The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Centre Sarnia-Lambton was a grassroots initiative in 1982 started by concerned individuals who wanted to support and assist survivors of sexual violence and rape.
The incredible response to the programs and to the counselling services we have offered for over 35 years has made a positive difference in many survivors’ lives. There have been many changes and investments in improving the systemic responses to addressing gender based violence but still so much more is required to prevent violence from happening in the first place,
Preventing gender based violence goes beyond public education and awareness campaigns. Early intervention and education programs are not only needed they must be imbedded into early education. We need a cultural shift in beliefs. No one deserves to be abused, no one asks for it, victims are not to blame and perpetrators need to be held accountable for their actions. All of us need to be part of the solutions.
It is our continued hope that this website will be easy to navigate, provide our readers accurate information and help to make positive changes for survivors.
Chantel Butterfield, Executive Director
Chantel has been with the Centre since 2013. She is honoured to have experienced many different roles within the Centre and passionate about her current role as the Executive Director. She is grateful to her team, who truly exemplify the heart and soul of this organization. When Chantel is not at work, you can find her reading, being social with friends or relaxing by a fire with her loved ones.
Trish Vanoosterom, Public Education Coordinator
Trish has been with the SASC 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 Lubbers, Counsellor
Connie has been with SASC 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.
Sarah Braun, Intake and Resource
Sarah has been with the Centre since 2021. Her lived experience in the mental health and addictions field lends a compassionate lens focusing on survivor resiliency. Sarah is so grateful to be a part of the team here at SASC and believes in empowering survivors while honouring the privilege to walk alongside them throughout their healing journey. When she is not in the office you can find her playing with her golden retriever Joey, spending time with loved ones and at sporting events with friends!
Kandice Webb, Counsellor
Since 2014, Kandice has had the privilege of supporting individuals through various forms of trauma at different stages in their healing journey. Her practice is rooted in empathy, acceptance, and collaboration. Kandice is passionate about advocacy and working alongside survivors. When she's not at the office, you can often find her spending quality time with those she loves, watching movies at home, or at a concert.
Hunter Kameka, Outreach
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.