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Give to Gain: Why Investing in Women Benefits Everyone
This International Women’s Day, we will highlight five women whose leadership, care, and commitment have made a meaningful impact in our rural Near North Ontario community. Through their stories, we will show how giving time, skills, and heart strengthens not only individuals — but the entire community.
Strengthening Community Through Leadership
Vicki Roeder-Martin
Deputy Mayor, Township of McMurrich/Monteith
ACED Board Member
Owner, Claymar Electric
Minister, Sprucedale United Church
Vicki is a longtime leader in Almaguin who wears many hats — from municipal leadership and business ownership to community ministry. She dedicates herself to fostering connections and collaboration across the region, helping neighbors, businesses, and organizations work together to strengthen the community.
“For me, investing in community begins with people,” Vicki says. “I believe there is tremendous potential to build vibrant, thriving communities if we are willing to invest the time and energy to truly get to know one another and to empower people to share their passions, skills, and experiences.”
She sees what many overlook: rural communities are filled with talent, creativity, and lived experience. “Every person I meet has something unique to offer,” she explains. “Small communities throughout Almaguin have far more resources and creative capacity than they realize.”
Through her work across business, faith, and community initiatives, Vicki focuses on strengthening relationships and encouraging collaboration. She believes progress starts with listening, trust, and a willingness to work together.
“In a time when it feels easier to retreat into like-minded groups, choosing connection takes intention,” she says. “We must actively look for ways to build trust and create the kinds of communities we genuinely want to live in.”
The work requires patience. It requires optimism. And it requires people who care deeply about where they live.
“Our futures are interconnected, and meaningful progress depends on our ability to work together.”
By investing her time and energy into bringing people together, Vicki helps nurture a stronger, more united Almaguin — one relationship at a time.
Creating Space for Healing and Growth
Carmen Theobald
Founder & Director, Horse Sense North
Carmen is the founder of Horse Sense North, a unique organization that combines equine-assisted therapy with leadership and trauma recovery programs. She helps first responders, leaders, and individuals carrying trauma find healing through horses and the land, creating space for growth and resilience.
“Nearly 11 years ago, I came to Almaguin with a vision to create Horse Sense North — a place where first responders, leaders, and people carrying the weight of trauma could find healing through horses and the land. That vision was only possible here. This land, with its quiet seasons and wide-open space, has become a true partner in the healing work we do. It holds people in ways I never could alone,” Carmen shares.
“We offer the community a place where healing happens. Through our Above & Beyond trauma recovery program, leadership training, and equine-facilitated therapy, we create space for people to remember who they are beneath what they've carried. And while we're still building deeper connections with our immediate neighbours, the relationships we do have matter deeply. Our local neighbours nourish the people we serve, with honey, maple syrup, vegetables, and meat from their farms. There's something profoundly beautiful about that reciprocity: the land and the people of this place contributing to the healing of those who've spent their lives serving others.”
She continues, “The vision of what we're building is not just for people who come from across Ontario, but for this community too. We're passionate about serving those who serve others, and we're beginning to explore how we can better support our local first responder community. There's so much possibility ahead, and I can't imagine doing this work anywhere else.”
Programs like hers create ripple effects. When one person finds healing and confidence, it strengthens families and neighbors, and it inspires resilience across the community. Investing in emotional wellness and leadership development benefits everyone.
Holding Space, Creating Change
Deborah Worrell & Jessica Busch
Women’s Own Resource Centre
Deborah and Jessica work at the Women’s Own Resource Centre, a cornerstone for women’s support in Almaguin. They provide programs, advocacy, and safe spaces for women navigating challenges, helping families and communities grow stronger through care and connection.
For over two decades, Jessica and Deborah have helped ensure that women in Almaguin never have to face hardship alone.
“At the Women’s Own Resource Centre, what I give to my community may not always be loud or visible, but it is intentional and heartfelt,” Deborah shares. “I give my time, my presence, and my commitment to creating a safe, welcoming space for women to feel supported and heard.”
Whether coordinating programs or offering a steady presence during difficult moments, she focuses on empathy, care, and small acts that matter deeply.
In return, she says, she has gained “perspective, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the strength of women.” She has witnessed how community is built in quiet moments — shared stories, steady support, and standing beside someone as they rebuild.
Jessica, who grew up in the Almaguin Highlands, has dedicated twenty years to advocacy, outreach, and crisis support.
“This community has shown me what strength, resilience, compassion and collective support truly looks like,” she says. “It continually reminds me of the power of community and the impact we can make when we show up for each other.”
Through her work, she has gained something immeasurable. “I’ve learned the strength that comes from women supporting one another, and I’ve witnessed resilience in its truest form.”
Together, Deborah and Jessica embody a powerful truth: leadership does not always mean standing at the front. Sometimes it means working behind the scenes so others have what they need to shine.
When women are supported through crisis, healing, and transition, entire families grow stronger.
Building Strength in Every Season
Dulcie Pascoe
Fitness & Personal Training Coach
Dulcie is a personal trainer and coach who helps women in midlife and beyond feel strong, confident, and supported in their bodies. Her gym in Almaguin is a welcoming space for all levels of fitness, offering encouragement, connection, and growth.
“When I coach, I give my time, energy, and heart to helping people feel strong — especially women in midlife and beyond,” she says. “I’ve worked to create a welcoming space where people feel capable, supported, and confident in their bodies.”
Strength, in her space, is not intimidating. It’s empowering.
What she has gained in return has shaped her just as deeply.
“I’ve never felt more grounded or at home,” she reflects. “Through sport, health, and wellness, I found connection, friendship, and a true sense of belonging. This community didn’t just support my business — it welcomed me into their lives.”
What keeps her motivated? The small wins.
“Seeing someone get stronger, braver, or healthier than they thought possible. Those small wins change everything.”
Almaguin has taught her that strength is more than physical. “It’s resilience, kindness, and showing up for each other.”
When individuals feel strong, they carry that confidence into their families, workplaces, and communities. The impact multiplies.
Join the Celebration
This International Women’s Day, we invite you to reflect:
Who has given to this community — and helped it grow stronger in return?
Because when we recognize the women who invest in Almaguin, we nurture the relationships, resilience, and spirit that keep our communities thriving.
Happy International Women’s Day 2026.