Chair
Collette Johnson is a violence prevention and victim services professional with more than 14 years of experience supporting survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. She serves as an Intimate Partner Violence Prevention and Public Education Coordinator, leading violence prevention initiatives, building community partnerships, delivering public education, and advocating for survivors through trauma-informed, collaborative approaches. Her background also includes a decade of procurement and management experience with the UK Ministry of Defence, bringing strong leadership, strategic planning, and systems coordination expertise to her work.
Treasurer
Lori Kidd endeavors to use her education and experience to support causes she cares deeply about, especially those that empower women and girls. She has a degree in Economics, a post-secondary diploma in Non-profit Management, and she is working toward qualifying as a CPA. She has held executive positions on Boards and Councils for Girls Inc. of Upper Canada, Gananoque Figure Skating, St. Joseph Catholic and Gananoque Intermediate/Secondary Schools. She currently works as a Supervisor for the Ontario Works program for the City of Kingston and Frontenac Counties.
General Director
Lauren McEwan brings over a decade of experience in the construction industry, with a background in project management for residential, commercial, and heritage builds across Eastern Ontario. As co-owner of a construction company in Kemptville, she is passionate about quality craftsmanship and supporting local trades. Lauren is known for her leadership and ability to guide projects from concept to completion. Outside of work, she enjoys running, horseback riding, camping and spending time outdoors with her family and animals. She is proud to contribute her skills and experience to the Leeds and Grenville Interval House Board.
General Director
Victoria McKeage has many years of experience in management positions, including operational management and project management, across manufacturing facilities in Canada and Mexico. She has developed strong leadership skills through overseeing diverse teams and ensuring efficient operations. Her extensive background includes credentials such as Six Sigma Greenbelt, Project Management Certificate, and Human Resources Management Certificate. After her diagnosis of breast cancer, Victoria reevaluated her life and gave back time for the community. This pivotal experience inspired her to focus on causes she genuinely cares about, strengthening her resolve to make a meaningful impact. She became actively involved in local volunteer initiatives, finding solace and purpose in supporting others facing challenges. Victoria is pleased to join the board at the LGIH and help support women and children in need. She looks forward to collaborating with fellow board members, using her experiences to advocate for improve resources and compassionate care within the organization.
General Director
Sue Drake is a senior business leader with over 30 years’ experience in all functional areas of Human Resources with strong financial acumen and organizational abilities. She has a talent for aligning people’s strategies to business goals and values and has partnered with executives in start-ups to well-established companies. Her strengths lie in recruiting, policy development, performance management, learning and development, process improvement and systems implementation. Sue is committed to giving back and has an extensive history of volunteering – from volunteering at hospitals, mentoring aspiring Human Resources professionals and over 35 years as a member of Girl Guides of Canada (unit leader (Sparks, Brownies & Guides) a Deputy Division Commission and certified trainer). Sue is passionate about making a difference in the community and supporting survivors of gender-based violence. She has previously been a member of the Board of LGIH and is happy to be given another opportunity to support this inspiring organization. She has a business degree from Sheridan College and a Certified Human Resources Executive (CHRE) designation.
General Director
Jennifer Margetts is a dedicated leader in post-secondary education and community volunteer who believes in the power of education, advocacy, and compassionate support to strengthen communities. In her professional role at St. Lawrence College, she leads academic planning and operational initiatives that support student success across Eastern Ontario. Professionally, she is passionate about education, leadership, and continuous improvement, and she is dedicated to creating positive outcomes for students, employees, and the communities she serves. As a Board Member with Leeds & Grenville Interval House, Jennifer is proud to contribute her leadership experience in support of the organization’s mission to provide safety, empowerment, and hope for women and children affected by violence.
General Director
Debbie Brooks is a lifelong resident of Brockville with significant professional, business, and community experience. For more than 35 years, Debbie and her husband successfully operated their own business, providing her with a strong foundation in small business management, financial administration, and strategic decision-making. Debbie spent the final 20 years of her professional career working at the Brockville Psychiatric Hospital and the Royal Ottawa, where she developed extensive expertise in mental health and vocational rehabilitation. Her professional experience has provided her with a strong understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families navigating mental health and employment-related barriers. Debbie previously served on the LGIH Board of Directors for more than four years and has recently returned to the Board. She is committed to contributing her experience, knowledge, and community perspective to the continued success of LGIH and to supporting its mandate and the individuals and communities it serves.
Executive Director
Katie Sparkes has over 20 years of experience in the Violence Against Women sector. With a background in psychology, social work and life coaching, she leads with a holistic, trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, empowerment, and inclusion. Katie is committed to strengthening community partnerships and ensuring responsive, survivor-centered services that meet the diverse needs of the families and individuals we support.