The Journal - Issue No. 2025-03

UNITY IN ACTION: BUILDING ON THE WORK THAT’S

ALREADY DONE

ANNUAL CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE

Across Ontario, professionals in funeral, cemetery, and cremation services are navigating increasing complexity, rising expectations, and shifting public needs. Amid these changes, one thing is clear: our collective strength lies in unity.

More than a conference, it was a gathering of purpose uniting leaders, innovators, and compassionate professionals from every corner of our sector.

The 2025 annual conference reminded us that success in our profession is measured not only in business outcomes, but in the care, dignity, and trust we extend to every family we serve.

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE

MARK RICHARDSON, OACFP PRESIDENT & ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERVICES, CITY OF THOROLD

UNITY IN ACTION: BUILDING ON THE WORK THAT’S ALREADY UNDERWAY

Across Ontario, professionals in funeral, cemetery, and cremation services are navigating increasing complexity, rising expectations, and shifting public needs. Amid these changes, one thing is clear: our collective strength lies in unity.

OACFP’s long history, serving as Ontario’s provincial association since 1913, demonstrates unity in action We recognized early that internal divisions between funeral and cemetery, between operators large and small were holding us back from shaping the future we all care about For this reason, OACFP has worked steadily to bring together expertise from cemeteries, funeral homes, crematoria, transfer services, and suppliers across the province.

When diverse voices and real-world experience come together, we not only protect the integrity of our work, but we also shape a future where families receive the compassionate, respectful care they deserve The future of bereavement care depends on how well we work together.

The Value of Collaboration

In the past, our field was often divided: funeral homes on one side, cemeteries on the other; independents and large firms pulling in different directions. These divisions didn’t serve us or the families we care for. Now, there’s a growing understanding that no role stands alone. Whether you're behind the scenes or face-to-face with grieving families, you’re part of a care continuum that deserves to be heard, supported, and respected.

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE.....CONT.....

Why This Moment Matters

As conversations around regulation, public expectations, and professional standards grow louder and as we face a peak period of sector activity it’s critical that those doing the work help shape what comes next. That means:

Listening to voices from across the sector

Letting real experience guide policy, training, and oversight

Embracing collaboration as essential, not optional

Where We Go from Here

To move forward, we must focus on three things:

Leverage Existing Structures: OACFP provides spaces to connect and collaborate If you’re not part of the conversation yet, now’s the time With over 450 member organizations from across Ontario, our conferences, regional events, webinars, and AGM offer real opportunities to build relationships and share knowledge

Elevate Experienced Leaders: The best policy decisions come from professionals who serve grieving families every day. OACFP’s MBBA program lets you learn from experts, expand your network, and even find a mentor. Don’t miss our podcast for valuable insights from seasoned leaders.

Speak With One Voice: Unified advocacy is powerful When we align, we’re heard Our ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), and our successful advocacy for the “Priority of Persons” provision in the FBCSA, show how impactfulcollectiveactioncanbe

HowOACFPSupportsThisVision

OACFP is here to lead and support a unified bereavement profession in Ontario. We exist to bring the sector together, not for uniformity, but to amplifyourcollectivestrength

As Ontario’s only provincial association representing the full continuum of bereavement sector care, we ensure your voice is heard, by government,regulators,andthepublic

Let’skeepbuildingasectorthatservesfamilieswith compassionandleadswithcareandintegrity

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE

DIRECTOR

IN THE QUIET OF NOVEMBER: HONOURING REMEMBRANCE AND THE CALL TO REMEMBER

DARREN DENOMME, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

We remember the young and the old who served in conflicts near and far — those who returned and those who did not — and the families who bore the weight of absence, grief, and pride.

Remembrance Day is more than a moment of silence.

It is a call to witness, to honour, and to carry forward the stories that shaped our nation.

For those who serve in Ontario’s bereavement sector, remembrance is not limited to a single day in November

It is the quiet work done every day creating places and moments that allow families, friends, and communities to remember, to grieve, and to heal

The act of remembrance is, at its heart, an act of service.

“AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN, AND IN THE MORNING, WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.”

