Meet the OFPA’s Coordinators
OFPA’s Coordinators
Foster Parent Coordinators play a vital role in providing support to Foster Parents who maintain a Family Care Agreement with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) in the regions of the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Shuswap.
With dedication, your Foster Parent Coordinator maintains a commitment to serving the needs of Foster Caregivers.
Coordinators,
- Provide comprehensive training opportunities.
- Have an in-depth knowledge of MCFD policy.
- Offer valuable support.
- Work closely with your local Foster Parent Association.
- Ensure you have opportunities to meet with other Foster Parents.
- Publish newsletters and send important email notices.
- Act as a liaison between MCFD and Foster Parents.
- Provide access to a library of resource materials.
Coordinators also provide help if you are,
OFPA Coordinators are committed to meeting your unique needs as Foster Parents.
- Experiencing difficult foster care situations.
- Going through the complaints/investigation process.
OFPA Coordinators are committed to meeting your unique needs as Foster Parents.
Joan Kirkbride
execdir@okfosterparents.ca
Joan holds the position of Executive Director, leading with determination and commitment at OFPA. With her extensive background as a Foster Parent Coordinator, she has positively impacted the lives of many Foster Parents in the Central Okanagan from 1993 to 2014. Joan’s reputation is built on her commitment to make life better for Caregivers and her relationships with the Ministry of Children and Family Development and other key provincial organizations. Joan’s manages programs, facilitates training, and provides support to parent groups. Her bright spirit and wealth of experience are a true asset to OFPA’s endeavors.
Heather Lessard
shuswapsupport@okfosterparents.ca
Heather is a dedicated individual who provides support services to Foster Caregivers in the Shuswap areas including Sorrento, Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Mara and all communities in between. With over 15 years experience working with young children and those with diverse support needs, Heather applies her knowledge in early childhood development and psychology to support families. Her mission is to empower foster families, promoting healthy family dynamics, inclusivity, and strong foundations. Heather’s is committed to her community as she embraces the uniqueness of each individual.
Shellaina Goldenberg
noksupport@okfosterparents.ca
Shellaina supports Foster Caregivers who contract with the Vernon MCFD office and live in the communities of Vernon, Armstrong, Cherryville, Coldstream, Falkland, Lavington and Lumby.
Shellaina has always had a passion for helping others, including adults, seniors, children, and youth of all ages. She was born and raised in the Prairies and is now happy to call the Okanagan her home of over 15 years. She has a background in education, psychology, and applied counselling, focusing on family relations and collaborative team development. She openly feels that most of her insight and growth has come from what she considers her greatest role to date: being a Mom. She loves the outdoors and all that the seasons offer, with hiking, snowshoeing, swimming, surfing, snowboarding, wineries, boating and more. The lake is a special place for her, and she is grateful for the warm water temperatures that the Okanagan offers during the summer months.
Shellaina believes making a difference starts personally and that change comes when we all work together. She is passionate about working in the Fostering community with all the exceptional people who devote themselves to making a difference.
Cyndee Sapiano
coksupport@okfosterparents.ca
Cyndee is a powerhouse in the realm of supporting Foster Parents in Central Okanagan. With a commitment and breadth of experience spanning over 30 years, Cyndee consistently goes above and beyond to serve the needs of children, youth, and families. Her passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children is amazing.
Cyndee’s expertise extends to addressing critical issues such as childhood abuse, trauma, attachment, mental health, and disabilities. It’s clear that her heart is invested in providing Foster Parents with the utmost care and support. With an educational background, boasting a diploma in Early Childhood Education and a degree in Child and Youth Care, Cyndee’s knowledge and skills make her an invaluable asset to the Foster Parent community.
Foster Parents in Kelowna, Lake Country, Peachland, and West Kelowna can rest assured, knowing that in Cyndee, they have an advocate who will champion their cause with unwavering dedication. Her caring and compassionate nature, coupled with her expertise, make her the perfect person to rely on in times of need. Cyndee is a rockstar in her field, and Caregiver’s trust in her is well-placed.
Mandie Fewchuk
soksupport@okfosterparents.ca
Mandie is dedicated to supporting Caregivers making a difference in the South Okanagan-Similkameen, from Summerland to Princeton and all of the communities in between!
After several years of working alongside children, youth, and families involved with the ministry prior to working with OFPA. Mandie is deeply grateful for the work foster families do and is committed to promoting connection, learning, and support across the region.
Mandie brings curiosity along with a varied work history and educational background in Psychology to her role. She has a strong desire to build connections and support families in this large region of rural communities