Melisa Hillier is the Peer Support & Outreach Worker at LWSWC, she provides compassionate support to women and gender-diverse individuals who have experienced or are experiencing gender-based violence (GBV). She facilitates workshops and community discussions on topics including healthy relationships, gender-based violence, self-care, empowerment, and safety, while connecting individuals with resources and advocating for their needs. She is passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where people feel heard, supported, and empowered.

With a passion for advocacy, feminism, and equality, Melissa is dedicated to empowering youth, supporting at risk women and gender diverse individuals, as well as promoting health and wellness for her peers.

Prior to joining LWSWC, Melissa was an ECE at the Labrador West Child Care Center, and worked for a cleaning company in Tacora. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience because of her own personal journey with GBV and is committed to providing emotional, social, and trauma informed support, and reducing the stigma around GBV.

Outside of work, she spends a lot of time with her family, including her husband and grown children. She helps her grandma with her day-to-day tasks, and loves to go to her cabin. In the summer Melissa enjoys the serenity of being out in boat on the lake fishing, and in the winter, she loves to go out for snowmobile rides. Melissa is excited to continue advancing the mission of LWSWC and contribute to its vision of creating safe, inclusive spaces to access support, build community, and seek equality.

Learn more about Melissa’s peer support work at LWSWC!