Our Team
This wonderful group of people have dedicated themselves to helping others find their way out of the darkness of addiction and into the light of recovery
OUR TEAM
Leadership Team
Michael Bruneau
President & CEO
Mr. Bruneau, a self made entrepreneur, specializing in property development in Manitoba and Ontario for over 40 years.
Michael Bruneau
Mr. Bruneau, a self made entrepreneur, specializing in property development in Manitoba and Ontario for over 40 years. Until recently, his main focus has been the hospitality industry. When the opportunity presented itself in 2015 he built and financed Aurora Recovery Centre as the original founder and chairman. Shortly after, Aurora was sold to a group of investors, and now six years later Michael has taken Aurora Recovery Centre back under his control and leadership. Michael is a visionary with a heart for people. For personal reasons, Michael has always had an interest in mental health and well-being. He has proudly put together a very highly motivated team to treat addictions and mental illness with a more holistic therapy plan customized for the individual's needs. With Michael’s leadership Aurora Recovery Centre will build a brighter future, give back to the community, build communities, save lives and save families.
Anthony Joubert
Chief Financial Officer
Anthony Joubert - Chief Financial Officer
Kellee Reid RN BN
Aurora Staffing Solutions
Director of Care Detox Management Unit
General Manager
Kellee is a registered nurse who began her career at Aurora in 2020.
Kellee Reid - Aurora Staffing Solutions / Director of Care Detox Management Unit / General Manager
She had spent the majority of her career in mental health and addictions.
Steve Low
Acting Clinical Director & Treatment Consultant
Steve’s experience is vast and spans across overlapping fields within the addiction recovery realm.
Steve Low - Acting Clinical Director & Treatment Consultant
Lisa Hancharek
Director of Activities & Events
Lisa has been a part of the Aurora Team since 2017.
Lisa Hancharek - Director of Activities and Events
Lisa has been a part of the Aurora Team since 2017. Previous to her time at Aurora, she was self employed for over 20 years as a professional theatre designer in the areas of sets, costume and lighting. She has also been employed as a visual arts instructor at the St. Albert Arts Centre, as well as a design instructor at University of Alberta, and Grant MacEwan University. After spending decades traveling for work she decided to settle down in her hometown of Gimli in December of 2016 where shortly after she found employment at Aurora.
Lisa’s role has grown from the reception desk and has become multifaceted. When the need arose, she took the initiative to organize and plan weekly activities and events for the residents. The creator of Kraft Korner, Lisa enjoys seeing the clients at Aurora discover their artistic side, a hidden talent or learn a new skill. Lisa encourages clients to open themselves up to new things and find an artistic outlet to reconnect with their families and friends.
Her goal is to help clients discover new healthy hobbies. With her new role at Aurora she looks forward to planning more activities and events for the centre, the clients, and the alumni. She knows the importance of connection and community and loves to see residents rediscover themselves in their recovery.
Medical Team
Lexie Whitford
Detox Management Unit Clerk
Patty Medd
Nurse Practitioner
Patty Medd - Nurse Practitioner
Patty has a BA Honours, Masters of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience working in addiction medicine. She brings over 25 years of healthcare experience, in both family practice and mental health.
Her focus in addiction medicine has been serving substance use disorders in residential treatment for Addictions Foundation of Manitoba. Her main roles involved providing medical assessment, primary care, withdrawal management and treatment of co-occurring disorders.
Patty has also worked in addictions research and as an educator promoting best practices in addiction medicine. She is dedicated and committed to those persons with addiction and mental health issues on their journey to recovery.
Melissa Jago
Mental Health Nurse
Melissa Jago - Mental Health Nurse
years working in Acute Psychiatric care in northern Manitoba. She has impacted her profession serving on the Nursing Practice Council and as a student mentor in the past.
Most recently, Melissa has practiced in the role of a Mental Health Liaison Nurse serving in various hospital emergency departments. In this role she provides screening for mental health concerns, provides education to clients about mental health and mental
illness and recommends resources and treatment as appropriate. Melissa comes to Aurora Recovery Centre passionate about identifying co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. This is of primary importance because it is proven that our mental health can either be a protective factor or a risk factor for the problematic use of substances and in turn substance abuse can and does impact our mental health in numerous ways. Melissa asserts that effective treatment involves addressing both maladaptive substance use and healing mental health to break the cycle and achieve recovery of the person.
