Nexus Community Support Society

Jesanne Stanko is a compassionate leader with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals and teams across the social services and mental health sectors. She is looking forward to starting serving as Program Director for Staff Supported Homes at NEXUS Community Support Society, and is committed to creating spaces of dignity, stability, and authentic belonging.

Jesanne’s work is guided by the belief that meaningful change begins within relationship, through trust, collaboration, and a genuine respect for each person’s story. Throughout her career, she has led programs that blend structure with heart, fostering environments where both staff and service users feel seen, supported, and empowered. With a background that spans frontline advocacy, community education, and organizational leadership, Jesanne brings a steady, relational presence and a deep dedication to helping others flourish within safe, inclusive communities.

Deana is a compassionate and experienced leader with over 20 years in public and non-profit health. Throughout her career, she has been known for bringing people together, mentoring teams, and supporting individuals and families with dedication and respect.

She has held leadership roles with Connective Support Society, Interior Health, and Alberta Health Services, where she contributed to strengthening services, fostering partnerships, and leading day-to-day operations.

Deana’s background as a Registered Nurse shaped her person-centered approach and commitment to making a difference in people’s lives.

Brenda has been a dedicated member of NEXUS Community Support Society since 2021, beginning her journey as a casual Support Worker. Over the years, Brenda has advanced within the organization, serving as a Team Lead in 2022, a Program Manager in 2024, and assuming the role of Program Director in 2025.
Throughout her time at NEXUS, Brenda has focused on building strong, trusting relationships with individuals, staff, families, and health professionals in the Creston community. Known for her calm and collaborative approach, Brenda thrives in high-pressure situations and is deeply committed to fostering a supportive, person-centered environment for both the individuals we serve and the teams that support them.

As Director of Administration & Program Supports, Dora oversees efforts to streamline internal processes, ensuring that our services remain of the highest quality and that our programs are well-prepared for future success. She manages daily administrative functions, ensures compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards, and handles accreditation processes. With over 15 years of experience within our organization, Dora brings a deep and versatile understanding of NEXUS and its operations. Dora’s ability to manage complex tasks and her commitment to operational excellence contribute significantly to NEXUS’ ongoing success.

Karen joined NEXUS in 2025, bringing over six years of experience in the social services sector. A Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR), Karen now oversees the HR team, providing strategic guidance and support across the organization. Dedicated to streamlining internal processes and enhancing operational efficiency, Karen is equally committed to fostering an inclusive and positive workplace culture where every employee feels valued and empowered.

Elaina, who has extensive experience in the social service sector in British Columbia and Alberta, joined our Senior Leadership Team in 2019 as the Director of Quality Assurance. Her background includes a range of capacities in staffed residential services, from direct service delivery to leadership. In recent years, she has specialized in policy development, occupational health and safety, and accreditation. In Elaina’s previous role as Director of Administration, she oversaw all administrative, health and safety, accreditation, and continuous quality improvement processes. In early 2023, Elaina accepted the Director of Staff Supported Homes role, where her experience and expertise will continue to drive our commitment to providing the best care and support to those we serve.

Steven joined the team in 2007 and has worked in various programs, including Employment Services and Community Inclusion. He served as Supervisor of Vocational Services in 2014 and Manager of Community Inclusion and Employment Services in 2018. In 2020, he was promoted to Director of Operations, where he worked with program managers and supervisors to enhance service delivery, staff development, and program growth. In early 2023, Steven accepted the Director of Community-Based Services portfolio, overseeing the array of high-quality services our organization offers.

Michaela is the kind of person who keeps things moving—often behind the scenes, but always at the centre of how NEXUS functions day to day. As Senior Executive Assistant supporting the Executive Office, Board, and Organizational Communications, she brings a calm, proactive presence and a sharp eye for what needs to happen next. She keeps priorities clear, information flowing, and governance processes steady—making sure nothing slips through the cracks.

She plays a key role in connecting the dots across the organization, helping ensure decisions, communication, and follow-through are aligned and intentional. Whether she’s navigating complex logistics or supporting sensitive work, Michaela shows up with consistency, care, and a strong sense of accountability.

What grounds Michaela’s work is her experience starting on the frontline. She understands the heart of what NEXUS does because she’s lived it. That perspective continues to shape how she approaches her role today—supporting the organization in a way that stays connected to people, purpose, and impact.

With nearly 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Sarah brings expertise that is instrumental to our ongoing efforts in supporting communities throughout the region. Overseeing daily operations, she provides strategic guidance and collaborates closely with our Directors to ensure the highest quality of service delivery across our sites in BC’s Interior. Sarah’s strong background in human resources, labour relations, and program management, combined with a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive organizational culture, makes her an excellent fit for this pivotal role.

Brandon joined NEXUS in 2009 and has been deeply committed to the organization’s mission ever since. Over the years, he has held several key roles—including serving as the Society’s first Manager of Human Resources and Labour Relations—helping to strengthen internal systems and support a growing team.