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“EVERY ACT OF REMEMBRANCE AFFIRMS THAT A LIFE MATTERED AND CONTINUES TO MATTER.”

Whether through the design of memorial gardens, the care of veteran sections, or the creation of personalized tributes that reflect a life well lived, our profession safeguards the human need to honour and remember

The Enduring Need for Tribute

In an age where traditions evolve and technology reshapes how we connect, the need for meaningful tribute remains constant.

Livestreamed services, digital memorials, and celebrations of life all serve the same timeless purpose ensuring that no one is forgotten.

For veterans and their families, remembrance carries particular gravity. Many OACFP members collaborate with Legions, municipalities, and schools to preserve military sections, restore monuments, and host annual ceremonies that unite generations.

These efforts remind us that remembrance is not passive reflection — it is active stewardship.

The Role of Place

Cemeteries are among the most enduring records of our collective story

They hold not only names and dates, but the values, sacrifices, and cultural fabric of our communities. Each row of markers and every memorial plaque represents a promise that the lives commemorated there will continue to be acknowledged.

Visiting these spaces in November, one feels the quiet continuity of remembrance

Families tend to graves, children place paper poppies beside headstones, and communities gather among the stones to share stories and gratitude

The bereavement sector’s dedication to maintaining these sacred spaces ensures remembrance remains a living tradition through care, accessibility, and the simple dignity of a well-tended resting place.

Remembrance as Compassion in Action

The essence of remembrance gratitude, reflection, compassion mirrors the very foundations of bereavement care.

Each service, each interment, each conversation with a grieving family is an act of remembrance in itself.

We help others find meaning in loss and continue the human story with dignity and care

“REMEMBRANCE LIVES NOT ONLY IN OUR WORDS, BUT IN THE PLACES WE PRESERVE.”

In this way, OACFP members extend the spirit of November 11 throughout the year safeguarding memory, upholding ritual, and affirming that remembrance, like love, does not end with death It endures in the stories told, the monuments maintained, and the communities we serve

As we pause this Remembrance Day, let us honour those who gave their lives for freedom and also those who quietly tend to remembrance every day.

For in remembering, we not only pay tribute to the past; we strengthen the compassion and humanity that guide our profession into the future.

ADVOCACY IN ACTION: OACFP AT THE 2025 AMO CONFERENCE

Throughout the conference, OACFP emphasized one clear message: bereavement sector establishments are essential community infrastructure Our discussions focused on ensuring that cemeteries and other bereavement facilities are recognized in Provincial Policy Statements and municipal Official Plans, helping communities preserve space for future generations and meet diverse cultural and religious needs

This August, OACFP proudly represented Ontario’s bereavement sector at the annual Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference. The event brought together municipal leaders, policy advisors, and sector representatives from across the province offering a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and raise awareness of the essential role that cemeteries, crematoria, and funeral service professionals play in every community.

Our advocacy also extended to modernizing bereavement legislation under the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act (FBCSA) Outdated and inconsistent regulations continue to create challenges for municipalities and operators alike OACFP continues to call for practical reforms that make it easier for local leaders to plan, operate, and sustain essential services that families rely on

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS CORNER

ADVOCACY IN ACTION: OACFP AT THE 2025 AMO CONFERENCE

Affordability and accessibility were also key topics of discussion OACFP continues to advocate for updates to Ontario Works Funeral Benefits and Assisted Burial and Cremation Fees to better reflect current costs and realities faced by families in need We also encouraged the exploration of new financial planning tools such as an Ontario Death Benefit or registered Final Expenses Savings Account to help Ontarians prepare responsibly for end-of-life expenses

The conference provided a strong platform to build partnerships with municipal leaders across Ontario. Following the event, OACFP reached out to attendees to offer ongoing collaboration and education, including council briefings on local bereavement infrastructure and policy issues.

“Our participation at AMO is about building understanding,” said Executive Director Darren Denomme. “By working with municipal leaders, we can ensure that bereavement services remain accessible, sustainable, and reflective of the diverse communities we all serve.”

Through initiatives like these, OACFP continues to lead provincial advocacy efforts connecting policymakers, municipalities, and bereavement professionals to shape a future where care, compassion, and community planning go hand in hand.

