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MISSION

PSSO enhances the quality of life and care for people living with Parkinson’s in Southwestern Ontario.

VISION

To reach every person in Southwestern Ontario affected by Parkinson’s.

Hope is Close to Home

When you or someone you love is diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the first question often asked is “where do I go?” Our answer is simple: home. Parkinson’s Society Southwestern Ontario is home. Home for all those living with Parkinson’s Disease in Southwestern Ontario.

Home for you to find services, workshops, and groups dedicated to growing the support and community around Parkinson’s Disease. Home for education and research initiatives built on spreading the awareness, care, and support for Parkinson’s Disease.

But most importantly, home for You.

At Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario, we’re dedicated to providing the best, most supportive, and most valuable community for all those with Parkinson’s. We understand the importance of togetherness, and bring that understanding into all of the work we do.

Our team of supportive, kind, and knowledgeable staff are dedicated to the community and providing the resources that are needed and valued by all of the amazing people we aim to help. We are committed to providing the utmost care and support to all of those whose lives are touched by Parkinson’s Disease.

Our unwavering goal is, was, and always will be to create the very best community for everyone living with Parkinson’s in Southwestern Ontario.

Shelley Rivard

Chief Executive Officer

Shelley joined PSSO in 2009 as Coordinator of Special Events, and has been in the role of CEO for the last 8 years.  She has 20+ years in the not-for-profit sector beginning working for Minor Hockey, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, and now Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario. Shelley has a passion for people, and enjoys the opportunity to build a supportive community for those living with PD throughout Southwestern Ontario.  

In her spare time, Shelley enjoys her family, 4 adult children and 7 wonderful grandchildren.  Shelley loves being outdoors, and enjoys the beach in the summer.  Recently, she has taken on some home renovations and enjoys doing these DIY projects.

Joanne Bernard

Manager, Finance & Administration

Joanne first came to Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario as a volunteer after her father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. She worked on the Cut-A-Thon and Tulip Benefit committees helping with marketing and media.  Joanne was then hired full-time as Coordinator of Special Events and Marketing in 1998.

Joanne has had various roles within the organization and currently enjoys her position as Manager of Administration.  

Joanne has continued to be active in the community with her daughters’ hockey (trainer, assistant coach), children’s ministry, Regional Mental Health Care (placement) and more recently at Anova.  In her spare time, she likes to walk, garden, paint and most importantly, spend time with her amazing daughters.

Michele Bucholtz

Executive Assistant to the CEO

Michele has spent most of her career in telecommunications and the School Board in an Administrative Role.

Michele is a life long learner in anything that peaks her interest. From completing an HR certification from Fanshawe College to a Registered Yoga Instructor, sound healer and many other healing modalities.

In her spare time she loves to be creative and hands on with baking and making jewellery and CNC products. Spending quality time with family and friends and taking Long walks with her furbaby Cooper is absolutely her favourite thing to do.

Mohamad Dukhan

Finance and Administration Specialist

Mohamad Dukhan joined Parkinson Society Canada as a Finance and Administration Specialist, bringing over 10 years of expertise in financial reporting, and administration. With a Bachelor’s degree in Financial Modeling and Economics from Western University (2021) and a Master’s degree in Finance from Queen’s University (2023), Mohamad combines a strong academic background with a deep understanding of financial systems and strategies.

Mohamad is dedicated to applying his expertise to support the organization’s financial health and strategic goals, ensuring continued growth and sustainability in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.

Jaycee Field

Event and Volunteer Specialist

Jaycee joined PSSO in 2025, with a background in child and youth counselling. She spent several years working with at-risk youth and families in her community before deciding to switch career paths after starting a family of her own. She’s always been passionate about helping others, staying connected to her community, and making a positive difference wherever she can.

Over the years, Jaycee has helped plan community events, organize fundraisers, and get people involved through volunteering. She loves being part of anything that brings people together and strengthens the community.

At home, Jaycee is a busy mom of four and happily married. When she’s not at work, you’ll probably find her at a ball diamond or hockey rink cheering on her kids. She also enjoys spending time outdoors, catching up with friends, working in her garden and volunteering at her kids’ school.

Grace Ki

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Grace holds a degree in Marketing and brings a creative edge with her background in graphic design. With several years of experience in the non-profit sector, she joined Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario in the spring of 2025 as the Marketing Communications Specialist.

Grace is driven by a passion for helping others and making a meaningful impact in the community. At PSSO, she’s excited to collaborate with the team to promote events, workshops, and resources that support individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s.

When she’s not working, Grace enjoys indulging in creative hobbies like drawing, painting, embroidery, and writing. She believes that storytelling—whether visual or written—can inspire connection and foster understanding.

