For many people in the Comox Valley, particularly clients and their families, Anita Brassard has been the face of YANA.
She’s the compassionate voice on the other end of the phone or the friendly face you’ll meet when you visit the YANA office.
Initially a volunteer and over the past five years the executive director, Anita has a long history of helping children and families in the Comox Valley.
At the end of June, her passion for the well-being of children and families will take her to a new role with the Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island.
“My work with Children’s Health Foundation will allow me to extend the reach of my work to Central and North Vancouver Island while allowing me to remain firmly rooted in the Comox Valley community," Anita says. "I cherish the relationships that I made in my role with YANA and I look forward to connecting with many of those people in my new position."
The YANA board of directors is very happy to announce the hiring of Marcie Dumais as the new executive director effective July 1.
“Marcie brings a wealth of education, experience and knowledge about YANA as she transitions from a board role to this new position," says president Judy Cryer, speaking for the board. "We are confident that we have found a new executive director who will continue the same tradition of excellence in serving families who travel out of our community for medical services for their children.”
Of this opportunity, Marcie says, “I’m honoured to work for YANA in this new capacity and will aim to provide the same level of care and compassion that Anita has given to YANA families over the years.”
From May 15 to the end of June, Anita and Marcie will work together to ensure a smooth transition.
YANA assists families within School District 71 boundaries whose children must travel outside the area for medical care.
For more information about YANA, to volunteer or donate, visit www.yanacomoxvalley.com, like them on Facebook, or call 250-871-0343.
— You Are Not Alone