Shawn Bayes’ career in the social services and justice fields spans more than 30 years, virtually all of which has been served at EFry. Since becoming executive director in 1997, she has led the organization in creating initiatives that address the issues leading to justice system involvement, including several which have become national standards of practice in Canada.
Shawn is a firm believer in the value of supporting and empowering women and youth to build brighter futures. Under her stewardship, the hallmark of EFry’s programs and services is that they address not only clients’ immediate needs but also help set them up for long term success. In 2000, Shawn was one of Canada’s non-profit leaders chosen to participate in McGill University’s Masters of Management program, during which she noted a strong correlation between parental incarceration and justice system involvement. This led to the creation of JustKids, Canada’s only dedicated initiative that brings together research and programming designed to help break this legacy. Shawn is a recognized national expert in this area, which has become a key focus for EFry. Shawn is also a strong believer in the role social enterprise can play in the reduction of recidivism for women and spearheaded the creation of EFry’s successful Asphalt Gals business.
In addition to the Masters from McGill, Shawn holds a B.A from SFU and is the recipient of numerous awards for her work, including a YWCA’s Women of Distinction award.