Meet the SJFC Team
The Skookum Jim Friendship Centre is a dedicated organization structured into three integral teams to best serve the community. At the helm, our devoted Board of Directors is responsible for making pivotal decisions and guiding our mission with their expertise and vision.
Our main office staff is the backbone of the Centre, consisting of administrative personnel and coordinators who work tirelessly to engage directly with the community, ensuring that our services are efficiently managed and accessible to all who need them.
Lastly, we have our Youth Emergency Shelter, a crucial component of our organization. This facility is staffed with compassionate support staff and outreach workers who are dedicated to assisting young people facing housing crises. These professionals provide essential services and support to ensure that vulnerable youth have a safe place to turn to during their time of need.
Together, these teams embody the spirit and mission of the Skookum Jim Friendship Centre, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
Our main office staff is the backbone of the Centre, consisting of administrative personnel and coordinators who work tirelessly to engage directly with the community, ensuring that our services are efficiently managed and accessible to all who need them.
Lastly, we have our Youth Emergency Shelter, a crucial component of our organization. This facility is staffed with compassionate support staff and outreach workers who are dedicated to assisting young people facing housing crises. These professionals provide essential services and support to ensure that vulnerable youth have a safe place to turn to during their time of need.
Together, these teams embody the spirit and mission of the Skookum Jim Friendship Centre, striving to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
Tanya Andre
Executive Director
Tanya Andre is a remarkable individual who has dedicated her life to both her family and her passion for finance. With over 20 years of experience in the financial sector, Tanya has become a trusted expert in her field, known for her keen ability to clean up and optimize financial systems. Her professional journey has been marked by her commitment to supporting Local First Nation governments and cultural organizations, where her expertise has made a significant impact.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tanya is a devoted mother who has always prioritized raising her children. Her personal and professional lives are seamlessly intertwined, reflecting her strong values and dedication to nurturing both her family and her community.
Tanya’s love for numbers and financial management is matched by her enthusiasm for the great outdoors. She finds joy in engaging in various outdoor activities, which provide a perfect balance to her professional life.
In every aspect of her life, Tanya Andre embodies dedication, skill, and a profound commitment to making a difference. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering support for those around her.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tanya is a devoted mother who has always prioritized raising her children. Her personal and professional lives are seamlessly intertwined, reflecting her strong values and dedication to nurturing both her family and her community.
Tanya’s love for numbers and financial management is matched by her enthusiasm for the great outdoors. She finds joy in engaging in various outdoor activities, which provide a perfect balance to her professional life.
In every aspect of her life, Tanya Andre embodies dedication, skill, and a profound commitment to making a difference. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering support for those around her.
Shauna Clare
Office Manager
Shauna, a proud member of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation from Northern Saskatchewan, has dedicated her career to fostering positive change in the social services field. After earning her Bachelor of Social Work in 2007, she embarked on a journey that has seen her take on various impactful roles.
Her professional path began with the Government of Yukon’s Family and Children Services, where she worked tirelessly to support families and safeguard children’s welfare. Shauna’s expertise and compassion also led her to serve as a Victim Services Worker, providing crucial support and advocacy for individuals who have experienced trauma and violence.
In her role as Project Lynx Coordinator, Shauna spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving community services and resources, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to community development. She further expanded her impact in the Public Guardian and Trustee Office, where she applied her knowledge of administrative law to protect the interests of vulnerable individuals.
Shauna’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to social justice and her community, as she continues to make significant contributions to the field of social services.
Her professional path began with the Government of Yukon’s Family and Children Services, where she worked tirelessly to support families and safeguard children’s welfare. Shauna’s expertise and compassion also led her to serve as a Victim Services Worker, providing crucial support and advocacy for individuals who have experienced trauma and violence.
In her role as Project Lynx Coordinator, Shauna spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving community services and resources, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to community development. She further expanded her impact in the Public Guardian and Trustee Office, where she applied her knowledge of administrative law to protect the interests of vulnerable individuals.
