01/30/2026
Final sneak peak of the Human Books, reminder we will be at the library tomorrow from 11 - 3
Lorna Neuwirth, Nurturing Beginnings: Supporting Infant Development, Family Connections and Early Care
I have been an Infant Development (IDP) Consultant for 9 years. Previously, I worked as an Infant/Toddler Early Childhood Educator and at the Port Alberni Friendship Center. In addition to providing IDP support to families, I offer infant massage programs and postpartum doula services to my clients.
Taryn Coates, Public Health Dentistry in Practice: Building Healthy Smiles
I am a Public Health Dental Hygienist with Island Health. In my role, I work closely with children and families to promote healthy smiles and prevent dental diseases. I provide education and resources on finding a dental home, understanding dental coverage, and following best practices for oral health.
This includes guidance on toothbrushing, fluoride use, and other strategies to prevent cavities and maintain strong teeth.
For the past 10 years, I have proudly served communities across the Alberni Valle, West Coast and Oceanside regions, helping families access care and build lifelong habits for good oral health.
Julie Wakefield, Loving Beyond Labels
I am the parent of two adult children—one living with Autism, an intellectual disability, and multiple co-occurring diagnoses, and one who is transgender. Over more than three decades, I have navigated the complex realities of parenting a child with significant behavioural challenges and supporting a child experiencing gender dysphoria.
Through lived experience with systems such as the Persons with Disabilities designation process and the transition from childhood to adulthood, I have gained a deep understanding of the barriers families face, the importance of effective advocacy, and the critical role of accessible, coordinated supports.
In addition to my roles as a parent, I am the Director of Children, Youth and Families at PAACL, where I work to strengthen services, support families, and advocate for inclusive, responsive systems that recognize both the challenges and strengths of individuals with disabilities across the lifespan
Cindy Solda, Stages and Sidelines: A Life in Theatre, Auctioneering and City Hall
I have a diverse background that spans theatre and auctioneering, and I grew up in a family that owned Solda's Restaurant for many years. Since the early 2000s, I have served as a City Councillor, bringing a wealth of life experience to my work in the community. I enjoy sharing insights from any of these areas and connecting with others through my varied experiences.
Jennifer Carroll, Stretching Hearts, Shifting Priorities: One Families Story of Foster Care, Adoption, and Unconditional Love
Once upon a time, I was confidently child-free. I believed babies were stick and loud, parenting was exhausting, and that I was absolutely not cut out for any of it. Then came an introduction to foster care.
Two adoptions followed and suddenly I was walking alongside children and families (at home and work) My life completely changed!
My story is about the unexpected ways hearts stretch, families grow, and priorities shift. It's about learning to love deeper than you thought possible, showing up (even when it's messy), and sitting with both joy and grief, sometimes all in the same day.
As a Human Library book, I’m here for honest conversations about permanence for children, caregiving, and supporting children form hard places with complex stories. I discovered what happens when life gently (or not-so gently) reroute your plans
Stacy Neary, The Power of Foundry: Reimagining Youth Wellness in Community
I am the Manager of Youth Services at ADAPS Youth and Family Services, with over 25 years of experience working in youth services. I am passionate about amplifying youth voices, meeting youth where they are, and supporting them in finding a sense of belonging within the community. I also serve as the Community Engagement Lead for the development of Foundry Port Alberni, a hub-model youth health and wellness center for youth aged 12–24, set to open in 2027.
In my role, I engage with youth and the community to guide the planning and development of Foundry Port Alberni. This center will provide a wide range of services in one location, including health care, social services, mental health supports, peer programs, and youth activities. I enjoy sharing our engagement and development process, hearing from youth and community members, and giving a glimpse into the design process. I welcome questions, feedback, and ideas as we work to create a space that truly meets the needs of youth in our community.
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