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Our History
Options Pregnancy Centre is a woman-founded, woman-led Christian organization. It is because of the legacy of woman who cared about empowering others to live fully that Options is here today.
"Perhaps we should begin with a first step"
- from the movie Amazing Grace (2006) that inspired our founder to start the centre
Over the years...
2007?
Nadine Fafard, with the unwavering support of her husband Luc, founded Options Pregnancy Centre in [year]. Inspired by a line from the film Amazing Grace (2006), she undertook to begin what felt to her like an enormous project. That quote was: "Perhaps we should begin this journey with a first step." So they did take a single step. Then another, and another, until Nadine opened the doors of Options Pregnancy Centre in Lennoxville as an affiliate of Pregnancy Care Canada (then called CAPPS). Another many steps later, and Options Pregnancy Centre was granted charitable status. Her final goal was to find someone to take the reigns from her, which she did in 2017. Nadine moved from this world to the next in 2020, praising her Savior all the day long.
Even if you never met Nadine, you have come in contact with her legacy. She was intricately involved in countless worthy causes, but here at Options Pregnancy Centre, she is remembered fondly as our founder. On February 16th, 2020, Nadine went to be with her Lord in glory.
2017-2020
Tanya Zaleski Sylvester served Options faithfully for three years. Herself having been confronted with a unplanned pregnancy, she worked to build the way our mission is articulated and how to best support vulnerable people facing pregnancy-related struggles. "Her work has been of the highest order, and her vision, generosity and love are evident in all she has created," says Mary Robb, former board chairwoman.
2020-2023
Laurence Thiry carried Options through the COVID-19 pandemic and ushered in a season of growth for the centre. We moved into a new bigger space, brought a client-care director on board and expanded our volunteer team. She was also pivotal in creating our after-abortion support program and our partnership with Encore Thrift Shop. A mother to three kids, Laurence still contributes to Options as board chairwoman.
2023-2024 (interim)
When Laurence stepped away from being executive director, Sheri Stinson bravely chose to take on a temporary role at the centre. She worked to strengthen our relationships with our community and volunteers. Her heart to serve her community was evident in everything she did.
2024-present
Hannah Hornibrook is our current executive director. The centre has grown under her leadership as she has taken steps she works to create needed programs, expand our reach in our community.