Our Team

Lori Bull
Executive Director
Campbell River
250-914-2212

Lori Bull, M.S.W., R.S.W. – Executive Director

I was born in Vancouver, BC, in 1971, my biological mother is Betty Dawson (Dzawada’enux) and my biological father is Ulf Wredenmark (Sweden). Shortly after I was born, I was taken into the child welfare system where I remained with my older brother for the next 4 years, experiencing multiple failed placements. We were permanently adopted in 1975 and moved to Alert Bay, BC, I am a member of the ‘Namgis First Nation. My parents are George “Satch” Speck (‘Namgis/Ławit’sis) and Dara Culhane (Irish/Jewish). My paternal grandparents are the late George Speck Sr. (Ławit’sis), and the late Frances Speck (nee Cook) of ‘Namgis. My paternal great grandparents are Chief John Speck (Ławit’sis) and Lucy Brown (nee Hanuse) of Mamalilikulla and Reginald “Daddy” Cook (‘Namgis) and Nellie “Nana” Cook (nee Hamilton) of K’ómoks (E’iksen). On my mother’s side, my late grandmother is Claire Culhane (nee Eglin), first-generation Canadian (Montreal) of Russian-Jewish heritage and my late grandfather is Gerald Culhane of Dublin, Ireland.

I was a part of what is known as the 60’s Scoop, a period when Indigenous children were taken from their birth families, many were placed with white families as a part of the Canadian government’s assimilation policies. I did not know the significance of my own story until 2005 when I began my post-secondary education at the University of Victoria, I graduated in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in social work, specializing in First Nations child welfare. Through my personal and professional experience, I have truly come to understand the devastating impact of colonial child welfare policies and practice on Indigenous children, families and communities across Canada.

My approach to practice centres on the inherent Indigenous knowledge that lies within our own families and communities; I recognize that knowledge and wisdom comes to us from our ancestors, our Elders, our knowledge keepers and most of all from our littlest teachers, our children. It is our responsibility to listen, learn and preserve Indigenous knowledge and family systems, particularly as it relates to keeping our children safe and families together in preserving future generations.

I have been with Sasamans Society since December 2012 assisting many families in the Campbell River area as the Indigenous Outreach Family Navigator. In 2018, I graduated from the University of Victoria with a master’s degree in social work, Indigenous Specialization program. I am honoured to work as the Executive Director of Sasamans Society since April 2018.

I live with my husband Richard Bull, his father Kelly and our beloved family dog Alpine in the beautiful, traditional unceded territory of the Ligwiłda’xw people in Campbell River.

Indigenous Youth Navigator
Campbell River
250-914-2212
Cell: 250-202-7229

Monica White

I was born and raised in Campbell River. My family roots connect me to the Kitasoo, Lax Kw’alaams, and Squamish Nations. Growing up as a permanent ward of the ministry came with its own set of challenges, but I’ve fought to keep the teachings of my Elders alive throughout my journey. I’m honoured to be a mother and will continue to carry on traditions as much as I can. I’m so very grateful to love, guide, and walk beside my four remarkable daughters and one beautiful granddaughter.

My understanding of how to support young people from challenging family backgrounds deepened during college. After graduating with my Community Support Worker Diploma in 2016, I knew this was the path I wanted to follow. In 2017, I became involved in the creation of Foundry and began building strong connections with the John Howard Society. These experiences helped shape my approach and opened new opportunities. In 2018, I stepped into my role as an Indigenous Youth Navigator and I’ve been dedicated to this work ever since.

My passion comes from my own lived experience growing up in care and aging out of the system. I know how important it is for youth to have someone they can connect with, someone who isn’t a social worker. Not everyone has an older sibling, aunty, or uncle to turn to, and I want to help fill that gap.

Outside of work, I love working with cedar bark, beading, doing puzzles, going on adventures, being a mom, cheese, and purple. I may come across as quiet, but I truly believe that healthy, open, and productive communication is one of the most important parts of life. I strive to live with kindness and compassion, and I encourage others to do the same.

I’m proud of the knowledge and meaningful connections I’ve built in this community over the years. I’m excited to keep walking this path while building a strong, supportive network for the young people in and around our home.

Cultural Connections Worker
Main Office:
250-914-2212 ext. 105
Cell: 250-203-9971

Rachel Cain, B.A., B.S.W.

Rachel Cain, B.A., B.S.W./R.S.W.

