About Us
Organization History
by a group of concerned citizens of the Lower North Shore of Quebec. The objective was to protect and further the interests of the population and contribute to the region’s vitality.
Nearly 30 years later, the Coasters Association’s membership stands at 3,542. With each new member, the Association becomes stronger and the objective of identifying and responding to the pressing needs of the Lower North Shore more feasible.
Coasters Association
formed in St. Augustine, Quebec, by a group of local citizens on the Lower North Shore.
Incorporation
The Coasters Association becomes incorporated & presents to the Federal Government Departments for core funding.
QCGN Member
The Coasters Association becomes a founding member of the Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN).
Cod Moratorium
Decrease in cod endangers Lower North Shore economy.
LNSCH & NPI Program
The Lower North Shore Coalition for Health (LNSCH) was formed, and the Network Partnership Initiative (NPI) was established with Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN).
CLC & KIDS Summer Camp
Community Learning Centres (CLC) were established in St. Paul’s River, Mecatina School and Netagamiou School. The Coasters Association manages KIDS Summer Camp.
BCNF Movement & SMTW
Two programs, Basse-Côte-Nord en Forme and Show Me the Way, were developed to promote healthy living and early childhood development.
Nordic Wildberry Project
Bioproducts Solidary COOP develops six prototypes for wild berries (jellies, purees).
McGill University
Partnership to provide bursaries under the Health and Social Science program financial aid in their education.
Youth Skills Link & Career Focus Programs
Introduce youth to new skills and work experience in local organizations.
LNS Health Fund
The Lower North Shore Health Fund was created to support LNS residents dealing with illness.
Avenir d'enfant
The LNS Coalition for Health presents a program that helps early childhood development in children between 0 to 5 years old.
LNS Bioproducts Solidarity COOP AGM
The Coasters Association R&D on Non-Timber Forest Products led to incorporating the LNS Bioproducts Solidarity COOP.
Senior Day Centres
The Coasters Association starts preliminary stages for developing six senior centres on the Lower North Shore.
Partnership with UQTR
Two masters students were recruited to participate in environmental science Masters with Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières.
LNS Research Facility
The Coasters Association began to work on economic research and development surrounding the transformation of our natural resources (ex: algae, wild berries, etc.).
LNS Housing Corporation
It was created to provide housing for seniors and low-income families.
ERCC Funding
The Coasters Association received five-year funding from the CHSSN through the Secretariat for relations with English-speaking Quebecers to enhance regional community capacities.
Secretariat Funding
The Lower North Shore Research Facility receives funding from the Secretariat for relations with English-speaking Quebecers.
Canadian Heritage Funding
Canadian Heritage increased the core funding of the Coasters Association by 38%.
NPI Satellite Office
The Network Partnership Initiative program was expanded to include a satellite office between the communities.
Place aux Jeunes
The Coasters Association secures the 80th Place aux Jeunes in Quebec with an overall goal of attracting and retaining youth.
Restructuring
The Coasters Association divided its programs and initiatives into the Northern Research Centers and the Wellness Centers.
How we tackle the challenge
Nurture
and enhance community vitality and leadership
Promote
the social development of vulnerable groupings
Develop
diversify and sustain the LNS Economy and retain youth
Enhance
government relations
Renew
and constantly revitalize the Coasters Association
Our Programs & Networks
The Coasters Association’s objective is to make the Lower North Shore a better place to live for residents of the Coast. We firmly believe that this objective will be attained sooner if everyone gets involved. By linking the communities of the Coast and by giving them a chance to partake in joint initiatives, the Coasters Association aims to create a common bond that will enable the entire Lower North Shore to face the challenges of renewal and development as one.
EARLY CHILDHOOD ANIMATOR
Our Team
Cornella Maurice
Executive Director
Cornella Maurice was a founding member of the Coasters Association Inc. in 1988 and has led and managed the organization as Executive Director since 1989 (32 years).
Cornella was also a founding member of two regional groups: the Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) and the HRD Community Table – CEDEC. She has been an Advisory member of the Lower North Shore Coalition for Health (LNSCH) since 2004, and very involved in the development of the LNS wildberry and non-timber forest products initiatives since 2009, and in leadership roles on the Oversight Committee, the establishment of an LNS Bio-Resources Co-op and the Northern Research Center. She has been active in the socio-economic development of the LNS and helped guide the preparation of a 5-year Strategic Plan for the LNS, LNS Revitalization Framework, and the LNS Guide for Development Process.
Her involvement with communities of the LNS allowed her to be in close contact with partners (on & off territory) regularly. She has worked to create an environment of positive change and implement organizational transformation. Over the years, she has established a large bank of resource contact persons, as both a Coasters employee and community volunteer, in health & social services, education, social/community and economic development, employability, as well as in tourism, transport, arts & culture, communications, etc.
