Eleanor McMillan’s Lifelong Commitment to Young Mothers’ Education

Eleanor McMillan, an 83-year-old advocate from Winnipeg, has dedicated her life to ensuring that young mothers have access to education and support. As the founder of the Adolescent Parent Centre, she has played a vital role in providing academic resources for pregnant and parenting adolescents. Her commitment to education stems from a belief that it is essential for personal advancement and community development.

McMillan’s journey began with the values instilled in her by her parents, particularly her father, a teacher and principal. “It was never preached. It was just there,” she reflects on her upbringing, which emphasized the importance of education. Today, she continues to serve as the chairperson of the Program for Adolescent Parents and Infant Development, a non-profit organization that supports the Adolescent Parent Centre located at 136 Cecil Street.

Empowering Young Mothers Through Education

The Adolescent Parent Centre offers academic courses for young mothers, allowing them to pursue their education through junior and senior high school. Students can attend until they turn 21 or their child reaches two years old. The centre not only follows the Manitoba education curriculum but also provides essential parenting and nutrition courses. McMillan taught at the centre for over a decade before her retirement in 2001 and has been actively involved with the non-profit ever since.

While the Winnipeg School Division provides primary funding for the centre, McMillan and her colleagues at the Program for Adolescent Parents and Infant Development work to secure additional funds for special initiatives such as field trips and scholarships for graduating students. Volunteers play a crucial role in organizing events, including the annual Christmas dinner that fosters community spirit.

McMillan finds joy in returning to the school where she dedicated the latter part of her career. “I still have a strong interest,” she says, noting that many graduates express gratitude for the support they received. “If it weren’t for the centre, I wouldn’t be where I am.”

A Legacy of Change in Education

The foundation of the Adolescent Parent Centre dates back to 1971 when the Winnipeg School Division initiated a school for pregnant girls. By 1984, it expanded to offer classes for girls in grades 7 through 12. Initially, the program aimed to reintegrate students into their regular schools after giving birth, but many faced challenges that prevented them from continuing their education. Recognizing this gap, McMillan and a group from St. Stephen’s-Broadway United Church launched the Program for Adolescent Parents and Infant Development in 1986.

This initiative merged with the Point Douglas program in 1989 to form the Adolescent Parent Centre, which has continued to adapt over the years. McMillan noted in a history she compiled, “Times changed, staff changed, and so the program went through different changes. However, the basic philosophy of the program, to provide a caring environment for both moms and babies, did remain.”

Currently, approximately 60 students benefit from the centre’s programs. Ainslie Loria, vice-principal at the Winnipeg Adult Education Centre, commended McMillan’s ongoing contributions, stating, “Eleanor is lovely… She loves coming in and seeing the little ones running around. She’s amazing.”

In addition to her work with the non-profit, McMillan also serves as the choir director at her church, Atlantic-Garden City United. She is married to Cliff, a retired minister, and they have four children and nine grandchildren. McMillan humorously adds, “My husband says my other volunteer work is I have everyone over for supper on Sundays.”

Eleanor McMillan’s dedication to education and community service has made a lasting impact on the lives of young mothers in Winnipeg. Her efforts continue to inspire future generations, proving that access to education can pave the way for a brighter future.