Siloam Mission Employees Urge CEO’s Removal After Just One Week
Employees at Siloam Mission are calling for the removal of CEO Sonia Prevost-Derbecker after just one week in her role. Concerned staff members also demand the resignation of board chair Tracey Silagy and an independent review of the organization’s leadership.
Concerns Over Leadership
Prevost-Derbecker was formally appointed on February 20. Since her hiring, employees allege she has made derogatory comments about Indigenous people and individuals struggling with substance use. They claim her remarks are inconsistent with Siloam’s mission to support vulnerable community members.
- Allegations include using terms like “walking zombies” to describe people with substance use issues.
- Employees express concerns about her negative characterization of the neighborhood surrounding Siloam Mission.
In an email to the board of directors, staff emphasized their position on the need for governance changes. They stated, “Without these steps, confidence cannot be restored.” Additionally, staff expressed apprehension that partnerships with crucial sector partners, including various levels of government, may be jeopardized under the current leadership.
Past Leadership Issues
This situation is not new for Siloam Mission. Prevost-Derbecker is the third CEO since 2021, following the resignation of Jim Bell, who left amid concerns regarding the organization’s responsiveness to the spiritual needs of Indigenous clients. Julianne Aitken served as interim CEO before Prevost-Derbecker’s appointment.
Hiring Process Under Scrutiny
Staff have criticized the recruitment process, claiming it was flawed from the start. They allege that their input was consistently ignored despite repeated requests to contribute to the hiring profile. An external firm, Waterford Global, was involved in the search.
- Over 1,100 applicants were considered in a nationwide search.
- Employees wanted a leader experienced in addressing homelessness in Winnipeg.
The board, however, defends the decision, stating that they relied on thorough input from the executive team during the selection process. They maintain full confidence in Prevost-Derbecker’s leadership and believe her inquiries regarding financial controls demonstrate responsible governance.
Next Steps
As Siloam Mission grapples with these challenges, staff maintain that their intentions are focused on protecting the organization’s future. The call for accountability includes a demand for swift action from the board. The outcome remains to be seen as the internal conflict unfolds, impacting the shelter’s operational stability.
