What was your previous (or current other) career, training or background?

Special Education Teacher (VSB for 8 years)
Inclusion Consultant (VSB for 3 years)
ELL Assessment Teacher (VSB for 2 years)
Masters in Education from Queen’s University
Special Education Post Graduate Diploma from Queen’s University
ELL Post Graduate Diploma from Queen’s University
Bachelor of Education from University of Alberta

What change are you seeking to create through this initiative?

To create a truly inclusive space where families like mine feel a true sense of community. I was struggling to find a space where I felt truly included with my own family, so my vision for creating this space was a to have a place where children and adults alike felt safe and a part of our their community. We want children to love the programming and parents to feel like they are allowed to relax and take a break while they are here.

We also strive to listen to our community and offer programs and services that our community members need. We want to constantly be adapting and growing to meet the needs of the people that live in our area and to connect with our neighbors and neighboring businesses to see how we can support each other. We hope to see and support more businesses offering inclusive programming and supporting all members in our community.

What does the concept of ‘the greater good’ mean to you?

The greater good to me means being a part of something bigger than myself. In creating this centre, I knew that there had to be more families in a similar situation as mine. As a mom to three beautiful children and my youngest two being autistic, I know firsthand the joys and challenges that come along with raising neurodivergent children. I was hearing from parents that they were longing for connection, particularly with other people that understood their parenting journey. My vision is to connect with parents over our shared experiences and create a community that feels loved and valued, and where we can all be our true authentic selves.