Claire Halpern | Executive Director

Claire Halpern is an experienced nonprofit leader with over a decade of management experience in government, community organizations, and professional associations. She has a proven track record of strategic planning, organizational growth, and collaborative relationship-building across diverse sectors. Claire holds a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University and a Master in Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo. Her interdisciplinary education and career have shaped a leadership approach that blends analytical insight with creativity, and grounded in a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. Claire and her family moved to Halifax seven years ago from Vancouver. When not at work, she is an active parent volunteer at her kids’ school and on the soccer field.

Contact: executivedirector@familysos.ca

Tasha Taylor | Fundraising & Marketing Coordinator

Tasha Taylor is a fundraising, marketing, and community engagement professional passionate about connecting people with causes that matter. With more than a decade of communications and marketing experience, Tasha brings a creative, relationship-first approach to fundraising, partnerships, and storytelling.

A natural community connector, she loves bringing big ideas to life, building meaningful partnerships and finding new ways to rally people around a shared purpose.

Outside of work, you'll likely find Tasha crafting handmade earrings from seashells and fishing lures, chasing a great sunset or dreaming up what will surely be her next hit single on Spotify.

Contact: fundraising@familysos.ca

Chantal McAllister | Parent Support Team Lead

Originally from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Chantal brings over 15 years of experience providing community services to families and youth. Grounded in a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach, she uses her strong interpersonal skills to build meaningful relationships and empower families in their parenting journey.

Chantal holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology and a Bachelor of Social Work. When she’s not at work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with friends.

Contact: chantal@familysos.ca

Emily Holloway | Parent Support Worker

With 13 years of experience in social services, Emily has supported a diverse range of individuals and families across the community. Some of her most meaningful roles have included supporting youth, working in care facilities, and connecting families to community resources.

Emily values an approachable, compassionate communication style—one grounded in active listening and empathy—to build trusting relationships with those she supports.

She holds a Personal Support Worker diploma from NBCC and a Bachelor of Social Science in Sociology and Psychology from Mount Allison University.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time with her family, savoring a quiet cup of coffee at sunrise, and listening to a good podcast

Contact: emily@familysos.ca

Jessica Young | Program Manager

Originally from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Jessica moved to Halifax in 2017, where she now calls home. With over 15 years of experience in the child and youth field, Jessica discovered her passion at age 17 when she took her first job as a day camp leader—and she hasn’t looked back since.

She holds a Degree in Recreation and a Diploma in Community and Therapeutic Recreation, and has volunteered with a variety of organizations over the years, always eager to lend a helping hand.

Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with her three children and family, exploring the outdoors, and cheering on her kids at their sporting events—embracing all the joy and energy of her wonderfully busy life.

Contact: healthykidz@familysos.ca

Mutinta Hamalala | Program Assistant

Originally from Zimbabwe and raised in Angola, Mutinta moved to Canada in 2020 to pursue her education and has since called Halifax home. She brings a multicultural perspective to her work and is passionate about supporting children and youth and creating safe, welcoming environments where they can feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow.

Mutinta holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dalhousie University. Her academic background has given her a strong foundation in understanding child development, behaviour, relationships, and mental health. Through her experience working with children and youth in community-based settings, she has developed a compassionate and relationship-focused approach grounded in empathy, active listening, and positive behaviour support.

Outside of work, Mutinta enjoys dancing, painting, reading, and exploring her creativity.

Contact: mutinta@familysos.ca‍ ‍

Kamila Drycz | Food Support Coordinator

Originally from Poland, Kamila moved to Canada 13 years ago and has called Halifax home ever since. She brings over four years of nonprofit experience in the Spryfield community and is passionate about supporting families by increasing access to food resources and helping caregivers keep children safe on the road.

When she’s not at work, Kamila enjoys staying active with her family and friends, attending fitness classes, baking, and making crafts and puzzles whenever her busy schedule allows.

Contact: Kamila@familysos.ca