Sonia Prevost-Derbecker steps into CEO role at Siloam Mission

A new chapter is underway at Siloam Mission as Sonia Prevost-Derbecker takes the helm as chief executive officer, leading one of Winnipeg’s largest organizations supporting people experiencing homelessness.

Prevost-Derbecker replaces Tessa Blakie Whitecloud, who left the role vacant early last year. Following a nationwide search that attracted 1,100 applicants, the board says it found the leader it needs for the organization’s next phase.

“We need someone to help us with this phase of development,” said Tracey Silagy, board chair, Siloam Mission.

Silagy said the leadership transition over the past year has been smooth.

“The transition period this year has actually gone very well. And we are looking forward to the next phase,” said Silagy.

Prevost-Derbecker officially began her tenure earlier this week. Her first days on the job were marked by a welcoming ceremony as staff and supporters gathered to introduce her to the community.

Silagy said Prevost-Derbecker’s broad professional background made her stand out among applicants.

“With her background she’s had exposure to so many different areas that Siloam work touches upon that it would be a really awesome addition to our team,” said Silagy.

Prevost-Derbecker brings more than 25 years of experience in housing, child welfare and community development. She said her approach will focus on comprehensive, long-term solutions.

“It is not just about food and housing distribution. It’s about holistic approach to supporting the most marginalized,” said Sonia Prevost-Derbecker, CEO, Siloam Mission.

She added it is still early in her tenure to implement changes to the organization’s mission but emphasized the importance of collaboration — including working with all levels of government.

CityNews reached out to the office of Bernadette Smith, minister of housing, addictions and homelessness and recieved this as a statement:

“We’d like to congratulate Siloam Mission and their new CEO Sonia Prevost-Derbecker. Siloam Mission is a keystone institution in our community and their work providing shelter and services to some of Winnipeg’s most vulnerable people is vital to the health and wellness of Winnipeg. We look forward to this next chapter in our partnership as they continue their incredibly important work.”

Prevost-Derbecker stressed that addressing homelessness requires collective action.

“Ending homelessness is not a one organization job. And it’s not done easily or it would have been done already,” said Prevost-Derbecker.

The executive team expects the new leader will help the nonprofit reach its long-term goals. Prevost-Derbecker is set to meet members of the public in March as she begins mapping out priorities.

“Where are the greatest needs and gaps and let’s really plan ahead,” said Prevost-Derbecker.