I was raised in Campbell River, British Columbia and graduated from Carihi Secondary School in 2005. I am a first generation Canadian whose parents emigrated from England and Hong Kong. I went to university in Kamloops, B.C. and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology as well a Bachelor of Social Work from Thompson Rivers University. I have worked with a diverse range of issues from mental health to disabilities, which has only made me more invested in helping others in whatever way possible. Including practicums with the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Band in Kamloops where I worked with their First Nations Court and Restorative Justice Program and Insight Support Service with their FASD Keyworker Program.

 

Following my graduation in 2013, I relocated back to Campbell River to work in my hometown and to be closer to family. My interests in social welfare and at-risk populations were sparked when my mother adopted my sisters from Ministry care and learning how to navigate systems to better support them.  I joined the Sasamans Society team in 2013 where I have been able to continue working with Indigenous communities as the Cultural Connections Worker working closely with communities and families on how to best support their children.

 

In my spare time, I love reading, crafts and exploring the beautiful area we live in! Working with Sasamans all these years has only deepened my commitment to working alongside our families. 

Lisa Miller

Lisa has been working in the social services field since 2015, specializing in supporting individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of being homeless, persons with mental health and addictions, including detox and treatment referrals, transportation and follow up, supporting individuals through court proceedings, criminal charges and help navigating the legal system, situations involving MCFD child removal or child protection concerns, family courtroom accompaniment and support, visitation facilitation for parents with children in care , respite care, when love hurts domestic violence group facilitation and support, and connecting individuals to other specialized services. This work has given her invaluable experience in navigating the legal system while advocating for the rights and well-being of those she supports.

With a strong focus on advocacy, Lisa has had the privilege of working closely with Indigenous youth in care for the past three years, where she developed a deep understanding of the challenges they face. Lisa’s journey in this field has been shaped by a deep commitment to supporting youth in their pursuit of becoming the best versions of themselves and ensuring proper support is in place to create a positive and empowering environment for young people to grow and learn.

Lisa completed her Community Support Worker diploma in 2015, which also included certificates for mental health worker, personal support worker, and education assistant. Additionally, she has taken courses in psychology, humanities, philosophy, and sociology at Douglas College, which have expanded her understanding of human behavior and the complex factors that influence well-being.

Throughout her career, Lisa has consistently found joy in watching people grow and overcome challenges, whether through therapy, education, or community support. She finds equal value in the lessons she learns through her own life experiences, continuously growing and evolving as both a professional and a person.

Indigenous Justice Support Worker
Main Office:
250-914-2212 ext. 101
Cell 250-201-3303

Indigenous Family Justice Support Worker
250-914-2212
Cell: 250 201-1104

Carolina Rondeau

I am a family mediator and legal advocate with more than a decade of experience supporting families in both Colombia and Canada. After earning my law degree in Colombia, I practiced law privately, and I worked in a legal aid clinic. When I moved to Canada, I carried my passion for justice with me, working in family law offices, immigration services, and in my mediation office.

I hold a Certificate in Family Mediation from the Justice Institute of British Columbia and am an active member of Family Mediation Canada. Cultural humility, trauma informed care, and a deep commitment to fairness guide every aspect of my work. I am known for my empathy, patience, and practical problem-solving qualities that allow families to feel heard, supported, and empowered as they navigate parenting arrangements, court forms, and mediated settlements I am known for my eagerness to help others and clear communication, qualities that help clients navigate court forms, parenting arrangements, and mediated settlements with confidence.

At Sasamans Society, I offer one on one support to families navigating legal paperwork, and the peaceful resolution of family matters, always honouring children’s voices and each family’s unique values.

Beyond my professional life, I am a proud wife and mother who believes in leading by example and giving back to the community. Whether volunteering with humanitarian outreach or contributing to cultural events, I strive to live my values through meaningful action. Walking beside families on their journeys and holding space with warmth, dignity, and care gives me a profound sense of purpose.

Jordan’s Principle ARC Fund Administrator
Campbell River
250-914-2212
cell: 250-201-1105

Jacquie Henderson

My name is Jacquie Henderson. I grew up in Campbell River, BC and graduated from CARIHI a hundred years ago. After high school, I left town to go to the University of Calgary, where I got my Bachelor of Arts degree. From there, I spent the majority of my career in the high-pressure corporate world, leading teams of top-performing sales professionals, managing contracts and serving customers. After COVID, I moved back home to Campbell River in August, 2022 so that I could help to take care of my aging parents and spend some good quality time together with them. My professional life has changed pretty dramatically as well. I’m now part of the Jordan’s Principle Program at Sasamans, helping First Nations children access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. It’s extremely rewarding to be part of something so meaningful.

