
MEET THE TEAM

Christa Akerman
Director of Finance
Christa Akerman has over 15 years of experience in operations and finance management. As a member of the Partners for Care team, Christa works to support the strategic vision of the organization by ensuring that financial and operation oversight is at the forefront.​
A former business owner, Christa’s decade of entrepreneurial experience includes relationship building, leadership management, and strategic development.​
When she’s not working, Christa loves camping season and spending time at the lake with her friends and family.

Kim Hirtle
Executive Assistant
Kim Hirtle is the Executive Assistant to the CEO of Partners for Care. Working closely with Jane, she provides daily support with communication, scheduling, board meeting coordination, and assisting the team with special projects & programs as needed.
In her free time, Kim enjoys volunteering, traveling, arts & crafts, and spending time with her husband, Ron, and pomeranian, Hami.

Aundrea Madden-Cocco
Senior Accountant
With a wealth of experience primarily in the private sector, Aundrea brings a diverse background to her finance role. Aundrea is deeply passionate about helping others and giving back to her community, guided by a philosophy of leading with kindness.
Outside of work, Aundrea finds peace and inspiration in nature. Whether relaxing by the ocean with a good book or exploring hiking trails, she treasures time spent outdoors. An avid crocheter, Aundrea is always looking for new ways to express her creativity.
Above all, spending quality time with her friends and family is a top priority, and she cherishes every moment in her beloved "Home of Her Heart," Cape Breton.

Amanda Hatt
Chief Program Officer
Amanda Hatt is a strategic leader with 19 years of extensive experience across nonprofit, healthcare, and both public and private sectors. Her commitment to purpose-driven impact is reflected in her approach to human-centered leadership, program innovation, project management, and marketing communications.
To help advance the strategic vision of Partners for Care, Amanda leads Partners for Care’s programs, with a particular emphasis on launching the Lumia Health program.
When not working, Amanda enjoys beekeeping, exploring nature on mountain biking adventures with her husband, and finding relaxation and inspiration at the lake with her Beagle and a good book.

Pamela El Francaoui
Program Director
Pamela is a Registered Nurse with experience in bedside care, program development, digital health, and clinical operations.
She has a background working across various healthcare settings to enhance patient care, streamline workflows, and implement innovative solutions that support patients, providers, and healthcare organizations.
When she’s not working, Pamela enjoys playing sports, crafting, and spending time outdoors.

Colleen Cosgrove
Manager, Marketing & Communications
Colleen is a former managing editor and journalist at The Chronicle Herald with experience in storytelling, communication strategy, and audience development.
She has a background working across media to craft compelling stories, streamline communication workflows, and implement innovative storytelling solutions.
When she's not working, Colleen enjoys playing volleyball (Go Dal!), swimming laps, and exploring the Maritimes with her family.