CELEBRATING TRADITION AND NEW BEGINNINGS: MEMBER OPENINGS REFLECT RENEWAL, CHOICE, AND CARE

NEW MEMBER LOCATIONS ARE EXPANDING COMPASSIONATE CARE AND STRENGTHENING BEREAVEMENT SERVICES ACROSS ONTARIO.

As Ontario’s bereavement sector continues to evolve, we proudly recognize two new member openings that reflect the values of tradition, innovation, sustainability, and community connection.

In the Hamilton area, a newly opened funeral home brings fresh energy and contemporary design to a community long known for its warmth and care Thoughtfully designed spaces invite comfort, accessibility, and reflection ensuring every family feels supported through meaningful service and personal attention

Meanwhile, in Guelph, the introduction of a new natural burial section within an established cemetery provides families with a serene and environmentally conscious option that honours both tradition and the growing desire for sustainable choices in end-of-life care

Together, these new facilities symbolize the renewal and forward momentum within Ontario’s bereavement sector embracing modern practices while preserving the compassion and integrity that define our profession. They remind us that progress and tradition can coexist beautifully, each deepening the other in service to the families and communities we serve.

Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home - Ancaster

A New Chapter in Compassionate Care

We are proud to welcome the community to our newly built funeral home an 18,000-square-foot space designed to bring comfort, accessibility, and dignity to every family we serve Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home – Ancaster has been a trusted part of the community for many years, and this new building continues that tradition with a modern setting that reflects both care and respect

Conveniently located just minutes from Highway 403 on a 4.5-acre property, the funeral home offers nearly 200 parking spaces, including accessible stalls and future EV charging stations. A covered entrance ensures yearround comfort, while multiple entrances and a single-floor layout provide privacy and ease of movement, allowing us to serve several families at once.

Inside, each gathering space has been carefully designed for services of all sizes. The Ancaster Chapel, with seating for up to 180 guests, combines understated elegance with warm lighting and a timeless palette. Advanced audio-visual technology including live streaming, digital music, video screens, and a digital piano makes it possible to personalize every service and share it with loved ones wherever they may be. For smaller gatherings, the Jerseyville Suite welcomes up to 60 guests, while the Alberton and Carluke Suites offer quiet, intimate settings for A Time to Remember or Celebration of Life services Each room is named after a cherished Ancaster landmark, adding a meaningful local connection

CELEBRATING TRADITION AND NEW BEGINNINGS:

MEMBER OPENINGS REFLECT RENEWAL, CHOICE, AND CARE

Dodsworth & Brown Funeral Home - Ancaster

For receptions and fellowship, the Wilson Mills Reception Centre accommodates 120 guests in a setting reminiscent of a welcoming country club. High ceilings, natural light, fireplaces, and tasteful décor create a warm, uplifting atmosphere. The adjacent covered patio seats 30–40 guests, extending the experience outdoors, while a fully equipped kitchen and beverage servery support everything from catered luncheons to cappuccino toasts in memory of a loved one. Whether used for a reception or a stand-alone gathering, the space invites families to celebrate life together.

Beyond services, our funeral home serves as a hub for community connection and education. We host annual grief seminars, Caregiver Appreciation Days, and Cooking for One classes to support families after loss. Seasonal commemorations—on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, and Christmas—create opportunities for remembrance and healing. Educational programs, such as mock car crash demonstrations, help local students understand the risks of impaired and distracted driving, reflecting our broader commitment to community safety and well-being.

Our history in Ancaster began in 1960 at 378 Wilson Street East. Since then, we have had the honour of serving more than 10,000 families, with nearly half choosing to plan ahead to ensure peace of mind. Today, our Wall of Memories—already inscribed with 800 names and with room for many more—stands as a lasting tribute to lives cherished and remembered, with a second wall planned in the near future to continue this meaningful tradition. Every detail of our new facility reflects our mission: to serve with compassion, dignity, and excellence. We are honoured to continue our legacy in this space, offering comfort, modern amenities, and a heartfelt welcome to all.

