After an extensive search, Deltassist has a new executive director.
Slinder Balaggan takes over from Doug Sabourin, who retired in the summer.
Balaggan comes to Deltassist from the MPA Society, where she was involved in leading programs that provided supports and services for individuals with mental health and addictions issues. She was also instrumental in preparing the MPA Society for accreditation through CARF, which is similar to the Council on Accreditation designation that Deltassist holds.
"I'm very excited to be joining the team at Deltassist," said Balaggan. "Within the social services sector, Deltassist has an outstanding reputation as an agency which provides high quality services to its clients, as well as being an organization that is responsive to the needs of the communities that it serves."
In addition to a social services degree from UVic, Balaggan holds a master of
social work specializing in human services leadership. "Our search committee spent many months looking for the right person," said Warren Hughes, president of the Deltassist board of directors. "We wanted someone who
understood our responsibility to deliver social services, but also someone that could bring new energy, and further expand Deltassist and help it reach more people in need in Delta. We feel we've found that with Slinder."
Since 1972, Deltassist Family and Community Services has helped thousands of families and individuals cope with personal and economic challenges.
Deltassist is a non-profit social service organization best known for coordinating the annual Christmas Toy Depot and Christmas food hamper program.
"I know I'll be hitting the ground running," adds Balaggan. "Christmas is just around the corner, so we'll be busy getting ready for the Toy Depot. I'm thankful for the great people here who have dedicated themselves to coordinating the program so well for so many years."
Balaggan takes over as executive director Oct. 13.