Cornella has built relationships, empowered others and worked for consensus in her community activities through open dialogue and facilitated discussions. She has helped establish partnerships on and off the territory with organizations, institutions, businesses, universities and CCTTs in Quebec and Canada, with the MRC, federal/provincial and regional government departments, etc. She is known as a pro-active and involved member of the community. She is committed to putting the community's interests first as she lobbies and network on behalf of the population of the Lower North Shore of Quebec.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shannon Keats
Executive Assistant
Shannon Keats has been with the Coasters Association and has held many positions since November 1998. Shannon started on a project as a Human Resources Development Researcher, which was funded by Human Resources & Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). Through the years, she has been on many part-time projects as an animator and coordinator, has served as a replacement employee on numerous occasions, then program manager, and in 2018 was promoted to a full-time permanent position as Executive Assistant.
Shannon’s role has been fundamental to the administrative department of the Coasters as well as the Executive Director. She has been an asset to the organization and, combined with her years of knowledge and expertise, has always been willing to offer guidance and advice to new and current employees. Shannon continues to expand and increase her knowledge by continuously strengthening and developing her administrative and organizational skills, which allows her to perform her job to the best of her ability.
Shannon is a very proactive member of her community and a dedicated volunteer. She has been part of the growth and development of the Coasters for the last 23 years and hopes to continue with the organization and the communities it serves for years to come.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Priscilla Griffin
Office Manager
Priscilla Fequet Griffin started working for the Coasters Association in 1993 (28 years – March 2021) and has worked on various files during her time with the organization, i.e., Lower North Shore Food Guide, and produced the Coasters newspaper (Coastar) for many years. She played a lead role in developing the wild berry file, managed the senior file, and recently transitioned to the office manager position.
Priscilla has been involved in her community through many hours of volunteer work. Her time at the Coasters Association allowed her to gain experience in community development, economic development, social development, heritage & culture, youth, seniors, education, and communications, thus improving her skills to benefit the volunteer community.
She communicates well, is compassionate, empathetic and capable of building relationships and empowering others. She holds volunteerism in high regard and has been a part of the fabric of community development; and was instrumental in leading and or supporting a variety of programs in the community.
She is recognized as a pro-active and involved member of the community. Her involvement in community life provided the opportunity to be in close contact with the people of the Lower North Shore. Therefore, her experience in social, community and economic development holds her in good stead.
OFFICE MANAGER
Roderick Fequet
Human Resources & Community Liaison Officer
On a full-time contract basis, Roderick Fequet rejoined the Coasters Association in November of 2021 as the organization’s Human Resources and Community Liaison Officer. The primary functions related to Roderick’s new role will be to provide management and developmental support to the organizations’ human resources, strategic restructuring and community need assessments.
Roderick previously worked for the Coasters Association as the Social Economy Development Agent from 2015 to 2017. He brings a wide breadth and depth of knowledge from his prior tenure with the Coasters and his employment in government and the national charitable industry. Roderick is experienced in organizational and operational management, administration, operations, finances, revenue generation, and human resources management, including volunteers. Roderick is also technically skilled in managing databases, creating digital marketing material, and developing websites and social media accounts. Roderick is also proficient in managing meaningful relationships with internal and external stakeholders. He is well versed in good governance best practices of boards of directors, specifically in the not-for-profit and charitable industries.
Roderick is also an avid gardener, enjoys photography, reading a good book, and helping others be the best they can be and will be a valuable member of the Coasters Association in the years ahead.
HUMAN RESOURCES & COMMUNITY LIAISON OFFICER
James Buckle
Director of Finance
Mr. Buckle is a successful entrepreneur with over 30 years of business experience. He has created and sold several successful brands. When he isn’t working his day job at the Coasters, he manages two of his original businesses, in partnership with his wife, in Bonne Esperance.
James started with the Coasters Association in 1999. As Director of Finance, he ensures the proper functioning of all financial administration and processes, including accounting, budgets, employee salaries, benefits, and other internal operations of the Organization modelling. Jimmy performs financial modelling analysis and provides advice to assist the administration with funding decisions and project management. He ensures that the numerous project budgets are managed, funder agreements adhered to, and reporting commitments are met.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Ida Jones
Assistant to the Director of Finance
Ida joined the Finance Team in 2017 and has over 20 years of accounting experience.
She oversees a wide range of finance and administration functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking and reconciliations, and cash management. She is responsible for reconciling all general ledger accounts and preparing monthly project reporting. She works closely with the Director of Finance to ensure that finances are maintained in a practical, up-to-date manner and are following policies and procedures.
ASSISTANT TO THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Jessica Jones
Finance Clerk
Jessica Jones has been an employee of the Coasters Association since November 2014, on a Stabilization project funded by Emploi Quebec, and has undertaken different roles within the organization throughout the years. She began her employment as a Digital Health Intern. She gathered information on Health Prevention and Promotion Events and Awareness to create health media videos to be displayed in the clinics along the Lower North Shore to share with the population.
As time progressed, she had various roles to Data Entry Clerk, Social Economy Coordinator, Bookkeeper, and now Finance Clerk. She is a part of the finance department team working under the direction of the Director of Finance. Jessica is responsible for recording and paying vendor invoices, ensuring efficient and accurate vendor payments, and updating and maintaining the financial filing system for the Coasters Association. She also provides accounting support to the Uni-Aide Foundation, notifies communities of the upcoming bursary, collects applications, and forwards bursary application selections for the McGill Bursary Program.
