Thistle House CARE Farm
Non for Profit
Board of Directors
Meet our amazing Board of Directors supporting our Non for Profit endeavor
Thistle House Care Farm
offering Day Programs for Seniors struggling with Dementia
and Youth Mental Health
Our Story
Thistle House Care Farm Non for Profit started in order to find out how to help our members receive funding to support out of pocket fees for day programming services and to get the infrastructure in place for running the Day programming activities on the Farm including wheelchair or walker safe gravel pathways, raised garden beds with specially selected sensory plants and herbs, and a shelter to give our Seniors and Youth breaks from the sun; and finally AODA compliant portable washrooms and handwashing stations.
Without our Board to help us, and non for profit sponsors we wouldn't be able to offer such a unique experience to our members.
Meet The Board
Christine Perestrelo
Chair
Christine brings a wealth of experience in health promotion through education, support, and
advocacy. She is dedicated to encouraging healthier lifestyles and reducing health disparities.
Outside of her board work, Christine is a novice gardener, a hobby that has taught her the value
of connecting with the natural world—principles that align closely with the mission of this farm.
“I was drawn to Thistle House because of its unique ability to create an inclusive space where
individuals of all abilities can reconnect with the land, build confidence, and find purpose through
hands-on farming activities. I am proud to support an organization that blends the healing
power of nature with meaningful community engagement.”
Karen Rowley
Vice Chair
I was drawn to the Thistle House Care Farm because I see it as an initiative that can fill a much-needed gap in the patient care space. I have personal family experience with both dementia as well as youth mental health issues, so I am very passionate about both of these. I currently sit on 2 boards working on community safety initiatives and I hope to bring to the table 20+ years of volunteer and board experience to make this a successful venture. I am a huge animal lover and am so happy to be involved!
Karen Simon
Treasurer
Karen Simon brings 10 years of accounting and over 15 years of supply chain management experience to the role of Treasurer. She is an animal lover, currently with a dog, cat, a bearded dragon and two fish tanks. Her empathetic and compassionate nature drives Karen in the hopes to run her own dog kennel or daycare in the future. For now, she is excited about connecting with the furry and feathered creatures at Thistle House.
“Providing a space for dementia patients and at-risk youth to experience programs in a rural environment, be one with plants and animals speak deeply to my personal values of empathy and compassion.”
Kate Lawrence
Community Liaison
Kate is a dedicated and experienced nursing professional with over 20 years of service and progressive responsibility. Her education and experience have built a solid foundation in patient care and healthcare management. Kate began her career with in-patient care for Alzheimer's and dementia patients, which instilled in her a deep commitment to compassion and quality of life for those affected by these conditions. Many personal connections have drawn Kate to Thistle House’s mission. During her high school and university summers, she developed a love of horticulture while working at a garden center. Additionally, Kate owned a horse for 17 years and taught Therapeutic Riding, further showcasing her dedication to improving the lives of others.
“I have personally and professionally experienced the deep connection that can occur between people, animals, and the natural world. I wish this had been available 20 years ago. My hope for Thistle House, is that it will make a positive impact to all they serve.”
Teresa Dimaria
Fundraising Chair
Teresa brings six years of transformative experience, having achieved numerous successes implementing change and enhancing quality of care initiatives as the former Chair for Pleasant Manors LTC family council and representing at the FCN4 (Family Council Network 4 Advocacy) regional meetings provided her with invaluable insights, skills, and opportunities to advocate for better care. The core beliefs and goals of Thistle House Care Farm strongly resonate with Teresa, reflecting her commitment to enhancing quality of life and engaging those struggling with mental health and brain disorders causing cognitive decline.
“I am thrilled to be a part of the Thistle House board of directors and look forward to the opportunities Thistle House will offer to this vulnerable sector and the innovative ways in which supportive healthcare is being reimagined.”
Quinn Thomblison
Social Media Liaison
Quinn is looking forward to bringing her social media skills to the Thistle House Care Farm. She recently graduated from Trent University with an honours degree in History and Media Studies. Quinn has done volunteer work in her community since she was ten years old, and has grown a passion for caring for others in her community. This background has both inspired her to go to teachers college next year, and has driven her to Thistle House Care Farm. Quinn is an animal lover—she has a dog named Chunk (pictured above) and was extremely excited to meet the chickens at Thistle House Care Farm.
“I am very grateful to be part of this team and excited to make a positive difference in our community!”