I have been a Social Worker over thirty years, and throughout that time I have had the privilege of working very closely with vulnerable children and adults. On a personal level, this experience really allowed me to build upon my existing strengths, and as an extension of that, it also helped the individuals and families with whom I worked realize and develop their own unique strengths in turn.

I sincerely believe in focusing on people’s strengths and capabilities as a way of creating opportunity and exploring new possibilities. By caring for people, showing them that they matter and helping them to see the positive power that family and community networks can offer, we can work together to create life plans as unique as each individual. I’ve often been told that working with me is fun and insightful. I like to take a very practical approach to my work, and I also enjoy creative ways of collaborating by frequently using humour and sharing stories from my own personal experience. I have found this to be hugely valuable in facilitating the planning process as it creates a very comfortable and trusting environment for self discovery.

Now retired, I volunteer at a group home for adults and a hospice for children. Sharing my time in this way has really helped me to remain grounded and keep a mindful perspective on life and on what really matters. I was raised in a family where giving back and helping one another was one of our most important family values. Being an Independent Facilitator is a wonderful opportunity for me to continue to contribute and give back.

In addition to having a very rewarding career and a wealth of life experience, my professional credentials as a Social Worker have essentially provided me with the solid foundation needed to do this important type of work. I am delighted to be part of the Independent Facilitators’ Network and to have the opportunity to continue helping people to realize their dreams, appreciate their individual strengths and explore all the exciting new possibilities that life has to offer. I believe that individuals and their families have the desire, knowledge and capacity to realize their dreams. They simply need a helping hand to guide them along the way.