Family Support for Children with Disabilities Provincial Parent Advisory Committee
Gan, Caroline
Caroline Gan’s journey with FSCD began in 2014 when her child was diagnosed with autism at 22 months, followed by an epilepsy diagnosis. Navigating the challenges of raising a high-needs child, Caroline balances a full-time career while actively advocating within the autism community. She connects with families and advocacy groups, sharing her lived experiences and offering practical strategies to help others address similar challenges.
In her professional career, Caroline brings over a decade of expertise in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional project management. Her ability to analyze complex issues, apply logical thinking, identify systemic gaps, and deliver actionable solutions makes her a trusted resource for families and organizations. Known for her strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills, Caroline approaches sensitive conversations with empathy, diplomacy, and discretion, fostering collaboration and driving positive outcomes.
By combining her lived experience with her professional strengths, Caroline empowers families to navigate real-life challenges while encouraging them to find positivity, resilience, and a sense of belonging within the community. Her thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach continues to make a meaningful impact on the disability community.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Caroline was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.
Nielsen, Jessica
Jessica Nielsen holds a Travel and Tourism Diploma from SAIT Polytechnic. She is a published author residing in rural, southern Alberta with her husband and their seven children. Five of her children are impacted by disabilities giving her knowledge and understanding of experiences for varying needs and income levels of families impacted by disabilities. She is co-founder of a non-profit organization, Parent’s Survival Resource and Connection Society, which supports others across Alberta. Since 2018, she has professionally supported those impacted as a certified Healthcare Aide. As an advocate who works diligently, she believes if families can navigate the process of supports and services everyone can thrive and grow.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Jessica was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.
Swanberg, Rachel
Rachel Swanberg holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Alberta and a Bachelor of Music Therapy from Capilano University. She is a stay-at-home mom to her two young boys. She works to ensure her youngest son, who has been diagnosed with Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder, receives all of the support he requires. At Capilano University, Rachel served for two years on the Music Therapy Students’ Association as both Co-President and Vice-President. She has five years experience working as an accredited Music Therapist with children with special needs in both primary and secondary schools.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Rachel was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.
Harding, Alissa
Alissa Harding has had a diverse career in both the public and private sectors with a focus on advocacy, policy and legislative review. She has worked extensively with workers, employers and other partners to ensure employment policies are developed and applied with consideration for disability management, human rights, worker compensation and employment issues in mind. Alissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Royal Roads University and further education in OH&S, Human Resources, Administrative Justice and Disability Management. In off hours, you'll find her enjoying Fish Creek with her family.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Alissa was recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.
Delainey, Tina
Tina Delainey is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and previously held roles on their board of directors including treasurer, fundraising director and volunteer coordinator. She is also a parent to four children with disabilities and has earned a diploma in business administration and certificates in non-profit management and equity, diversity and inclusion. She is an active volunteer with St. John Ambulance as a medical first responder.
Competencies required for members of the FSCD-PPAC include knowledge of the policy affecting families of children with disabilities and the ability to build networks with communities. Members must also have teamwork skills and be the parent of a child receiving FSCD services from the Government of Alberta. Tina was directly recruited and appointed on the basis of acceptably meeting the competencies, skills and attributes as described above.