CELEBRATING TRADITION AND NEW BEGINNINGS: MEMBER OPENINGS REFLECT RENEWAL, CHOICE, AND CARE

Taylor’s Meadow, Woodlawn Memorial Park - Guelph

At Woodlawn Memorial Park in Guelph, the circle of life has found a new expression The cemetery’s newly opened green burial section Taylor’s Meadow offers families an environmentally conscious way to honour their loved ones while returning to the earth with simplicity and respect.

Led by General Manager Rebecca Kit, the creation of Taylor’s Meadow fulfills a long-held vision of former manager Paul Taylor, for whom the section is named “This was always a dream of Paul’s,” Kit shared “I wanted to honour his passion for this place and his wish to one day offer green burial to the community he served for over forty years ”

The new section, located on the cemetery’s 30-acre expansion property, features more than 269 lots within a naturalized landscape of wildflowers and mature trees. Families may choose shroud or biodegradable-casket interments without embalming, liners, or vaults embracing a philosophy that minimizes environmental impact and celebrates life’s natural cycle.

A communal memorial space, created from a large boulder found on the property decades ago and now split to accommodate inscriptions, serves as the heart of the meadow. Every detail from re-screened topsoil to repurposed wood chips reflects Woodlawn’s commitment to sustainability and stewardship of its land. Training and preparation were equally thoughtful. Earlier this fall, the Woodlawn team gathered in the rain to practice shrouding and pallbearing under the guidance of Krystal Riddell from Essentials Cremation and Burial Services, ensuring the team’s readiness and confidence when serving families choosing this meaningful option “There is a huge demand for it,” said Kit “Guelph has spoken We have so many eco-conscious families in our area The community asked for it and we are the cemetery for the community ” With Taylor’s Meadow now open, Woodlawn Memorial Park continues its legacy of leadership in innovation, compassion, and care honouring both the land and the people it serves

FRONT LINE TRAINING EVENT AND EDUCATION HIGHTLIGHTS

JULY 16 - PRACTICAL SKILLS AND SHARED KNOWLEDGE IN KITCHENER

On July 16, 2025, OACFP hosted its annual Front Line Cemetery Training Program at Williamsburg Cemetery in Kitchener, bringing together professionals from across Ontario for a day of hands-on learning, collaboration, and sector support

Led by OACFP Committee Chair JP Narbonne, the program focused on real-world skills that enhance safety, efficiency, and service excellence in cemetery operations.

Participants began the day with Monument Safety Evaluation and Inventory, presented by Ian Athersmith of ASSETTRAC Ltd., who guided attendees through zonal risk analysis and on-site assessment demonstrations. The morning continued with an interactive Natural Burial demonstration led by JP Narbonne and Krystal Riddell (Essentials Cremation & Burial Services), highlighting the growing importance of environmentally sustainable practices in cemetery care

Afternoon breakout stations provided in-depth technical training, including Vault Handling and Installation with Kevin Baker (CemeCare) and Curtis Turner (CFC Supply), and Traditional Interment Services with Rob Carzeri (Arbor Memorial), emphasizing precision, safety, and professionalism

The day concluded with an open panel discussion addressing participant questions and operational challenges, reinforcing OACFP’s commitment to education and collaboration at every level of the bereavement sector.

This program continues to serve as one of OACFP’s most practical and valued learning opportunities empowering frontline staff with the knowledge and confidence to uphold excellence in every service they provide

#OACFP25

THE BUSINESS OF

COMPASSION: BALANCING SERVICE AND SUCCESS

The 2025 OACFP Conference and Tradeshow brought together bereavement professionals from across Ontario for three inspiring days of learning, connection, and celebration Set against the beautiful backdrop of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this year’s theme “The Business of Compassion: Balancing Service and Success” explored how professionals in our sector continue to uphold care and compassion while navigating the evolving realities of business, regulation, and community expectations

From the opening tree planting ceremony and pre-conference sustainability session to our closing keynote, the conference reflected OACFP’s ongoing commitment to advancing excellence and leadership in bereavement care

Highlights from the Program

The conference opened with thought-provoking presentations and panels on leadership, branding, innovation, and the balance between empathy and enterprise. Keynote speaker Hamza Khan delivered an inspiring message on authentic leadership and sustainable success, while Deb McGrath and Colin Mochrie closed the event with humour and heart reminding us of the power of connection and human stories in our daily work.