Natalie Fontaine
Nurse Practitioner
Denise Redhead
Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Toews
Nurse Practitioner
Adriana Kovaltchouk
Nurse Practitioner
Rikki Lee Johanneson
Nurse
Shannon L'Heureux
Nurse
Joelle Alexander
Nurse
Wellness Team
Coach Eddie Miller
Master Fitness Trainer
Coach Eddie Miller - Master Fitness Trainer
BA (Kines/Poli),Dipl (Addictns Med), AYT, FIS, KBIA, PTS
Recovery Health, Fitness & Wellness
Jacqui Kennedy
Massage Therapist
Jacqui Kennedy - Massage Therapist
Jacqui has been a registered massage therapist since 2006.
Over the years she has completed many courses of continued education to further her skills in massage therapy as well as mental health. In 2019 she completed the mental health first aid course, adding to other modalities of understanding the body and mind (such as Craniosacral therapy, deep tissue, Thai massage, and annual CPR).
She grew up in Gimli, Manitoba, but had her family in Winnipeg. When she moved back to Gimli the opportunity to work at Aurora presented itself and she has been working with the amazing people at the centre since 2017.
Jacqui says she is so grateful to be a part of this team and that she always looks forward to meeting the people that are staying at the centre.
"It's extremely rewarding watching a person grow and understand themselves more everyday through the recovery program."
Shawna Rutledge
Reiki
Shauna Rutledge - Client Care Specialist / Reiki
‘Reiki’ - Is bridging and bringing in a stronger connection of Vital life force energy to the body for healing, regeneration & remembrance.
I am grateful and honoured to have the opportunity to use my skills, experience and wisdom to work alongside the Councillors & Team here at Aurora, in supporting clients with facing & overcoming challenges, adversities and heal their history. With Many clients opening to the vital Integration and emotional work of feeling and becoming the best creative versions of themselves.
Christine Fehler
Reflexologist
Traditional Team
Kevin Koroscil
Spiritual Advisor
Kevin Koroscil - Spiritual Advisor
Kevin brings his dedication to wellness and supporting people on their personal journey of spiritual discovery to Aurora. His extensive work history with at risk youth honed his ability to see people’s gifts and identify where they’re out of balance. His presence is woven throughout the fabric of the centre. Whether he’s working one on one helping someone discover their own spirituality, lecturing, leading a ceremony, or tending to the sacred land, his commitment is to help all people be well. We are so grateful for the wisdom, open heart and steadfast service he provides to everyone at Aurora.
Tara Campbell
Knowledge Keeper/Indigenous Advocate
Tara Campbell - Counsellor, Knowledge Keeper, Indigenous Advocate
I started as a youth care worker in the early 90's, my interest changed to helping reunite and keep children who were in care with their families and this led me to W.R.H.A. and Metis CFS.I noticed how family violence was affecting the families I was working with and I became a domestic abuse counsellor and worked at a woman's shelter for 10 years before coming to Aurora. At the woman's shelter I found many of the women and our male clients as well had addictions as a coping mechanism for the abuse they were going through. At Aurora I find many of the clients healing from family violence.
My goals are to continue to learn in the areas of addiction and as a knowledge keeper. I see my achievements every day in being able to help how I can in our clients paths to recovery. I am honored to be a small part of their journey.
My heart is at Aurora, in our clients, our team and the sacred land and lodge. A fun fact is I like to sing and help clients have sober fun on our karaoke nights here. My spare time consists of family / friends time , helping run a drum group in Gimli, where we meet bi weekly. and going to concerts.
April Wilson
Knowledge Holder
April Wilson - Knowledge Holder
Boozhoo, my name is High Flying Eagle woman, and Black Thunderbird Warrior woman, of the turtle clan, my english name is April Wilson.
I am a knowledge holder, I don't use knowledge keeper because I don’t keep this knowledge or gifts to myself- I share them. (My elders teaching) Our traditional way of life gives us strength, holds us accountable to ourselves and we re-learn discipline; it also teaches us kindness, support of one another, laughter, love and Spirit. I am a Sundancer and a Warrior dancer (night dance).
My husband & I have been foster parents since 2005, we have 5 beautiful children and I was a youth support worker for 3 years prior.
Creator is amazing, I give many thanks for his kind and loving ways. These ways help me walk in the Good Life Journey, Mino-Bimaadiziwin. I believe in prayer and our plant medicines for healing. I am still learning our Sacred way of life- I know so little.
Aurora is a beautiful place, where I share these gifts; here, I am a scaabe ikwe to the members, who we build up, and who need our love and support. We share with them the gifts of sweat lodge, medicine picking, drum making (my awesome co-worker does this), skirt making and the beautiful gift of song (my other amazing co-worker teaches us this) We heal from the inside out.
