Welcome to our community
We are proud of the fact that, as service providers, our clients and their families describe ICAN as a community that cares about people.
Who we are.
For over 40 years, we have worked to create inclusive, person-centered environments where individuals can live with dignity, independence, and choice. Our team provides compassionate, professional support tailored to each person’s unique needs, whether in their home, in the community, or in one of our supportive living environments.
We are a non-profit organization.
Funded primarily by Ontario Health, we are a non-profit organization offering a range of support services in both English and French to promote independence, inclusion, and quality of life.
Welcome to ICAN
Empowering Independence, Transforming Lives
Since 1979, ICAN has been dedicated to delivering innovative, person-centered services that help individuals achieve their highest level of independence.
We’re committed to building inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Explore our site to learn more about our programs, services, and the inspiring individuals we support. Whether you're seeking support, looking to get involved, or simply want to learn more about our mission, we're here to help.
Thank you for visiting — together, we CAN make a difference.
Mission Statement
We provide assistance to live independently and inclusively
in the community through individualized support and
rehabilitation services.
Vision Statement
Individuals have the optimal support to live independently within their community.

Agency Values
We are guided by the following Core Values:
Full Participation in Community Living
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to engage fully in community life, with the support and resources they need to thrive.
Respect for All Individuals
We honour the dignity, rights, and diverse needs of every person we serve and work with.
Responsibility and Partnerships
We are committed to accountability and building strong, collaborative partnerships with clients, care partners and the community.
Our Employees
We value our dedicated employees, recognizing their essential role in delivering quality services and driving our mission forward.
Service Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in service delivery, ensuring our clients receive exceptional, person-centered care.
Innovation
We embrace creative solutions and continuous improvement to better meet the evolving needs of our clients and community.
A message from Our Chief Executive Officer
Since 1979, we’ve been proud to serve the City of Greater Sudbury. What began as a small, passionate committee of individuals with lived experience and their care partners has grown into a vital part of the community support landscape in Northern Ontario.
At ICAN, we recognize the uniqueness of every person we serve. Whether it’s daily living assistance, rehabilitation, or health system navigation, our services are personalized to support each individual’s goals. At the core of our work is a deep commitment to person-centered care, building on the strengths, aspirations, and dignity of those we support.
Each day, I’m inspired by the resilience of our clients and the dedication of our staff. Their compassion creates a community where people feel valued, included, and empowered to live fulfilling lives.
Thank you for visiting our website. I invite you to explore our programs, learn more about our impact, and see how you can be part of ICAN, as a client, team member, volunteer, supporter, or partner.

Together, we CAN make a lasting difference.
Jessica Bertuzzi, CEO
Management Team
Jessica Bertuzzi
Chief Executive Officer
Board of Directors
Andrew Olivier
Board Chair
David Stamp
1st Vice Chair
Todd Robson
2nd Vice Chair
Andrée Lacroix
Director
Janice Clarke
Director
Angela Nahwegahbow
Director
Kelly Harding
Director
Katy Davey
Director
Dani
Baki
Director
ICAN is seeking dedicated and visionary individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors.
If you are interested in joining our Board of Directors, please submit your resume and a letter of interest.
As a member of the Board of Directors, you will:
Help shape the strategic direction of ICAN.
Support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for our clients.
Provide leadership on governance, advocacy, and policy development.
Collaborate with other passionate professionals to advance our mission.
We are seeking individuals who:
Have experience in areas such as healthcare, finance, law, marketing, human resources, or community advocacy.
Are committed to fostering inclusivity and equity.
Share a passion for community support services.
Have strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Can commit time for board meetings and occasional events.
MILESTONES
The History of ICAN – Independence Centre and Network
ICAN -Independence Centre and Network was founded in 1979 by a dedicated two-person committee from the local parent Association for Cerebral Palsy and other physical disabilities in Sudbury, Ontario. Their vision was to address the unmet needs of individuals with physical disabilities, empowering them to live independently in their own homes and communities.
A Grassroots Beginning
In the late 1970s, resources and support services for people living with physical disabilities were scarce. ICAN was created out of necessity by a small group of concerned individuals who recognized that those living with physical disabilities deserved greater independence and respect. This grassroots effort led to the development of ICAN’s core mission—To provide assistance to live independently and inclusively in the community through individualized support and rehabilitation services.
Growing and Expanding Services
Since its humble beginnings, ICAN has experienced significant growth, evolving from a small organization into a prominent community support service agency in Northern Ontario. What started with just a few employees has grown into a dynamic organization with over 100 staff members today. Throughout its history, ICAN has provided crucial support services for thousands of individuals living with physical disabilities, complex care needs, persons with post-stroke symptoms and older adults, helping them to achieve greater autonomy in their daily lives.
Governance and Leadership
ICAN is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, which includes individuals living with physical disabilities as well as professionals from the business and healthcare sectors. This unique governance model ensures that the organization remains focused on the real needs of its clients while benefiting from the expertise of community leaders. ICAN’s leadership has consistently been committed to delivering the highest quality of care and advocating for the rights of the individuals we serve.
Looking Forward
As ICAN approaches nearly 50 years of service, it continues to adapt to the changing needs of its clients and the healthcare landscape. ICAN is committed to maintaining its legacy of empowering its clients, and providing essential support and rehabilitation services in the community.
