My name is Charity Neilson. I am currently the Assistant Executive Director at Sunrise House. I have been with Sunrise House since arriving in Grande Prairie in 2011, starting as Front Line Staff and working my way up to current position. In addition I currently co-facilitate The High Risk Youth Collaborate Team, sit on various committees such as the FASD Awareness Committee, Opioid Task Force, and Big Heart for Big Kids Committee, and consulted on high risk youth as a field expert with the OCYA.
Some of my responsibilities include building collaborative relationships with other community agencies, attending conferences and meetings, recruiting volunteers, crisis intervention and supervising front-line staff. I have committed to ensuring our team feels supported to be passionate helpers making an impact on youth in our community. I am honored to be a part of such an amazing team and believe that our diversity and compassion is a vital asset to the work we do.
Originally from New Brunswick, my background started in corrections in 2008. I have worked in various capacities from group homes, special care homes, correctional facilities and sheriff services. While working in Corrections I discovered my heart was with high risk youth and that my passion was helping them see they have the ability to move forward despite their current or past struggles.
Sunrise House quickly became my second family after moving across the country. Since working here I have made Grande Prairie home and expanded my family with two beautiful little girls. I have seen this organization expand to fill gaps we were spread short to fill when I first arrived. I am so proud to be apart of this organization and happy that Sunrise House is available to ensure there is a safe, non-judging, supportive environment available to youth who are struggling to navigate life and experiencing homelessness.
