by geekswireframe | Jun 29, 2023 | Uncategorized
WECYAC is extremely grateful for WindsorEssex Community Foundation’s generous contribution to our Read to Rise program. This program will provide age-appropriate books to foster imagination, broaden perspectives, cultivate resilience/self-confidence, and provide...
Dr. Nila Das Ph.D, MBA
Executive Director
Nila Das is a highly accomplished leader with experience in teaching, research, and advocacy. Her passion for public service was sparked by her upbringing in a small town in India, which instilled in her a strong belief in equality and diversity as the foundation of any organization’s strength.
Nila has a diverse educational background, with a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Windsor and an MBA from the Odette School of Business. This unique combination of scientific expertise and business acumen has undoubtedly contributed to her success as a leader and advocate.
In November 2021, Nila joined the Windsor-Essex Children and Youth Advocacy Centre (WECYAC) as an interim leader and was later appointed as the Executive Director in March 2023. In her role, she leads a team of professionals and volunteers dedicated to supporting victims of child and youth abuse, providing a range of services to help ensure their voices are heard and valued.
As Executive Director, Nila is responsible for managing WECYAC’s strategic planning, fundraising, and community outreach efforts. She has developed a compelling vision for the organization, with a focus on promoting equality and diversity and building strong partnerships with community partners to better address child and youth abuse in Windsor-Essex County.
Catherine Reaume BSW, MSW, RSW
Program Lead
Catherine began working at the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre in June 2023 and holds a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria and a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor. Catherine has several years of experience working with children and families and believes that all children should be guided through life with at least one caring and supportive adult by their side.
Catherine is a strong supporter of prevention, awareness and advocacy work with children and their families, and feels that early intervention plays a significant role in ensuring the best possible futures for our children. Catherine has a passion for working with victims and survivors of intimate partner and family violence. Catherine believes that children should be seen, heard and accepted for who they are. Catherine is a mother, dog lover, lifelong learner and spends her free time reading and enjoying nature.
Caitlyn Lebert BSW
Advocate
Caitlyn started working at the Windsor Essex Child and Youth Advocacy Centre in March 2024 and holds a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor with a minor in Psychology. Caitlyn has 5+ years’ experience working with children, youth, and families including in a long-term care facility, in a child protection environment, and in transitional housing for vulnerable youth.
Caitlyn is excited to continue her role at the Windsor Essex Child & Youth Advocacy Centre because she is passionate about advocating for others, empowering them to better care for themselves and learning how to recognize their needs.
Caitlyn wholeheartedly believes in our mission statement, that children and youth should only have to tell their story once. Caitlyn understands that repeating our traumatic experiences to multiple service providers often results in traumatization. Caitlyn believes WECYAC provides an essential service to children and families as they navigate the criminal justice system
Zeinab Daher BSW
Advocate
Zeinab began working at the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre in March 2024 and holds a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor. Zeinab has several years of experience working with children, youth and families within social services. Including extensive experience with survivors of domestic violence and vulnerable youth. Alongside her experience working in social services, Zeinab has also volunteered to support children/youth in the community.
Zeinab firmly believes that child safety is essential, advocating for every child’s right to a safe and nurturing environment, free from worry. She emphasizes the importance of protecting children and ensuring they have the opportunity to enjoy a happy and carefree childhood, highlighting the collective responsibility we all share in making this a reality.
Zeinab finds joy in music, fitness, art, travel, and cooking. Each passion adds creativity, exploration, and connection to her life. Whether she’s lost in melodies, hitting the gym, expressing herself artistically, exploring new cultures, or experimenting in the kitchen, Zeinab’s vibrant spirit shines through
Tea Cup
Advocate
Teacup has been an Advocate at the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre since we opened our doors. Teacup enjoys providing comfort and smiles to children and youth who come to our Centre. During his breaks, Teacup enjoys roaming around the St. Clair College Campus eating different plants he can find. When Teacup isn’t busy bringing smiles to children, youth, their families and the rest of the team here at WECYAC he enjoys sleeping, eating and providing online educational safety tips for kids.
