Project Staff

Dorothy Keigan - Project Coordinator

As Project Coordinator, I oversee all the activities for both the Special Needs and Moving On Projects. I structure the delivery of the projects in a manner compatible with the Special Needs Project Policy and in conjunction with the CUPW Child Care Coordinator.  An important component of my job is to always be looking for new ways the projects can respond to member's concerns. 

I started with the Special Needs Project as an Administrative Assistant in 2002. Over the ensuing years I have become familiar and touched by members stories of the challenges and joys that they face caring for a child with special needs.

Since that time, we have grown to support two projects, one having two levels of support and the other having three. The project supports members in two unions, in two languages!

I feel very fortunate to be working on such an innovative project with so many wonderful people. I hope you find this website an easy and helpful way to connect with the project and with other members.

Brenda Duchesne - Member Support Coordinator

In 2018 I began with the Special Needs and Moving On Projects as an Administrative Coordinator. In 2023 I moved into the position of Member Support Coordinator which enables me to use a different set of skills. My focus in this new role is to provide member and advisor support specifically in processing funding for member and advisor payments. 

I am very familiar with the services that the Special Needs and Moving On Projects provide which is beneficial when conducting new member interviews.   

Crucial to this position is the understanding of the confidential nature of all materials; the challenges members face, and the scope of what can be supported under individualized funding.

I keep track of member and advisor information in our database and accounting software. As well as updating documents in relation to the programs and our accounting system. As a team we effectively and efficiently meet the project’s overall goals and objectives. I find the work is very rewarding; I feel that I'm making a difference.

Meaghan Fitzgerald - Administrative Coordinator

Hi, my name is Meaghan Fitzgerald, and I am the newest staff member to join the team. I replaced Benita on May 6^th, 2024 in the Administrative Coordinator position. I will likely be the first English voice members will hear when they call the office.

I have 5+ years of experience working in administrative, not-for-profit settings, 4 of which have been in the health care field at Victoria County Home Support Services. I achieved my Bachelor of Arts (Major in Psychology) at Cape Breton University, and I am also currently collaborating with CBU Professor Dr. Bishakha Mazumdar as a Research Assistant for the Adding Lives to Years Project.

I am from Baddeck and have lived here all my life, and I am happy to contribute support to members from my desk in the Baddeck office.

Dorothy and Brenda are delighted to have Meaghan join our team and look forward to working together into the future.