Shauna’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to social justice and her community, as she continues to make significant contributions to the field of social services.
Lynda Blanchard
Finance Coordinator
Lynda is a proud member of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation from Dawson City, Yukon. She is a loving mother to three grown boys and a cherished dog. Lynda holds degrees in Business Administration and Culinary Arts, reflecting her diverse interests and skills. For the past 24 years, she has made her home in Whitehorse, where she continues to thrive and contribute to her community.
Desirae Anderson
Cultural Program Manager
Desirae’s journey is a testament to her dedication and commitment to her community. Originating from the Kwänlin Dün First Nation, she pursued higher education at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops, BC. Her academic endeavors equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a substantial impact upon her return to Whitehorse in 2019.
Since moving back, Desirae has focused her efforts on supporting individuals across various stages of life. Through her work with senior care homes, Yukon First Nations (YFN) governments, and local non-profits she has supported educational and cultural initiatives that benefit people of all ages, ensuring the preservation and promotion of First Nations heritage and traditions.
Desirae Anderson’s multifaceted career highlights her as a vital advocate and leader within her community, continually striving to uplift and empower those around her.
Since moving back, Desirae has focused her efforts on supporting individuals across various stages of life. Through her work with senior care homes, Yukon First Nations (YFN) governments, and local non-profits she has supported educational and cultural initiatives that benefit people of all ages, ensuring the preservation and promotion of First Nations heritage and traditions.
Desirae Anderson’s multifaceted career highlights her as a vital advocate and leader within her community, continually striving to uplift and empower those around her.
Alyson Ryce
Youth Emergency Shelter Manager
Alyson joined the Skookum Jim Friendship Centre’s Emergency Youth Shelter service in 2011 and has been on a remarkable journey with the program ever since. She currently manages the Youth Shelter, taking great pride in the vital services they offer to the youth of Yukon. Working with this service has provided Alyson with a wonderful opportunity that has fostered extensive growth in both her personal and professional life. Her dedication and passion for helping young people have made a significant impact, ensuring that the shelter remains a safe and supportive environment for those in need.
Terrance McCallum
Youth Emergency Shelter Supervisor
Born in Saskatchewan, Terrance McCallum moved to Whitehorse 16 years ago and brings a wealth of life experience to his role as the Youth Shelter Supervisor. A dedicated mentor, Terrance is passionate about supporting young people in the community. When he’s not helping others, you can find him enjoying his favorite outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and baseball. As a proud father of four, Terrance values family and is committed to making a positive impact both at home and in the lives of those he serves.
Viola Papequash
Youth Emergency Shelter Outreach
Viola Papequash serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the Youth Shelter, bringing over 30 years of experience as a front-line support worker. Her role focuses on assisting youth accessing the shelter by connecting them with available resources, providing one-on-one support for obtaining IDs and driver’s licenses, and referring them to other support services like SJFC Youth Employment, Safe At Home, YTG MWSUS, and HCOS. Together, we have created monthly programming at the Youth Shelter that includes a variety of activities such as Medicine Wheel Teachings, beading and sewing, cooking, outdoor excursions, game nights, and cultural experiences like setting rabbit snares and making eagle feather snares. Young people often face numerous challenges, deeply impacted by the intergenerational effects of past trauma and substance use. Viola is a firm believer in individual resilience, asserting that with the right support, anyone can lead a fulfilling life and positively contribute to their community and nation.
Rebel Vegh
Youth Justice Coordinator
Rebel has called the Yukon home since 2007, and she has truly embraced the rugged beauty and adventure that this northern territory has to offer. Whether she’s hiking through the pristine wilderness, camping under the vast, starry skies with her partner and dog, or exploring back trails on her fat bike, Rebel finds joy in the natural splendors of the Yukon.
Beyond her love for the outdoors, Rebel is driven by a deep desire to help others. Her compassionate nature and willingness to lend a hand make her a valued member of the community. Whether it’s offering guidance to a fellow hiker, assisting a neighbor in need, or volunteering her time for local causes, Rebel’s dedication to helping people shines just as brightly as her love for the land she calls home.
