New Executive Director Announcement

Clarissa Arthur

Nelson House of Ottawa Carleton is dedicated to providing all persons who identify as women and their children shelter, support, and information so they can take steps toward ending violence against all women. 

After an extensive and comprehensive search, the Board of Directors of Nelson House of Ottawa Carleton is pleased to announce the appointment of Clarissa Arthur as our new Executive Director. 

Clarissa has over 20 years of experience in community social services in Ottawa, starting in front-line roles at Pinecrest Queensway Community Health Centre, The Parent Resource Centre, and Andrew Fleck Children’s Services, as well as progressively more responsible roles at the Youville Centre – Ottawa, helping young mothers build a brighter future for themselves and their children. Since 2019, Clarissa has been the Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Ottawa, working closely with local school Boards to raise and grant funds to support the needs of students in Ottawa. 

Clarissa’s passion and experience in supporting high-risk populations through a trauma-informed lens will drive necessary change through fostering strong partnerships and expanding Nelson House’s impact in our community. 

Clarissa holds her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Certificate in Infant Mental Health, and Honours Diplomas in Early Childhood Education, and Child and Youth Work. Clarissa’s combination of frontline and leadership experience, complimented by her fundraising expertise and education, have made her a passionate and grounded leader, who seeks to make a meaningful impact in the social services space in our community. 

We are very excited to welcome her to Nelson House in early July 2025.