THUNDER BAY — After more than 24 years at Our Kids Count, Gladys Berringer is stepping down from the post of executive director of the community development organization.
Berringer joined the staff in 1996, and has led the organization since 2007.
She'll be succeeded at the end of March by Kathryn Hughes, who most recently served as director of Home and Community Care and director of In-Patient Services at St. Joseph's Hospital.
Hughes is a nurse with 34 years of experience.
Berringer says she's honoured to have served Our Kids Count.
"I have learned so much during my time at Our Kids Count from the families and children that have shared their lives with us," she said.
Berringer said she plans to continue to play a leading role in the organization's signature "Ribfest" fundraiser.
Board chair Christine Bates said "Thunder Bay is a better city because of Gladys' dedication to our communities. We wish her the best in her retirement."
Our Kids Count currently offers programs in three Family Resource Centres around the city: McKenzie Street, Crawford Street and Windsor Street.
Parents are able to register for skill-building or educational programs at these facilities, while their children are cared for by trained Early Childhood Education workers.
Participants may also access services through one-to-one programs such as home visiting or pre/postnatal educational sessions in their own homes.
Among other services, the organization offers community kitchens, drop-in playgroups, and an on-site family counsellor, and provides the Big Brother, Big Sister program.
