Vanier Children’s Services appoints executive director

London Community News

Vanier Children’s Services has appointed Joanne Sherin as its fifth executive director. “Since becoming Vanier’s interim executive director in January of 2012, Joanne has excelled in the role, displaying the combination of compassion and strength of character Vanier was looking for in its new executive director,” said board president Janice Straub. Over the past 40 years Vanier has become a leader in helping children and youth up to age 14, along with their families, cope with emotional and behavioural issues. Sherin joined Vanier in 2005 as director of clinical services. “Vanier Children’s Services holds a unique place within the local social service continuum. We continue to be a willing partner in local service collaborations/initiatives and participate in a wide range of knowledge-exchange activities,” Sherin said. “I will continue to advocate for and support these activities both internally with our staff and externally across our region.” Sherin is a tireless advocate for children’s mental health who brings a variety of clinical and management experience to her new role spanning more than two decades. She has served on the board of organizations such as Changing Ways and Sexual Assault Centre London. “One of the biggest issues facing our sector right now is the Ministry of Children and Youth Services (MCYS) System Transformation agenda. We know that the province wants to consolidate a large number of agencies into a smaller number of agencies,” Sherin said. “Much discussion is occurring around the province about the emerging criteria that will likely impact MCYS decisions regarding operational funding and the distribution of new monies/targeted positions to address the growing needs of children, youth and families.” Find us on Facebook: London Community News