OUR STORY...
FROM SEED TO FULL BLOOM
The Bloom partnership began in 2021 at The Bonnyville Youth Club, where Sasha Johnston and Katie Mcleod operated an after-school and summer camp program. The duo discovered a shared passion for teaching social-emotional skills and were quick to identify a gap in the way people viewed behaviours and wellness in children. Shortly thereafter, Bloom was born, with an acute focus on providing intentional education in social-emotional competencies, enabling children to practice these essential skills throughout their lives. The manifestation of Johnston and Mcleod's own personal experiences, challenges and triumphs, Bloom is a place where children and families can thrive. Both certified Level II Childhood educators, Johnston's educational background has been focused on Social Work, whereas Mcleod's specialty lies in Rehabilitation & Disability Studies. Their partnership has created a powerful synergy, making Bloom a unique space where struggles are met without judgement; meaningful relationships are built; and kind, resilient, confident kids emerge to take on the world.
Our Philosophy
“When a flower doesn't bloom you fix the environment
in which it grows, not the flower”
Alexander Den Heijer
Our Vision
To create a resilient community where everyone can reach their full potential in all the places they live, learn, and play!
Our Mission
To forge a new path in our community where social and emotional learning is prioritized for our children and all of the people that care for them.
WHAT MAKES OUR GARDEN GROW?
Meet The Team
My Why​​
Growing up, I did not know that emotional regulation and other social-emotional competencies were skills that could be learned and taught. There is always a reason behind behaviors and dysregulation. And finding the solution should be approached with kindness, compassion, and of course fun! My passion lies in intentional programming, emotional regulation education, and creating impactful relationships through mutual respect.
My Why​
Growing up in a foster home, there was always one constant amidst the chaos—the resilience I witnessed in every child my family cared for. Through these experiences, I learned that success with children does not hinge solely on managing their behaviors, trauma, or diagnoses but also on the support they receive from their environment and the people within it. My passion lies in reframing how we view behaviors and advocating for systemic change to reduce barriers in our community. By focusing on building social-emotional competencies and emotional regulation skills, I strive to create a community where children and their caregivers can thrive—not just survive.
Deandra Santos
Counselling Therapist
CYCC, AC, CIAC
My Why​
Growing up in rural Alberta, I was affected by a lack of mental health resources. Watching friends and family struggle with a similar experience was heartbreaking. Suffering in silence is not the answer. This is what drove my education path, and passion for providing barrier free resources to a small community. After I graduated, I met my Fiance, and not long after that we moved to Bonnyville. I fell in love with not only the town and the scenery, but the people in the community. I am excited to team up with Katie and Sasha to provide counselling services to the children and youth in the Lakeland area!