Our “Quick Take” sessions offered bite-sized insights into emerging topics shaping our sector, while the Tradeshow showcased new technologies, products, and partnerships that are redefining the future of bereavement services in Ontario. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in the Town Hall, where members shared perspectives on current challenges, regulatory updates, and opportunities to strengthen our collective voice as a profession

OF COMPASSION: BALANCING

Celebrating Our Community

The annual Awards Banquet was a memorable celebration of excellence and dedication in our field. Guests were treated to a moving performance by the Mississauga Children’s Choir, followed by the presentation of OACFP and Phoenix Bereavement Profession Excellence Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations who exemplify compassion, innovation, and leadership

Throughout the conference, delegates reconnected with peers, made new professional relationships, and engaged in meaningful conversations about how we can continue to support families with dignity and care while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our operations

Thank You

OACFP extends heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors, speakers, exhibitors, and committee members whose support and contributions made this event possible.

Conference recordings, handouts, and presentation materials are now available through your OACFP ACE Portal, and the photo album is available online here: #OACFP25 PHOTO ALBUM

You can also view our Supplier Spotlight videos on the OACFP YouTube channel, and supplier information remains accessible through the Conference App

LIFE MEMBER AWARDS

Honouring Outstanding Dedication and Service

We were pleased to be able to present two association awards this year plus the winner of the Phoenix Foundry Bereavement Profession Excellence Award at our annual awards banquet.

The Ontario Association of Cemetery and Funeral Professionals is proud to recognize Terry Eccles and Jeff Wakeford as the 2025 recipients of the OACFP Life Membership Award one of the Association’s highest honours.

This distinction celebrates individuals whose long-standing commitment, leadership, and service have had a lasting impact on both the OACFP and the bereavement profession in Ontario

Terry Eccles has been a steadfast advocate for professionalism and compassion in bereavement care throughout his distinguished career His dedication to mentoring colleagues, advancing education, and promoting excellence in service has left an enduring legacy that continues to shape the sector.

Jeff Wakeford has contributed decades of leadership and innovation, exemplifying the values of integrity, collaboration, and community that define OACFP. His guidance and commitment to continuous improvement have strengthened operations across the profession and inspired countless peers

Together, Terry and Jeff embody the very best of what it means to serve with compassion, professionalism, and purpose OACFP proudly celebrates their remarkable contributions and the example they continue to set for future generations of professionals

PHOENIX FOUNDRY BEREAVEMENT PROFESSION

EXCELLENCE AWARD

We were proud to announce Christina FurtadoBurke as the recipient of the 2025 Phoenix Foundry Bereavement Profession Excellence Award at this year’s conference. Christina is the Family Services Coordinator for Woodlawn Memorial Park in Guelph.

This international honour jointly supported by the OACFP and the Australian Cemeteries and Crematoria Association (ACCA) celebrates emerging leaders who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to professional growth and collaboration

nts, creativity in improving services, and a leader whose influence extends well

national professional exchange sharing best practices, exploring new ideas, and strengthening the relationship between bereavement professionals in Canada and Australia.

OACFP congratulates Christina Furtado-Burke on this remarkable accomplishment and thanks Phoenix Foundry for its continued support in recognizing and inspiring excellence across our profession.

We also look forward to welcoming Eve Gibbons, from the City of Launceston to Ontario next year as Christina’s ACCA Phoenix Award counterpart Please click the link below to meet Eve

HONOURING HISTORY: 2025 TREE PLANTING AT DECEW HOUSE

As part of our annual conference tradition, the OACFP once again partnered with Trees for Life (TFL) and a number of community collaborators to honour a true Canadian hero at DeCew House Heritage Park in Thorold

In tribute to Laura Secord’s courageous legacy and the vital contributions of Indigenous communities during the War of 1812, 262 native trees were planted on the historic grounds where Secord’s legendary 30-kilometre journey ended in 1813 the very place where she delivered her warning of an impending American attack

