Community of Hearts Scholarship Fund

In honour of her friend Denise, Community of Hearts volunteer and champion, Joan McVean established the Community of Hearts Scholarship Fund.

What inspired Joan to set up this scholarship fund?

In Joan’s own words:
Denise was born in 1921 in Saskatchewan to a homesteading family. She was educated at a boarding school near Chantre, France, but was unable to get home when World War II broke out. She remained in Paris studying social work. In 1946, Denise joined the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration, working in Hanover, Germany, as a social worker in the refugee camps. On her return to Toronto, she began a 37 year career working at Catholic Children’s and then Metro Toronto Children’s Aid, working with single mothers and their babies. Denise passed away just months before her 99th birthday. She was a wonderful friend and became a second mother to me. It is my hope that this scholarship fund honours her memory, friendship and career by helping individuals with developmental disabilities to access programs they might not have been able to experience.

The Impact of this Scholarship

As told by the Community of Hearts team:
The Community of Hearts Scholarship Fund has had a profound impact not only on the individuals it directly supports, but also on the Community of Hearts organization as a whole. By removing financial barriers, it has made it possible for participants with developmental disabilities, who often have limited resources, to access opportunities they otherwise might not have been able to experience. For example, in 2024 two individuals were able to take part in a life skills program focused on baking. This was an experience that provided them with valuable skills and a sense of inclusion. One participant shared their heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity, saying:

“Thank you for inviting me to join the ‘Fall Cooking’ session at no cost. Since living on my own, I really have to watch my spending. That’s why I live in rent-geared income housing, as I couldn’t afford market rent plus food, bills, and everything else. Thanks again to the grants and generous donors.”

This quote beautifully captures the essential role the scholarship fund plays by helping individuals navigate the challenges of daily life while fostering a sense of independence and community through accessible programs. For this participant, the scholarship opened the door to more than just a cooking class. It offered the chance to build life skills, connect with peers, and experience a sense of belonging. The skills learned in the program, such as collaboration, problem-solving, and communication, have translated into increased confidence and a renewed sense of integration into their community.

The second recipient also experienced profound personal growth through the scholarship. This program allowed them to explore their passion for baking in a supportive, inclusive environment. For many individuals with developmental disabilities, finding spaces where they can participate meaningfully in their community can be a challenge. These programs provide opportunities to learn in a welcoming space where participants feel seen, valued, and make meaningful connections. The Community of Hearts Scholarship has provided access to these transformative learning experiences which recipients would not have had otherwise. The scholarship has helped break down barriers, allowing them to engage more fully in society and form deeper connections with others like them. This sense of inclusion is an essential part of their personal growth, fostering a greater sense of belonging and purpose.

The impact of this scholarship extends far beyond the individuals it directly supports. By providing access to inclusive programs like the baking course, this scholarship is helping create a more equitable community where everyone, regardless of ability or financial means, has the opportunity to contribute and thrive. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion and the far-reaching benefits of offering individuals the tools, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. Through this scholarship, the ripple effect of positive change continues enriching the lives of participants and strengthening the bonds of our entire community.