Jessica feels fortunate to be a team member of the Coasters Association and a part of their work. With the seven years, she has been with the organization, she has gained wonderful work experience and considers the individuals she works with as great mentors.
FINANCE CLERK
Kimberly Buffitt
Director of Operations & Innovation
Kimberly Buffitt joined the Coasters Association Inc. in 2004 and has led and managed the Networking and Partnership Initiative through the Community Health and Social Services Network since 2004 (17 years October 2021). In 2020 she took a more active role in operations of the Coasters Association, supporting the Executive Director in restructuring the operation functions of the Coasters Association due to its rapid expansion and growth.
She has been an Advisory member of the Lower North Shore Coalition for Health (LNSCH) since 2004, and very involved in the development of the LNS wild berry and non-timber forest products initiatives since 2009, and in leadership roles the establishment of an LNS Bio-Resources Co-op, the International Blue Coop and the Northern Research Center. She plays an active leadership role in the health sector as chair of the Advisory Committee and President of the Users Committee of the Lower North Shore for the CISSSCN.
Her involvement with communities of the LNS allowed her the opportunity to be in close contact with partners (on & off territory) regularly. She has worked to create an environment of innovation and has worked diligently to support the communities in having satellite offices and human resources in their communities. Over the years, she has established a large bank of resource contact persons, as both a Coasters employee and community volunteer, in health & social services, education, social/community and economic development, employability; as well as in tourism, bio development, fisheries and aquaculture, arts & culture, communications, etc.
Kimberly has built relationships, empowered others and worked to develop programs and services across the territory through open dialogue and facilitated discussions. She is passionate about bringing youth back to the region and facilitated the foundation of a remote master's program with the University of Quebec and Three Rivers (UQTR). She has helped establish partnerships on and off the territory with organizations, institutions, businesses, universities, and CCTTs in Quebec and Canada and with the MRC, federal/provincial and regional governments departments, international partners, etc. She is known as a pro-active and involved member of the community. She is committed to putting the community's interests first as she lobbies and network on behalf of the population of the Lower North Shore of Quebec.
DIRECTOR OF ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT
Shelley Fequet
Director of Community Development & Mobilization
Shelley Fequet has worked with the Coasters Association since January of 2006.
Shelley has worked on many health, social and community development initiatives and has held positions of Coordinator, Manager and Assistant to the Director of Programs before being promoted to Director of Community Development and Mobilization in 2019.
Shelley has participated in much professional development training over the years to improve her capacity to support positive change. Some special training with the Community Health and Social Services Network (CHSSN), Health Canada, and Tamarack. Her experience with an ecosystemic approach has proven effective in working with different partners to improve access to programs and services.
In her fifteen (15) plus years with the Coasters Association, Shelley has developed many resources and tools. Resources and tools include; reports, manuals, guides, a Social Development Framework and soft skills workshops.
Shelley’s current role with the Coasters Association is to support the Municipalities and communities in increasing their capacity to improve social and economic opportunities for the Lower North Shore and “Strengthen Community Vitality.” Shelley also provides administrative support to the LNSCH and the Uni-Aide Foundation.
Shelley is known as involved in her community and serves as a member of various committees and boards. Her involvement shows her dedication to improving community development on the Lower North Shore.
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT & MOBILIZATION
Kayla Kippen
Senior Manager of Operations
Kayla has over ten years of management experience in both the private and public sectors. She has a diverse work experience background in sales, agricultural services, public administration, and finance. During her time at the University of Ottawa, where she studied Psychology and Business Administration, she successfully balanced a full-time management position while also receiving her education.
In her time with the Coasters Association, she has been involved in many files that contribute to developing the health and social services offered on the Lower North Shore. She recently transitioned to Senior Manager of Operations at the organization, where she continuously investigates innovative solutions to encourage organizational and community development.
Since 2019, Kayla has been the vice-chair for the Cote-Nord Regional Committee for the Program of Access to Health and Social Services in the English Language. She has also been very active in the development of the Lower North Shore Housing Corporation, the regional housing assessment, internal communications planning, strategic planning for the Northern Research Center, youth engagement strategy, to name a few.
Upon her return to the Lower North Shore, Kayla has also been influential in developing and sustaining her community of Kegaska. She is currently the President of the Kegaska Sports Committee and recently completed her three-year term on the Kegaska Local Committee. She is immensely passionate about seeing her community and the Lower North Shore thrive. Her goal is always to ensure that the region grows and adjusts to global demands and social and economic realities in every aspect, every file. Her devotion to the Coast is undeniable.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & INNOVATION
Chelsey Thomas
Director of Youth & Development
Chelsey Thomas has worked with the Coasters Association since October of 2019.
Chelsey started as the Program Manager of Youth and Development, focusing on engaging youth in employment and training opportunities throughout the Lower North Shore. In 2020 she was promoted to Director of Youth & Employability.
