Leading Advocates for Ending Gender-Based Violence
Dedicated to Empowering Survivors and Eradicating Sexual Harm through Advocacy, Support, and Education.
A world where all people live free of sexual harm, trauma or exploitation.
The Ontario Coalition recognizes that any sexual act that takes place without the consent of all parties is sexual assault. The Coalition recognizes that sexual assault is an act of aggression, violence, and power against women, not an act of sexual passions. There are conditions and environments which also make children and men victims of sexual assault. The victim is never responsible for the assault. The Ontario Coalition recognizes the necessity of women being assertive, self-sufficient, and self-caring.
Empowering Survivors, Transforming Lives
Supporting and empowering all people who have experienced or been affected by sexual harm, trauma or exploitation through education, prevention, partnerships, and healing for a better future.
The Beginning: How Our Journey to Support Started
In January 1982, concerned citizens established the Sexual Assault Survivors' Centre Sarnia-Lambton. By July 1982, they initiated essential training with the Hamilton Rape Crisis Centre and launched a 24-hour crisis line in May 1983.
In 1985, the center received a grant from the United Way to educate on sexual assault reporting procedures. By 1987, sustainable funding was secured from the Ministry of the Solicitor General, allowing for expanded operations.
Since 1993, annual Take Back the Night walks have raised awareness about sexual violence. The "Footsteps - Tribute to Courage" art project in 2005 further engaged the community, allowing survivors to create expressive artworks.
From 2003 to 2006, the center developed "Knowledge is Power," an interactive educational tool focused on teaching youth about safety and boundaries.
The center continues to honor leaders on International Women's Day and has been recognized with the Mayor’s Honour List and The Attorney General's Victim Services Award of Distinction. It remains committed to advocating for survivors and preventing sexual violence.
Meet Our Team
Chantel has been with the Centre since 2013 and is passionate about her role as Executive Director. She values her dedicated team, who embody the heart of the organization. Outside work, she enjoys reading, socializing with friends, and relaxing by the fire with loved ones.
Trish has been with The Centre since 2012. In that time, she has been in the roles of counsellor, public education & volunteer coordination. As the current Public Education Coordinator, Trish is passionate about the Centre's prevention work around sexual and gender-based violence. Trish has extensive experience with facilitation and thoroughly enjoys promoting safety in our community.
Connie has been with The Centre since 2008. She is passionate about helping every person feel known and connected to their true selves and the world around them. In her personal time, she loves being outdoors enjoying nature as well as spending time with friends and family, especially her grandchildren, who bring her great joy.
Hunter has been with the Centre since 2020. Her goal is to create a safe space where a collaborative and meaningful rapport can be built to help you meet your needs. Hunter is passionate about supporting survivors of sexual assault and human trafficking using a trauma-informed approach. When Hunter is not in the office, you are likely to find her at the beach, on the couch watching a movie with friends, or reading a book.
Sarah has been with The Centre since 2021 and has a deep commitment to creating an empathetic and nonjudgmental space for her clients to process their experiences and rebuild a sense of safety. Through a trauma informed, lived experience lens within the mental health and addictions fields, Sarah works closely with clients to provide support, guidance and tools to empower survivors navigating their healing journey. When she is not in the office, you can find her cuddling with her golden retriever Joey, spending time with her loved ones and watching true crime documentaries or sports.
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Hollie is a creative with a passion for the community in Sarnia-Lambton. She finds joy in utilizing her marketing and event management skills to help raise awareness for The Centre. Outside of work, Hollie is the in-game host for the Sarnia Sting, loves attending concerts, and enjoys spending time on Lake Huron with family and friends—whether powerboating, sailing, or watching freighters pass by.
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As a trauma counsellor at The Centre, Sam provides individual support to those impacted by sexual harm and gender-based violence. With over 20 years of experience in the fields of mental health and addiction, she brings a compassionate, holistic approach to her work, empowering clients on their healing journeys in alignment with The Centre’s commitment to creating a community free from violence and harm. Outside of work, Sam enjoys sailing, daily meditation, and Qigong, practices that nurture her sense of peace and balance.
Samantha began with the Centre in 2022 as a student and has been with us ever since. She has a passion for working with survivors and providing prevention support in our community. When Samantha is not at the Centre, you can find her at concerts, on spontaneous road trips, and spending time with her family and friends.
Making a Difference Starts With Community
Supporting and empowering all people who have experienced or been affected by sexual harm, trauma or exploitation through education, prevention, partnerships, and healing for a better future.