Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) proudly recognizes its long-serving staff members. At this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), CNH staff and contractors who have reached the milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of service and dedication to the neighbourhood house, were thanked by the Board of Directors.
This year, we recognize and celebrate Alison Merton, Director of the Early Years, for over 30 years of service.
“This year marks an incredible milestone for Alison Merton—30 years of dedicated service to CNH,” said Betty Lepps, executive director of CNH. “When I first met Alison over a year ago, she shared that she had been with CNH for nearly three decades, working in Early Years.”
“My immediate impression was one of deep dedication, a genuine love for early childhood education, and a strong connection to the CNH community.”
As someone whose own career began in Early Years, Betty said that those who stay in the field are often the fiercest advocates for children, families, and fellow educators.
“Alison embodies this spirit—creating spaces where children and parents can learn, thrive, and enjoy their early years together,” she said.
Alison’s journey began in September 1995, shortly after emigrating from England. Within a week of arriving, she took a casual childcare worker position at CNH—and never left. With her Early Childhood Education and Infant and Toddler Certification, Alison has built a career she’s loved for over 35 years. One of the highlights of her professional journey was a development trip to Reggio Emilia, a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in early childhood education.
Over the years, Alison has worked in every role within CNH’s childcare programs. Her connection to CNH runs deep—not only professionally, but personally, as both her children attended CNH childcare programs. Her countless memories at CNH include everything from classroom moments to driving a 26-foot U-Haul truck during COVID to pick up donated food—just one example of her willingness to go above and beyond.
Alison stayed with CNH because of its role in the community and its family-friendly approach. She often says that the people who work in a neighbourhood house are special—and she is certainly one of them. Her integrity, kindness, compassion, and unwavering advocacy for quality, affordable childcare and fair wages for Early Childhood Educators make her an invaluable part of the CNH team.
“It’s been a pleasure to work alongside Alison and learn from her,” said Betty. “She continues to be a treasured asset at CNH, and we’re hopeful for many more years of her wisdom, warmth, and leadership.”
Thank you, Alison, and many congratulations on this milestone!