Having relocated from Alberta after marrying a local from St. Paul’s, Chelsey brings an alternative perspective to her role. With a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism and multiple years of experience working in municipal settings, she has developed a strong background in working within communities. She is proficient in project development and grant writing.
Chelsey’s current role focuses on revitalizing the region through economic and social development. She has developed an employment strategy entitled “HOME” and coordinates a working committee with partners to implement the plan. She supports the development of project applications, the “Youth Brief,” and develops internship opportunities through the organization. She also provides support to the Wellness Center and Northern Research Center.
Chelsey has been involved in the community since moving to St. Paul’s in 2019, having joined the Sport and Recreation Committee within her first year. Having recently had her first child, she understands the importance of sustainable community programs. She is dedicated to getting involved in her community to contribute to the region’s revitalization.
DIRECTOR OF YOUTH & DEVELOPMENT
Katie Roberts
Director of the Northern Research Center
Katie Roberts joined the Northern Research Center team of the Coasters Association in May 2021 as the Director.
Katie received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Management and Leadership from Bishop’s University last fall. This career path gave her hands-on experience in all aspects of international management, focusing on human resources and marketing.
Living away for most of her childhood, Katie always knew her heart would lead her back home to the Lower North Shore. With her determination and curiosity, she always looked for opportunities to volunteer with the end goal of developing her community, often in a leadership role. When Katie moved back to the Lower North Shore, she quickly became involved in her community and made her voice heard. Getting her position with the Coasters Association opened the door to her lifelong goal.
Katie’s position within the organization allows her to put her education and experiences within leadership to work. She applies her knowledge to help facilitate the organization with hopes of flourishing our beautiful territory’s hidden treasures. She is excited to be a part of the development and betterment of the place, so many people call home.
DIRECTOR OF THE NORTHERN RESEARCH CENTER
Mason Organ
Interim Director of the Northern Research Center
Mason Organ has been part of the Coasters Association team since January 2017. With an educational background in Management and Marketing and a focus on Creative and Event Marketing, Mason has worked through various programs on economic, community, health and business development and the establishment of the Northern Research Center.
Having a lifelong history of active volunteerism and community involvement, a passion for helping others and a desire to impact, the Coasters Association made a natural fit for him to use his talents and skill set.
As Manager of Business Development, to increase vitality, capacity, and economic security for the communities on the Lower North Shore, he has worked with many different nonprofit, education, industry and government organizations and institutions to create impactful partnerships. By connecting locals with resources on and off the territory, he works to foster the next evolution of the Lower North Shore’s development story.
INTERIM DIRECTOR OF THE NORTHERN RESEARCH CENTER
Honlee Etheridge
Manager of Marketing & Communications
Honlee Hobbs-Etheridge has been part of the Communications team at the Coasters Association since June 2020. Starting as the Marketing and Communications Intern, she became the Assistant Manager of Marketing and Communications in January 2021 and is now the Manager of Marketing and Communications, as of July 2021.
Honlee received an Honours Bachelor of Arts with Specialization in Communications from the University of Ottawa in 2017. She experienced the many layers of communication throughout her academic and professional career, from sports coverage to live radio, advertising to social media, etc.
After returning to the Lower North Shore upon graduation, Honlee became more involved in her community. Through volunteering and event planning, she established herself in a role in developing her community. However, she still felt there was more that she could do to help the Lower North Shore thrive. It was then that she found herself on the Communications team for the Coasters Association.
Honlee’s position within the organization allows her to use her experiences in various communication perspectives and apply the knowledge from those experiences to the Lower North Shore. She believes in the limitless potential of the LNS and hopes to be a part of its success.
MANAGER OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Gabrielle Anderson
Manager of Early Childhood Development
Gabrielle Anderson joined our organization last June as Manager of Early Childhood Development. Before joining our organization, Gabrielle worked in various fields such as communications, tourism, and senior living.
Her professional background includes several non-profit organizations, allowing her to firsthand understand our challenges and shortcomings. During her years of study, Gabrielle studied in the field of human relations, more precisely in special care counselling. Being passionate about human development, she has added to her professional background degrees in Elderly care photography and soon in Administrative Assistant and Social Sciences.
Gabrielle is a committed member of her community by participating in fundraising and community events. She is always willing to lend a hand and loves the human touch. Having a sense of humour and passion for life, she is a ray of sunshine for people around her.
MANAGER OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
Jenna Maurice
Manager of Senior Services
Jenna Maurice started working with the Coasters Association Inc. on June 7th, 2021, as the lead animator of the K.I.D.S summer camp. She spent the summer planning, scheduling, and monitoring the camp counsellors with great success!
On August 31st, she was promoted to Manager of Senior Services, managing all the senior animators along the coast from Kegaska to Blanc Sablon. She has a background working with seniors as she has worked in retirement homes in the past, which made her realize the needs that aren't met for the older population. Being new to the role, she loves the team she is working with and is very excited to see what the future will bring.