Clinical Team
Kyla Dalman
Clinical Director & Counsellor
Kyla Dalman - Clinical Director & Counsellor
I've always loved helping others. After watching loved ones struggle with addiction and mental health, I knew this was the path for me. Supporting others while they find who they are and watching them leave knowing that they will be okay, it's a feeling you can't describe, but also a feeling that I don't want to lose. I love coming in each day, it doesn't feel like work, to me, Aurora feels like family.
Ashley Casey
Counsellor
Ashley Casey - Counsellor
Ashley has always been passionate about helping. Compassionate by nature, she has dedicated her career to helping improve the lives of others. One day Ashley would like to open a treatment facility or sober living home for families suffering from addiction and trauma.
Fun fact, born in Churchill, MB she enjoys travelling, has been to Europe and the Caribbean. Her favourite way to spend free time is outdoors, hiking and camping in the summer, and skiing or skating in the winter.
Wally Ranville
Counsellor
Wally Ranville
Wally has 33 years of continuous sobriety. His experience includes 15 years of working for Native Addictions Council of Manitoba/Pritchard House for the treatment of alcohol and drug abuse. Wally graduated from Red River College in 2009 with his Diploma in Community Centred Therapy.
Kerri Kille
Counsellor
Kerri Kille - Counsellor
I received my education through Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Mental Health and Addictions Counselling. I did my final practicum here at Aurora. When my three months as a student were over, I knew I had to stay and work here. This place and the people felt like where I belonged. I have been motivated to help people because of the impact the disease of addiction has had on myself and my loved ones. I’m passionate about supporting people while they change their lives and break the cycle.
Witnessing the transformations and healing at Aurora never ceases to amaze me. I’m grateful every day to be here with our community, it feels like one big family, and we share many laughs throughout the day. The programs are incredible, and the cultural healing offered is beyond beautiful to witness. Some of my favourite things about working in this field are forming meaningful connections, witnessing people regain hope, and supporting them in the process of making significant positive changes in their lives. I love helping advocate and walk alongside people in their healing journeys while watching them grow into their authentic selves again.
The staff here genuinely care and are dedicated to helping at Aurora. This is a unique, and special place. I’m proud to be a part of the team and work alongside such incredibly gifted individuals. I love my job here and I love Aurora!
Staci Barnes
Counsellor
Staci Barnes - Counsellor
Dean Malcolm
Counsellor
Dean Malcolm - Counsellor
I am treaty with Ebb & Flow Ojibway First Nation. I have worked with Metis Calgary Family Services in 1998 until 2006. I worked as a machinist at Foremost Ind Inc from 2006 until
2012.
I have completed Circle of Security Parenting Program and am certified. I have an Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma from CDI College and worked at Native Addictions Council of Manitoba (Prichard House) for 7 months.
I have been a musician all my life. I started playing professionally at the age of 16 years old. I have performed with Robbie Brass and the Red Wine Band, C-weed band, Bert Todd and Free Bird Band. .
I now work at Aurora Recovery Centre as an Addictions Counsellor. I also teach guitar at Aurora. What I love about working at Aurora is the staff and the clients on how they change from day to day for the good as they work their program.
Kyle Harvey
Extended Care Program & Counsellor
Kyle Harvey - Counsellor
Employed at Aurora since September 2022, Kyle was inspired to get into this line of work due to the impact certain individuals left on him. Being in the program of recovery he also wants to be able to help people avoid the long drawn out suffering that he endured and the pain he put his family through.
His favourite thing about working at Aurora is getting to see someone’s journey first hand and seeing them change for the better, getting their lives and family's back.
Also an alumni of the program, he wanted to work at Aurora because out of the many treatment programs he had been through, Aurora seemed to be the one that worked:
“The fact that Aurora offers such an individualized approach to each client for their recovery fits perfectly with my own beliefs on/about recovery. Plus Aurora got me more in touch with my Indigenous heritage as I was a city boy and had no connection to my culture before coming thru as a client. Now I get to help my people every day to break the cycle.”
His goals are to further his education learning about the human brain and psychology.
Tom Kowalchuk
Continuing Care Coordinator & Counsellor
Tom Kowalchuk - Continuing Care Coordinator
Carleigh Bourgeois
Clinical Associate
Carleigh Bourgeois- Clinical Associate
I have 8 years of experience in support work. I left the field to take plumbing in college, but had to come back to working with people, as my passion has always been helping people. My favourite thing about my job is seeing people change their lifestyle and become the person they want to be!
Madison Kunz
Clinical Associate
Madison Kunz- Clinical Associate
I started working as a client care specialist in May of 2024, I love my job. I have past experience in helping friends with addiction, and know the impact addiction has on one's personal life and family. I strive to make people feel safe, happy and understood, I have a passion for helping people and leading them to a path of self love and growth. In the past I've worked as a cook and server, my past job experience with customer service has helped me learn how to have lots of patience and understanding. My goal is to be in this field of work for the rest of my life!
