Fonda’s journey to success wasn’t a straight path. A resilient mother of three, Fonda has overcome every obstacle life threw her way with unwavering determination. She didn’t graduate high school but pursued her GED instead, determined to carve a brighter future. Married for the second time, her life took a turn as she battled addiction while striving to provide a better future for her family. After a long and arduous battle with addiction, May 2nd marked a significant milestone – celebrating one year of sobriety. For Fonda, this achievement isn’t just personal; it is a testament to her resilience and inner strength. 

The turning point came when Fonda connected with indigenous healers who became her mentors. Guided by their wisdom and support, she embarked on a journey to reclaim her life. Inspired by her own experiences, Fonda discovered her calling – to become an outreach addictions counsellor. Her decision to return to school at 38 wasn’t just about furthering her education; it was about finding her purpose. Fonda realized that her past struggles were preparing her for something greater – to combine her education with life experience and make a difference in the lives of others.

Now enrolled in the Child and Youth Care Worker with Addictions program at Eastern college, she has had the opportunity to shadow professionals in the field and has learned how the program can equip her with the knowledge and skills to work in many different settings. Fonda notes the diversity of her classmates and her engaging instructor as highlights of the program. 

The Child and Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker program is setting me up for a bright future because I have the education to put with my personal life experiences of addiction. With the two paired, I hope to help change the lives of those who still suffer and help them become the person they strive to be.

In addition to being enrolled in our Child and Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker program, Fonda has amassed an impressive array of qualifications and training, showcasing her dedication to making a difference in the field of addiction and mental health. She has completed extensive training in non-violent crisis intervention, drug and alcohol awareness, opioid crisis management, and understanding methamphetamine addiction disorder. Her expertise is further bolstered by her credentials as a Substance Misuse Outreach Worker, her certification in First Aid and Narcan/Naloxone administration, and her training in SMART Recovery and Wellbriety programs. Additionally, she completed a 15-day prevention course at the Rising Sun Treatment Centre. Alongside her program at Eastern College, Fonda is enrolled in an online Addiction Care and Treatment course at the University of British Columbia and a Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Counsellor course at Mount Allison University.

Looking ahead, Fonda’s long-term career goal is nothing short of inspiring. She dreams of opening a rehabilitation facility within Woodstock First Nation, recognizing the urgent need for accessible addiction treatment in her community. With only two rehab facilities in New Brunswick covered by Medicare, she understands the importance of timely intervention and support for those battling addiction. Fonda sees herself at the forefront of change, leading efforts to provide holistic and culturally sensitive addiction treatment. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit of those who dare to dream big and defy the odds.