PETROLIA, ON – October 9, 2025 – As Lambton County Developmental Services (LCDS) proudly celebrates 70 years of empowering people with developmental disabilities in Lambton County, we have welcomed new members to both the LCDS Board of Directors and the LCDS Foundation Board of Directors this September. Their leadership, passion, and commitment will help guide our vision forward of creating inclusive communities where everyone belongs.

The LCDS Board of Directors

The LCDS Board of Directors plays a key role in guiding our mission by offering strategic leadership, supporting financial oversight and fundraising, and strengthening community outreach. Board members attend regular meetings, contribute to committee work, and serve as ambassadors and using their expertise and networks to help LCDS build inclusive communities where everyone belongs.

We are pleased to welcome:

• Carrie Bulgin: Residing just east of Petrolia, Carrie brings a wealth of community involvement through her volunteer work with the Petrolia & Enniskillen Agricultural Society, Lambton County 4H Association, St. Paul’s United Church, and local hockey organizations. Professionally, she is an Occupational Therapist with Pathways Health Centre for Children.
• Brenda Clarke: Based in Sarnia, Brenda holds a degree in Gerontology and retired as a Regional Operations Manager with Deafblind Ontario. Her board experience includes the Lambton Senior Association and Lions Homes for Deaf People. Brenda is passionate about strategic planning, mentorship, and leadership development.
• David Hogen: Living in Petrolia with his family, David has a strong background in volunteerism and boards with minor baseball and hockey organizations, including the Petrolia and Sarnia Minor Baseball Board and Petrolia Silver Stick Committee. He is also a successful Tim Hortons owner/operator since 2000.

LCDS also welcomes Tim Hendra as our new Board Chair, while Jill Cousins will serve as Past Chair. For the full list of LCDS Board of Directors please visit lcdspetrolia.ca/team

We also extend our deepest gratitude to Jane Joris, who has completed nine years of dedicated service on the LCDS Board. Jane’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping LCDS into the inclusive, community-driven organization it is today.

The LCDS Foundation Board of Directors

The LCDS Foundation Board of Directors plays a vital role in advancing our mission by shaping strategic direction, supporting fundraising efforts, and advising on charitable events that unite and strengthen our community. All in support of the adults with developmental disabilities in Lambton County. From our signature Fusion, food and drink event, to our annual LCDS Banquet, Foundation Board members are passionate, collaborative stewards who help ensure LCDS meets its fundraising goals while fostering a culture of inclusion and impact.

• Ruth Gallant: Ruth lives in Forest and is a former LCDS employee with many years of service in various roles. She has volunteered with Victim Services and continues to serve Forest United Church, currently as Treasurer.
• Jennnifer DeMelo-Mosley: A resident of Bright’s Grove, Jennifer is an educator, a Doctor of EdTech, and leader committed to inclusive and accessible learning. She is the Manager of eLearning and Design Services at Sault College and works remotely to support equitable online education. Jennifer is deeply connected to her community and passionate about fostering belonging and inclusion.
• Dawn Stillwell: A resident of Petrolia, Dawn is a former LCDS employee (Petrolia Enterprises) and a passionate community advocate. She is a business owner (Meditopia Inc.), author, blogger, artist, musician, and mom. Dawn currently serves as President of the Board for Kiddies Korner Nursery School in Petrolia.
• Melissa Willard: Based in Sarnia, Melissa is a former LCDS Administrative Assistant with a strong passion for community inclusion. She brings a deep appreciation for LCDS’s mission, vision, and values.

“As we celebrate 70 years of service, welcoming new board members is both a reflection of our legacy and a commitment to our next 70 years,” said LCDS Executive Director, Nick Salaris. “Their combined leadership and passion will help us continue building inclusive communities and creating meaningful opportunities for the people with developmental disabilities across Lambton County.”

To cap off our 70th anniversary celebrations, LCDS invites the community to attend Fusion: A Discovery of Local Food, Wine & Craft Beer on November 7 and 8 at DeGroot’s Nurseries in Sarnia. This signature fundraising event features local food, drinks, and entertainment, all in support of inclusive opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Tickets are selling fast and can be purchased at discoverfusion.ca.