Jaclyn Baptiste
Clinical Associate
Jaclyn Baptiste - Clinical Associate
My past work experience has given me the privilege of working in various healthcare settings, from acute care to elderly home care and youth services. My recent diploma in Addictions and Community Health fuels my passion for supporting those on their journey to healing and well-being.
I believe in the power of love and compassion. I'm committed to creating a warm and understanding environment where individuals can feel safe and supported on their road to healing.
Every day at Aurora feels like a joy, as I feel that when you love what you do, you have the power to inspire and awaken the hearts of others.My goal is to further my education in this field, specifically in mental health.
Geri Lawrence
Trauma Therapist
Geri Lawrence - Trauma Therapist
Geri Is a compassionate therapist who has been working for many years with individuals and groups with a focus in addiction and mental health. She has also been one of the co-founders of Vancouver friends for life which supports individuals with life challenging illnesses. Geri is a somatic therapist and underwent a 4 and ½ year study through the Boulder Colorado institute of traumatic studies and is certified through this institute. She also completed an additional two year study with Dr. Janine Fisher in complex Trauma and dissociative disorders and is certified as a Clinical Complex Trauma Counsellor and is recognized by the international Association of trauma Professionals. She has also just completed a one year study in compassionate inquiry with Dr. Gabor Matte. Geri is honored to hold sacred space for those who would like to be curious about their well being.
In Geri's words: "
What I am passionate about is that this is amazing support that is being offered!!! In the work of addiction, we can be warriors in our work to destigmatize addiction and bring a compassionate lens to support clients and families.
We get a chance to support instead of shame and to build capacity where we do not have to be isolated. In any initiative that I have been involved with I have been honored to hold space for the most vulnerable and marginalized; these precious people teach me about life and living and to always be curious in my work and be teachable in all aspects of my own personal life. I love this journey called life and the many connections we make along the way. I am Truly grateful for all the support Aurora gives to its clients."
Tyler Huston
BreathFirst - Breath Control Therapy
Tyler Huston -BreathFirst Breath Control Therapy
of Canada’s premier Addiction Recovery Treatment Centres
and Healing Houses.
based solutions along with outdoor experiences through the
CALMS approach Connecting with Air, Land, Mountains and Sea.
contributing factors from anxiety, diet, chronic stress, trauma, physical injury, screen time,
addiction and other physical diseases and mental health disorders. Signs and symptoms can
manifest and present as both physical and psychological conditions.
Biochemistry and composition of the blood
Biomechanics of ventilation and functional breathing patterns
Positive psychology, concentration and motivational techniques
Somatic therapy and psychophysiological connection
Land based teachings with traditional healing practices (CALMS approach)
breathing patterns that alleviate symptoms associated with substance use and other
concurrent disorders and diseases. (www.BreathControl.ca)
Jacqueline Armour
Therapist
Jacqueline Armour - Therapist
Hello, I am an addictions and dual diagnosis specialist. I am a certified addictions counsellor (ICADC, CCAC) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) & CSAT Supervisor (CSAT-S) specializing in sexual compulsion and relationship/love addiction. Currently, I am completing a doctoral program in clinical sexology at The International Institute of Clinical Sexology (IICS). I recently was a presenter at the May 2017 IITAP Symposium. I have worked as a chemical dependency counsellor and sex addiction therapist in a dual diagnosis inpatient treatment center and in private practice located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
My counselling style incorporates several therapeutic approaches including the IITAP, Pat Carnes Sex Addiction Task model (CSAT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy Utilizing my own personal experience and journey of recovery from addiction, my philosophy prioritizes active participation, relationship building, flexible and adaptable methods, inquiry, and reflection based learning. I believe in a client-initiative, collaborative approach to healing.
My Credentials and certifications are:
- PhD Clinical Sexology (c)
International Institute of Clinical Sexology - Sexologist
International Institute of Clinical Sexology - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT)
International Institute for Trauma & Addiction Professionals - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor (CSAT-S)
International Institute for Trauma & Addiction Professionals - Master of Arts Conflict Analysis and Management (MACAM)
Royal Roads University - International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (ICADC)
Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation - Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor (CCAC)
Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation - Canadian Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCCS)
Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification - Federation Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
International Association of Trauma Professionals - Certified Addiction Recovery Coach (CARC)
Certified Coaches Alliance #79415 - Master Spirit Life Coach (MSLC)
Certified Coaches Alliance #79415-2
Donna Low
IOP & Family Program Coordinator/Counsellor
Administrative Team
Nicole Levesque
Front Desk Executive
Nicole Levesque - Front Desk Executive
A veteran of the front desk with over 25 yrs reception/ Admin experience in the field (Aurora 2019)
Nicole is your first point of contact at Aurora whether it be greeting you as you walk in the door or when you reach out to us by phone. Nicole makes sure you are taken care of whether you are needing help or if you have any questions,she can direct you to staff or on to our admissions team to assist you on your recovery journey.
