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. These percentages are even lower in Sarnia-Lambton where currently there are few women elected to public office.  The Jean Collective 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. “I was inspired by Jean who was my mentor and support during throughout my own political career and I wanted to honor her memory by providing a way for other women to experience the same support”. The Jean Collective thanks the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce for support of the initiative. 

The Jean Collective also thanks the Sarnia Community Foundation for their support of the “Jean McDougall Fund for Women in Politics”. Individuals can choose to donate to the fund, in addition to becoming involved in The Jean Collective.  You can donate by emailing Marc Guilbeault (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.