Who We Are
About NBDHHS / SSMNB
New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services / Services aux Sourds et Malentendants du Nouveau-Brunswick Inc. (NBDHHS/SSMNB) was formed in January 2018.
2018
Year formed
75+
Years of combined experience
600+
Clients and families served
4
Offices across New Brunswick
Our Mission
The agency's goal is to enable Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deafened people to live independent, productive lives, with full access to the services and opportunities available to the hearing population.
Our Vision
To foster self-sufficiency through transitional and early intervention services, bridging the gap between the hearing and Hard of Hearing / Deaf world.
Our History
In January 2018, a new era began with the formation of NBDHHS/SSMNB through the amalgamation of Saint John Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc. (founded 1979) and South East Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc. (founded 1985).
With the ever-growing needs of the Deaf, Deafened and Hard of Hearing people of New Brunswick, it was felt that the best way to augment and standardize awareness, advocacy, programs and services within the province was to amalgamate and become one voice.
We integrated 75 years of cumulative shared experience offering support, advocacy, direct and indirect client services, interpreter services, assistive technology, employment support services, social development, community development, literacy, life skills training, Language Classes, Baby/Toddler Sign Language Classes, Parenting Programs for parents of Deaf children, and Deaf Culture Awareness.
Strategic Focus
Our strategic plan focuses on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Seniors and youth; culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals; and building a greater capacity of Deaf and Hard of Hearing professionals to deliver transitional services at all aspects of life.
What We Offer
We have offices in Saint John, Fredericton and Moncton. We offer services in both official languages as well as American Sign Language (ASL) and langue des signes Québécoise (LSQ).
- Interpreter services (ASL and LSQ)
- Assistive technology
- Employment support services
- Advocacy and outreach
- Social and community development
- Literacy and life skills training
- ASL and LSQ language classes
- Baby/Toddler Sign Language classes
- Parenting programs for parents of Deaf children
- Deaf Culture Awareness programs
- Mental health services (culturally appropriate)
Our Locations
Our Offices
NBDHHS serves Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and their families across New Brunswick from four office locations.
Governance
Board of Directors
2025–2026 Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (NBDHHS) provides leadership, governance, and strategic oversight to support the organization's mission and services across New Brunswick.
Andrew Brown
President
Irving MacDonald
Vice President
Shannon Mabey
Treasurer
Julie Audette
Secretary
Erin Oliver
ASLI-NB Liaison
Paul Bourque
Director
Rik Hall
Director
Who We Are
Meet Our Team
Dedicated professionals committed to serving the Deaf and hard of hearing community across New Brunswick.
Ginnie Black, COI
Executive Director
Ginnie serves as the Interim Executive Director of New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (NBDHHS), based in the Moncton office. With over 30 years of involvement with the organization, she brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Her journey with NBDHHS began as a sign language student, followed by roles as a volunteer, interpreter, and Interpreter Coordinator before assuming her current leadership position. Her longstanding commitment to the organization reflects her dedication to supporting accessible communication and services for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals across New Brunswick.
Leigh McNulty, MSc
Program Manager
Leigh McNulty is the Program Manager at NBDHHS, where she oversees all programs funded through contracts and ensures they run effectively. She manages contract timelines, prepares for renewals and reporting deadlines, and collects and verifies program data to support organizational planning, growth, and sustainability. Leigh's work includes gathering quarterly statistics from staff, coordinating workshops and events, writing grants, organizing office supplies, and collaborating with the bookkeeper on budget forecasts and adjustments. She holds a master's degree in Deaf Education, along with additional qualification courses in education. Originally born in Saint John and raised in Toronto, Leigh attended college in the United States, though she finds New Brunswick to be the best place to call home.
Eunice Penpillo, PCP
Bookkeeper
Eunice Penpillo is the Bookkeeper and Administrative Lead at NBDHHS, where she reports directly to the Executive Director and oversees the agency's finances and administrative operations. Originally from the Philippines, she immigrated to Canada in 2016 and has developed extensive experience in bookkeeping, payroll, and financial management. Eunice holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mass Communication, an Accounting and Payroll Diploma with Honors, and the Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation. Known for her positive attitude, warm smile, and dedication to excellence, she takes pride in supporting the agency's mission through sound financial stewardship and efficient administration.
Sarah Mackenzie
Employment Counsellor — Moncton & Human Resources
Sarah is an Employment Counsellor at New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (NBDHHS), based in the Moncton office. She is part of the team dedicated to supporting Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the community. Outside of work, Sarah enjoys roller skating, one of her favourite activities.
Jeff Martin
Employment Counsellor — Fredericton
Elaine Carbonneau
Career and Employment Facilitator (French)
Élaine has been with New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (NBDHHS) for four years, serving as an Employment and Career Facilitator for French-speaking clients across New Brunswick. She supports Francophone Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in exploring employment opportunities and navigating their career paths. As a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), Élaine grew up with Deaf parents who communicate using Langue des signes québécoise (LSQ). Her personal connection to the Deaf community has shaped her passion for accessibility, inclusion, and helping others. Being part of the community and making a positive difference in people's lives are especially meaningful to her.
Gilbert Jade "Jadd" Ahictin, MBA
Career and Employment Facilitator (English)
Gilbert Jade "Jadd" Ahictin supports Deaf and hard of hearing students as they transition from school to employment or further education. He works with students, families, and school teams to explore opportunities and plan their next steps. He also coordinates assistive technology to help clients access tools that support everyday communication and independence. With a Master in Business Management and a diploma in Administrative Professional: Executive from NBCC, Jadd brings experience in administration, education, and client support. Originally from the Philippines, he speaks English, Filipino, and Cebuano.
Tara Hebert
Community Outreach Worker — Saint John
Tara supports Deaf and hard of hearing individuals and families by helping them build confidence, develop essential life skills, and achieve greater independence. As a Community Outreach Worker in Saint John, she assists clients with accessing services such as CRA, Service Canada, Video Relay Service (VRS), literacy programs, and appointments. She also provides support with résumé preparation, counselling, mental health resources, and services for seniors. Additionally, Tara teaches American Sign Language (ASL) to families with Deaf children and newcomers, and organizes workshops and community activities that promote inclusion and connection. With training in Early Childhood Education (Years 1 and 2) and DeafBlind Certification, she is committed to ensuring clients have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Outside of work, Tara enjoys spending time with her two children and her dog, Dozer, as well as photography, reading, walking, four-wheeling, skating, and connecting with friends.
Chris-tina Montgomery
Community Outreach Worker — Fredericton
Andres Loaiza
Community Outreach Worker — Moncton