Beyond her love for the outdoors, Rebel is driven by a deep desire to help others. Her compassionate nature and willingness to lend a hand make her a valued member of the community. Whether it’s offering guidance to a fellow hiker, assisting a neighbor in need, or volunteering her time for local causes, Rebel’s dedication to helping people shines just as brightly as her love for the land she calls home.
Temira Vance
Traditional Parenting Coordinator
Temira is a remarkable individual with a rich cultural heritage. As a member of the Kaska Dena from the Tsyone (Wolf) clan, she carries forward the traditions and values of her ancestors. Balancing her role as a mother of two children, Temira finds joy and fulfillment in her passions: sewing, beading, and learning traditional knowledge.
One of her current endeavors is learning the intricate and time-honored process of tanning moose hide. This skill not only connects her to her cultural roots but also serves as a meaningful way to preserve and pass on valuable traditional practices. Tanning moose hide is a labor-intensive process that requires patience, skill, and dedication, reflecting Temira’s commitment to her heritage.
In addition to her crafts, Temira has a love for playing Hand Games, a traditional game that is both entertaining and culturally significant. Hand Games, which involve elements of strategy, teamwork, and rhythm, are a way for Temira to engage with her community and celebrate her cultural identity.
Through her diverse interests and dedication to her culture, Temira embodies the spirit of resilience and continuity, ensuring that the rich traditions of the Kaska Dena are honored and sustained for future generations.
One of her current endeavors is learning the intricate and time-honored process of tanning moose hide. This skill not only connects her to her cultural roots but also serves as a meaningful way to preserve and pass on valuable traditional practices. Tanning moose hide is a labor-intensive process that requires patience, skill, and dedication, reflecting Temira’s commitment to her heritage.
In addition to her crafts, Temira has a love for playing Hand Games, a traditional game that is both entertaining and culturally significant. Hand Games, which involve elements of strategy, teamwork, and rhythm, are a way for Temira to engage with her community and celebrate her cultural identity.
Through her diverse interests and dedication to her culture, Temira embodies the spirit of resilience and continuity, ensuring that the rich traditions of the Kaska Dena are honored and sustained for future generations.
Ronda Vezina
Prenatal Coordinator
Ronda has led a life filled with adventure and movement. As a child, she moved around frequently, which undoubtedly shaped her adaptable and resilient nature. During her teenage years, she called Faro, Yukon home, a place known for its stunning natural beauty and close-knit community.
After her formative years, Ronda settled in Kamloops, where she dedicated herself to raising her son. Her commitment and care have come full circle, as she now has two grandchildren whom she adores. To be closer to them, she made the move to Whitehorse, demonstrating her deep family values and love.
In 2023, Ronda began working at the Skookum Jim Friendship Centre. This new chapter in her career resonates with her passion for community and support, aligning perfectly with the Centre’s mission to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members.
When she’s not working, Ronda embraces the great outdoors. She enjoys hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and traveling, activities that allow her to connect with nature and maintain a vibrant, active lifestyle. Her love for adventure and the outdoors is a testament to her spirited and enthusiastic approach to life.
After her formative years, Ronda settled in Kamloops, where she dedicated herself to raising her son. Her commitment and care have come full circle, as she now has two grandchildren whom she adores. To be closer to them, she made the move to Whitehorse, demonstrating her deep family values and love.
In 2023, Ronda began working at the Skookum Jim Friendship Centre. This new chapter in her career resonates with her passion for community and support, aligning perfectly with the Centre’s mission to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members.
When she’s not working, Ronda embraces the great outdoors. She enjoys hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and traveling, activities that allow her to connect with nature and maintain a vibrant, active lifestyle. Her love for adventure and the outdoors is a testament to her spirited and enthusiastic approach to life.
