Executive Director
Neil M. Leslie
Neil has 35 years of fundraising experience working for local, provincial, National and International causes. He has always worked with social causes with the view to making the world a better place. He has led the fundraising for organizations such as Christie Lake Kids, CNIB Eastern Ontario, Scouts Canada Foundation and most recently Shepherds of Good Hope Foundation. Neil was awarded the Outstanding Fundraising Executive award by his peers in 2004 for his outcomes achieved both in Montreal and Ottawa. He believes in ethical donor-centered fundraising and ensuring the greatest impact for the donors on the clients his organization serves.
Counsellors
Karen White-Jones, Director of Counselling and Clinical Consultant | MSW, RSW
With over 30 years of experience in addictions and mental health, Karen provides clinical guidance through consultation and supervision.
“I believe that we all have the ability to recover, regain control of our lives, and live free from the negative patterns that have held us back from achieving our full potential.”
Leanne McEwen | RSW
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” –Maya Angelou
Heather Tarnai-Feeley | MSW, RSW
“I hope to show you how to bring lasting balance into your life.”
David Oluwajuyigbe | RP
My primary dedication lies in helping individuals pinpoint solutions to life’s challenges.
Dorothy Ogbumah | RP (Qualifying)
“Make every effort to change things you do not like. If you cannot make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a new solution.” – Maya Angelou
Educational Workshop Facilitators
Wally Clare, Educational Workshop Facilitator | B. TH.
Wally Clare has facilitated workshops at Serenity Renewal for more than 35 years. Wally has mentored many new facilitators and continues to offer his wealth of knowledge to our clients and to our staff.
Catherine Pepper, Educational Workshop Facilitator | CJS, BA Psychology (In Progress)
Catherine holds a strong knowledge of addiction and the depth of despair it can bring to the individual and their loved ones. She strives to support clients on their path of healing.
Liz VandenBygaart, Educational Workshop Facilitator |
“When you know more, you grow more. I am honoured to bear witness to the growth of others”
Maimoona Batool, Educational Workshop Facilitator | RN, BScN, MACP, RP (Qualifying)
“I have over a decade of healthcare experience and focuses on healing and empowerment, enriching lives and fostering transformation.”
Child and Family Program Coordinator
Crystal Lord
“To work with children is to believe in the future, to believe in hope and possibility.” — Unknown
Staff
Michelle Tasker, Manager of Client Services
“I commit to listening with a compassionate, nonjudgmental heart when you reach out for help.”
Jill Egan, Director of Donor Relations and Counsellor Liaison
Hussein El Hajj Hassan, Communication, Data, Volunteer Coordinator
“I believe in the power of words to inspire change and the art of communication to build bridges that foster understanding and growth.”