About ALSO
Alternative Learning Styles and Outlooks (ALSO) has been serving Ottawa adults and families since 1981. We pride ourselves on being a small program doing great things. We offer support to adults who feel they may not fit into more mainstream programs. We are able to offer a flexible, person centered approach to learning and skill development. As a small organization, we are nimble, responding to community needs as they arise. ALSO is about moving forward, making changes and building community.
In addition to the contribution of our staff team, ALSO is guided by a passionate volunteer Board of Directors. ALSO is supported by a number of skilled volunteers across program areas. We are thankful to have the shared energy and expertise of all of these wonderful people.
Executive Director
Kim Oastler
Kim has been the Executive Director of ALSO since 2010. She has the privilege of providing leadership and guidance to the ALSO staff team and Board of Directors. Kim has worked in the social service sector for over 30 years. She has a B.A. Honours in Psychology and an M. ED in Teaching and Learning from the University of Ottawa. Kim has lived in Ottawa most of her life. She has 6 children (all grown up now!) who also live in Ottawa. Kim is a serial optimist with a passion for learning. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, meditation, gardening, trail walks with her dog, Sunny and spending time with her family. Email Kim.
Board of Directors
ALSO is fortunate to have a small group of committed, talented people guiding the work we do. Our volunteer Board of Directors follow a policy-based approach to governance, focusing its attention on broad issues rather than on day-to-day operations. In addition to fulfilling an advisory role, Board Members also volunteer their time to provide ALSO with skills-based expertise on an as-needed basis. These ALSO Champions all give generously of their time and expertise and we are grateful for each of their contributions.
Laura Hillier, President
Laura holds a BSc in Biology, an MSc in Epidemiology and the Canadian Evaluation Society’s Credentialed Evaluator (CE) designation. She is currently the Director of Population and Public Health, Evidence and Evaluation with the Yukon Government. Laura has a keen interest in research, evaluation, and performance measurement methodologies and is committed to the principles of evidence informed practice. She is also an equity, diversity, inclusion champion and joined the ALSO board given its focus on literacy, math, and life skills for otherwise underserved populations.
Robert Mawoko, Treasurer
Robert is an accounting professional who currently works as a Financial Services Representative at The Liberal Party of Canada. He recently completed his Accounting studies in Australia before working for a few years as an SAP FICO Consultant. He recently completed his Chartered Professional Accounting studies and is looking to establish an Accounting firm in the near future. Robert joins the ALSO team because of his desire to help people with disabilities, which is something he has had from an early age. ALSO will benefit from his vast accounting knowledge in providing guidance on strategy and financial issues.
Lynn Asselin, Member at Large
Lynn began volunteering for ALSO fundraising events in 2007 and became a board member in 2013. Lynn became interested in literacy when, as a high school student in her hometown of Sudbury, she volunteered with a literacy centre for Francophone adults. For over twenty years, Lynn has been a public servant with the Government of Canada where she has worked on policies related to radio broadcasting, accessibility issues, Indigenous reconciliation and Official Languages Minority Communities. Lynn graduated from Carleton University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Film Studies.
J.C., Member at Large
J. C. brings a diverse background across multiple fields, with experience in finance and information technology. They hold an Honours Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education, reflecting a strong commitment to learning.
After more than a decade in the financial sector, J. C. transitioned to the public sector and now works in information technology, contributing to work related to artificial intelligence.
J. C. is passionate about reducing barriers to literacy and supporting diverse learners, with a particular interest in adult education. They were drawn to ALSO’s focus on individualized learning and supporting people who may not thrive in traditional learning environments.
A curious and lifelong learner, J. C. is also deeply community-minded and has been involved in volunteering and fundraising initiatives over the years.
In their spare time, they enjoy learning languages, playing board games, reading, swimming, and spending time with their cat.
Adrienne Himes, Member at Large
Adrienne is a seasoned communications professional with over 15 years of experience in health communications. She has led national public health campaigns and managed communications teams dedicated to providing Canadians with the health information they need. Adrienne holds both a Bachelor of Journalism and a Master of Arts in Communication from Carleton University.
Recently, she completed an Adult Education Teaching Certificate, reflecting her passion for lifelong learning and adult education—an asset she brings to her role on the ALSO Board of Directors. In addition to her professional achievements, Adrienne is a published children's book author. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her young family, reading, and playing pickleball.
Jasmeet Kaur Batra, Member at Large
Jasmeet Kaur Batra (she/her) is a Market Insights Analyst at Invest Ottawa, where she uses data-driven insights to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth across Ottawa’s business community. She holds a Master’s in Applied Business Analytics from Carleton University and is passionate about harnessing data, AI, and technology to drive positive social change.
Inspired by her experiences supporting students with disabilities, Jasmeet is deeply committed to advancing accessibility and inclusion through education and community engagement. As a member of ALSO’s Board of Directors, she brings analytical expertise, curiosity, and empathy to help strengthen programs that promote literacy, lifelong learning, and equitable opportunities for all.
Echo, Member at Large
Echo is a graduate of Carleton’s Aerospace Engineering program and a self-taught artist. Their unique blend of interests in STEM and the humanities informs their style. Echo has a passion for social justice and has a background in grassroots fundraising. Beginning in 2020 during the COVID lockdowns, they founded and managed several art projects, leading teams of contributing artists and writers to create anthologies for charitable causes such as Elimin8Hate and the Canadian Children’s Literacy Foundation. Echo is currently in the process of pursuing their Master’s degree at Carleton’s School of Industrial Design.
