Category: News

Harold Dougall wants people to know his name, to know he is a survivor, and to know what happened behind the closed doors of the Huronia Regional Centre.

That is why he chose to share his story in his newly released book, Behind Closed Doors.  Two years in the making, Harold’s story chronicles his life and memories of living at the Huronia Regional Centre (HRC), beginning when he was just 11 years old. He entered the institution in 1960, at a time when the surrounding community had little understanding of what truly went on inside its walls.

“People didn’t know what happened in there,” Harold says. “I want them to know and I want them to understand where I’m coming from with my story.”

The book traces Harold’s experiences at HRC and the lasting impact of institutionalization, while also highlighting the strength, determination, and perseverance that carried him forward. Behind Closed Doors also documents how Harold and other survivors helped launch the Huronia Regional Centre class action lawsuit – an important step toward accountability and recognition.

For Harold, telling his story has become a lifelong mission having shared his experiences through Speakers Bureau presentations at York University, speaking engagements in Winnipeg, appearances on local television, and in the documentary Unloved: Huronia’s Forgotten Children. He has spoken directly to Members of Provincial Parliament, advocating for accessibility and for the voices of people with disabilities to be heard.

Along the way, Harold has continued to grow, learn, and challenge himself. He taught himself how to write so he could advocate for himself and others in his community. He plans to run for Orillia City Council again in the next municipal election. He’s an advocate against drunk driving, a Special Olympian, and a Toastmaster – always pushing forward, always learning.

“I’ve learned to persevere,” Harold says. “I’m learning new things every day.”

Seeing his book for the first time was an emotional milestone.

But Harold sees Behind Closed Doors as just the beginning.

We are excited to announce that Fadime Arasteh from Barrie is the winner of the 2026 Empower Simcoe Artisans’ Card Contest!

Supported by Empower Simcoe’s Family Support program, Fadime Arasteh and her son, Sebastian, believe that each of us carries a special light – one that grows brighter through kindness, support, compassion, encouragement and unity.

Her colourful and uplifting drawing, Together We Shine, reflects the strength of coming together and the endless possibilities that grow when we support one another.

“My artwork represents the power of unity and the possibilities that grow when we lift each other up,” says Fadime.

Please join us in congratulating Fadime for sharing this inspiring artwork, which proudly graces our Empower Simcoe Thank You card.

A special thank you to Creative Cafe Barrie for generously sponsoring this year’s contest!

Their continued support is invaluable and helps inspire the artist in all of us.

Supported by Empower Simcoe’s Lakeshore Ridge team, Grace recently took part in the O.P.P. Guardians 5K Walk in support of Special Olympics – an important milestone that reflects her commitment to wellness and her willingness to step outside her comfort zone on her healing journey.

The event brought together people of all ages and backgrounds, all sharing a common goal: supporting health, movement, and their community. Grace met the challenge head-on, showing that progress doesn’t have to be rushed, it happens one step at a time. For Grace, the walk wasn’t just about reaching the finish line. It was about showing up for herself, connecting with others, and recognizing the strength she’s built through perseverance.

Along the route, Grace kept a steady pace, cheered on fellow walkers, and crossed the finish line feeling the joy of what she had accomplished.

“I’m so proud of myself,” Grace said after completing the walk.

Moments like these remind us that wellness is about so much more than physical activity. It’s also about confidence, connection, and believing in your ability to grow and move forward.

Thanks to the dedication and generosity of participants like Grace, the event raised over $42,000 for Special Olympics Ontario. These funds will support inclusive programs that help athletes with intellectual disabilities train, compete, and thrive in their communities.

Empower Simcoe and the Lakeshore Ridge team are incredibly proud of Grace and grateful to be part of her journey as she continues to discover new strengths and build meaningful connections. This 5K walk is a wonderful reminder of what’s possible when determination is met with support and opportunity.

Here’s to many more steps forward for Grace – in wellness, in community, and in personal growth.