John Howard Society (JHS) Belleville announced today that the non-profit organization’s long-time Executive Director (ED), Debbie Woods, will retire at the end of June. Debbie’s decision to retire brings to a close a remarkable career of over 45 years in local social services.
“Debbie has done incredible things for this community. She has created a community safe place for those who don’t have one. Her heart and soul have always been behind the work she has done. She has always put the JHS, her staff and her clients before anything else. Her footprints will forever be imprinted on the heart of this community,” says Chauntelle Curlette, JHS Belleville Board President.
Debbie founded the Belleville branch of the JHS and established it as a non-profit in 2004. During her time as ED, she grew the organization from a one-person start-up, operating out of her home office, to an agency employing 25 staff and housing over 10 programs at 19-21 Wallbridge Crescent, a building purchased by the organization in 2011.
Over the years, she developed many meaningful community partnerships, and through those partnerships, provided important programs for individuals in conflict with, or affected by, the criminal justice system. Notably, in 2017, Debbie worked in conjunction with community partners to establish the Belleville Youth Centre (BYC) to ensure youth at risk have a place to thrive and feel supported.
“Deb’s contribution to the criminal justice system in Belleville has been invaluable and immeasurable. She has worked tirelessly to obtain funding and deliver essential programs and services that have enhanced our court diversion programs and provided much needed supports to individuals trying to navigate the court system. I am happy that Deb is finally going to take some time for herself and her family but I don’t know what we will do without her,” says Justice Elaine Deluzio, longtime community partner and friend.
A leadership transition process is already underway with the Board naming Jennifer Cormier as Wood’s successor. Cormier brings a passion for community capacity building and over 15 years experience working with both youth and adults in the non-profit sector. The board is excited to work with Jennifer as she builds on the legacy Debbie leaves behind at JHS Belleville.
The John Howard Society of Ontario works toward effective, just and humane responses to crime and its causes. Through community offices across the province, we provide programs and services that help people affected by the justice system develop key life skills, navigate issues of criminal justice, and build productive futures after incarceration.
A retirement open house reception will be held at 19-21 Wallbridge Crescent on June 22, 2022, from 4-5pm. All are welcome to join us as we celebrate Debbie’s incredible career.