It feels so good to be back in Campbell River, with the smell of the ocean and the call of the seagulls welcoming me home. I know, with certainty, that this is where I am meant to be and where I can do my very best work.

Jordan’s Principle Liaison
Campbell River
250-914-2212
cell: 250-218-4917

Jayme Johnson

Gila’kasla, my name is Jayme Johnson, and I am a member of the Squamish Nation with ancestral ties to the Cowichan band.

I was born in Kamloops, BC and moved to the Comox Valley when I was 3 years old. I am a second generation Residential school survivor. My mom attended 3 residential schools in the province, Kamloops being one. I grew up in the valley as a ward of the courts in the foster care system after losing my Father in a domestic dispute. When I was 15, I was welcomed into the home of Wayne and Mary Everson. It was here where I was given the opportunity to explore my cultural identity and make amends with my detachment to my culture as this was a residential school survivor effect. I resided there until I was 16 years of age and then moved out on my own to independent living until I aged out of the system.

My husband of 22 years and I moved to Campbell River in May of 2017 after living in New Zealand, Sooke and Port Alberni. I am a Mom of 3 busy boys and thoroughly enjoy playing an active role in their school communities. I believe that volunteering and being part of my community is very important for myself and to be a good role model for my children. I hope that one day activism and volunteering take a lead in their lives because I truly believe that It takes a Village!

I’ve enjoyed a variety of activities over the years. I was a wrestler and a rugby player and enjoy coaching when I can with sports. I am a certified Nail technician and a certified Yoga instructor specializing in Ayurveda. In my free time, haha yeah right, I love cooking, canning, gardening, mindfulness, meditation, yoga and eating yummy home-cooked meals. I also love beading as I find it extremely meditative and I find great comfort in creating beautiful works of Art.

I am very excited to be a part of the Sasamans team and look forward to supporting my community here in Campbell River.

Marisa Anthony

Marisa was born and raised in Ontario and earned her Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Toronto in 2007. As a first generation Canadian of Caribbean and East African descent, Marisa grew up observing the impacts of colonialism on her own family’s culture and developed an interest in the healing of Indigenous people around the world. Her desire to work with First Nation communities was sparked after spending several months with a Cree family in northern Manitoba and witnessing first-hand the legacy of colonialism in Canada. Since then, she has spent years supporting clients in Youth Care and as a Family Support Worker in Alberta before relocating to Campbell River.

Marisa is the proud mother of an inquisitive daughter, who is of Nakoda Sioux ancestry through her father. Committed to nurturing both sides of her daughter’s cultural identity, Marisa spent time exploring programs for First Nations kids in Alberta and she is now excited to learn more about the cultures of Vancouver Island. She is honoured to join the Sasamans Society team as an Indigenous Parenting Support Worker, developing new relationships in the community while helping to build on client strengths and preserve family unity.

Jordan’s Principle Service Coordinator
Main Office:  250-914-2212
Cell: 250-201-8801

Mamalilikulla Designated Band Representative
Campbell River
250-914-2212
cell: 250-203-5696

Tasleem Mall

Tasleem was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa as a single child to two full-time working parents. As such, she spent many of her childhood hours in the company of her Grandparents and the elders in her family and community. After immigrating to Canada at the age of thirteen with her mom and brand-new baby brother, Tasleem embraced her new freedoms in this new country. She began learning to navigate the challenges associated with starting a new life in a country with fewer family connections and cultural resources than back home.

Much of her twenties were spent working in a range of occupations, from housekeeping to home renovation and construction; from delicatessens to self-employed contracting. During this time Tasleem met many people from diverse backgrounds who shared their life stories about their desire and need for connection and a feeling of community. Understanding adversity and diversity and the necessity of inclusion has come from her experience and of those she has met along the way. As such, Tasleem values the lived experiences of people and strives to honour each person’s truth and story.

Her work with women overcoming their addictions over the past three years have given Tasleem a unique perspective on the realities that many women face in healing their trauma and hopes that this role will allow her to communicate how hard women and families work to overcome these adversities and bring healing to their communities. She is looking forward to building a community around her work in the role of Mamalilikulla Designated Band Representative and in learning from the people who she will be engaging with.

