Coast Funds is pleased to welcome two new staff members: Melissa Sevigny, Executive Assistant, and Stephanie Butler, Communications Manager, who joined the team in recent months. With the addition of Melissa and Stephanie’s skills and capacity, Coast Funds remains well positioned to continue providing valued program and funding supports to First Nations in the Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii.

“As Coast Funds evolves, we’re building the capacity we need to deliver the services First Nations have requested,” says Brodie Guy, Coast Funds CEO. “This is a time of transformation and change for Coast Funds. I’m pleased to have Melissa and Stephanie joining a strong team that’s committed to building sustainable, self-determined financing for Indigenous-led stewardship and economic development.”

Melissa Sevigny, Executive Assistant

Melissa works closely with the CEO and is a key resource supporting First Nations, as well as Coast Funds’ board of directors, Members, and staff team. Melissa leads on overall administration, providing support for governance, communications, and operations.

“I’ve seen firsthand how investments in businesses and training strengthen communities and boost family incomes,” says Melissa. “I’m excited to join the team at Coast Funds and to support a close-knit team that works to empower First Nations through investments in stewardship and economic development.”

Before joining the Coast Funds team, Melissa supported human resources and programs at the Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society. She brings more than 12 years of experience in administration and office coordination.

Melissa is from Canoe Lake Cree Nation on her mother’s side of the family and carries French and English ancestry on her father’s side. Outside of work, Melissa practices Reiki and yoga, and is a professional photographer.

Stephanie Butler, Communications Manager

Stephanie works with First Nations and their partners to share uplifting stories and support fundraising that helps Nations achieve their visions for stewardship and economic development. In her role, she will continue to build on relationships with media and external partners to support Coast Funds’ work with First Nations on continuous learning and knowledge sharing.

“Indigenous peoples in the Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii have rich cultural traditions and deep connections to lands, waters, and life in their territories,” says Stephanie. “I’m honoured to have the opportunity to serve coastal First Nations and help share their stories in a good way.”

Before joining the team, Stephanie led communications at the Real Estate Foundation of BC and managed branding, content strategy, and site visits for the Healthy Watersheds Initiative, a program to support economic recovery through investments in watershed restoration. Over the last 10 years, she has worked with teams in the philanthropic, housing, and higher education sectors, helping to connect with audiences and share stories about people and projects that matter.