Jenna is fuelled by her passion for understanding the needs of others. She considers herself eager to build on the foundations that the coasters association created and stay in tune with the older population's needs. Her determination to turn information into action will be a great asset in her future projects.
MANAGER OF SENIOR SERVICES
Latesha Fequet
Place aux Jeunes Migration Agent
In 2018, Latesha Fequet returned to the Lower North Shore after spending six (6) years in Alberta, where she completed a Social Work university diploma program at MacEwan University. Throughout her program, she was fortunate to work with the local senior population conducting animation and providing support services. During her final year in the program, she worked in a second-stage shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Over this experience, Latesha has developed a strong passion for working with vulnerable populations and advocates strongly about the importance of mental health and well-being.
Latesha has worked with the Coasters Association in different capacities since 2011 but transitioned to a full-time position in May of 2018. Her work was heavily focused on bio-development and economic development. After short maternity leave, she returned to the organization in a new role as the Place aux Jeunes Migration Agent, a program that was also new to the organization.
In her new position, Latesha supports youth ages 18-35 in their migration to the Lower North Shore. Her support level varies based on the needs of youth interested or in the process of migrating to the region. This support may consist of the following:
- Organize Exploratory Stays to visit the region, meet with employers, etc.
- Reviewing the current job market in your field;
- Investigating potential employers;
- Making connections with local and regional organizations;
- Entrepreneurial support;
- Securing accommodations in the interested community;
- Navigating the school system and child care services;
- Connecting youth to local social, cultural and other activities
She also has a significant implication on various youth files within the organization. She believes that in working on all elements that create a sense of belonging, she can encourage the development of a region that supports and encourages youth to migrate to our communities.
Latesha is very passionate about working with the population and building socially strong communities where anyone can love to live and call home. She is known for being empathetic, dependable, and objective. Latesha hopes that in her role, she can make a genuine impact on the development of the communities on the Lower North Shore.
PLACE AUX JEUNES MIGRATION AGENT
Leah Mathieu-Monger
Videographer & Coordinator of Business Development & Marketing
Leah Mathieu-Monger recently joined the Coasters Association as Videographer in the Marketing and Communications team. She graduated with a Visual Arts Diploma from Heritage College and received the Academic Achievement Award for her promotion.
That same year, she received awards for painting and sculpting at the graduating class showcase. These attributed to her love of storytelling and strength in animating her home on Quebec’s Lower North Shore and bringing it to life for the audience.
Since graduating, she has pursued her love for the arts through commissions of murals, digital renderings, design work, and merchandising. Along with the commissions are her series of oil paintings and greeting cards she sells within Quebec.
She is passionate about history and eager to build on her knowledge of the region, the communities, and the people. She believes that access to video content-saturated in culture can serve to promote as well as help to preserve the communities along the Lower North Shore and their heritage.
Her goal is to collect moments, bring them together, and create a visual experience. Specialized equipment captures engaging and tailored perspectives that offer a quality point of view as you see and hear it.
VIDEOGRAPHER & COORDINATOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING
HEALTH, SAFETY, & ENVIRONMENT OFFICER
Leatrice Collier
Nutrition North Project Coordinator
Leatrice Collier joined the Coasters Association team in 2017 as the Nutrition North Education Animator for Mutton Bay and La Tabatiere and proceeded to the position of Program Coordinator in May 2021.
As the Program Coordinator, she creates and implements nutrition education activities for community groups, nonprofit organizations, retail and educational institutions. She offers support towards making healthy choices within Gros Mecatina by developing cooking and food sustainability workshops within the objectives of the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Nutrition North programming.
Through establishing partnerships with local businesses, community groups, and organizations, she has helped motivate, expose, and implement healthy food options to the communities by offering practical and theory-based educational activities and creating informative print and digital content concerning nutrition, cooking and gardening.
NUTRITION NORTH PROJECT COORDINATOR
Samantha Tinkham
Junior Bioprocess Engineering Intern
Samantha joined the Coasters Association in January 2022 as a Junior Bioprocess Engineering Intern after moving to the Lower North Shore from Newfoundland.
Recently graduating from the Fisheries and Marine Institute, Samantha has a Diploma of Technology in Naval Architecture and is concurrently completing a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering.
As the Junior Bioprocess Engineering Intern for the Coasters Association, Samantha’s current role uses science, engineering, project management and economic principles to innovate and exploit the region's unique resources while implementing green and sustainable measures to create a viable environment throughout the Lower North Shore.
Samantha, partnered with CEDFOB, supports small-medium enterprises along the coast to create and develop jobs for residents of the Lower North Shore, while aiding in the production of local products to be sold throughout Quebec and the country. Samantha also hopes to help promote STEM education and its importance to community members of all ages in the region.
JUNIOR BIOPROCESS ENGINEERING INTERN
Chandra Nadeau
Wellness Animator
Chandra Nadeau was recently hired in the community of Kegaska as Wellness Animator. Chandra was raised in Kegaska but spent 13 years of her life on a military base in Petawawa, Ontario, with her military spouse. During that time, she gained various experiences and knowledge in the workplace.