Cecilia Plecas

My name is Cecilia and I have the honour and privilege to have been born and raised on Vancouver Island. I would also like to recognize that I have resided as an uninvited guest on the lands of the Snuneymuxw, Mowachaht, Muchalaht, Ligwiłda’xw people; the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum, and Kwiakah, and the Komox First Nations. My path towards choosing a social service career has been a rewarding although sometimes challenging one. My ancestors from my mother’s side were from the British Isles and Belgium. While on my father’s side was raised as a Croatian with biological ties to Ireland, Germany, Sweden, and Norway. In my life there has been intergenerational trauma from both sides of my family. As a result, I have experience working and coping with broken family ties, abuse cycles, as well as substance misuse issues. My past personal experience has given me the understanding and tools to help myself and others through a strong trauma informed lens. The work I have done is for my young son to make sure this cycle ends with myself. From this personal experience I have also noticed a mirror effect in my professional life as well.

My professional experience includes being a housekeeper in long-term care and hospital settings. In these roles I was able to have tough but enriching conversations with Indigenous Elders. These unique encounters shaped my understanding of how the health care system has adversely impacted Indigenous people with the lack of culturally safe health care services available to them. I have also been an Aquaculture Technician for a few years and through this role I noticed the lack of respect for Indigenous people, culture, and their connection to their traditional lands. It is through these experiences that inspires me to provide advocacy support for the Indigenous families I am working with. Included in my career training I have completed a course for working in the construction trades. This has led to me having a very diverse understanding of industry and public work settings. As well I have been a working knowledge of many different types of barriers for parents who need support.

In many different experiences I have been drawn into the work of listening to people and helping them to advocate for support. With my work with Sasamans (Our Children) Society I am hoping to bring forth my knowledge in a meaningful way. I am honoured to have this opportunity for giving purposefully support to parents who need it the most. In the time that they need it the most as well. Thank you.

Indigenous Outreach Family Navigator
Main Office:  250-914-2212
Cell: 250-334-7347

Janine Gatzke

My name is Janine and I was raised in the beautiful little town of Gibson’s B.C. Throughout the years I have lived all over BC, from Zeballos to Dawson Creek. In 2016 I moved to Campbell River, where I have laid down my roots and finally found somewhere to call home. I come from quite a mixed family background. I am First Nations and belong to the Kwakiutl Nation, located in what is colonially known as Fort Rupert. I am also Polynesian, Chinese, German, Scottish, Irish, and Finnish; I like to call myself a Heinz 57.

In 2015 I started working in the social service field as a care aid, primarily working in the late-stage dementia unit. My experience as a care aid sparked my passion for advocacy; in 2020 I started the Social Services Diploma program at North Island College, graduating in 2023. In 2022 I began working at the Overdose Prevention Site, providing harm reduction measures to combat the opioid crisis that is affecting our community members. In 2025 I made the decision to join the wonderful team at Sasamans, as the Indigenous Outreach Family Navigator.

The harm from colonization has affected my family and the relationship to my Indigenous identity. My maternal Grandmother, Georgina Frances Olney, was adopted at birth, and was completely severed from her family and Nation. My grandmother spent her life disconnected from her culture and passed away at the age of 48 without reconnecting to her family or community. In 2019, after three years of genealogy research, my mother, Cheryl Harrison, found my grandmother’s biological family and we became reconnected to our Nation. It was my mother’s hard work and dedication that I can say that I come from the Kwakiutl Nation; my great grandmother is Frances Olney, my great-great grandmother is Emily Bertha Blenkinsop.

Although I have reclaimed my Indigenous identity, I acknowledge that my worldview is predominantly shaped by Western beliefs, ideals, and perspectives. I recognize that colonialism has intergenerationally affected myself and my family, and it is my responsibility to ensure that I am not promoting harmful colonial beliefs in both my professional and personal life. In doing so, my work is client-centered; I believe that each person is an expert of their own life and should be empowered to make decisions that are aligned with their personal values and life circumstances.

My practice involves using a trauma-informed lens; I deeply understand the connection between past and on-going harm from colonialism and its direct impact to the systemic disadvantages and holistic wellbeing to Indigenous people, families, and communities. My goal is to build a trusting relationship with the people I walk alongside with, by being transparent, respectful, and accountable.

