I have had the privilege of working with children and their families throughout my career. It all started when I worked as a special education teacher in Edmonton. After moving to Vancouver, I continued supporting children with special needs as an Infant Development Consultant. When the Supported Child Development program was implemented by the BC government, I worked with North Shore Neighbourhood House to establish the Supported Childcare Program in North Vancouver. For the last 15 years of my working career, I was the Coordinator of Families and Seniors Programs at Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House in Vancouver. I was fortunate to work with staff and families from diverse backgrounds in setting up programs that provide food security, first language and literacy programs, newcomer and intergenerational support groups, and community development and connection groups. I retired six years ago and moved to Halfmoon Bay, where I was looking for the opportunity to volunteer and continue interacting with families and children. Luckily, I found the SCCSS family program that supports parents with young children. The Family Place is a welcoming site for parents and children to connect, learn, and have fun. I am delighted to be a member of the 50 Women for SCCSS, as the organization continues to seek ways to support the women and children of the Sunshine Coast.