The experience that has had the most impact on Chandra’s various work experiences was working overseas for two six-month contracts (in 2006 and 2009) in Afghanistan as a civilian employee of support staff to the Canadian military. That experience taught Chandra to be open-minded, tolerant, understanding, and appreciative of our lives here in Canada. She will carry the honour of working alongside the Canadian military and the many other nations deployed at Kandahar Airfield at those times.
Chandra feels she has been blessed to be able to settle back on the Lower North Shore in Kegaska, Quebec, since the summer of 2013. She enjoys being a part of a small community that is part of a vast family of Coasters from Blanc Sablon to Kegaska. It’s pretty impressive to realize that no matter if you’ve met in person or not, everyone is always ready to help one another out or lend a hand or a word of encouragement or care to each other in times of need.
Chandra has always been proud to be a Coaster and part of a team that works hard. With determination over the years to better the future of all Coasters, Chandra is happy to work with the senior population to promote health and wellness.
WELLNESS ANIMATOR
Torri Mansbridge
Wellness Animator
Torri Mansbridge has worked at the Coasters Association since June 2021 Torri's current role within the Bonne-Esperance Wellness Centre is to organize activities for the seniors in our community, such as crafts, game nights, book club, carry out respite visits, Phone Pal check-ins and support the Bonne Esperance 50+ Club with Meals on Wheels.
Since moving to St. Paul's River 4 years ago, Torri has had the privilege to work with seniors by doing homecare and completing the FAQPAQ Homecare Aide course. This opportunity led her to learn about many different health limitations elders may have and was an excellent fit for the Wellness Center.
In September 2021, Torri took on the role within the early childhood development file. Torri will adapt her expertise and care in working with vulnerable clientele into youth 0-5 to support their social and emotional development.
Torri is known as the "Old Soul" because of her love of embroidering, knitting, crocheting, and sewing. Her love of beachcombing and spending time outside with her two boys has given her an appreciation of what the Lower North Shore offers.
WELLNESS ANIMATOR
Makayla Griffin
Senior Animator
Makayla Griffin started working for the Coasters Association in May 2021 as the senior animator in the village of St. Augustin.
Makayla has been working with seniors in her village for the past couple of years in home care. She’s gotten to know them quite well. As the senior animator, Makayla has hosted a book club for the seniors every Tuesday evening called ‘Spilling the Tea.’ She has also been planning some intergenerational activities to bring the community closer for the coming months.
On August 30th, she was asked if she could be the animator for P.A.C.E in the municipality of St. Augustine for this year. Makayla was thrilled to take the position as she has a passion for working with children! She attended College of the North Atlantic for Early Childhood Education, so she jumped on it when the opportunity came up to be the P.A.C.E animator. P.A.C.E is going great. Makayla has many activities planned for the children this year.
Makayla is glad to be a part of such a great team at the Coasters Association as they share her passion for helping others and working as a group to help our seniors.
SENIOR ANIMATOR
SENIOR ANIMATOR
Bianca James
Senior Animator
Bianca James is a new member of the Coasters Association. She is eager to get the seniors out and about and mingle. With her experience in homecare and being around the elderly, she will try her best to develop activities and events that all the seniors will enjoy doing to improve their health and make them happy. With her experience in crafts, ex: knitting, cross-stitching, quilting, drawing, wood burning and painting etc. Bianca can develop creative activities and ideas for the seniors to do.
Bianca hopes as time goes on, she will start to gain and build the trust of the seniors in the communities and get them to participate in events and activities actively. She has a lot of exciting ideas to share with them to keep our heritage and traditions alive.
SENIOR ANIMATOR
Ivonne Fuentes
Senior Animator
Ivonne Fuentes V started at the Coasters Association in April 2020 as the Senior Animator. She loves helping people, always thinking about others' needs and finding solutions. Her authentic heart is open to people and nature. To her, human values are fundamental, respect, empathy, responsibility, honesty, solidarity, love, generosity, giving, compassion, integrity, loyalty, honour, sincerity, friendship, family, peace, patience, discipline, fairness, values of my beautiful parents.
Tête-à-la-Baleine represents what Ivonne is, another opportunity in her life. Seniors are so essential and also children. She loves to be part of their lives, smile, share, does, and spend time with them, and it fills her heart with energy again and again.
In Tête-à-la-Baleine, as an Artist, Ivonne has been doing. She will do activities that involve creativity, art, talent, the development of positive emotions, the originality of their actions and the authentic joy of doing it—mixing the nature around us in the Lower North Shore with all the people around here and feeling just one.
Ivonne wore many hats in her professional and volunteer work. She has been working as a professional artist and teaching for many years. Ivonne is a professional singer, choreographer, dancer, dance teacher, and certified ''Teachers Talk Advantage'' coach. She paints and does photography. She worked as Artistique Coordinator and art teacher at University Institute Tecnologico y de Estudios de Monterrey and as a Fitness Coach at Iowa State University with her program ''Athletes Evolution''. Ivonne played more than ten musicals in the theatre; she recorded 9 CDs with Mexican Entertainment Records, Musica Conceptual et Quality Records Co. in LA. California and Mexico.
