ABC Head Start Society has been a vital part of Edmonton communities for nearly 40 years. Founded in 1985 by Aleda Patterson as “Accessing for Better Care (ABC),” the program began in response to public health nurses identifying children whose social and academic development was delayed due to limited resources. Initially serving 10 families, the program aimed to bridge learning gaps for children and enhance parenting skills.

Within a year, the program expanded to serve 30 families, with an interdisciplinary team including a teacher, speech-language pathologist, and home educators. In 1987, a second site opened, and the team continued to grow. In 1991, ABC Head Start became a society with a staff of 14.

Today, ABC Head Start Society has grown to serve over 400 children and their families each year across multiple locations in the Capital Region.

Their mission is to ensure that every child, regardless of background or ability, has an equal opportunity to thrive. They serve families facing financial, social, and developmental challenges, offering a holistic approach that integrates early learning with health, nutrition, and family support services.

They work closely with families, educators, and community partners to create a nurturing and supportive environment for children. Their diverse and dedicated team is passionate about fostering growth and resilience, empowering families, and building stronger communities.

At ABC Head Start Society, they believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life, and they are committed to making that vision a reality.

ABC Head Start Society provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support programs for children aged 3–5 who may need additional developmental support.



Services focus on preparing children for kindergarten by supporting their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through play-based learning and individualized programming.

They deliver integrated services that combine:

- Early learning and classroom-based education.
- Developmental support (e.g., speech and language, individualized plans).
- Health and nutrition support.
- Family engagement and parent support programs.

MISSION – Raising families out of poverty and helping children harness their superpowers, conquer hardships, and live their best life.

VISION – All children have equal access to a full and successful life.

VALUES – Their work is grounded in the values of growth, integrity, belonging, collaboration, and empowerment. They believe in nurturing the potential of every child, family, and team member through continuous learning and development. They act with honesty and respect, creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels they belong. Through strong collaboration with colleagues, families, and community partners, they build meaningful connections and shared success. Above all, they strive to empower others-providing the tools, support, and confidence needed to overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the Manager, People & Culture,



is responsible for leading and integrating human resources and health & safety strategies to support a high-performing, inclusive, and compliant workplace. This role oversees recruitment, talent development, performance management, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and occupational health and safety programs.

The Manager, People and Culture partners with leadership to foster a culture grounded in empowerment, growth, collaboration, integrity, and belonging while ensuring compliance with all applicable legislation and organizational policies.

About the Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and values-driven People & Culture leader who is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive, and high-performing workplaces that positively impact children and families. They bring robust strategic HR leadership experience combined with a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to working with employees, families, and community partners. This individual is a confident advisor and coach who can build trust across all levels of the organization while balancing operational excellence with empathy and integrity. They thrive in dynamic environments, are highly skilled in employee relations, organizational development, health and safety, and workforce planning, and are committed to fostering a culture of belonging, empowerment, and continuous growth. The successful candidate is resilient, adaptable and motivated by meaningful work that contributes to strengthening families and helping children reach their full potential.

Primary Roles and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

- Champion the agency’s mission, vision, and values in daily operat

📌 Manager, People and Culture (Edmonton)
🏢 ABC Head Start Society
📍 Edmonton