About us

Our Philosophy

For more than seven decades, Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS) has been at the heart of fostering a community where people with developmental disabilities are empowered to thrive. Our journey began in 1955, sparked by a group of visionary parents who dreamed of a future without limitations for their children. They built something extraordinary—a foundation of care, connection, and excellence that has grown to touch countless lives across Lambton County.

Supporting people is not just what we do—it’s who we are. At LCDS, we embrace each adult person’s unique story, recognizing their individual paths, needs, hopes, and aspirations. We see ability, not limitation, and tailor our support to honour and celebrate the individuality of every person accessing services. Our team focuses on creating meaningful connections, fostering inclusion, and building quality of life—one person at a time.

We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live their fullest life. Whether it’s developing skills, living independently, achieving personal goals, or simply finding belonging, after 70 years LCDS remains dedicated to empowering those we support with the care, respect, and excellence they deserve. Our story continues, rooted in compassion and driven by the unwavering commitment to building brighter futures in Lambton County.

Supported People in 2024

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Dedicated Staff

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Core Values

Care

We express our care by honouring the dignity and uniqueness of each person. We engage others with courtesy, respect, and kindness as we champion equity, empowerment, and self-determination.

Connection

We intentionally cultivate relationships, demonstrating inclusion, equality, and citizenship.

Excellence

We provide exceptional professional services and supports. We are accountable and transparent, and continually learn and adapt.

Our Mission

Empowering people with developmental disabilities

Our Vision

Inclusive Communities ~ Innovative Leaders

Gordon's LCDS Experience

From Shell to Social

“What I like about LCDS is that it’s not just people you work with, it more like a family…. When I met with LCDS they really pulled me out of my shell. I can socialize with my friends. They boost my confidence… If I can do it, I know they can do it too.”

Gordon Bregman

person supported by LCDS
our team

our dedicated leadership team

Nick Salaris

Executive Director

Krista McCann

Community Supports Director

Jill Johnston

Residential Supports Director

Tracie Bennett

Finance Director

Elizabeth Forman

Human Resource Director

Strategic Plan

2024-2027

Our Strategic Plan is shaped by the perspectives of many valued stakeholders; persons whom we support and their families, volunteers, community partners, funders, employees, Board of Directors, and members of management and Senior Leadership.

As LCDS looks to the future, we are filled with optimism and excitement.  The strategic priorities we have developed together will enable us to expand our impact, enhance our services and achieve even greater outcomes for our community.

Affiliations

Elizabeth Forman

Human Resource Director 

With nearly four decades of experience in the developmental services sector, including both direct support and leadership roles, Elizabeth has brought a wealth of expertise and dedication to LCDS over the past 12 years.

 

Holding a Bachelor of Arts, a postgraduate degree in Art Therapy, a Human Resource Management Certification, and Certified Human Resources Leader designation, her academic background underscores her commitment to professional growth and excellence.

 

Recognizing the connection between empowered employees and the quality of care provided, Elizabeth transitioned into HR to cultivate a workforce that is both skilled and inspired. Her approach ensures that team members are equipped to empower people served by LCDS to lead fulfilling lives of their choosing. Her passion for nurturing growth and independence resonates deeply within her role and the values of LCDS.

Tracie Bennett

LCDS Financial Director

As the Finance Director at LCDS, Tracie sees firsthand how strategically using resources can create a lasting impact in people’s lives. Celebrating a decade with LCDS in 2025, she transitioned from the business world to the nonprofit sector, finding profound reward in her work.

 

Tracie has been a dedicated member of the LCDS team since October 2015. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Nipissing University and a Business Administration – Accounting diploma from Lambton College.

 

At LCDS, Tracie is inspired by the organization’s commitment to making a difference, even in the face of financial constraints. She witnesses the passion, creativity, and resilience of the team as they navigate challenges with a desire to do more. The sense of pride from working alongside dedicated individuals, knowing their efforts contribute to something greater, keeps Tracie motivated. This is what makes her work truly meaningful.

Jill Johnston

LCDS Residential Supports Director

Bringing with her a career rooted in support and care, Jill joined LCDS four years ago as the Residential Supports Director. With a degree in sociology and a diploma in gerontology, Jill’s career has spanned various sectors, including seniors, mental health, and now the developmental sector. At LCDS she oversees the residential programs, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs.

 

Jill is passionately committed to the LCDS motto of “one person at a time.” Her work is driven by the organization’s community-focused approach, unwavering integrity, and innovative solutions that empower individuals to live their best lives in the community and home of their choosing. Jill’s dedication to fostering independence and growth in those she supports shines through in every aspect of her role.

Krista McCann

LCDS Community Supports Director

For Krista, her journey with LCDS began as a 17-year-old student support worker. Over the past 38 years, she has dedicated her career to serving the LCDS community.

 

As the Community Supports Director, Krista oversees Social Enterprise Operations, Purchased Support Services, Supported Independent Living, Host Family Services, Community Connections and all fundraising, events, and engagement activities.

 

Krista’s passion and enthusiasm are fueled by witnessing the growth, independence, and life-long journeys of each individual supported by LCDS. She eagerly anticipates the annual Fusion signature event, where the community, sponsors, and entertainers unite to support LCDS while savoring local cuisine and beverages.

Nick Salaris

Executive Director

Nick began his LCDS tenure 35 years ago as a 1:1 support worker, then moved through roles such as Special Services, Home Worker, Support Worker, Supervisor/Manager, and Director, before becoming Executive Director in 2018. 

 

With executive training in Health and Safety, Property Management, and Leadership, Nick also holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Lambton College. Although he narrowly, and happily, escaped his family’s long-standing restaurant business, Nick instead dedicated his career to LCDS.

 

A passionate advocate for the community, Nick has volunteered with Petrolia Minor Soccer and Petrolia Minor Hockey over the years, and is currently a member of the Central-Lambton Dr. Recruitment Committee, and co-hosts an annual charity golf tournament in memory of his mother and in support of local families.

 

What inspires Nick most about LCDS are the relationships he has built with the people they support, the staff, families, and community partners.