Interview with Lisa Portelli, Executive Director, NewLife Options Inc.
Can you tell me a little bit about how and why your organization began?
NewLife Options Inc. opened its doors in May 2019 to address the identified need for robust clinical and operational residential care for vulnerable individuals in our community. Additionally, it aimed to fulfill the requirement for caring for children under protective orders through the Ministry of Social Development.
Has the organization grown significantly since it began?
Yes, we have grown significantly; we are now a multi-million dollar company.
Are there chapters across the province, across Canada, across the world?
Indeed, we operate an agency in Manitoba and aim to extend our reach into Atlantic Canada.
Or what about the size of the local office?
Our local office employs over 150 residential staff members. It is managed by an Executive Director, supported administratively, and overseen by four Program Managers.
What is your role in the organization and what is the structure?
I serve as the Executive Director for the New Brunswick Region. Our organizational structure includes a governance Board of Directors, CEO Barry Foster Clinical Director Melody Foster. We currently employ four Program Managers, a Program Assistant, and administrative support staff. Additionally, our structure encompasses the accounting team, Team Leaders, and residential support staff who work directly with individuals in their homes.
What about your board?
Indeed, a governance Board of Directors is comprised of clinical and business leaders who possess a vast array of knowledge and expertise.
What types of services does your organization offer and who are the people who use or take advantage of your services?
NewLife Options offers a comprehensive approach to foster optimal outcomes for individuals deeply impacted by autism, mental health issues, challenging behaviors, addictions, abuse, and neglect, utilizing best practice methods in intervention. These include trauma-informed care, positive behavior support, clinical oversight, and collaborative case management. Many individuals in need of residential care are beyond parental control, with needs unmet at home, including children and youth taken into care through the child protection program by the Ministry of Social Development.
As a not-for-profit, what are your major fundraisers?
We receive our primary funding from the Ministry of Social Development.
Can you tell me about one of the most rewarding experiences you’ve had while working for this organization?
NewLife Options Inc. prioritizes care and outcomes. Furthermore, the investment in staff coaching and training leads to tangible results. Observing both children and adults develop skills in independence, communication, resilience, self-advocacy, and enhanced mental and physical health is immensely rewarding.
What kind of challenges has your organization encountered and how did you adapt to overcome them?
Securing funding for essential programs
If I were thinking about volunteering for a not-for-profit organization, what would you say to sway my decision to join your organization?
The impact you have on the lives of children and adults will invigorate and sustain your desire to support them. Knowing and experiencing a person reaching their full potential is one of the greatest rewards. It ensures that a child/adult is cared for in a safe and loving environment.
What kind of impact can volunteers have within your organization?
We have welcomed numerous NBCC and Eastern College students to engage in supervised learning through unpaid college placements. Each prospective graduate contributes something unique to our home and enriches the lives of our individuals. In return, they expand their understanding of person-centered active support and share in the joy of learning and achieving goals.
What sets you apart from other not-for-profits?
Ensuring care outcomes and upholding integrity are fundamental in responsibly managing the funds we receive.
What is something that you wish more people knew about your organization?
We are committed to supporting the needs of individuals in the community. Our approach is person-centered, tailored to meet individual needs through compassion, empathy, and collaboration with all stakeholders, and we maintain high standards and expectations for our residential and leadership staff.
What are you most proud of about your organization?
Since our founding, we have seen considerable expansion, resulting in an increased number of New Brunswickers benefiting from the finest care available—aiding them in achieving their utmost potential. It is uplifting to know that case managers, families, and staff take pride in their association with our agency. It is imperative that all new employees are dedicated to assisting our individuals, with our mission as the guiding principle of their work.
