Tamara Aspell is the new executive director of Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre. Photo by Lyonel Doherty
Tamara Aspell agrees that she has some “big boots” to fill at Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre.
The nine-year veteran of the agency has been appointed the new executive director, a job vacated by Roxie Van Aller who is now working at Kelowna Women’s Shelter.
“She is an amazing leader and visionary for Desert Sun,” Aspell said, noting that staff are definitely feeling her absence.
Aspell said Van Aller was responsible for growing Desert Sun, which now has 11 programs, including men’s counselling and Safe Home.
“She (Van Aller) is a master chess player because she is always thinking ahead.”
Aspell said Van Aller encouraged her to apply for the director’s position. “She said, ‘it’s the next step for you.’”
Aspell found herself gathering up references in a hurry, and was able to snag one on short notice from Osoyoos Mayor Stu Wells.
The executive director plans to continue Desert Sun’s vision, but in a more administrative role. She will give up her women’s counselling portfolio, but still oversee the Safe Home program.
“I’ve got a lot to learn,” she acknowledged. But in the same breath, she commended Desert Sun staff for having so much passion for what they do. “They are all leaders in their own capacity.”
Aspell started at Desert Sun nine years ago as a part-time Safe Home worker. From there she moved on to become a program coordinator of the meth prevention program in Oliver and Osoyoos.
For the last seven years she has coordinated the Stop the Violence program.
She is currently working towards her Bachelor of Child Youth Care from the University of Victoria.
Aspell is really excited to facilitate an awareness program for Grade 8 students at Southern Okanagan Secondary School.
Based on Van Aller’s master thesis, the program touches on culture, media and healthy relationships.
“Students are starting to recognize the influence media has on them,” Aspell said, noting that youth face constant challenges and demands in today’s society.
For example, girls are very conscious about body image, and violence/cyber bullying is a recurring problem among teens.
“The home needs to be a safe place to land for kids,” Aspell said, agreeing that many parents don’t realize how much their attitude and behaviour rub off on their children.
Aspell said Desert has grown to include many strong programs that contribute to a healthy, educated community.
“We serve men, women and children, working towards a violence free, safe place to grow up, live and raise a family.”
But she sadly admitted that violence isn’t going away anytime soon. That’s why Desert Sun’s work is so crucial.
To help support these programs, the group is once again organizing the night of all nights called “Grand Night” on January 24 at Watermark Resort in Osoyoos, starting at 6 pm.
The theme will be “Diamonds Are Forever.” Make sure to order your martini shaken, not stirred.
Tickets for this fundraiser are available online at www.desertsuncounselling.ca or call 250-498-2538.
People interested in helping out in any way are asked to contact Desert Sun.
