Connect ~ Flourish ~ Thrive

Lower Similkameen Community Services Society

2026-2027 Board of Directors

Are you interested in learning about what is involved in being an LSCSS Board Member?

The Board Development Committee is a year-round resource dedicated to identifying, recruiting, and supporting prospective and current board members. Anyone interested in learning more about becoming an LSCSS board member or understanding board expectations is welcome to reach out at any time.

The committee can connected interested parties with current and former board members to understand the scope of expectations and arrange for vetted individuals to attend a meeting of the board or information session.

  • LSCSS seeks Directors with diverse backgrounds to contribute to the advancement of the Society through foresight, oversight and insight
  • Director terms are 2-years from July to June
  • The Board Development Committee recruits, screens and recommends candidates for a slate presented at the AGM each June
  • Here is a summary of what can be expected of a board member – Summary of Directors Activities Time 2024

Contact the Board Development Committee – BoardDevelopment@LSCSS.com

Selena Despres

Chair

Selena is a Regulated Pharmacy Technician and co-owner of Similkameen Pharmacy. She brings a strong focus on community health, having led a popular walking program and contributed to local recreation initiatives. Passionate about preventative health and sustainability, Selena is committed to addressing service gaps and promoting wellness in the Similkameen Valley.

Nicole Thomm

Vice-Chair

Nicole is an experienced accounting professional with over two decades of expertise in payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and financial administration across First Nations and community-based organizations. She brings strong analytical skills, advanced Excel knowledge, and a collaborative, solutions-focused approach to budgeting, tenant relations, and financial operations.

Timothy Guthrie

Treasurer

Tim is the current Treasurer of LSCSS and a retired Executive Director of Cedar Crest Society for Community Living. With nearly three decades of leadership in non-profit housing and disability services, he brings deep operational and financial expertise. He recently returned to Keremeos and is committed to supporting LSCSS’s continued growth and staff recognition.

Earl Strong

Director

Earl is a retired Shell Canada executive with 28 years of service in logistics, safety, and distribution management across Western Canada. He served on the Canadian Association of Fleet Supervisors board for eight years, including two as president. Earl brings practical leadership and a team-oriented approach.

Michael Lucich

SECRETARY

Mike is a lifelong Cawston resident and a primary school teacher with 27 years of experience. He has led numerous school and literacy initiatives and has seen firsthand the impact of LSCSS programs on local families. Mike brings a strong voice for children, education, and rural community needs.

Shannon Ritchie

Director

Shannon is a dedicated and highly organized professional with over 14 years of hands-on administrative and financial experience, supporting operations in small business, transportation, and industrial sectors. She brings strong empathy, resilience, and a deep commitment to community well-being, shaped by both her professional background and personal experience supporting individuals and families through complex life challenges.

Lawrence Hunter

Director

Lauren is a retired forestry and pulp mill professional with over 30 years of experience. He has served on the LSCSS Board for two years and is a volunteer firefighter in Keremeos. Lauren is also active in local recreation, including golf and bowling, and brings strong community ties and leadership.

Colin Atkinson

Director

A retired Structural Project Manager, Colin brings decades of leadership experience from serving on boards such as BC Athletes and the Vancouver International Marathon Society. He is known for his fairness, collaboration, and commitment to inclusive community development.

Tania Van de Vosse

Director

Tania has over two decades of experience in healthcare operations, medical equipment, and community outreach. She served as Operations Manager for Dyck’s Pharmacists in Kelowna, overseeing five locations and managing home health services, staffing, inventory, and public relations. Her background includes certified medical fitting, wound care, and equipment assessments across BC and Alberta. Since moving to Keremeos in 2019, she has been an active LSCSS board member, contributing to finance, staff wellness, and fundraising. Tania is committed to inclusive aging, cultural competency, and rural health equity.

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