Vernon councillor Kelly Fehr wondered who the Social Planning Council of North Okanagan would find to replace Annette Sharkey as the organization's executive director.
Fehr, having worked closely with Sharkey 鈥� who resigned her position in January 鈥� for a decade or so, wondered who would have the skill set that Sharkey brought to the table.
He found out over coffee with Roger Parenteau.
The former executive director (ED) of the Shuswap Community Foundation in Salmon Arm was officially introduced to Vernon council Monday, Aug. 11, as the Social Planning Council's new ED.
"Listening to you talk, hearing about your education in political science, and your work experience in Salmon Arm while building relationships, you will fit really well," said Fehr to Parenteau. "We're glad to have you on board."
Making the introduction of Parenteau to council was Lisa Church from the planning council's board of directors.
"We were fortunate to find Roger," said Church. "We're excited and confident in what he brings to the agency with his background in non-profit leadership, political science, and passion for community development."
Parentau, who had been with the Shuswap Community Foundation since 2017, said he's incredibly honoured to join the Social Planning Council.
"I'm very excited, and seeing the history of this organization that Annette brought it to is incredibly impressive," said Parenteau. "I feel honoured that the board has entrusted me with this work."
Shuswap Community Foundation president John White said Parenteau was instrumental in guiding the group through a period of steady growth and impact. His leadership, said the foundation on its Facebook page, "has been central to expanding the Foundation's reach, strengthening relationships with donors and community partners, and increasing support for local initiatives across the region."
鈥淲e are deeply grateful to Roger for his outstanding leadership and tireless commitment to our mission over the past eight years,鈥� said White. 鈥淗is passion for community building and his ability to connect people and resources for the greater good have left a lasting legacy in the Shuswap region.鈥�
Parenteau will also be the Social Planning Council's representative on the City of Vernon's Affordable Housing Advisory Committee.
