Karen Olivier, Chief Executive Officer

A Calgarian since 1975, Karen is the CEO and co-founder of Closer to Home Community Services. Karen is an alum of Queen’s University, holding a B.A. Honours in Psychology and has provided services for children and families for over 30 years. Karen has served in numerous leadership positions in Alberta, most recently as a Board member for a provincial advocacy association for children and families and serves as a Board Director of the Teaching Family Association. For the past 10 years, Karen has also provided consultation and development services to social service agencies in the United States and New Zealand to support their efforts in implementing an evidence-based best practice models for children, youth and adults in both group care and educational day treatment settings.

Trish Bronch, Board Chair

With over 20 years of experience in senior leadership roles within the not for profit sector, Trish is committed to giving back to the community and sharing her expertise. As CEO for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, she served on national and international committees related to the cause. She consults with various organizations in the areas of board governance, fundraising and strategic direction. Currently she is involved with board roles, committee initiatives and national not for profit best practices.

David Quach, Director of Finance

David manages Closer to Home’s financial resources and facilities. Before joining us in 2021, David gained financial and operational experience while at Benevity, working with international donor-advised funds to disburse over $1 billion of donations annually through their donation platform. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan along with his CPA designation in Alberta.
 

We know that strong, stable homes and relationships are critical to every family’s success and wellbeing. But not all families have a support network on which they can rely. Struggles may arise at anytime from anywhere – from a long history of trauma to a temporary crisis. Families in crisis can break and fall apart. Jobs and homes can be lost in the chaos. Children’s lives and futures are compromised. Families need a community of support to stay together. That’s where we come in.

Since 1995, Closer to Home has served over 65,000 Albertans providing community-based intervention services to family members who are experiencing mental health challenges or in need of parenting support. Through the use of evidence-based practices and innovative solutions, Closer to Home strives to preserve, reunify and build stronger families who can care for their children and contribute meaningfully in their community. Our family-centred, strength-based services ensure that children have stable, healthy and safe living environments in which to grow and develop. And in some cases, when families are separated, we provide a place for children and youth to call home while offering therapeutic support with the ultimate goal of family reunification, in group homes and foster care programs. Closer to Home is committed to addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.