5-Year Reflections from Sunbeam’s Chief Executive Officer

Our CEO, Brian Swainson, shares his reflections upon reaching his five-year work anniversary with Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services.

Five years ago today I joined Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services as its new CEO. I would like to share a few reflections on what I consider to be such a meaningful milestone in my professional and personal journey. Having studied, lived, worked and volunteered in Waterloo Region for almost 30 years, I thought I knew Sunbeam and the local not-for-profit landscape fairly well. I had worked in the vulnerable sector for many years, and I’d served as a volunteer family-home provider for an adult with intellectual and physical disabilities for several years, which taught me how much I still had to learn. 

Now, 5 years after being welcomed into the Sunbeam Community I have gained such appreciation and respect for the people who choose to dedicate their careers to serving and supporting persons living with developmental disabilities. The work can be rewarding yet challenging, satisfying yet frustrating, joyous yet intensely emotional.  Working at Sunbeam is a calling, to be certain, and there is no shortage of awesome talent within our growing workforce of 500+ strong. As an organization, Sunbeam is inclusive and welcoming of all, celebrating differences and fostering community every single day.

The individuals we support face many barriers and obstacles every day, yet I regularly see our clients expressing happiness and contentment, experiencing belonging and community, showing determination, optimism and kindness for themselves and others always with a sense of hope. It is our clients who inspire us to strive to do better every day, to support them to reach their goals, as we are guided by the philosophy “Nothing about us without us.” Powerful words, with a depth that resonates throughout our work.  “Nothing about us without us” keeps us on this journey together, sometimes following the lead of our clients and sometimes side-by-side, while always extending a helping hand when needed.

I had so much to learn when I walked through the door on January 6th, 2020, which was a far more eventful year than anyone expected, and five years later I’m still learning every day.

I greatly appreciate the many partnerships we have across developmental services, community and social services, education, government, and with our donors and supporters in the community because we all share in this journey. To those of you that are a part of Sunbeam’s Community, I am professionally and personally grateful for your partnership and collaboration. Thank You – your efforts and support make all the difference.

I only see positive things ahead for the Sunbeam Community, and I invite you to stay connected with us along the way!