FIREFLY is a multi-service, non-profit organization providing a wide range of services for children, youth, and families in communities across Northwestern Ontario. We are dedicated to supporting and strengthening the health and well-being of families, children, and youth through emotional, physical, developmental, and community services.

Meghan Philips / ASD Support Worker

Meghan is the Autism Support Worker at FIREFLY. She is an Autism Parent. Meghan has completed the Autism and Behavioural Sciences Certificate Program with honours, has received her Developmental Services Worker Diploma, and has completed a Liberal Arts and Sciences Certificate. She provides autism events and activities throughout the region, runs Ontario Autism Program (OAP ) Information sessions, and offers community-based information sessions on autism. Meghan also assists autism families with completing pre-screening for the ASD Diagnostic Hub, with completing funding applications and assisting families with referrals to appropriate programs. Meghan also runs a Virtual ASD parent support group, as well as a virtual ASD Youth Group. Meghan is passionate about autism acceptance and bringing services and supports to the autism community.

Jennifer Parnell / ASD Support Worker

Jenn is the ASD & Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Support Worker at FIREFLY. Jenn is bilingual in French and English, and she has a background working in Childcare and in Education with neurodivergent children. She has completed her Registered Behaviour Technician Certification and is working towards completion of her Bachelor of Arts Degree.

Though Jenn splits her time between two programs, she has jumped in to support Meghan in providing Autism Events and Activities throughout the Northwestern Ontario Region. She works with Autism and FASD families completing funding applications, finding appropriate programming and resources within their community, and making referrals as needed. Jenn participates in the virtual ASD Parent Support Group, the Virtual ASD Youth Group, and the Virtual FASD Youth Group.

Jenn is passionate about helping families feel supported and making sure they are aware of all the beautiful opportunities for their child on their Autism and FASD journey.