Mom2Mom's Irene Elhaimer Nominated for YWCA Women of Distinction
We are so excited to announce that Mom2Mom’s Executive Director, Irene Elhaimer, has been nominated for this year’s YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Non-profit category!
“As a woman who has made it her life's work to advocate and provide essential services for those escaping and healing from violence, I strongly align with YWCA's steadfast dedication to creating a future that is free from gender-based violence. It is an honour to contribute as a partner in transforming the conditions for women and girls in Canada.” - Irene Elhaimer
Irene recognized her karmic assignment in a life-changing moment in 1989, the day of the Montreal massacre. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to create a safe, just, and equitable world for women, girls, children, and all genders - today serving as the Executive Director of Mom2Mom Child Poverty Initiative (M2M).
Through her advocacy, activism, and work at Mom2Mom, WAVAW Rape Crisis Centre, DiverCity, Dixon Transition Society, and Pacific Children’s Shelter Society in Metro Vancouver, her impact has been profound. Irene’s efforts helped raise millions of dollars from governments towards anti-violence programs, bore witness to challenges faced by Indigenous women and girls, made college and university campuses safer, gave a voice to gender-diverse people, and provided encouragement and support for underprivileged women and children.
“What sets Irene apart is her selfless approach to her work. Her vision extends beyond any single organization, always directed towards the greater good. Irene embraces a community-based approach to supporting women, collaborating with like-minded organizations to achieve common goals.” - Kim Haakstad, M2M Board Chair
Irene consistently models honesty, transparency, and ethical decision-making, which creates a safe space for discussion and creativity at Mom2Mom. Her leadership is rooted in a culture of collaboration that empowers her team and fosters ownership and responsibility.
“I am constantly inspired by Irene’s determination and contagious enthusiasm for our work to demystify the ideas around poverty and blame. Irene has made it her life’s work to fight for equality for women and children.”
Irene also advocates for her team’s overall health and well-being. For example, in 2022, she collaborated with the Mom2Mom staff team and Board of Directors to implement a 4-day work week for Mom2Mom. This progressive move boosted morale, increased productivity, improved staff retention, and offered employees more work-life balance.
“It works. Staff are motivated, happier, and the quality of work is excellent. This is the way of the future: many organizations are changing to the 4-day workweek all around the world. We are part of a progressive social change in worker rights, health, and wellness. M2M is a leader for the charitable sector.” - Irene
The results from Mom2Mom’s most recent annual report (above) demonstrate the positive impact Irene has on women and children living in poverty as the organizations Executive Director.
other notable accomplishments in Irene’s career:
Shining a Spotlight on Gender-based Violence
In 2008, Irene was invited by Liberal MP, Hedy Fry to present to the House of Commons (above) on behalf of WAVAW’s “Super Power Project.” The project was designed to bust gender stereotypes for Indigenous youth by providing them with the tools to produce anti-violence educational materials for the media.
Sacred Smudge Ceremonies
Irene collaborated with Coast Salish Nations and Indigenous leader Dara Laughlin to initiate the Sacred Smudge Ceremony, a groundbreaking program that ran from 2007 to 2011 in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. The ceremonies were attended by prominent Indigenous leaders, such as Hereditary Chief of Squamish Nation, Ian Campbell (above).
Provincial Advocacy for Gender Equity
In 2008, Irene began a multi-year advocacy campaign to engage with Province of BC ministers to increase funding for women's anti-violence services. Irene gained a positive reputation for being a driving force behind the government's decision to allocate an extra $5 million in 2017 to these services.
Participation in the International Women's World Conference
In 2011, Irene and her team at WAVAW presented at Canada’s first hosting of the Women's World Conference in Ottawa, placing a special emphasis on Indigenous women leaders. Irene's expertise in this field shone through, showcasing her leadership, advocacy, and vision in addressing gender-based violence and advocating for positive change.
Invitation to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Event in 2013
Irene’s invitation from key members of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations signifies her prominence as a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights. At this event, she bore witness and provided support to Indigenous Elders courageously sharing their truths and testimonies.
Advocating for
Sexual Violence Education and Services on Campuses
Despite initial resistance, she and her team collaborated with the federal government and Vancouver Community College (VCC) to establish a system for reporting and addressing sexual violence on university campuses. Her work has also enhanced education and services across BC university and college campuses, promoting safer and more equitable environments.
stay tuned for results at ywca women of distinction awards gala on may 13, 2024
Want to attend the event in-person? Get tickets here!