Indigenous Outreach Family Navigator
Main Office:  250-914-2212
Cell: 250-202-7280

Indigenous Outreach Family Navigator
Main Office:  250-914-2212
Cell: 250-230-5101

Andrea Tate

Hallo! My name is Andrea Tate.  Andy for short.  I was born and raised in the heart of downtown Toronto in a neighbourhood called Cabbagetown with my Dad and brother.

My father’s family comes from West Yorkshire, England, and my mother’s people are originally from Peterhead, Scotland, in the Highlands (MacGregor Clan). It is interesting to note that Scotland is itself a colonized country that has been fighting for independence for a very long time. The Gaelic language is making a comeback and the Doric language is alive and well. Independence referendums have been taking place for many years however the vote has not yet supported Scotland’s independence from the UK as a separate Nation.

I have worked in Child Welfare for approximately 30 years. My experience includes working with both the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and two Urban Indigenous agencies in Vancouver and Surrey. Through this work, I have developed a deep understanding of Indigenous-focused Child Protective Services and believe I can offer valuable support to families and kin navigating MCFD processes. My passion lies in helping children return to their families and culture, where they belong.

I also have resided on Sliammon, Homalco and We Wei Kum lands up until 4 years ago when I relocated to the very North tip of Vancouver Island.

I live with my most recent partner and one of my children, in the small village of Coal Harbour, southwest of Port Hardy. I feel incredibly blessed to call this place home—it is, in my eyes, one of the most beautiful spots on the North Island. I am lucky to have 2 kitties and one doggo who I love dearly. Especially since our dog chases bears and cougars away from our little neighbourhood. Now that’s a sight to see!

Academically, I hold an Honours Bachelor of Social Work from what was then Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University).

Outside of work, I am an avid drummer, keyboardist and flutist. I enjoy nearly all genres, but my true passion is jazz and jazz/rock fusion. Drumming is my ultimate stress reliever and is the most favorite of my instruments that I play as it is so physical and is such great exercise! I was recently gifted a lovely traditional hand drum which I painted, and I’m excited to fully incorporate it into my music. Sorry, I do not play the bagpipes—haha!

I am truly excited to be part of Sasamans Society and to work with everyone who walks through my door. Together, we will learn, share, and find the best path forward.

May the road rise to meet you. May the wind always be at your back.

Gillakas’la

Tapadh leat!

Indigenous Parenting Support Worker

Campbell River
Office: 250-203-7417

Christina Paling

I was born in Comox, BC to a culturally diverse family. My biological father’s family is of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, and my mother immigrated to Canada from Portugal. I spent my early childhood on Quadra Island, where I grew up closely connected to the We Wai Kai Nation. Those formative years shaped my understanding of community, belonging, and the importance of strong support systems.

My family later relocated to Alberta, and this was where I built the foundation of my career. I spent over a decade of experience in the retail management and insurance industry all while taking university courses in the evenings, studying English and sociology to better understand people and how things move through the world. Eventually, I packed up my kids, my dog and whatever I could fit into my car and returned home to the island.

In the years since, I have worked with non-profit organizations which allowed me to facilitate groups, provide support to families, and help create safe, empowering spaces for learning and growth. In 2024, I became a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist through the Grief Recovery Institute and launched my own practice, offering evidence-based grief groups that help people feel genuinely better.

My lived experience, both personal & professional has shaped a deep commitment to walk alongside individuals as they navigate grief, life transitions, and healing. My work is grounded in compassion, advocacy, and the belief that every person deserves to feel seen, supported, and can build a strong future for themselves and their families. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, spending time in nature, and exploring my spirituality. Moments that keep me grounded and connected to what truly matters.

Fiona Hansed

Executive Assistant
Main office
250-914-2212

Debbie Cathey

Debbie was born and raised in Campbell River and is married with two grown children and two granddaughters. Debbie went back to college in 2019 and completed the Community Support Worker/Mental Health Worker certificate in 2020. Debbie enjoys spending time camping, fishing, reading, gardening, and walking her two Golden Retrievers Jasper and Walter.

Debbie joined the Sasaman’s team in June 2023 as the Indigenous Youth Navigator and is looking forward to working with the youth.

Indigenous Youth Navigator
Main Office: 250-914-2212
Cell: 250-201-4446

Reception
Campbell River
Main Office: 250-914-2212

Mary Henderson