Office Address:
77 Everglade Crescent
Upper Unit
Kitchener, ON N2E 3Y5
T: 519-504-2516
In the KWC Chapter, we have supported families whose children are transitioning back home from foster care, families experiencing addictions, mental health or medical crises, domestic violence, and other difficult and overwhelming situations. After 6 years of ministry, we have seen families stabilized and thriving after a crisis.
Chapter Director – Vanessa Ploc
Residing in Kitchener ON since 1985, this Jesus-loving, single mom of five children knows firsthand the struggles of raising a family alone amidst addiction, mental health issues and divorce. A graduate of the University of Waterloo with a background in Psychology and Early Childhood Education, Vanessa’s lifelong passion for children and families has led her from running her own vibrant home daycare while raising her own children to the exciting world of non-profits, where she was instrumental in establishing a chapter of Safe Families Canada in Kitchener Waterloo and later accepted a position as the Regional Director in January of 2018. Vanessa’s passion for family preservation, ending social isolation and connecting the local church with families who are experiencing temporary crisis’ drives her to empower volunteers and to help create circles of support around isolated families, in part though not exclusively, through family breakdown, unhealthy relationships and distance. In her spare time you can find Vanessa in her kitchen preparing meals and decorating cakes for her family and friends, curled up by the fire with her favourite blanket and book or going for long walks in the forests and trails surrounding her home with her son Jesse and their faithful Barbet Luna.
Family Placement Coordinator – Karen Saulesleja
Karen grew up in Kitchener, Ontario, in a close-knit Christian family that shaped her deep commitment to serving others. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Education with a focus on Social and Family Ministries and has been part of Safe Families since March 2023.
Over the years, Karen has gained a wide range of experience through her work with a pregnancy centre, summer camps, admissions, and other compassion-driven organizations. Having navigated her own mental health challenges, she brings a unique ability to connect with people on a deeper level, offering both empathy and understanding.
Karen’s faith in Jesus is at the heart of everything she does, and she’s passionate about giving back to the community where she grew up. As Family Placement Coordinator, she is dedicated to helping others and living out her values in practical ways.
When she’s not working, Karen loves spending time outdoors hiking, curling up with a good book, or watching lacrosse and hockey. She finds joy in the simple things and is grateful for opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others.
Family Coach Supervisor – Caley Sprietzer
Caley Spreitzer is the Family Coach Supervisor for Safe Families Kitchener-Waterloo Cambridge, where she recruits and trains a dedicated team of volunteers who support families in crisis. With over 15 years of experience working in the community and public school system, Caley brings a deep understanding of the challenges families face and a passion for helping them navigate difficult situations. Her expertise in family dynamics and a strong background in educational support has allowed her to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and parents alike. In her current role, she oversees the delivery of family coaching services, ensuring that families receive the care, resources, and guidance they need to thrive.
In addition to her professional experience, Caley and her husband are proud adoptive parents of three children from the foster care system. This personal experience has further shaped her understanding of the unique needs of families in transition and reinforced her commitment to advocating for vulnerable children and families. Caley finds joy in helping her own children, and the families she serves connect, discover and grow in their spiritual relationship with Jesus.
Caley is dedicated to fostering safe, supportive environments for all, both in her professional capacity and as a compassionate member of the community.
Kitchener Waterloo-Cambridge Leadership Council
Candace Kikkert -Chair
Katherine Sweet – Secretary
Kyla Shaw – Social Media
Jessica Kauenhofen
We are looking to fill three to four roles on our Leadership Council. If you are interested you can apply here: MyImpactPage – Leadership Council (betterimpact.com)