The Jean Collective is an initiative developed by women for women. Comprised of local women who bring their own unique skills and experience to the Collective, their goal is to provide a vehicle for local women to learn, advocate for change and to achieve their political aspirations in Sarnia-Lambton.    

In Canada women make-up 50.38% of the population but hold only 18% of mayoral positions and 28% of councillor seats. As of August 2022, these percentages are even lower in Sarnia-Lambton where currently there are few women elected to public office.  The Jean Collective, a Woman in Politics Initiative, was created by Helen Cole, 2019 winner of a Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce, Outstanding Business of the Year Award (OBAA). Helen was motivated to launch this initiative, when it became apparent that there was a lack of gender parity in local municipal government in Lambton County and through out Canada.  The collective is based on her experience as an elected official with the City of St. Thomas as well as the support she received from Jean Macdougall, her mentor and namesake of the initiative. “Jean was my mentor and my support during throughout my political career. I wanted to honor her memory by providing a way for other women to experience the same support”.  Thanks go to the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce for their support and the Sarnia Community Foundation for hosting our “Jean Macdougall Fund for Women in Politics”. Individuals can choose to donate to the fund, in addition to becoming involved in The Jean Collective, a Woman in Politics Initiative .  You can donate by emailing the Sarnia Community Foundation (ed@sarniacommunityfoundation.ca) or by going to the Sarnia Community Foundation Canada Helps site at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/sarnia-community-foundation/ and use the drop down box to choose the Jean McDougall Fund for Women in Politics. ALL Donations receive a tax receipt from the Foundation/ Canada Helps.