Ann Jirousek BSc, BEd, MEd, EdD Candidate & Jakub Jirousek BSc, BEd
SJFC After School Tutors
Ann has dedicated 24 years to teaching in the Yukon and has been a tutor at SJFC since 2013. She actively volunteers in the community, primarily as a basketball coach. A proud mother of three sons, she is passionate about supporting our youth in achieving their educational goals. Jakub has been teaching in the Yukon since 2000, beginning his journey in Watson Lake. He has been a tutor at SJFC since 2019. An active community volunteer, he particularly focuses on hockey, coaching across the territory. He is also a proud father of three sons.
Brook-Lynn Mason
Program Support
Brook-Lynn, born and raised in Yukon, proudly identifies as a member of the Kwänlin Dün First Nation. Her deep-rooted connection to her heritage shines through in every aspect of her life and work. Known for her exceptional interpersonal skills, Brook-Lynn thrives in collaborative environments and effortlessly connects with individuals of all ages.
Her passion for traditional cultural activities and living off the land speaks volumes about her commitment to preserving and promoting her rich cultural heritage. Brook-Lynn’s dedication to working with youth is particularly commendable; she serves as an inspiring role model, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for indigenous traditions with the younger generation.
Overall, Brook-Lynn’s unique blend of cultural wisdom, interpersonal charm, and dedication to community makes her a truly invaluable asset to any team or project.
Her passion for traditional cultural activities and living off the land speaks volumes about her commitment to preserving and promoting her rich cultural heritage. Brook-Lynn’s dedication to working with youth is particularly commendable; she serves as an inspiring role model, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for indigenous traditions with the younger generation.
Overall, Brook-Lynn’s unique blend of cultural wisdom, interpersonal charm, and dedication to community makes her a truly invaluable asset to any team or project.
Rusheal Andre
Program Support
Rusheal, is from the Northwest Territories (NWT) and belongs to the Gwich’ya Gwichin Nation, she has a rich cultural heritage that she carries with pride. Over the years, Rusheal has been a dedicated participant in the SJFC’s after school tutoring program, where she has both received and provided educational support. Additionally, her involvement with the Recreation and Youth Employment Centre, where she worked part-time, demonstrates her commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive community for youth. Rusheal’s experiences reflect her dedication to personal growth and community service, making her a valued member of both her local and indigenous communities.
Donna Lou Norman
Custodian
Donna Lou Norman is our reliable custodian, having dedicated several years to SJFC. She always prioritizes family and consistently makes time for us whenever we need her. We cherish her laughter, sense of humor, and thoughtful demeanor. Her warm presence brightens our days, and her unwavering dedication to her work and community is truly inspiring. Donna Lou’s attention to detail ensures that our environment is always welcoming and clean, reflecting her pride in her role. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she engages with everyone, offering a listening ear and wise advice. Her kindness and generosity have left a lasting impact on all of us, creating a sense of unity and support. We are incredibly fortunate to have Donna Lou as a part of our team, and her contributions go far beyond the tasks she performs. She embodies the spirit of compassion and commitment, making SJFC not just a workplace, but a family.
Travis Upshall
Maintenance
His dedication to his work and family is evident in everything he does. Travis has a knack for fixing things and takes great pride in ensuring that everything is in perfect working order. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a creaky door, or a complicated snowy ice issue, he approaches each task with the same level of care and precision.
Beyond his technical skills, Travis is always ready with a warm smile and a friendly word, making him a beloved figure in our community. His commitment and reliability have made a significant impact on our lives, and we are incredibly grateful to have him around. In his free time, Travis enjoys exploring the beautiful landscapes of Yukon with his family, playing dust ball with friends, and always finding new adventures.
Beyond his technical skills, Travis is always ready with a warm smile and a friendly word, making him a beloved figure in our community. His commitment and reliability have made a significant impact on our lives, and we are incredibly grateful to have him around. In his free time, Travis enjoys exploring the beautiful landscapes of Yukon with his family, playing dust ball with friends, and always finding new adventures.