Our Story
Beyond Boundaries Sarnia-Lambton was founded to create opportunities for adults with developmental and learning exceptionalities to thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment. Recognizing the growing demand for services and the long waitlists facing Lambton County, we are committed to filling this gap and providing immediate access to programs that empower, inspire, and connect.
With a deep passion for fostering independence and inclusion, we designed Beyond Boundaries to not only meet the needs of individuals but also to alleviate the pressures families and caregivers face. Our programs are built on the belief that everyone deserves the chance to live a fulfilling life without limitations.
Our Focus
At Beyond Boundaries, we provide a variety of Adventures and client-led Academy Activities designed to help adults with developmental and learning exceptionalities:
- Build Life and Social Skills: Develop essential skills for daily living, independence, and positive interactions with others.
- Foster Social Connections: Engage in fun, interactive activities and adventures that help participants form lasting friendships and build a sense of community.
- Explore the Community: Participate in adventures and activities that encourage inclusion, independence, and connection.
- Access Respite Care: Support for caregivers while providing enriching and engaging experiences for participants.
We aim to empower individuals to grow, connect, and achieve their personal goals in a welcoming and safe environment.
Who We Serve
We proudly serve adults with developmental and learning exceptionalities in Lambton County who are looking to enhance their independence, connect with others, and engage in meaningful experiences. Our programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of our participants, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported.
Meet Our Team
Get to know the dedicated individuals who make our programs possible.
Leadership
Rie Saraiva
Executive Director
Rie graduated with honours from both the Executive Office Administration and Social Service Worker (SSW) programs at Lambton College.
Melanie Rogers
Programs and Operations Director
Mel has been working with vulnerable populations for nearly 20 years and is a graduate of the PSW, DSW, and SSW programs. Currently pursuing a degree in Community Social Services, she is passionate about supporting others and making a positive impact. Mel brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and compassion to Beyond Boundaries.
She is deeply committed to fostering growth, inclusion, and connection within the community.
In her free time, Mel enjoys traveling, embracing new adventures, continuous learning, and positively contributing to our community.
Instructors
Judy
Judy has over 13 years of experience working with vulnerable populations as a Community Social Service Worker. She is passionate about fostering connection, creativity, and advocacy for those whose voices often go unheard.
Judy believes in the importance of community and dedicates her time to making a positive impact through both her work and her initiatives. Giving back is close to her heart, and she channels that passion into running her small charity, Helping Hearts Village.
In her spare time, Judy cherishes spending time with her family and crafting.
Brigitte
Brigitte began her career as a PSW providing home care. From there she moved on to become an Activities Coordinator at a day program for almost 15 years. While in this role, Brigitte worked towards becoming a Senior Fitness Instructor which fit well with her love of teaching exercise classes to her clients.
And now, Brigitte is ready to start this new journey with everyone at Beyond Boundaries. She cannot wait to meet all our amazing future participants!
In her spare time, Brigitte enjoys reading, anything to do with the outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.
Jimmy
Jimmy is a graduate of the Social Service Worker (SSW) program at Lambton College and is currently studying to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Community Social Services.
Jimmy has worked with vulnerable populations since 2022 and brings a wealth of lived experience to the field. This lived experience is what fueled Jimmy’s passion for working in a helping profession.
In his spare time, Jimmy enjoys playing video games, trying new restaurants, trying new foods, cooking, and camping.
Kristy
Bio coming soon…
Carlos
Carlos brings over 5 years of experience in private respite care, working closely with individuals with developmental exceptionalities.
Carlos also has a strong background in healthcare as a retired Canadian Forces medic. He is also graduate of the Workplace Safety and Prevention program at Lambton College and is most recently trained in Stretch Therapy where he enjoys helping people achieve their health goals.
Carlos is passionate about supporting others and giving back to his community through volunteer work, where he finds fulfillment in helping those in need.
In his downtime, Carlos enjoys watching sports of all kinds, playing video games, and spending quality time with his five kids.
Rick
Rick is a graduate of the Social Service Worker program with over seven years of experience supporting the homeless population and individuals facing complex barriers. His passion for advocacy and community engagement has shaped his career, allowing him to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those he serves.
A lifelong animal lover, Rick has been a proud dog dad for most of his life, sharing his home with furry companions who keep him active and entertained. Outside of his professional and personal commitments, he has a creative side—stepping into the role of a hero through cosplay. Whether portraying Captain America or blending elements of different characters into unique mash-ups, he brings enthusiasm and a sense of fun to the cosplay community.
Rick is excited to bring his experience, energy, and dedication to Beyond Boundaries, embracing new challenges and opportunities to connect with participants in engaging and meaningful ways.
Ethan
Ethan is driven by a passion for helping others and giving back to his community.
Though new to the field, he has been inspired by growing up watching his parents work in the helping profession and by his co-op placement at The Inn of the Good Shepherd. These experiences sparked his desire to support those in need and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Ethan is an active volunteer who is always ready to lend a helping hand. He aspires to serve his country by joining the Armed Forces and has dreams of becoming a Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic.
In his spare time, Ethan enjoys a wide variety of hobbies, including exploring his love for airplanes, Formula One racing, reading manga, watching anime, working on vehicles, and spending time with his friends, parents, and siblings.