About RIA
The RIA is a product of the philanthropic spirit and vision of Dr. Ron Schlegel, whose family has been providing Long Term Care to Ontario residents since the 1950's. Owner and operator of eleven retirement and Long Term Care facilities (Schlegel Villages) across Ontario, he committed more than $6 Million to develop and launch the Institute in 2005 - $4 Million of which went to the first four Schlegel Research Chairs, and $200,000 per year for 10 years to RIA infrastructure. RIA finances continue to be supported by grants, contracts, and other donations.
As a charitable, non-profit foundation, the RIA links research, training and practice to enhance care and quality of life for seniors. These links are created through partnerships.
RIA's primary research partner is the University of Waterloo, with researchers in nine theme areas. RIA's Main practice development partner is Conestoga College. The vast majority of the workforce in Long Term Care is college-trained, including personal support workers, registered practical nurses, registered nurses, physio/occupational therapy assistants, and more. The focus of this partnership is evidence-informed training program development for staff already working in Long Term Care and for students in programs that lead to careers working with seniors. RIA takes its responsibility to support the conduct of research seriously, but equally as important is the responsibility to ensure that the outcomes are used to inform programs, to be integrated into training, and to influence policy.
Click Here to view the RIA Model.
| Mission, Vision & Mandate |
| RIA Objectives |
| Organizational Structure |
| Partnerships |
| Residents First Initiative |
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