Being at the front desk, she also assists clients with any concerns they may have, helping them feel comfortable and letting them know we are here to help in any way we can. Besides booking appointment for clients, she also manages out Tuck Shop(canteen).
Teresa Thordarson
Front Desk Executive
Teresa Thordarson - Front Desk Executive
Teresa is a part of the receptionist team that assist with the day to day needs of our staff and clients at Aurora.
Teresa loves helping people. She regularly volunteers and she also works as an Educational Assistant when not at Aurora.
A team member we can always depend on, we are fortunate to have Teresa as a part of the Aurora family! She is always there help guide clients, meet their needs, and assist other staff.
Heather Scarth
Accounting Assistant
Heather Scarth- Accounting Assistant
Diane Gallipeau
Accounting Assistant
Diane Gallipeau - Accounting Assistant
Diane Gallipeau obtained her bookkeeping certification with honours from Success Angus Business College. She has over 25 years bookkeeping experience working with a diverse number of companies and is looking forward to applying her skills at Aurora Recovery Centre. She joined the Aurora Administrative Team, as an accounting assistant in August 2023.
Nathan Fletcher
Administrative Assistant
Nathan Fletcher - Administrative Assistant
Nathan brings years of experience as a Healthcare Aide working in Hospital and Personal care home settings but really found his place working with the Home Care program. He then moved up to be a Resource Coordinator for Home Care and remained there for 5 years. With a love for the arts and costuming, Nathan followed his heart which gave him the opportunity to become a costumer for Cirque Du Soleil which led him to work in film and television where he is now a recognized Costume Designer in Manitoba. With wanting more of a work life balance Nathan decided to go back to his caregiving roots which is when he found Aurora and is happy to join the team as a Client Care Specialist. Nathan is also a choreographer and member of a local nonprofit theatre company which allows him to continue to be creative and care for clients in the community.
Krista Hendrix
Social Media Coordinator
Client Care Specialists
Sandy Melquist
Client Care Specialist Supervisor
Sandy Melquist - Client Care Specialist
I have 14 years of sobriety myself and I can really relate with the clients. I so enjoy watching them on their journey to a new way of life, one day at a time.
Silvia Harder
Client Care Specialist
Silvia Harder - Client Care Supervisor
Silvia Joined the Aurora team in 2017 as the Client Care Lead which aided clients in their recovery progress consistent with the purpose, principles and philosophy of Aurora Recovery Centre. Some of her responsibilities is to be actively available to clients needing assistance providing conflict resolution, de-escalation and problem solving for clients. As alternative therapy she applies ear acupuncture, which is an effective way to treat many health conditions including addictions. She works collaboratively with the team of client care members in the best interest of the clients and provides training to new staff joining the CCS team.
She is part of the Health and Safety Committee, which is affiliated to Safe Work Manitoba. Silvia's certification is B.A in Psychology, specialized in behavioral Psychology.
Silvia's goals are to provide support and advocacy for clients and is committed to supporting their recovery.
Silvia believes in the healing changes that clients experience day by day and the changes they are creating when they engage in the program.
Some of the things Silvia enjoys is cooking, especially Mexican Food. She gardens and she loves dancing and is very active and appreciates
the summer time.
Richard Siwik
Client Care Specialist
Richard Siwik - Client Care Specialist
I have been in recovery since December 28, 1981. Sobriety has given me many gifts. One of them is the opportunity to work with others. I started off as a volunteer working with Multiple Sclerosis sufferers in 1986. Another gift was the chance to go to University where I was awarded 2 degrees. After graduation I worked at the Misericordia Hospital specializing in Alzheimer's Dementia. This was followed by several years at the Manitoba Developmental Center. So now I've been accorded the privilege of working with my fellow recovering alcoholics/addicts.
Laura Tryhuk
Client Care Specialist
Laura Tryhuk - Client Care Specialist
My name is Laura R. Tryhuk. I am the daughter of elderly parents, the mother of 2 adult children, a grandmother to an athletic teenager, and a fur Mom. I have an adopted dog, two cats, and some silky chicks.
I worked at the University of Manitoba for over 23 years as an office assistant, then for seven years at the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford. I worked casually for the federal government, Inwood Golf Course, Riverdale Place Homes in Arborg, Coop Produce department in Arborg, Coop Convenience Stores in Teulon and Arborg and Teulon Grocery store.
