Cresswell Walker

Cresswell Walker, a passionate advocate for men's well-being, became Chair of The Men's Centre (TMC) Board in 2024. With a vision for TMC to grow as an inclusive community supporting men and their families, Cress brings diverse experience from his careers as a land use planner and leadership consultant.

An adventurer at heart, Cress is a pilot and seasoned sailor. He actively coaches men, leads a men's group, and champions men's health. Cress is also the author of "A Voyage of Uncommon Sense," a metaphorical story about pursuing a passionate and purposeful life.

Bob Tolmie

After graduating with a major in Marketing, Bob joined the financial services industry where he obtained designations as a Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Life Underwriter and Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute.

After retiring he joined The Men's Centre as a front desk volunteer. During a number of years at the front desk he began to appreciate the value the Men's Centre brings to men facing life challenges through its counselling, group sessions and workshops. These values extend to not only the clients but also their families and the community as a whole.

He truly believes The Men's Centre can become a leader in men's support services.

In his spare time he chases golf balls, plays pool in an 8 Ball league and travels.

 Eldy Degarno ​

I was raised on a farm in Ontario, graduated from high school in 1958. I took an eight week course and taught public school for two years in a one room country school with 8 grades.

I joined the Bank of Montreal in 1961 and became a career banker holding many positions over the years and retiring as Vice-President at HSBC in 1998.

Over the past 65 years I have been involved in many non-profit organizations generally as Treasurer. I was also quite involved in minor hockey for 30 years holding a level 4 coaching certificate.

 Jim Shabbits

I was born in Yorkton; I attended the University of Saskatchewan. I received a B.A. cum laude in 1964 and an L.LB. in 1965.

I was called as a lawyer in Saskatchewan in 1966 and in British Columbia in 1970. I practiced
law in Saskatchewan and later in British Columbia from 1966 until 1992. I was initially a general practitioner, with criminal law, both as a prosecutor and as a defence lawyer, being a large component of my practice. From 1980 until 1992, I did civil litigation.

I was the elected bencher of the Law Society of British Columbia for the County of Nanaimo for two terms. The County of Nanaimo includes all of Vancouver Island from Duncan North. As a Bencher, I was a member of various Law Society committees, including discipline.

In 1992 I was appointed to the Supreme Court of British Columbia. That is a circuit trial court. I presided over both criminal and civil trials. As a judge, I was a member of various court
committees, including the Court Clerks selection committee. I retired in 2011.

 Kirsty Light 

Kirsty Light brings a deep commitment to mental health. As a volunteer board member of The Men’s Centre, Kirsty brings expertise in finance, management and the health community. Through her parents Rose and Fred Kolodrubsky she has participated in many fundraisers and events in the community. Over the years, Kirsty has been on Parents Advisory Committee, soccer coach, and a guide learner with the Girl Guides of Canada.

Linda Stephenson

Executive Director

linda@themenscentre.ca

The Men’s Centre board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Linda Stephenson as Executive Director. With over 15 years of experience working with non-profit organizations, Linda brings her skills in strategy building and fundraising to support the highly skilled Men’s Centre.

We wish a fond farewell to Yonas Jongkind ( past Executive Director)  and best of luck to him in his new adventure.

Marilyn Watson

Executive Assistant

marilyn.watson@themenscentre.ca 

Marilyn, an experienced real estate developer, brings her business expertise and enthusiasm to the Men's Centre team. She is passionate about getting things done and excited to contribute. In her free time, she enjoys being a grandmother, spending time outdoors, painting, and reading.

Mark Busby

Counselor

mark@themenscentre.ca

Mark is passionate about working with community-spirited organizations. He finds it rewarding to inspire others and foster strong, healthy communities. With experience as a board member, executive director, and coach, he brings counselling skills and enthusiasm to his work at the Men's Centre. He is grateful to share his passion for non-profit work and support individuals facing challenges to their well-being.

Jerry Sauder

Tech and Grant Writing

jerry@themenscentre.ca

Jerry is a IT professional with extensive experience in the non-profit sector. He supports the Men's Centre through his expertise in IT, website management, grant writing, and research. Jerry is passionate about using his skills to serve the community and advance the Centre's mission.

Theo Boere

Theo co-founded the Nanaimo Men's Resource Centre in 2001 and served as Executive Director until 2020. During his tenure, he focused on channeling resources into programs for fathers, men, and boys while advocating for increased awareness and funding for men's issues. Theo is particularly proud of the Centre's educational Parental Alienation video and his work challenging government officials to address the trials facing men and boys. He retired in 2020, leaving a legacy of advocacy and financial security for the Centre.

Jim Richardson

Jim Richardson, a founding member of the Nanaimo Men's Resource Centre, served the organization from 2001 to 2024. He was instrumental in its establishment and success. His expertise facilitated the society's incorporation and achievement of charitable status in record time. Jim's contributions extended to designing the Centre's website and serving in various board capacities, including as Chair. His steady presence and guidance have been invaluable throughout the Centre's history.

Jim Cossey ​

Jim, co-founder of a fathers' support group and instrumental in launching the Men's Centre, brought infectious enthusiasm and energy to his volunteer work and group facilitation. His contributions were pivotal in establishing and growing these vital community resources before relocating for work.

Carmen Barclay

Carmen gave 15 years to the Men's Centre, contributing in various roles. She spearheaded the Parental Alienation video and workshops, fostering connections between fathers and children through a supervised access program. As office manager, Carmen's innovative ideas, challenges to the status quo, and crisis management skills were invaluable to the Centre's success.

 Jonathon van der Goes ​

Jonathon van der Goes, a skilled counselor and board member of the Men's Centre from 2002-2022, was instrumental in developing vital programs for men facing diverse challenges. He spearheaded the annual Father's Day Celebration, a program at the Nanaimo Correctional Centre, and the Court Support Program. Jonathon's most impactful contribution was designing and leading the "Dealing with the Dragon" workshop, helping men confront and change violent behaviors. His unwavering commitment significantly shaped the Men's Centre's success.

 Frank Brown ​

Frank Brown served on the Men's Centre Board for 16 years (2004-2020), providing financial expertise and steady leadership as both Chair and Treasurer. His common-sense approach and humility were invaluable during challenging times.

Frank died in London, England on February 11, 2024 after a lengthy battle with long covid. He will be missed.