She performed on TV as a singer, and she won the Latin Contest in Miami for Univision. In the USA, she recorded songs for the series Crossroads. As a coach and teacher, she has worked with different ages, from children to seniors.
Ivonne has done a lot of volunteer and philanthropic work through performance art.
She finished the Francisation in 2018 in CEGEP after arriving in this beautiful country in 2017. She participated in the Mariniers Show as a guest to sing Mexican Traditional Songs at the Palace in Granby.
Through all her work - She loves the Coasters Association!
SENIOR ANIMATOR
Emily Ann Joncas
Early Childhood Animator
Before working for the Coasters Association, Emily Ann Joncas attended school in Lennoxville, Quebec, where she graduated from the Social Science program at Champlain Regional College. While attending college, she took a geography course and fell in love with everything Earth-related! This led her to attend Bishop's University, majoring in Environmental Studies & Geography with a minor in Psychology.
After completing her schooling, Emily Ann returned to the Lower North Shore to start a family. When the opportunity to apply for a position as the Pace animator arose, she jumped on it and never looked back.
Emily Ann has worked with the Coasters Association as an Early Childhood Development Animator for the last nine years in the village of Lourdes-De-Blanc-Sablon. Throughout Emily Ann's animation career, she has seen the program change in terms of locale and how the workshops are carried out, but her steadfast dedication to the children has always remained the same. Emily Ann loves to watch the children explore, learn, and grow until they are ready to head off to school. Some of her favourite workshops include science experiments, nature walks and books!
EARLY CHILDHOOD ANIMATOR
Adeline Anderson
Early Childhood Animator
Adeline Anderson is most proud to say she is a mom of three beautiful daughters. Since her teenage years, Adeline has been active on a volunteer basis, sitting on numerous committees involving Youth Initiatives, Economic Development and Social/Leisure Initiatives.
For the last 20 years, Adeline has been the Animator of the P.A.C.E. Program in Gros Mecatina. During those years, Adeline developed a significant partnership with the Principal(s) and the staff of Mecatina School, which was a driving force to having the program exist for as many years as it has in the municipality. It was also beneficial that Adeline has been sitting on the Governing Board at Mecatina School for many years, holding positions as community rep, parent rep, to present day, Chair of the Board.
Adeline understands the importance of community involvement and being well informed of what is happening around her. She is also eager to learn. In the past year, she completed the Positive Parenting Program, updated her First Aid Course and took part in an ongoing Child and Nature Alliance of Canada training program. Due to Covid, this training could not be completed over the summer but hopefully soon.
EARLY CHILDHOOD ANIMATOR
The Board
Eileen Schofield
President
Johanne Beaudoin
Vice President
Gloria Bobbitt
Secretary
Tony Roberts
Treasurer
Dean McKinnon
Executive Member – Municipality of Gros Mécatina
Glen McKinnon
Executive Member – Native Representation
Mickael Lambert
Francophone Representative
Greta Gallibois
Municipality of St. Augustine
Dale Keats
Sector Seat: Youth & Employability
Stella Bobbitt
Sector Seat: Seniors & Loss of Autonomy
Garland Nadeau
Sector Seat: Small Business Enterprises
Philip Joycey
Education Representative: CSSL
Deborah Foltin
Education Representative, CSSL
Baudouin Lalo
Native Representative
Constance Monger
CISSS Côte Nord Representative
Resource
Cornella Maurice
Executive Director
Shannon Keats
Executive Assistant
Priscilla Griffin
Office Manager
Kimberly Buffitt
Director of Engagement & Development
James Buckle
Director of Finance
Our Structure
The Region
Blanc-Sablon
Lourdes de Blanc-Sablon
Emily-Ann Joncas: Early Childhood Education Animator
Bianca James: Senior Animator
In Lourdes de Blanc-Sablon:
- Wellness Centers
Brador
Honlee Etheridge: Manager of Marketing & Communications
In Brador:
- Northern Research Centers
Middle Bay
St. Paul's River
Cornella Maurice: Executive Director
Kimberly Buffitt: Director of Engagement & Development
James Buckle: Director of Finance
Shelley Fequet: Director of Community Development & Mobilization
Chelsey Thomas: Director of Youth & Development
Shannon Keats: Executive Assistant
Priscilla Griffin: Office Manager
Roderick Fequet: Human Resources & Community Liaison Officer
Ida Jones: Assistant to the Director of Finance
Jessica Jones: Finance Clerk
Latesha Fequet: Place aux Jeunes Migration Agent
Jenna Maurice: Manager of Senior Initiatives
Samantha Tinkham: Junior Bioprocess Engineering Intern
Torri Mansbridge: Wellness Animator
In St. Paul's River:
- Head Office
- Northern Research Centers
- Wellness Centers
Old Fort Bay
