About Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario

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.

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Kevin brings a diverse skill set to his role at PSSO, having ventured through various sectors with an eye for innovation and creativity. His journey began in the fast-paced agency environment, where he navigated the dynamic world of marketing and public relations, managing accounts for entertainment giants like Cirque du Soleil and ShowSpan. After the pandemic Kevin transitioned into communications in the nonprofit realm, where he honed his ability to craft compelling narratives for impactful causes.

His commitment to lifelong learning led him to the International College Program at Walt Disney World, where he immersed himself in the intricacies of marketing and sales at Disney University while contributing behind the scenes to the magic of the Magic Kingdom. Driven by a passion for education, Kevin also ventured into academia, teaching marketing courses at his alma mater, and continues to participate on the Professional Advisory Committee for the PR program at St. Clair College.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Kevin remains engaged in his community through event photography and the publication of his monthly fanzine. With a blend of hands-on experience and a dedication to creativity, Kevin brings a unique perspective to the table, enriching the endeavors of PSSO and beyond.

Special Events & Volunteer Coordinator

Chris has had a diverse range of roles in small business, academic research, corporate Canada and the non-profit sector in positions for sales, customer service, research and fundraising. His last posting was with Teen Challenge where he held fundraising capacities which helped those afflicted by addiction and often mental health challenges. From Chris’ standpoint it comes down to forging lasting relationships with clients, donors and stakeholders. Chris is a positive, jovial, committed and compassionate soul who has always served others in many positions.

In his new assignment as Events and Volunteer Coordinator at PSSO, Chris is uniquely placed to continue to build relationships, foster a team ethos and plan and execute on special events in London and surrounding area as well as support both volunteers and CEC’s with their work.

Chris is an avid reader and focuses on history, political science, economics, biographies and books on personal development. He received his glider pilot’s license and wings in Air Cadets and wants to return to the skies sometime soon. Apart from reading, he relaxes in his spare time by listening to podcasts and keeps up on current events both nationally and internationally. Chris loves this community and has volunteered for multiple organizations and causes and he sees it as a way of giving back by investing his time and effort for others.

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.

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. Prior to joining PSSO Samantha worked in a Long-Term Care Facility assisting with Recreation and Leisure Services. 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.

Samantha practices self-care by knitting and homecrafts, drawing and listening to classic country and oldies music in the evenings. In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering, and spending time with family and friends.