I completed up to and including Toastmaster Silver designate. I practice Reiki, and I collect sea shells for the wall art I create and I make animal figurines.
Karren Antymniuk
Client Care Specialist
Karren Antymniuk - Client Care Specialist
Karren started at Aurora in May, 2024. She is a retired teacher who spent her career building foundational skills in youth and then with adult learners in the Winnipeg School Division.
She has many passions that include rescuing feral cats, judging figure skating and making pottery.
Most notably, she believes in developing resilience and self-forgiveness through kindness. She is feels very grateful to be apart of the caring team at Aurora.
Jenny Voth
Client Care Specialist
Jenny Voth - Client Care Specialist
Jenny has worked in the recovery industry for over 3 years, in recovery for over 16 years. Living a sober fulfilled life Jenny wants to share her knowledge, strength and hope with clients wanting recovery and sobriety. Jenny had a lot of people helping, encouraging, teaching her on her journey of sobriety, and is thankful she can pay that forward working at Aurora Recovery Center. Jenny is grateful to work at Aurora watching clients discover a new way of life.
Melanie Robertson
Client Care Specialist
Andre Furgus
Crisis Interventionist
Jill Nomeland
Client Care Specialist
Mike Steele
Client Care Specialist
John Atchison
Client Care Specialist
Taylor Bjarnason
Client Care Specialist
Steve Naturkach
Client Care Specialist
William Smith
Client Care Specialist
Mira Nicbridhe
Client Care Specialist
Amber Vowles
Client Care Specialist
Betty-Jo Lake
Client Care Specialist
Coralee Kipling
Client Care Specialist
Matthew Smith
Client Care Specialist
Kohl Stewart-Brager
Client Care Specialist
Taylor Yusishen
Client Care Specialist
Culinary
Miles Nitchie
Cook
Cara Westfall
Cook
Travis Ehrich
Kitchen Assistant
Housekeeping
Venessa Park
Housekeeping
Tiffany Favell
Housekeeping
Racheal Bjarnason
Housekeeping
Maintenance & Transportation
Brian Spakowski
Maintenance/Transport
Brian Spakowski - Maintenance/Transportation
Born and raised on a farm helped Brian to become a loving, nurturing spirit. making him a great fit for Aurora where working here gives him the opportunity to help others.
Brian has gained many years of expertise employed in several fields. Those related positions gave him the mechanical skills he uses today at Aurora.
Butch Twerdun
Maintenance
Aurora Reunification Village Brandon
Chantal Klainchar
Program Director
Chantal Klainchar - Program Director
Chantal joined the Aurora team in 2021, since then she has worked for Aurora as a counsellor, outpatient program facilitator and family program counsellor.
Chantal has a BA double major in Criminal Justice and Sociology and is working towards an Applied Counselling Certification Specialization in Addictions
Chantal has worked for a number of addiction and family reunification programs both in counselling and program development roles.
Mark Shepit
Wellness Director
Mark Shepit - Wellness Director
Mark’s credentials include B.Sc. in Biology, a B.A. in Kinesiology and Applied Health, certified personal trainer (CSEP-CPT), counsellor (ACC) and a national level coach (NCCP II). Mark is currently pursuing a master’s degree in health and exercise psychology at the University of Manitoba. His research focuses on the effectiveness of exercise as a behavioural intervention in the treatment of addictions.
Aaron Lund
Intake Coordinator & Accounting Assistant
Aaron Lund - Intake Coordinator & Accounting Assistant
Aaron joined the Aurora team in September 2023. After a month of training as a CCS at Aurora Recovery Centre in Gimli, he has transitioned to Aurora Reunification Village in Brandon, where his skills are being used as an Intake Worker and Accounting Assistant.
Aaron graduated with a B.Comm. (Hons) from the Asper School of Business and has worked in public accounting and small business, while most recently doing community outreach for a non-profit in downtown Winnipeg.
With his own personal journey through addiction and recovery, Aaron has a passion for working with addicts as much as for working with numbers, and is excited to be part of the Aurora team.
Kailey Penner
Facility Manager & Counsellor
Kailey Penner - Facility Manager & Counsellor
Kailey was inspired to work in this field after watching loved ones and friends struggle with mental health and addiction and after overcoming her own struggle with mental health. She feels that with her experience, she can inspire others to be the person they are meant to be. She has worked in childcare for 15 years and at AFM prior to her employment at ARV.
Kailey has a diploma in Early Childhood Education, Addictions Counselling and Bachelor of Education.