Logan Woodland: Health, Safety, and Environmental Officer
In Old Fort Bay:
- Northern Research Centers
St. Augustine
Makayla Griffin: Wellness Animator
In St. Augustine:
- Wellness Centers
La Tabatière
Leah Monger: Videographer
Adeline Anderson: Early Childhood Education Animator
Lorelee Gallibois: Senior Animator
In La Tabatière:
- Northern Research Centers
- Wellness Centers
Mutton Bay
Mason Organ: Interim Director of the Northern Research Center
Leatrice Collier: Nutrition North Program Coordinator
In Mutton Bay:
- Northern Research Centers
- Wellness Centers
Tête-à-la-Baleine
Ivonne Fuentes: Senior Animator
In Tête-à-la-Baleine:
- Wellness Centers
Harrington Harbour
Chevery
Katie Roberts: Director of the Northern Research Centers
Gabrielle Anderson: Manager of Early Childhood Development
In Chevery:
- Northern Research Centers
- Wellness Centers
La Romaine
Kegaska
Kayla Kippen: Senior Manager of Operations
Chandra Nadeau: Wellness Animator
In Kegaska:
- Coasters Association Satellite Office
- Wellness Centers
Our Partners
Organizations & Foundations
- Ami Québec
- Groupe Accessibilité St. Augustin
- Health & Social Services User’s Committee
- Advisory Committee to the CISSSCN
- Local Table for Seniors and Community Groups
- Aidants Naturels de la Basse Côte Nord Domestic Aid Cooperative
- Lower North Shore Housing Corporation
- Residence aux Beaux Séjours
- St. Brigid's Home
- Jeffery Hale Partners
- Métis Region BCN/Métis Inuit Community
- Quebec 4-H
- 4-H Canada
- ACCORD – Resources, sciences et technologies marines
- Coopérative de développement Régional du Québec (CDRQ)
- RAP Côte Nord
- LNS Sports & Leisures
- Junior Canadian Rangers
- Dr. Camille Marcoux Foundation
- Fondation Uni-Aide
- Tamarack Foundation
- Quebec Community Health and Social Services Foundation
- Corporation de développement des exportations de la Côte Nord
- Centraide
- QCGN’s Access to Justice
Networks
- CHSSN (Networking and Partnership Initiative)
- Community Learning Centers
- Education Network
- Lower North Shore Coalition for Health
- Provincial Health Committee
- Quebec Community Groups Networks
- Community Economic Development & Employability Corporation (CEDEC)
- LEARN – Leading English Education and Resource Network
- Labrador Straits Development Corporation
- International Blue Cooperative
- Regional Development Network (RDN)
- Places aux Jeunes
Tourism/Transportation/Fisheries
- LNS Tourism ad-hoc Table
- Tourism Committees/Museums/Centers
- Associations touristiques régionales (ATR)
- LNS Arts and Culture Guild
- Bella Desgagnés
- LNS Fishermen’s Association/Committees Harbour Authorities
Media
- LNS Radio Stations (CFBS, CJAS, CFTB)
- LNS Cable Coop
- Gazette/Northern Pen
- Canadian Broadcasting Corporation/Radio Canada
- La Presse
- TVA Sports 1 & 2
Governments, Agencies & Institutions
- Canada Economic Development
- Canadian Heritage
- Service Canada
- Fisheries & Oceans Canada
- Human Resources & Skills Development Canada
- Status of Women
- Young Canada Works
- Agriculture & Agri-food Canada
- Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)
- Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
- Société d’Aide au Développement des Collectivités (SADC)
- Agence de la santé et des services sociaux de la Côte-Nord
- Ministère de Santé et Services sociaux du Québec (MSSS)
- Institut nationale santé publique du Quebec
- Ministère de la Famille et des Ainés
- Centre de la Santé et des Services Sociaux de la Basse Côte-Nord (CISSSCN)
- Alzheimer’s Society
- L’Appui
- Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur Québec
- MRC du Golfe-du-Saint-Laurent/LNS Municipalities
- LNS Caisse Populaire
- Société du Plan Nord du Québec
- Ministère des Affaires municipales et de l'Habitation (MAMH)
- Ministère du Développement, de l’Innovation et de l’Exportation (MDEIE)
- Ministère de l’Agriculture de Pêcheries et de l’Alimentation (MAPAC)
- Centre d’initiation à la recherché et d’aide au développement durable (CIRADD)
- Ministre de l'Économie, Science et Innovation Québec
- Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
- Unité Regionale de Loisir et de Sport (URLS)
- Member of National Assembly
- Member of Parliament
- Centre de Services Scolaires du Littoral (CSSL)
- Sûreté du Québec (SQ)
- Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d’expression anglaise
Universities/CCTT’s
- Carleton University
- Concordia University
- Memorial University
- McGill University
- University of Ottawa
- Royal Roads University
- University of Waterloo
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR)
- Innoweave
- Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICAN)
- Merinov
- Biopterre
- Innofibre
- Kemitek
- Centre d’études des procédés chimiques du Québec (CÉPROQ)
- Centre d’experimentation et de développement en forêt boreale (CEDFOB)
Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm
(418) 379-2006
info@coastersassociation.com
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