

4. Collaboration
Work in partnership with residents, families, and colleagues.

• Listen actively and validate experiences
• Share information respectfully
• Recognize the individual as the expert in their own life

5. Empowerment and Strengths-Based Practice
Focus on strengths, resilience, and capability.

• Reinforce skills and progress
• Support confidence and independence
• Encourage participation and leadership in personal goals

6. Cultural, Historical, and Social Awareness
Recognize the impact of culture, identity, and systemic barriers.

• Be respectful and inclusive
• Avoid assumptions
• Adapt supports to reflect individual backgrounds and experiences

Trauma-Informed Interactions: What This Looks Like in Practice

• Use calm, respectful language and tone.
• Allow extra processing time; avoid rushing.
• Provide clear expectations and predictable routines.
• Avoid power struggles; focus on de-escalation and understanding.
• Ask “What happened?” rather than “What’s wrong?”
• Recognize that behaviour is often a form of communication.
• Maintain boundaries while remaining empathetic and supportive.

Supporting Staff Well-Being

Trauma-informed organizations recognize the impact of secondary stress on staff.

• Use supervision and debriefing supports.
• Practice self-care and peer support.
• Seek guidance when situations feel overwhelming.
• Foster a culture of respect, learning, and psychological safety.

Our Commitment

We are committed to embedding trauma-informed practices across all services, policies, and daily interactions. Every employee plays a role in creating environments where all people feel safe, respected, and supported to heal, grow, and thrive.

Person-Centered Support: Overview for Employees

Purpose
Person-centered support places the individual at the centre of all planning, decisions, and services. It focuses on who the person is—their strengths, preferences, goals, relationships, and lived experiences—rather than fitting them into pre-existing programs or routines.

This approach ensures that supports are meaningful, respectful, and responsive, and that individuals are empowered to live self-directed, fulfilling lives.

What Person-Centered Support Means

• Every person is unique and deserves individualized supports.
• Individuals have the right to make choices and be involved in decisions about their lives.
• Support is built around personal goals, strengths, and interests.
• Relationships, community belonging, and dignity are essential to well-being.
• Staff act as partners and facilitators—not decision-makers—whenever possible.

Core Principles

1. Respect and Dignity
Treat every person as a valued individual. Honour their voice, experiences, and identity in all interactions.

2. Choice and Self-Determination
Support individuals to make informed decisions about daily life, services, relationships, and future goals.

3. Strengths-Based Approach
Focus on abilities, skills, and potential rather than limitations.

4. Individualized Planning
Develop supports based on what matters to and for the person, not what is easiest or most routine for services.

5. Inclusion and Belonging
Promote participation in community life, relationships, and opportunities that reflect personal interests and cultural identity.6.

Collaboration
Work in partnership with the individual, families, natural supports, and professionals as chosen by the person.

What This Looks Like in Practice

• Listening actively and valuing the person’s perspective.
• Offering real choices—not just limited options.
• Supporting independence while providing appropriate assistance.
• Adapting communication to match individual needs and preferences.
• Encouraging participation in community activities and relationships.
• Respecting routines, traditions, and personal priorities.
• Reviewing supports regularly to ensure they still reflect the person’s goals.

Role of Employees

• Build trusting, respectful relationships.
• Advocate for the person’s voice and rights.
• Balance safety with dignity of risk.
• Be flexible and responsive as needs and goals change.
• Document and communicate what is important to the person.
• Reflect on personal practice and continuously learn.

Our Commitment

Person-centered support is the foundation of our services. Every interaction, decision, and plan should reflect the belief that individuals are experts in their own lives and have the right to direct how they live, grow, and participate in their communities.

Residential Counselors play a critical role in supporting individuals with disabilities to live meaningful, safe, and self-directed lives within residential and community settings. To provide effective, ethical, and person-centered support, staff must demonstrate core competencies across knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes.

1. Person-Centered Support

• Respect for Autonomy: Understand and respect the individual’s right to make choices and direct their own life.
• Individualized Planning: Contribute to the development and implementation of person-centered plans that reflect the resident’s goals, strengths, and preferences.
• Support for Informed Decision-Making: Provide information in accessible ways and encourage participation in decisions related to health, relationships, daily living, and community involvement.

2. Communication Skills

• Active Listening: Demonstrate empathy and patience when listening to residents’ needs and concerns.
• Adaptability: Use a variety of communication methods (verbal, non-verbal, visual aids, technology-assisted) to support diverse abilities.
• Conflict Resolution: Manage and de-escalate conflicts constructively while promoting positive outcomes.
• Documentation: Accurately and objectively record information, progress notes, and incidents in compliance with organizational and legal standards.

3. Health, Safety, and Well-Being

• Medication Administration: Follow policies and procedures for safe storage, handling, and administration of medications.
• Crisis Prevention and Intervention: Recognize signs of distress or escalation and use trauma-informed strategies to ensure safety.
• First Aid and Emergency Response: Maintain certification in CPR/First Aid and respond promptly to health emergencies.
• Risk Awareness: Balance safety with promoting independence, ensuring environments are safe while not overly restrictive.

