Meet Our Administration Team
Mallory Curwin
Executive Director
Mallory joined First Steps as Executive Director in April 2021, bringing over 10 years of management experience and a strong passion for supporting others. She has extensive experience in leadership, strategy, communications, and team building, along with specialized training in mental health and crisis intervention.
Dedicated to lifelong learning and community involvement, Mallory serves on several local boards and volunteers throughout the community. Her compassion, leadership, and experience supporting vulnerable individuals make her a valued part of the First Steps team.
Denise Morais
Residential Director
Denise graduated with honours from NBCC Human Services in 2005. She spent several years working with adults living with severe mental illness before joining the team at First Steps in 2009. Denise started with First Steps in the role of Residential Support Staff. She has held several different positions over the years and has been the Residential Director since 2019.
Lori Logue
Programming & Outreach
Lori joined First Steps as the Programming & Outreach Coordinator in February 2024. She brings with her experience working with other local non-profits, as well as great communication, event planning, and management skills.
Karen Beshara-Vickers
Grants & Development
Karen joined the First Steps team in April 2019 as a Residential Support Staff (RSS). Always eager to embrace new challenges, she has since transitioned into her role in Development and Grants.
With a Business-Accounting diploma and experience as an Administrative Assistant, Personal Support Worker, and Competitive Sports Organizer, Karen brings a diverse and valuable skill set to the First Steps team.
Jessica Finlay
Finance & Marketing Manager
Jessica has13 years of Executive Administration experience. She joined the management team at First Steps in 2021. Jessica oversees office administration and financial operations, while also supporting fundraising, marketing, website content, social media, and donation management.
Shaylen Andrews
Child Development Coordinator
Shaylen is our Child Development Coordinator. She graduated from the NBCC Early Childhood Education program, where she developed a strong foundation in child development. She began her role at First Steps in 2024. Over the years, she has gained invaluable experience, working hands-on in various roles that have shaped her into who she is today.
Melissa Richardson
Second Steps Coordinator
Melissa has been part of the First Steps team since 2020, beginning as Residential Support Staff before stepping into her current role as Second Steps Coordinator.
She focuses on connecting clients with programs and services, assisting with identification needs, and building strong relationships with Second Steps clients.
Natalia Telepennj
Second Steps Coordinator
Natalia has been part of the First Steps team since 2021 as a student and then hired in 2022, beginning as Residential Support Staff. Beginning in 2026, she is now our second Second Steps Coordinator.
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Emma Stewart
Early Childhood Educator
Emma joined First Steps Early Learning Centre in 2024.
Theresa Edwards
Early Childhood Educator
Theresa joined First Steps Early Learning Centre in 2024.
Sheila Curwin
Nutrition Coordinator
Sheila joined the First Steps team in 2021, beginning her journey in the kitchen. She plays an important role in ensuring our residents have access to nutritious, well-balanced meals while creating a welcoming and caring environment through her dedication and support.
Betty Stacey
Teacher
Betty joined the First Steps team in 2025 as a teacher at the Dr. Christine Davies Education Centre. She is dedicated to supporting the students through education, creating a positive learning environment and helping each individual build confidence and skills for their future.