our team

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Our dedicated and professional staff is what sets Forest Play apart.

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​All of our facilitators are passionate about
​the mission of Forest Play: 

​Through play, stories, natural living skills and the art of observation, listening and questioning,
we build connection to nature, self and others. 

Our experiences range from professionally trained guides and athletes to environmental educators and teachers unite to provide fun and valuable experiences!

Click on staff photos to find out more!

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DAVE VERHULST 
DIRECTOR

​The coyote mind behind the program, Dave is the founding member of Forest Play 

Heather Stark 
Program Manager

   A cheeky sense of humour and joy for play make Heather an ideal leader and manager for Forest Play

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Marlou de riijk
Assistant leader

The play instigator, Marlou is a welcomed Dutch addition to Forest Play 

Siobhan blanchard-moran  
​Assistant LEADER

Fun-loving and bright, Siobhan can turn
kid frowns upside down

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Heidi widmer
​Assistant leader

No stranger to the forest, Heidi thrives on a little
game-induced adrenaline

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AMANDA EMSLEY
ASSISTANT LEADER

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Fern Yip
Summer Assistant Leader

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Ronna Schneberger
Support Staff​

With nature in her heart, Ronna has stood by Forest Play since the beginning. 

Emily Nishikawa
Summer Assistant lEADER

Fresh from the race trails, Emily's passion for adventure and exploration led her to Forest Play. 

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Katarina Dučaiová
Assistant Leader 

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Jen Groundwater
Paperwork Wrangler

A supporter of Forest Play from the beginning, Jen keeps all the books and accounts running smoothly

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