4. Trauma-Informed and Ethical Practice

• Understanding Trauma: Recognize the impact of trauma and avoid re-traumatization through sensitive, respectful care.
• Confidentiality and Boundaries: Maintain professional boundaries while building trusting relationships.
• Ethical Standards: Uphold dignity, respect, and the human rights of all individuals, guided by professional codes and relevant legislation.

5. Life Skills and Daily Living Support

• Practical Assistance: Support residents with cooking, cleaning, budgeting, personal care, and transportation as needed.
• Skill Building: Encourage independence by teaching and reinforcing daily living skills.
• Community Inclusion: Facilitate participation in social, recreational, cultural, and spiritual activities to enhance quality of life.

6. Cultural Competence and Diversity

• Respect for Identity: Value and respect residents’ cultural backgrounds, languages, genders, and spiritual practices.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Adapt approaches to support inclusive and culturally safe environments.
• Reconciliation and Awareness: Understand the impacts of systemic discrimination and ableism, and work toward equity.

7. Professional Collaboration

• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with colleagues, supervisors, families, and other professionals (healthcare providers, therapists, educators).
• Advocacy: Support residents in advocating for themselves and, when necessary, advocate on their behalf in systems and services.
• Resource Knowledge: Stay informed about community resources, support programs, and networks that can benefit residents.

8. Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness

• Resilience: Manage stress, maintain composure, and avoid burnout in challenging situations.
• Reflective Practice: Engage in self-reflection to continuously improve professional practice.
• Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrate genuine care and patience in all interactions.

9. Learning and Professional Development

• Ongoing Training: Stay current with best practices in disability support, trauma-informed care, and relevant legislation.
• Adaptability: Embrace changes in policies, approaches, and resident needs with flexibility.
• Commitment to Growth: Seek feedback and engage in professional learning opportunities to enhance competencies.

10. Legal and Policy Knowledge

• Legislative Awareness: Understand and apply laws and regulations related to disability rights, privacy, human rights, and occupational health and safety.
• Organizational Policies: Follow all policies, procedures, and standards set by the residential service provider.
• Accountability: Take responsibility for actions and decisions, ensuring ethical and lawful conduct.

Summary

A Residential Counselor supporting persons with disabilities must combine compassion with professional skill, empathy with accountability, and support with empowerment. The role requires not only technical knowledge (medications, safety, policies) but also relational and personal qualities (patience, cultural sensitivity, resilience).

ONLS Core Values

Our core values are the enduring principles that guide how we think, act, and deliver supports. They define who we are as an organization and shape our culture, decisions, and relationships. These values do not require external justification—they stand the test of time and are reflected in our daily practices.

Our practices are the behaviours that bring these values to life in our work with residents, families, colleagues, and community partners. At ONLS, person-centred support, trauma-informed care, and community inclusion are foundational to everything we do. We recognize that all of community is our workplace, and that meaningful supportive relationships with residents always take priority over tasks.

Person-Centred

We place the individual at the centre of all supports and decisions.

• We listen first and act in partnership with residents.
• We respect choice, dignity, independence, and self-determination.
• We focus on strengths, goals, and what matters most to each person.
• We adapt supports to fit the person—not the person to fit the service.

Trauma-Informed

We recognize the impact of trauma and respond with compassion, safety, and understanding.

• We create predictable, respectful, and emotionally safe environments.
• We prioritize trust, transparency, and collaboration.
• We avoid re-traumatization and respond to behaviour as communication.
• We support healing, resilience, and empowerment.

Relationships First

We believe relationships are the foundation of quality support.

• Our connection with a resident is always more important than completing a task.
• We take time to build trust, consistency, and meaningful engagement.
• We value presence, empathy, and understanding in every interaction.

Community is Our Workplace

Support does not stop at the front door.

• We work alongside people in their homes, neighbourhoods, and communities.
• We promote belonging, inclusion, and participation in everyday life.
• We build partnerships and connections that expand opportunity and choice.
• As an employee of ONLS you are assigned to where resident supports are required

L.I.S.T. Values in Practice

Leadership

We lead through accountability, mentorship, and action.

• We foster responsibility and ownership at every level.
• We teach, coach, and support one another.
• We seek solutions and remain resourceful in the face of challenges.
• We aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we support.

Impact

We focus on what matters and deliver meaningful results.

• We communicate clearly and with purpose.
• We prioritize quality and outcomes over activity alone.
• Meeting commitments and deadlines is essential.
• We encourage thoughtful innovation and calculated risk-taking to improve supports.

Smarts

We value knowledge, curiosity, and responsible stewardship.

• We hire, support, and retain people who add value.
• We remain curious, reflective, and open to learning.
• We act pragmatically and responsibly with resources.
• We use technology to work more effectively and enhance service delivery.

Trust

We build strong relationships grounded in integrity and respect.

• We are supportive, positive, and solution-focused.
• We do the right thing—for residents, colleagues, partners, and our community.
• We lead with empathy and understanding.
• We value humour, humanity, and the importance of connection.