Igho Ogbobine

Data Operations Specialist

Igho is a multifaceted individual with an insatiable thirst for excellence, a passion for giving back, and a drive to make a positive impact. As a data operations specialist, she brings a keen eye for detail and a drive for perfection to the world of data, leveraging their expertise to drive insights and optimize processes.

She is also a creative force to be reckoned with, expressing herself through various mediums such as art, photography, and design. This unique blend of technical expertise and creative flair makes her a true Renaissance person.

Natalia Pavlovets

Information & Referral Specialist

Natalia joined Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario in September 2024 as a Bachelor of Social Work counselling intern and completed her placement in April 2025. Following her practicum, she transitioned into the role of Information &
Referral Specialist, continuing her commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease.

She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from King’s University College, with a minor in Thanatology, which informs her compassionate, person-centred approach, particularly in areas related to grief, loss, and life transitions. Drawing on her background in counselling, Natalia provides tailored resource navigation, support group referrals, and educational guidance to clients navigating the complexities of Parkinson’s.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, savouring a good cup of coffee, and exploring new languages—she speaks English and Russian and is currently learning Spanish.

Robin Arnott

Community Engagement Coordinator, East Region

Robin has spent over a decade working in the field of disability advocacy and support services, and has a degree in Disability Studies from Toronto Metropolitan University. Robin joined Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario as a Community Engagement Coordinator in the fall of 2023.

Robin is a lifelong learner with a passion for creating community and connecting with marginalized groups. She is excited to be on the ground interacting with people affected by Parkinson’s disease and finding new ways to help our community thrive.

Outside of work, you’ll find Robin writing stories, drawing pictures and exploring the outdoors.

Samantha Grant

Community Engagement Coordinator, West Region

Samantha (Sam) joined Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario as a volunteer in 2017. She has assisted with the Walk for Parkinson’s in Windsor as a committee member and in 2022 began volunteering as co-facilitator for the Leamington Support Group. Samantha graduated from the Social Service Worker program at St. Clair College in 2016, where she specialized in Parkinson’s and Dementia Studies.

After completing her schooling, she was privileged to become a member of the Ontario College of Social Work and Social Service Work as a Registered Social Service Worker. She is joining the PSSO team as the Community Engagement Coordinator for our West Region, where she will be working in the community assisting with support groups, gaining funding for programs and services as well as engaging with clients in Windsor, Leamington, Chatham, Sarnia and surrounding areas.

Stephen Owen

Community Engagement Coordinator, Central Region

Stephen has a diverse background that spans from years with Community Living, Restorative Justice, and Church Ministry to Continuing Education programming/provision. His rich and varied experiences have uniquely positioned him for his current role as the Community Engagement Coordinator PSSO.

In his capacity as the Community Engagement Coordinator in our Central Region, Stephen will be in all communities within London/Middlesex, Elgin, Oxford, Norfolk, and Perth Counties. He is genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to cultivate meaningful relationships with our outstanding Support program facilitators, donors, and our valued clientele.

Heather Innes

Community Engagement Coordinator, North Region

Heather has joined the team as a Community Engagement Coordinator in the Grey Bruce area. She organizes programs and events and fosters partnerships in this region. Heather has a Master of Public Health from the University of Waterloo, and a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Guelph.

In her free time, Heather loves to explore the national and provincial parks with her partner and dog. She enjoys knitting, baking, swimming, and training for triathlons. She is very excited to work with the PSSO community and contribute to their meaningful work.

Lara Rapélje, RN

Community Engagement Coordinator, North Region

Lara has joined the team as a Community Engagement Coordinator in the Grey Bruce area. She organizes programs and events and fosters partnerships in this region, working collaboratively within the community. She holds degrees in Nursing, Policing and is working towards her Master of Counselling Psychology through Yorkville University.

In her free time, Lara spends it with her daughter and her partner, enjoying boating, fishing, hunting and camping adventures. She loves being outdoors and enjoys baking, cooking and smoking meats. Recently Lara has started home renovations and interior design projects for family and friends.

Corporate Board, Executive Members

Brad Richards
Chair

Alysia Christiaen
Vice-Chair

Matthew Mitchell
Treasurer & Secretary

Shelley Rivard
Chief Executive Officer

Board Members

Karla Andrews
Board Member

Anthony Bender
Board Member

Kurt Berger
Board Member

Hredyesh Bhayana
Board Member

Dr. Mandar Jog
Honorary Board Member

Patrizia Perkovic
Board Member

Gary Pullam
Board Member

Kelly Robb
Board Member

Jennifer Stapleton
Board Member

Bev Zaifman
Board Member