Deanna Simard

Deanna Simard is a name synonymous with dedication, community spirit, and resilience in Fort McMurray and the surrounding region. As the Manager of Community Services for the Fort McKay Métis Nation, Deanna has made a significant impact on the lives of many.

Her career and volunteer efforts reflect her deep commitment to supporting others and fostering a culture of connection and growth within her community. With a heart that has always been anchored in Fort McMurray—her hometown—Deanna is living proof of the power of giving back and leading with purpose.

Born and raised in Fort McMurray, Deanna’s roots in the region run deep. She is not just a part of the community; she is a product of it. Growing up, Deanna was influenced by the values of hard work and community involvement, which were instilled in her by her parents. Her father, a constant figure of support and leadership, coached her sports teams during her childhood. These experiences, coupled with the many positive role models she encountered, shaped her desire to give back to the community that had shaped her.

Deanna’s commitment to community service began with volunteering and managing local sports teams, particularly through the Fort McMurray Minor Hockey and the Wood Buffalo Native Youth Hockey Club. Her active involvement in these organizations, coupled with her initiatives like the Food Bank Christmas Food Drive, allowed Deanna to connect with the next generation and foster a spirit of collaboration.

Now, as the Manager of Community Services for the Fort McKay Métis Nation, Deanna has a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on a broader scale. Her role involves planning and executing events that bring the community together, while also ensuring that community members have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Deanna’s work is deeply tied to her passion for helping others. “Helping the members of the community and watching all their successes is the best part,” she says. “Planning and participating in events, spending time with the members, and learning more about Indigenous culture are all incredibly rewarding.”

What makes Deanna’s work even more impactful is her ability to collaborate with a strong, like-minded team. Together, they create innovative programs and events that continue to enrich the lives of community members, fostering unity and cultural pride.

Family is at the heart of everything Deanna does. A proud mother of three boys, Deanna’s experiences as a young teen mom have shaped her approach to life, leadership, and community service. Her journey as a parent has been a source of pride and inspiration. “My greatest joy in life has been raising my three boys, who are now young men that I am extremely proud of,” she says. “I wanted them to understand that hard work, dedication, and community involvement matter.”

Her sons’ involvement in sports, especially hockey, inspired Deanna to become a steadfast supporter of youth sports in the region. She believes strongly in the value of teamwork and community engagement and has worked tirelessly to ensure that the next generation of leaders has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.

Deanna’s deep understanding of community needs also gives her a clear-eyed perspective on the challenges facing Fort McMurray today. One of the most pressing concerns she sees is the ongoing struggle for non-profit organizations to secure consistent funding and support. “I’ve seen some amazing non-profits close their doors due to lack of funding and volunteers,” she says. “Encouraging people to help wherever they can is critical.” Deanna believes that by fostering a culture of volunteerism and creating more sustainable funding models, the community can overcome these obstacles and continue to thrive.

Looking to the future, Deanna is focused on personal growth and expanding her horizons. She plans to take courses, volunteer with another non-profit board, and explore new opportunities for learning. She also hopes to travel more with her family, experience different cultures, and broaden her understanding of the world.

For Deanna, the journey is far from over. She continues to inspire others with her vision for a more connected, supportive, and vibrant Fort McMurray. Whether she’s coordinating an event for the Fort McKay Métis Nation, managing a youth hockey team, or spending time with her family, Deanna Simard embodies the values of service, dedication, and community spirit that are the foundation of this region.

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