Marlene Bertrand's commitment to those affected by family violence is long and enduring. Director of Manitoba's Family Violence Prevention Branch, she is the driving force behind one of Canada's most advanced networks of community resources and has helped shape public policy at the local, provincial and national levels. Former director of two Manitoba women's shelters, she has also helped develop programs used in shelters across the country and abroad. Known for her great caring, she is a highly valued mentor to social service professionals and to countless women seeking strength and empowerment.