“I truly enjoy coming to work at Aurora , by helping families reunite together and seeing their relationships grow stronger, I can see the good that this place is doing and how much it is needed in Brandon.”
Counsellors
Mariah Sankoh
Counsellor
Maria Sankoh - Counsellor
Maria is passionate about empowering individuals to be their whole self by supporting them through their journey in life and helping them achieve their goals. Maria has a vast knowledge
and experience in the field of support work in Brandon, having worked for over six years as a team leader before exploring the area of counseling and moving on to study intensive counselling.
She has worked with a wide range of people from different ages, backgrounds and needs. Maria is excited to bring all this passion and experience to this journey with Aurora.
Erin McFee
Counsellor
Erin McFee - Counsellor
struggle with addiction. "It takes a village" I wake up every day with the commitment to stay sober.
When I come to work, I am among a community that I refer to as "my people". People who have struggled and are desperate to live a life free of addiction and to have a life of purpose and contentment. People who have a passion to help others. Every day is different at Aurora, but just being a part of such a wonderful, caring organization makes me feel an enormous amount of gratitude.
Maxine Roulette
Counsellor
Maxine Roulette - Counsellor
Maxine Roulette recently graduated from Links Institute with a MHHR diploma and a YCCW diploma. She has lived in Brandon Mb for 8 years and loves it. Maxine enjoys helping people learn the necessary skills to live fulfilling lives in recovery.
“I love my job and the tasks that come with it. The things I love about it are, I get to help people. Getting to know people and different strategies on how to help cope and manage their daily schedules and to help navigate listening to a person’s concerns and problems, developing a treatment plan and assisting the person with coping strategies.”
Lauren Sellman
Counsellor
Lauren Sellman - Counsellor
Lauren is originally from the outskirts of Neepawa, Manitoba where her family still lives. Her favourite things consist of spending time with her family, taking her dog for walks, and working on the family farm. She moved to Brandon after high school to begin working and eventually begin her career. She started her career as a childcare assistant, working with kids for a year. Later she was accepted into the Social Service Work program at Assiniboine Community College in Brandon.
During her program, Lauren learned about mental health, addiction, counselling, and Indigenous Studies, amongst many more important topics in the social service field. She also completed two practicums with social service agencies in Brandon, both which primarily focused on substance use and addiction. In 2023, she graduated with a diploma and shortly after began working at Aurora Reunification Village in July.
Currently, Lauren enjoys her role as a client care specialist. Looking ahead, she plans to focus on counseling and working with the youth who reside at Aurora Reunification Village. She feels that one of the most rewarding aspects of working at Aurora Reunification Village is witnessing and being a part of the process of reuniting children with their parents and seeing families overcome challenges and make positive changes in their lives.
Youth Care Specialists
Jenny Schultz
Early Childhood Care Coordinator
Jenny Schultz - Early Childhood Care Coordinator
Jenny is a mother of three children. She has experience working in a daycare as well as lived, and professional experience with addictions and mental health. Jenny is also a licensed hairstylist, licensed protective officer/ loss prevention officer, and has over 34 years in cleaning.
Miriam Okaekwu
Youth Care Specialist
Miriam Okaekwu - Youth Care Worker
Miriam is a vibrant, focused, compassionate, responsible and trustworthy mother with a strong desire to work with children. She is dedicated to helping people live full dignified lives. Miriam has a diploma in Business Administration
Lori Carver
Youth Care Specialist
Saira Byers
Youth Care Specialist
Miriam Okaekwu
Youth Care Specialist
Kora Evans
Youth Care Specialist
Client Care Specialists
Kerry-Lynn Moar
Client Care Specialist Lead
Nnenna Obiahu
Client Care Specialist
Nnenna Obiahu
Nnenna is driven by her passion for providing support and advocacy for clients. She is dedicated to helping them in their recovery journey. Her educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. Additionally, Nnenna has pursued a certification in Fashion Designing. She has also undergone training in various areas that further enhance her ability to support clients effectively. She has completed courses and workshops focused on Women Empowerment and has engaged in training programs that raise awareness about Indigenous culture. She has undergone training in the Prevention of Abuse, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of her clients.
Cheryl Davis
Client Care Specialist
Cheryl Davis- Client Care Specialist
Cheryl is one of 11 children and is the grandmother to 7 wonderful grandchildren . Cheryl became interested in the helping profession at a young age after caring for her sister with Down syndrome. Her father was in the miltary so the family moved often. Cheryl’s mother often did crafts which the children, which inspired Cheryl’s passion for knitting and baking.