Corey Kerr CYC
Program Development Assistant
Corey began working at WECYAC in June 2024 as a Program Development Assistant. Corey hold’s a diploma in Early Childhood Education and Child and Youth Care Work through St. Clair College and has 18 years of combined experience working with children, youth and families. In 2021, Corey made the decision to return to school in pursuit of obtaining a degree in the Honours Bachelor of Applied Arts in Social Justice and Legal Studies at St. Clair College, with the prospects of becoming a researcher, and advancing her advocacy skills and development.
An interesting fact from Corey that she would like to share: “I am a former Crown Ward, which means I resided in the care of the Children’s Aid Society until I aged out at 21. It’s important to me that I maintain a balance between the insights gained from my lived experiences, combined with my education, and apply them to tasks such as program development, and research opportunities, that will foster positive outcomes for vulnerable children and youth within our community.”
Corey strives to honour her story and be the most authentic version of herself, and by doing this, she hopes to inspire others to honour their stories and authentic selves.
Emma Munro BA, MSW
Grants and Community Relations Coordinator
Emma began working at the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre as Grants and Community Relations Coordinator in July of 2024. Emma received her BA Honours in Psychology from St. Francis Xavier (StFX) University in 2022 and her Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Windsor in May 2024. Prior to this position, Emma completed her MSW placement at WECYAC where she conducted research on ways to enhance cultural safety and provided direct services to children/youth and their non-offending caregivers. In addition to working with children/youth, Emma has had experience working with older adults in long term care and with individuals who have been released from correctional facilities.
Emma believes that every child should have the right to live free from violence/abuse, bullying/harassment, racism/discrimination etc. Emma recognizes that children/youth who experience or witness violence/abuse is a prevalent issue in our community and that children/youth should only have to tell their story once in a comfortable, quiet, supportive, culturally safe, and easily accessible environment. Emma is very excited to continue her journey with WECYAC in this new position. She recognizes that this position is critical for the success of the Centre and to meet individual/community needs. Moreover, Emma believes that without places like WECYAC, children/youth and their non-offending caregivers will not have access to timely services/resources that will enhance their quality of life.
Dominique Bradford
Program Development Assistant
Dominique began working at the Windsor-Essex Child/Youth Advocacy Centre in July 2024 as a Program Development Assistant. She is currently a 4th year student in the Honours Bachelor of Applied Arts in Social Justice & Legal Studies program at St. Clair College. Dominique is an active member with St. Clair College’s Social Justice Club, and also has experience working on a research project with the college, providing her with a background in research and activism. She plans to pursue a career in social work, as she is passionate about working toward social change and helping those in need.
Dominique believes strongly in advocating for those who are unable to freely use their voices, especially including children and youth. Recognizing the hardships and barriers faced by children and youth who have experiences of abuse, neglect, and exploitation, she is dedicated to enhancing the support systems in the community with research and education. She believes all youth deserve to be safe and supported throughout the reporting and legal process and is proud to be part of an organization that provides that.
A fun fact about Dominique is that she loves to cook and enjoys trying new recipes from different cultures! She also loves animals, including her guinea pigs, Lola and Bean!
Alison Mitchell
BSW Student
Alison started as our Bachelor of Social Work placement student in September 2024 and holds her advanced diploma in Child and Youth Care (CYC) from St. Clair College. Alison has worked in the field for three years at a girls group home within Windsor and has completed three work placements through her college education. Alison is passionate about working with people and making a difference in society. Alison learned about the WECYAC agency during the CYC course and was excited to get an opportunity to learn firsthand the amazing work that is done.
Nadine Myrie, SSW, ECE
Advocate
Nadine joined WEYCAC in October 2024, bringing over five years of experience as a social service worker in transitional housing, along with a diploma in Social Services from Centennial College in Toronto. She also has more than ten years of experience as an Early Childhood Educator (ECE). Nadine’s diverse background allows her to provide both practical support and compassionate care, helping individuals navigate transitions while fostering the growth and development of young children. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys painting, which serves as both a creative outlet and a personal passion.