Meet Our Staff!
Halifax Inclusion Support
Our Inclusion support staff is made up of a our Peer support coordinator, program volunteers, and our Director. Our staff works together to provide both peer and transitional support programs to individuals with disabilities and their families. The staff use support groups for self-advocates, siblings and parents, focusing on a holistic and person centered support model. Our staff are passionate about supporting members while they advocate for themselves, connect with others have experienced similar life experiences and build strong community connections.
Destiny LeBlanc - Halifax Inclusion DIrector
Hi, my name is Destiny (she/her), and I am the Inclusion Support Director at Halifax Association for Community Living. I was born and raised in Dartmouth. I recently graduated from Mount St. Vincent University with a Bachelor of Science, Major in Psychology, and have decided to start my Masters in Counselling Psychology. Within my Masters Program, I will be exploring the practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I decided to get involved with HACL because I am looking to make an impact within the community and hopefully change lives for the better! A fun fact about me is that I adore animals. Especially my kitty Bronx whom I adopted in October 2021.
Gabrielle Lowen-Favreau- Peer Support Coordinator
Gabrielle is joining the Veith House for January 2024. Gabrielle is finishing her studies at Dalhousie University with a focus in Law and Sociology. Before the Veith House, Gabrielle was the Camp Director at the Waegwoltic Club as well as an ambassador for the non-for-profit ‘Apathy is Boring.’ Gabrielle is joining the Veith community with extensive knowledge of administration, outreach and community building. She is eager to get started!
Marissa Jones - SEI Student Administrator
Hi, my name is Marissa, I am the Social Media Administrator for Halifax Association for Community Living through the SEI program at Saint Mary's University. I will graduate from Saint Mary's in May with a Bachelors degree in Psychology and Criminology. In the fall of 2024, I am going to Cape Breton Business College to take their Early Childhood Education Course. This course will give me experience with children as I plan to get my Masters in school psychology some day! I look forward to working at Veith House, getting to know the community and giving back. Facts about me are that I enjoy swimming, the outdoors, baking, and spending time with my little sister and my three cats, Po, Arlo, and Josie.
Halifax developmental centre
Our amazing staff team is made up of 6 Early Childhood Educators, an Inclusion Coordinator, a Cook, and our Director. Our staff bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience which includes Early Childhood Education, Child & Youth Studies, Psychology, and Human Studies. Our team also has specific training in the use of Classroom Visuals, Inclusion, Snoezelen therapy, Routine-Based Plans, and Behaviour Guidance.
Our staff members are passionate about inclusion and advocacy, and strive each day to support our children to achieve their developmental goals. In order to provide the best possible support for our children, we aim to maintain a ratio of one teacher for every 4 children. This provides opportunities for our children to work in large group, small group, and one-on-one settings. We are extremely proud of our exceptional staff and their level of commitment to our children, families, and community.
Jennifer Solomon - Halifax Developmental Director
My name is Jennifer (she/her) and I am the director of the Halifax Development Centre for Early Learning. I have been involved in child care for over 20 years, and have spent the last two years working in this inclusive position at HDCEL. I am a director, but also an artist and dog mom. I am so happy to be part of a program that advocates for children and families in need of inclusion and support. I volunteer my outside time by visiting long term care facilities and hospitals with my dogs to bring joy to others.
Dianna McDonald - Inclusion coordinator
Darlene - Cook
Darlene has been a cook at HDCEL for over 30 years. Her cooking is enjoyed by all here at the centre, and she tries to put equal amounts health and love into each meal she prepares for us.
Amanda Hall - Preschool Teacher
Hello hello! I’m Amanda and i’m one of the preschool teachers here at HDCEL. I graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University in 2018 with a Bachelors degree in Child and Youth Studies, and a minor in Psychology. I've been working at the centre since 2018 and it's definitely my second home. I have a love of anything sensory, and believe glitter belongs on anything! When I'm not teaching, I'm spending time with my fur baby pickles and hanging out with friends.
Emily Schultz - Preschool teacher
Hi everyone! I’ve always loved working with young children and have a passion for inclusion. I graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University in 2021 with my Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Study. Since the first day of my practicum placement at HDCEL, I knew I would end up working here and here I am as one of the preschool teachers! Outside of work I enjoy reading, travelling, hanging out with my dogs, crystals, and going to local coffee shops. The children at this centre brighten my life in so many ways and I absolutely love working with them.
Julia Fewer - PreSchool Teacher
My name is Julia and I went to Mount Saint Vincent University where I completed the Child and Youth Studies program. I first came to this centre as a student from the Mount and now I am back as a support teacher. I love learning new things and having new experiences that I can share with others. I believe that variety is the spice of life and I see myself as a life long learner.
Kaitlyn Power - Toddler Teacher
Hello families, I have known I have wanted to work with children since I was 12 years old. I volunteered in a nursery in a parent and tot program. Since I was in high school I have planned to work in a daycare setting. I graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University with a degree in Early Childhood Education in 2018. In 2016 I did my placement with HDCEL in 2016, and fell in love with the center. I am very excited to be your children's toddler teacher!
Kailey Macneil - Toddler Teacher
Hello! I'm Kailey I'm one of the toddler teachers here at HDCEL I worked here from 2015 to 2018 then left for 2 years and came back home both to my daycare family and my family and friends. When I'm not at work I enjoy helping take care of my godsons and spending time with friends and family.
