Darlene joined the Early Childhood Community Development Centre in April of 2009 as Registrar of its Mentoring Pairs for Child Care (MPCC) project. Since that time, she has successfully coordinated and implemented the application, selection and matching of its twenty-seven 2010 programs and the final reporting on its twelve Phase I programs.
Darlene has also shone in her role overseeing the electronic record keeping activities on both phases of the project, and has diligently ensured the integrity, accuracy and efficiency of the data being collected and reported on. She simultaneously assisted in the development and implementation of systems that enhance both web-based project delivery and the required reporting processes. She has provided required information and reports, and delivered presentations and personal support on the online system to all types of project partners – to overwhelmingly rave reviews – and continues to look for ways to improve the online features of the project and the sector’s IT skills.
Additional responsibilities she conscientiously undertakes include handling web-based inquiries from MPCC participants, program animators and MPCC partners. Darlene is also an invaluable support in generating reports, finding needed data and assisting with the coordination of research. MPCC partners frequently comment on her speed and accuracy in addressing their online challenges effectively and in keeping their records updated.
Prior to becoming staff at the ECCDC, Darlene received her diploma from Niagara College and spent 14 years as an Early Childhood Educator, the last two of which were in the capacity of Resource Manager of a child care centre and outreach program for adolescent parents. During this time, she gained a deep respect for, and ability to be empathetic and supportive of, the current challenges and successes experienced by children and families of all types.
During her last 5 years prior to joining the ECCDC, Darlene also worked part time as a Data Assistant for Niagara Brighter Futures and Healthy from the Start programs where she maintained databases for, and consulted on, effective record keeping and reporting.
Darlene is a rare find for the Mentoring team because she combines web-based and data collection skills with a keen sensitivity to the needs of the professionals, families and children she is serving. Darlene’s is always happy to share how thrilled she is to be a part of the ECCDC and supporting all those in the child care community whom she holds in such high esteem.