Port Cares Welcomes New Executive Director As 40th Anniversary Approaches
Port Colborne, ON - Port Cares is pleased to welcome Chandra Hardeen as its new Executive Director as the organization's 40th anniversary approaches. Hardeen, who was appointed by the Board of Directors, assumed the role on November 17, 2025 and will continue the organization's strategic direction of Embedding Excellence in celebration of 40years of serving South Niagara communities.
Hardeen brings to the role over two decades of seasoned experience in community and social services, working in both for-profit and non-profit sectors. She comes into the role from United Way Niagara, where she served as Director of Community Investment.
“Chandra’s extensive experience and success in community development, strategic planning, and leading high performing teams made her an ideal choice to lead our efforts in supporting our vision of a community where everyone has help, hope and opportunity for a better life,” said Midge Butson, Chair of the Board of Directors.
“I'm honored to join Port Cares at such a pivotal moment in the organization's history, as we approach our 40th anniversary in2026”, said Hardeen. “Port Cares has always been about meeting people where they are, and I'm excited to lead our team in deepening that commitment by ensuring we're not just serving our community, but truly empowering it.”
Under Hardeen's leadership, Port Cares will continue to pursue a strategic direction focused on embedding excellence throughout its operations, strengthening service delivery and community partnerships as it enters its fifth decade of service.
Hardeen replaces Christine Clark Lafleur who announced her retirement earlier this year, after serving for nearly 12 years. The Board extends its gratitude to Clark Lafleur for her dedicated leadership and contributions to the organization’s growth.
About Port Cares
Port Cares provides a range of community support services to residents of Port Colborne, including a food bank and meal programs, eviction prevention and crisis support, and employment and learning services. It also operates Chestnut Place – a new 41-unit affordable housing complex, as well as seven EarlyON family support centres across Niagara.
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Media Contact
Toyin Jegede
(905)834-3629 ext 278
Toyin.jegede@portcares.ca