On January 1, 2019, Brandon became Chief Executive Officer, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s evolution. Since stepping into the role, he has focused on organizational development, long-term sustainability, and meaningful community partnerships. His leadership has guided NEXUS through two major amalgamations: first in 2021, uniting the Cranbrook Society for Community Living with the Creston and District Society for Community Living, and again in 2023 with the Windermere District Social Service Society. These transitions expanded the organization’s capacity and enhanced support for individuals across multiple communities.

Under Brandon’s direction, NEXUS has grown significantly—broadening its service area beyond the Kootenays into the North Okanagan Shuswap and the Thompson Cariboo regions. This expansion reflects his commitment to strengthening the social safety net and ensuring high-quality, person-centred supports across BC’s Interior.

Brandon works closely with the Board of Directors to guide NEXUS’s strategic direction and champion continuous improvement. From 2019 to 2025, he served on the BC CEO Network Board as Vice-President, President, and Past President, helping advance leadership development and sector-wide advocacy across the province. In 2025, he was elected to the Board of Directors of the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, where he contributes to provincial efforts to expand affordable housing and strengthen non-profit housing providers.

A passionate advocate for social services, Brandon actively collaborates with leaders and partners to improve sector practices, promote equity, and strengthen communities. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his family. Brandon is also a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and envisions a future where all people experience belonging, dignity, and inclusion—an aspiration that continues to guide his leadership and community work.

Renee Lytle is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in financial oversight, strategic leadership, human resources, and corporate governance. She is known for driving sustainable, values-based growth and fostering strong organizational cultures across both for-profit and non-profit sectors.

She has been the Chief Financial Officer at EB Horsman & Son for over 28 years and during her tenure has provided strategic and financial leadership, ensuring sound governance and high-impact solutions. She has been recognized for cultivating a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and continuous improvement while navigating complex business environments.

Beyond her executive role, Renee is an active board leader. In addition to NEXUS, she currently serves on the Atira board and has previously held key positions with the Electro-Federation Canada (EFC) and Seniors Come Share.

Renee holds the ICD.D, MBA, CPA, and Family Enterprise Advisor designations, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and strong governance expertise.

Renee is deeply committed to building inclusive communities and is excited to bring her passion and experience to NEXUS.

Teresa Lee is an inclusive designer and educator who is passionate about creating communities and services where everyone can thrive. Her career began on the front lines, supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities—an experience that continues to shape her values and commitment to inclusion.

Today, Teresa works in the BC Government, helping to design public services that are more inclusive and person-centred. She also runs an independent consulting practice, where she supports organizations in applying inclusive design to their products, services, and strategies.

Teresa holds a Master of Design in Inclusive Design from OCAD University and has taught in the program. She is a member of the Technical Committee developing the Design and Delivery of Accessible Programs and Services standard with Accessibility Standards Canada, contributing to national efforts to reduce barriers in how programs and services are delivered.

Corinne has an extensive background in independent living administration and occupational health, and serves as liaison between our Board of Directors and Management staff. Motivated by her joy of working with all members of our community, Corinne also commits her time to volunteering with the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary and the Columbia Valley Christmas Bureau.

Helen’s advocacy for inclusion began with active roles in local, district, and provincial parent advisory organizations. After several years as an administrative assistant for an international mining company, she returned to university to become an elementary teacher, working with several children on the autism spectrum. Before retiring, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Leadership Studies. Helen served as a director with the Creston and District Community Living Society for two terms and joined NEXUS following the amalgamation of the two societies.

After graduating from the University of Lethbridge, Chad joined New Dawn Developments as President. Under his leadership, the team has grown New Dawn into the largest residential and commercial construction company in the East Kootenays. Named BC’s Residential Construction Person of the Year in 2011, Chad remains President and CEO of New Dawn Developments and his continued passion for the industry has resulted in numerous individual and organizational awards across British Columbia.

Chad believes in giving back to the community and New Dawn is involved in donating money and time to many non-profit organizations in the region. Chad has been a member of the board of directors with NEXUS since 2004. Chad has also volunteered on the various Canadian Homebuilders Association boards and committees, City of Cranbrook Board of Variance and Kimberley Alpine Ski team board of directors.

Interests when not working or sleeping include skiing, golf, billiards and most watersports.

Laurie is a dedicated Director for NEXUS Community Society, and has a passion for wanting to make a positive impact within our community. Laurie believes that being engaged and volunteering enriches your life and rewards you with so much personal growth and development. Laurie has served our community by volunteering with many organizations; she is the past President of the Cranbrook Rotary Club, past President of the Cranbrook Hospice Society, and Director of Communications for the BC Senior Games. Laurie is also a REALTOR® serving the Cranbrook and Kimberley area.

For more than 30 years, Joanne has been a valued member of our board. She currently serves as Board Chair and has held many different positions since the early 1990s (then Cranbrook Society for Community Living).

Having joined the board as a mother and successful businessperson, Joanne has been a strong advocate for the organization. Her expertise and passion for the cause have been invaluable assets to our organization.

In addition to her role on the board, Joanne is heavily involved in Special Olympics at the local, provincial & national levels as a coach & regional coordinator. Currently, she sits on the Special Olympics British Columbia Board.