The number 262 symbolizes the years since the Royal Proclamation of 1763, a foundational agreement recognizing Indigenous rights and establishing the basis for future treaties between the British Crown and Indigenous peoples This new mini forest now stands as both a living tribute to bravery and a reflection of shared histories of courage, unity, and remembrance

This project forms part of OACFP’s Tree Planting Legacy Initiative, now in its fifth year, which contributes to community greening efforts in host cities across Ontario Each year, the initiative leaves behind a tangible legacy of growth, sustainability, and remembrance representing bereavement professionals’ ongoing commitment to honouring life and memory

OACFP extends heartfelt thanks to Trees for Life, K Secord, Ontario Power Generation, the City of Thorold, year’s planting possible Together, we continue to sho for communities across Ontario

Orthometals erberne with a clear vision the recycling of metals reco ented our own word for it:

From the ve y g g, n just collecting and processing metals. What makes us different is our mindset. We don’t settle for “good enough ” We constantly look for ways to improve, whether that’s developing new sorting technologies or setting higher standards for sustainability and transparency. Innovation is not a side project for us, it’s built into who we are

Today, Orthometals works with crematoria all over the world. And yet, despite our international reach, we’ve always stayed close to our roots: a family-owned company that values long-term relationships, trust, and a personal approach Many of our partners have been with us for decades, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.

To support our global network, Orthometals now operates from two locations: our headquarters in Meppel, the Netherlands, and for two years, our facility in North Carolina, USA This expansion has strengthened our ability to serve partners across North America It allows us to provide efficient collections throughout Canada and the United States, with shorter transport times, smoother logistics, and reliable support close to home

In 2024, we attended the OACFP conference for the very first time. Even though Orthometals had already been active in the Canadian market for years, this was a new step for us We wanted to do more than just work in Canada, we wanted to connect more with the professionals who shape the industry here And honestly? We weren’t sure what to expect. But the event exceeded all of our expectations The professionalism, the openness, the conversations we had, it all confirmed for us that this was the right place to be

That’s why we are proud to join the OACFP conference again For us, this isn’t just a line in a newsletter It’s a way to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and strengthen our network in Canada. It’s also a chance to listen, to learn, and to grow together with colleagues who care just as deeply about quality and integrity as we do

And if you’ve ever met us at an event, you’ll know; we’re approachable people Yes, we may have a bit of an accent But behind that is genuine passion for what we do, and a real eagerness to connect.

At Orthometals, recycling metals isn’t just our business It’s what defines us Becoming part of the OACFP is a natural next step, and we’re excited about the future; more conversations, more collaborations, and more opportunities to keep improving together

OACFP UPDATES & ARTICLES OF INTEREST

REMINDERS

A reminder that all those holding a personal funeral license (FD 1 or 2, Funeral Preplanner and Transfer Sales Representative) are required to complete a minimum of six (6) hours of continuing education each year. All OACFP education content qualifies for CE

CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENT FOR FUNERAL LICENSEES

As an employee of an OACFP Member Company, you have access to our current year's eLearning Webinar series and our entire webinar library at no charge These are set up as separate courses in our new OACFP ACE platform with each webinar being a session in those courses The links to the three courses are belowPLEASE NOTE - LOGIN IS REQUIRED TO ACCESS AT NO CHARGE.

2025 eLearning Webinars

2024 eLearning Webinars

2023 eLearning Webinars

eLearning Recorded Webinar Presentations

We have also created a special year-end CE package available here: 2025 Year End CE Package

If you have any issues navigating the site, we have instructional videos available New OACFP ACE Platform Demo & Help Videos are available on our YouTube Channel here: OACFP ACE VIDEOS

OACFP ACE - Instructions PDF

ARTICLES OF INTEREST & RESOURSES

THE CANADIAN DEATH TECH COMPANIES REIMAGINING THE BUSINESS OF DYING

DEATHTECH STARTUPS DISRUPTING THE FUNERAL INDUSTRY

OACFP EVENTS

CEMETERY ADMINISTRATION TRAINING - THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13

FINAL WEBINAR FOR 2025 - ANXIETY: WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO MANAGE IT

