OUR BOARD

President 

Lauren has been an integral part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH) for over 15 years, starting as a co-op student. During her tenure, she has taken on multiple roles, including In-School Mentor, Big Bunch volunteer, event volunteer, fundraising volunteer, and Board Member. Lauren’s journey with BBBSSH began as a quest for experience in the non-profit sector, where she learned invaluable skills in program management, community engagement, and fundraising. This experience ignited her passion for the organization, leading her to remain actively involved ever since. 

In addition to her work with BBBSSH, Lauren has volunteered with Rotaract and Rotary, as well as several small organizations focused on development work in the global south. Her professional career has been dedicated to not-for-profit organizations worldwide, spanning sectors such as education, community development, support services, and healthcare. Lauren’s commitment to grassroots work that brings real and lasting change is evident in her continued support of BBBSSH. She is particularly proud of her extensive educational background, holding three post-secondary degrees/certificates and currently pursuing a fourth. Growing up in Hensall, ON, and having lived and worked globally, Lauren has now resettled in Hensall, where she continues to make a significant impact in her community through her diverse volunteer efforts.  

Treasurer

Director 

Tracey has been a dedicated volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron for 20 years, serving as a Big Sister, Big Bunch Volunteer, Board Member, and Race Director for the Trail Run (Past fundraiser). Her commitment to community involvement began when she moved to Exeter and wanted to get involved. Her passion for volunteerism was ignited by participating in the Katimavik youth program at 18, where she volunteered in different communities across Canada. Tracey’s volunteer efforts extend beyond BBBSSH to the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation and the Humane Society in London. 

Professionally, Tracey has a background in forestry and has worked in tree nurseries and greenhouses for a decade. She later transitioned to GIS (Geographical Information Systems) and Information Technology (IT), working for the past 21 years at the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. Originally from London, Ontario, Tracey now calls Exeter home, where she lives with her husband, Greg. She takes pride in balancing her extensive volunteer work with her professional career, contributing significantly to her community and inspiring others through her dedication and service. 

Director 

Stephen has been a dedicated volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH) for nine years, serving as both a volunteer and a director on the board. His commitment to BBBSSH stems from a desire to give back to the community and to help disadvantaged children. His volunteer work also includes contributions to Big Brothers Big Sisters London and the Legion. 

Stephen’s passion for this work is deeply personal. Having experienced a troubled youth, he turned his life around and now aims to inspire and support young people to do the same. Professionally, Stephen is a lawyer, a role in which he takes great pride, as it allows him to help people both legally and through his volunteer efforts with BBBSSH. Growing up in the greater Hensall area, Stephen is proud of his journey to becoming a lawyer and his ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in his community. 

Director 

Elena joined the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH) in April 2024. In her short time with the organization, she has already contributed to the “Golf fore Kids’ Sake” event. Her decision to join BBBSSH was fueled by a deep passion for nonprofit work and a personal connection through her daughter, Sofia, who is a “Little” in the program. Elena is committed to supporting and enhancing the impactful work of BBBSSH. 

With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, Elena has worked at One Care Home for the past five years in various roles, including community support programs, fundraising, and volunteer coordination. Her spark for volunteering ignited early on, inspired by the profound impact of meaningful work on individuals and communities. Growing up in South Huron and now residing in Zurich, Elena takes immense pride in her professional and volunteer endeavors, balancing her career and her dedication to BBBSSH. This balance enriches her life with a deeper sense of purpose and sets a powerful example for her children, demonstrating the values of commitment, compassion, and community service. 

Vice President 

Dianne has been an integral part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH) for 5.5 years, serving as both Director and Vice President. Driven by a strong belief in the organization’s mission to help children in need of guidance, Dianne has dedicated herself to supporting BBBSSH’s efforts and ensuring that every child has access to a mentor. Her personal goal is to help reduce the wait list for children seeking mentors. 

In addition to her roles at BBBSSH, Dianne has been a United Way representative at her full-time job, showcasing her commitment to community service. Professionally, she has worked as an Executive Assistant to the VP at a pharmaceutical company for 22 years and has been involved in skincare sales for 40 years, where she has broken monthly sales records and earned numerous accolades, including trips, diamonds, and a car. Originally from Dashwood, ON, Dianne lived in Toronto for 35 years before returning home. Known for her persistence, consistency, and positive attitude, Dianne is also a skilled cook, party planner, and craft enthusiast who loves helping people and cherishes family, especially children and babies. 

Secretary 

Brenda has been a dedicated volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH) for the past five years. She serves as the Board Secretary and volunteers at the Little Shop. Brenda’s passion for BBBSSH stems from her own experience growing up as an only child without access to such an organization. She is committed to ensuring that children have mentors and opportunities for social activities. 

In addition to her work with BBBSSH, Brenda has volunteered with the Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, the Legion, and the Volunteer Fire Department during her younger years. Currently, she is the Exports Clerk/Secretary/Accounts Receivable/Receptionist at Exeter Produce & Storage, where she has worked for 26 years. Brenda takes great pride in her daughters and grandchildren, who inspire her to support organizations like BBBSSH. Originally from Georgetown, ON, she now calls Zurich home and continues to make a positive impact in her community. 

Director 

Katelyn has been a dedicated volunteer with BBBSSH for over 15 years, starting in high school. She has embraced various roles, including high school co-op placement, Big Sister, Big Bunch Coordinator, and Board Member. Driven by a desire to support local youth, Katelyn has also volunteered with YMCA Immigration Services in Brantford while attending Laurier University. Currently, she works as the head secretary at South Huron District High School, where she continues to impact the lives of young people daily. Her commitment to the community is further evidenced by her deep roots in Huron County, where she grew up in Dashwood and now resides in Seaforth. 

Proud of her family and her connection to her hometown, Katelyn is a strong advocate for local initiatives and businesses. She believes in the immense potential of youth and the importance of providing guidance and support to help them achieve great things. Encouraging others to get involved, she highlights the various volunteer opportunities available, from helping at fundraisers to shopping at the Little Shop. Katelyn’s dedication to making a positive difference in her community makes her an inspiring role model for others. 

Director 

Deb has been a Board Director with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron since 2023, driven by her passion for supporting youth and understanding the importance of positive role models. Her extensive volunteer experience includes over 35 years of coaching softball, directing softball associations, and participating in community initiatives such as the Crediton Community Centre Improvement Committee and the Exeter 150 Celebration Committee. Inspired by her own experiences with community volunteers during her youth, Deb is committed to providing the same support and encouragement to today’s young people through BBBSSH. 

Deb retired in 2023 from her role as general manager of the Exeter Lakeshore Times-Advance and Weekender. Deb is particularly proud of her children, who have followed her example by volunteering in their community. Growing up in Crediton, where she continues to reside, Deb remains deeply connected to her roots and dedicated to building a supportive and vibrant community through her ongoing volunteer work.