Sam Jackson
Client Care Specialist
Sam Jackson- Client Care Specialist
Hello my name is Sam Jackson and I am a well known Community member of Brandon my experience includes Brandon Bear Clan
Powwow dancing and cultural endeavors all across Manitoba my experiences with addiction were with my late twin and some of my family. I've watched the bad side of addiction and how it takes loved ones away I aspire to see recovery save more people.
Seyi Olufolabi
Client Care Specialist
Ade Aso
Client Care Specialist
Ama Anadozie
Client Care Specialist
Emily Mann-Pilot
Client Care Specialist
Shannon Pompana
Client Care Specialist
Vincent O’Laney
Client Care Specialist
Zeenat Oyetunji
Client Care Specialist
Housekeeping & Maintenance
Yankun Zhu
Housekeeping
Yankun Zhu - Housekeeping
Yankun immigrated to Canada from China 20 years ago and has lived with her family in Brandon since then. Her professional experience includes housekeeping supervisor for 13 years. She enjoys her work and engaging with clients and teaching them cleaning skills.
“My language barrier doesn't bother me, because I can talk with my body language and heart with anybody. “
Yankun loves to cook Chinese food
Doug Ramsay
Maintenance
Aurora Reunification Village Winnipeg
Counsellors
Mitch Scarth
Program Director
Mitch Scarth - Program Director
I am a grateful member of the Aurora Alumni. I attended the program at Aurora with a completely open mind to all the wonderful experiences they have to offer someone who struggles with addiction. In doing so, I was greatly successful with my program of recovery. I completed the program and proceeded to extended care where I excelled in growing into the person I always knew I could be. I thank Aurora for giving me the tools to take my life back. In recovery I found my passion for wanting to help others through their journey to sobriety. I started working for Aurora as a wellness coach and doing maintenance jobs. From there, I gained experience and knowledge in other departments of the company. I have worked at three of the Aurora facilities and in time became the Program Director of the Winnipeg ARV centre where I am truly blessed as I have the opportunity to see families reunited. My future goals are to continue to grow in the field of recovery so that I can further help people who are struggling with the disease of addiction the same way so many amazing staff members of Aurora helped me some time ago.
Jessica Corcoran
Facility Manager & Counsellor
Jessica Corcoran - Counsellor & Facility Manager
Rosa Dawson
Counsellor
Rosa Dawson - Counsellor
Rosa is an Addictions Counsellor who has been in the helping field for 30 years. She loves seeing people succeed and walking along side them on their journey towards a sober and healthy life.
Rosa loves music, gardening and spending time with her grandkids.
Marcio Neri
Counsellor
Marcio Neri - Counsellor
Marcio Neri joined the Aurora team in 2024 as a counsellor.
Marcio has a degree in Sociology, he also has a college diploma in Community Development. Marcio has been working as addiction counsellor for 3 years. His main topics involve philosophy, physical activity and healthy masculinity. In addition to that, Marcio also provides a multicultural and wholistic approach.
Rosetta Troia - Counsellor
Rosetta has been working in Manitoba’s Addiction and Mental Health Community since 2015 and has experience in community and residential treatment centers, private rehabilitation centres, advocating for families and consulting on the needs for resources in Manitoba and working with youth in our school system.
Rosetta has a passion for bringing awareness to the overwhelming amount of individuals and families dealing with addiction and overdoses in Manitoba and to end the stigma surrounding these issues.
Rosetta and her Women’s Continuing Recovery Group were the founders of the very first Recovery Day Winnipeg in 2018. Recovery Day Winnipeg has now evolved into a huge annual event every September thanks to Aurora Recovery Centres support as well as other organizations
Rosetta works to advocate for those navigating difficult systems, and for those who require help finding resources and treatment. She supports families who have been impacted by addiction and have had their children removed from their home to work towards the reunification of the family.
Rosetta works with youth who are themselves dealing with mental health and addiction or have friends and family members who are.
Rosetta believes that there is not only one solution to finding a sober healthy life and supports and will work along with a clients network of supports who share the same goal to end the stigma, raise awareness and support anyone without judgement regardless of gender, race, religion or socio economic background.
Rosetta Troia
Counsellor
Client Care Specialtists
Lori McAskill
Childminding & Client Care Specialist
Candez Tony
Client Care Specialist
Whitney Munyaka
Client Care Specialist
Nicole Onwusi
Client Care Specialist
Nicole Onwusi - Client Care Specialist
Brittany Smith
Client Care Specialist
Harshita
Client Care Specialist
Jessie O’Leary
Client Care Specialist
Kitiara
Client Care Specialist
Isabel Villa
Client Care Specialist
Kaylee Monkman
Client Care Specialist
Gaylene Dempsey
Client Care Specialist
Katlyn Nickart
Client Care Specialist & Nutritional Coordinator