LAST TRUSTED ADVISOR SESSION FOR 2025 - BAY GARDENS FUNERAL HOME, NOVEMBER 26

2026 PROFESSIONAL WOMEN'S SYMPOSIUM

2026 OACFP CHARITY GOLF DAY

2026 EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE

OTHER SECTOR EVENTS

KITCHENER/CAMBRIDGE/WATERLOO - NIGHT OF BRIGHT STARSBEREAVED FAMILIES OF ONTARIO - MIDWESTERN REGION

TORONTO - 34TH ANNUAL TREES OF LIGHT CEREMONY AT TORONTO CITY HALL - CANADAHELPS

HALTON- PEEL - TREES OF LIGHT 2025 | BEREAVED FAMILIES

LONDON/SOUTHWEST - 2025 ANGEL TREE/TREE OF REMEMBRANCE | BEREAVED FAMILIES OF ONTARIO - SOUTHWEST REGION

OTTAWA - EVENTS – BEREAVED FAMILIES OF ONTARIO

CHECK OUT OUR EVENTS PAGE AT OACFP.COM FOR ALL OUR EDUCATION OPTIONS

OACFP EVENTS

OACFP ACE

As bereavement professionals, we understand that caring for others begins with caring for ourselves

OACFP provides mental health resources to help support your well-being and that of your colleagues

To complement these resources, the latest episode of Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats is dedicated to mental health in our profession an open and honest conversation about the emotional demands of bereavement care and how we can continue to care deeply without losing ourselves along the way.

OACFP MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES PAGE (MEMBERS ONLY)

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

HOW TO TOLERATE ANNOYING THINGS

�� Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats

New Episode Out Now Don’t Let Burnout Ruin Your Passion: Mental Health in Bereavement Services

While World Mental Health Day was marked globally in October, the importance of mental wellness in our profession extends far beyond a single day or month.

As we continue in November, a season of reflection and remembrance, we’re continuing the conversation around the emotional realities of bereavement care and how we care for ourselves in the process

In this episode of the OACFP Podcast, Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster sit down with Jimmy Cardinal for a candid, insightful discussion on the unique pressures of our field from the weight of perfectionism and long hours to the importance of boundaries, renewal, and ongoing mental health support.

�� “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

This conversation is your reminder that wellness is not a luxury it’s a necessity. In caring for others, we must also make space to care for ourselves.

Find Common Ground: Bereavement Sector Chats on our website and all your favourite podcast platforms

AFFILIATE MEMBER

3 - INDIVIDUAL AFFILIATE MEMBERS

REGULAR MEMBERS

WHEATLEY MENNONITE FUNERAL HOME

SAKEENAH TRANSFERS. INC.

STUDENT MEMBERS

13- STUDENT MEMBERS

SUPPLIER MEMBERS

MARTEL & SONS

FUNERAWEB

SHARPE LANDSCAPING, MAINTENANCE & DESIGN

WEST COAST MEMORIALS

CORE SCIENTIFIC

ALGORDANZA SWISS MADE - REMEMBRANCE DIAMONDS

THE TRIBUTE COMPANIES

AV-X INC.

ABACUS FURNITURE

OACFP EDUCATION

DON’T FORGET ABOUT OTHER OACFP ONLINE EDUCTION OPPORTUNIES AT OACFP-ACE

The OACFP has long been a leader in providing quality education for all bereavement sector professionals

We work in conjunction with all our members and sector stakeholders to provide Ontario’s bereavement professionals with the most up to date, relevant and cost-effective education and training possible.

The OACFP offers a wealth of resources for the bereavement professional and we pride ourselves on being ”A Unified Association of Bereavement Sector Professionals Providing a Support Network of Education and Resources ”

We offer a variety of online and on-demand education on our OACFP ACE Learning Management System For information on how to access and navigate the system, check out the short videos below

Arranging Funeral Director

Assistant Manager, Property Services

MEMBER BENEFIT SPOTLIGHT

We’re excited to offer you and your business a review of new and existing benefits in our Member Benefit and Supplier Spotlight Webinar designed to help you maximize your membership and stay connected with the latest innovations in the bereavement sector

We have added many member benefits this year both for your business and your employees

Click the banner to the right to review the webinar.