Additional Values That Guide Our Work

Dignity and Rights
We uphold the rights, safety, and dignity of every person we support.

Collaboration
We work in partnership with residents, families, staff, and community members.

Inclusion and Belonging
We believe everyone has a place in their community and deserves opportunities to participate fully.

Flexibility and Responsiveness
We adapt to changing needs and remain open to new approaches.

Excellence and Accountability
We strive for high standards in service, professionalism, and ethical practice.

Our Commitment

These values shape every decision, relationship, and action at ONLS. They guide how we support residents, how we work together, and how we show up in the community—every day

ONLS Workplace Culture

The culture at ONLS reflects who we are, how we work together, and how we support residents and one another. It is grounded in respect, accountability, inclusion, and a shared commitment to person-centred and trauma-informed practices. We strive to create an environment where people feel valued, safe, supported, and empowered to do their best work. Our culture recognizes that strong teams create strong supports. We invest in relationships, communicate openly, and address challenges directly and respectfully.

Respectful and Safe Workplace

• We are committed to a workplace that is respectful, inclusive, and free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying.
• Every employee has the right to feel psychologically and physically safe at work.
• Concerns are taken seriously, addressed promptly, and managed with fairness and confidentiality.
• We model professionalism, kindness, and accountability in all interactions.

Communication and Accountability

• We communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully.
• We address issues head-on rather than avoiding them, using constructive and solution-focused conversations.
• We assume positive intent while maintaining accountability.
• Feedback is welcomed and used as an opportunity for learning and growth.
• We support one another through challenges and celebrate successes together.

Supporting Employees

• We recognize that employees bring diverse needs, strengths, and life experiences to their roles.
• Where operationally possible, we support accommodations and modifications to work arrangements to promote well-being, accessibility, and work–life balance.
• We are committed to inclusive employment practices and barrier-free workplaces.
• Staff are encouraged to seek support when experiencing stress, workload challenges, or personal difficulties that may impact their work.
• Leaders are responsible for listening, responding, and supporting staff in meaningful ways.

Person-Centered and Trauma-Informed Environment

• Our workplace reflects the same principles we expect in our resident supports: safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment.
• We recognize the impact of stress and trauma on both residents and employees.
• We prioritize emotional safety, reflective practice, and supportive supervision.
• We encourage self-care, peer support, and professional development.

Cultural Respect and Inclusion

• We honour and respect the cultural identities, traditions, and values of residents, employees, and community members.
• We actively support residents in maintaining and expressing their cultural practices, beliefs, and community connections of their choosing.
• We welcome and celebrate positive cultural traditions, languages, and experiences within our workplace and services.
• We remain open, curious, and responsive to diverse perspectives and lived experiences.

Relationship-Based Work

• Relationships are at the heart of everything we do.
• We prioritize connection, trust, and understanding over task completion. (Task completion is important.)
• We work collaboratively with residents, families, staff, and community partners to create supportive and inclusive environments.

Growth, Learning, and Innovation

• We promote a culture of continuous learning, reflection, and improvement.
• Employees are encouraged to share ideas, identify opportunities, and contribute to innovation in services and workplace practices.
• We learn from challenges and remain flexible in responding to change.

Shared Responsibility

• Every employee contributes to the culture of ONLS.
• We are all responsible for modelling respect, supporting one another, and upholding our values in daily practice.
• We approach our work with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive difference.

Our Commitment

ONLS is dedicated to building a workplace where people feel supported, respected, and empowered—and where residents experience services that reflect dignity, inclusion, and belonging. Our culture is lived through our actions, relationships, and shared commitment to doing what is right for the people we support and for one another.

ONLS employees and residents are encouraged to be a part of the communities in which we provide services. Employees and residents are encouraged to bring all possibilities for giving to the community forward to their supervisor for discussion.

All ideas will be welcomed and explored for possible implementation.

For example:

• Volunteerism
• Supporting needy families at Christmas time.
• By participating in community charity events. (Partnership community grants etc.)
• Donation of old computer systems and phones to families in need.

What better way to foster teamwork, creativity, and fun than social events?  We are committed to supporting our social events process.  The mission of our social events process is to provide individuals with an opportunity to get to know each other and our families, and participate in team building by organizing social events throughout the year.  Many of these events become key highlights of each year and we encourage everyone to participate.

Social Event TEAM                                                                                                             

The Social Events team is made up of volunteers from around ONLS who meet to discuss and organize ONLS social events.  The team may be provided with an annual budget and all events are classified as either ONLS-paid, ONLS-subsidized, or individual-paid.

The holiday party and ONLS picnic are annually scheduled events that have become ONLS rituals—for many of us they are social highlights of the year.

If you have an idea or suggestion, don’t hesitate to contact your supervisor. Join the Social Events Team and PARTICIPATE!

The current members of our Social Events Team can be found by contacting Shelly Langille.

Note: all social events are subject to budgetary constraints and will be evaluated on an ongoing basis by the Executive Director and the accounting department.

Organizational Chart

The Org Chart helps us to understand who’s who  and how things are linked at ONLS.

Click here to open the Org Chart.