From Vision to Community: At-Home in Nova Scotia
- Meg Sauvé
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
When Désirée Juzdan Ghosn was tasked with launching the HIPPY program in French in Nova Scotia, it marked a meaningful turning point in her professional journey.
With a background in launching and managing projects within multinational organizations, this role introduced a new dimension: community work. It shifted her focus from systems and structures to people – families, children, and the transformative power of early learning and support.
Laying the Groundwork for Growth
As an At-Home Coordinator, Désirée led the implementation of the HIPPY program for Immigration Francophone Nouvelle-Écosse (IFNÉ), in close collaboration with Mothers Matter Canada, whose guidance, expertise, and encouragement were essential in building a strong foundation.
This collaboration helped transform an ambitious vision into a thriving, community-rooted program, reinforcing the importance of partnership in community work and demonstrating how shared knowledge and mutual support can strengthen programs from the outset.
Désirée gained valuable experience in preparing funding applications and long-term program development. Each step in the process contributed not only to the success of HIPPY, but also to her growth as a leader within the community sector.
More importantly, it demonstrated how strong community partnerships can mobilize resources and amplify impact for families.
Navigating the Realities of Community Work
Like many community initiatives, the early days of the program came with moments of uncertainty. One of the most significant challenges occurred when the program’s home visitor went on sick leave just as a new program year was beginning.
That’s when Désirée stepped in to coordinate schedules, maintain communication with families, and ensure that activities continued without disruption – all while upholding the quality and values at the heart of the program.
With the guidance and support of Mothers Matter Canada, and Director of Francophone Programs, Monique Best, she was able to navigate these challenges with confidence, making thoughtful decisions that kept families supported.
In May 2025, these efforts culminated in a proud moment when Désirée presented the HIPPY program at the Provincial Members’ Council in Halifax. Sharing how the program aligns with UNESCO’s education continuum, she introduced HIPPY to Francophone and Acadian community members across Nova Scotia.
Thriving Families, One Mother at a Time
The impact of HIPPY in French in Nova Scotia has been both meaningful and measurable. Recruitment targets were exceeded in the program’s very first year, a significant achievement within a Francophone minority context. The program continues to grow through ongoing promotion, trust-building, and community engagement.
Since its launch in 2023, more than 29 families have been supported by Désirée and her team at IFNÉ, strengthening early learning at home and creating space for mothers to feel supported, confident, and connected.
Since 2000, Mothers Matter Canada has played a key role in supporting program-delivery partners across the country. Today, we work alongside 53 organizations nationwide, empowering local coordinators, like Désirée, to deliver family-centred At-Home programs that create meaningful, lasting impact in their communities – one mother, and one family, at a time.
Comments