Speakers

Registration   Accommodation   Program-At-A-Glance   Detailed Program   Speakers

Yasmine Abu-Ayyash
Senior Research and Evaluation Coordinator, Hub Solutions, Canadian Observatory on Homelessness

Yasmine (Yes-meen) Abu-Ayyash is an Arab settler who lives in Toronto. She is a Senior Research and Evaluation Coordinator at Hub Solutions, Canadian Observatory on Homelessness (COH). Alongside her team, Yasmine contributed to the process evaluation on the effectiveness of the STARS Supports Assessment tool.  

Lynn Alexander
Property Manager, DRLHC, Region of Durham, Social Services

Lynn Alexander joined the Region of Durham in 2000 as a Property Manager in the Housing Services Division.  Lynn oversees a large portfolio which encompasses 6 municipalities.   The portfolio is made up of senior, family and transitional housing communities.  Lynn is very empathetic to the needs of her tenants and facilitates referrals to various community agencies as needed.  In addition to sitting on the Durham Elder Abuse Network, Lynn is a Fellow member with the Institute of Housing Management and is an instructor through their distance learning program.

Hadir Ashry
Senior Project Manager, IEMH Care Pathways, Infant and Early Mental Health Promotion, SickKids Learning Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children

Hafsa Asif
RECE Graduate

Hafsa Asif a mom to four beautiful children, recent RECE graduate.

Hafsa is passionate about children and childcare, she believes every child deserves nurturing and quality care. 

In their spare time she loves to read, learn about the human body or child psychology and be in nature, and when she's not doing all that she's running around with her children. 

Morna Ballantyne
Executive Director, Child Care Now

Morna Ballantyne is the Executive Director of Child Care Now, Canada’s national child care advocacy organization. Now a grandmother, she began advocating forty years ago for more high quality, affordable, inclusive, and flexible licensed child care. She works with others to develop and win support for public policies aimed at building a publicly managed and publicly funded Canada-wide system of early learning and child care. Morna served on the Government of Canada’s Task Force on Women in the Economy, she was a member of the federal Expert Panel on Early Learning and Child Care Data and Research until it completed its mandate prior to the tabling of the 2021 federal budget, and she currently serves on the federal National Advisory Council on Early Learning and Child Care.

Ashley Barber
Superintendent, Community Paramedicine Unit, Toronto Paramedic Services

Ashley is a graduate of the Algonquin College Paramedic Program and has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Guelph. Ashley began her career with Toronto Paramedic Services in 2014 as a Primary Care Paramedic primarily working in Toronto’s downtown core. In 2021, Ashley joined the Community Paramedicine program as a Community Paramedic. She then took on the role of Acting Superintendent and was recently promoted to Superintendent in March 2025.

Ashley supported many projects within the Community Paramedicine program as a Community Paramedic during the COVID-19 pandemic which included COVID swabbing, mass vaccination clinics, and homebound vaccinations. Ashley has supported and led several projects, including the modernization of the Partnered Street Outreach program and the Third-Party Referral Program, with a goal of enhancing client navigation to services following referral into the Community Paramedicine program. She leads Toronto Paramedic Services’ involvement with the City of Toronto’s FOCUS & SPIDER situation tables that support vulnerable residents who are at acutely elevated risk of crime, harm, victimization, and health & safety. Ashley has been involved with several city and Ontario Health Team initiatives that have roots in improving community safety, mental health and overall well-being.

Lori Barber
Housing Program Coordinator, Region of Durham

Jane Beach
Early Childhood Education and Care Research and Policy Consultant

Jane Beach is a research and policy consultant specializing in early learning and child care (ELCC). With a diverse career spanning several decades, she has held roles ranging from centre director to senior government management. For the past 30 years, Jane has worked as an independent research consultant, conducting numerous studies on child care policy across Canada and internationally. She has served on multiple advisory bodies and authored numerous papers on the child care workforce and system-building in ELCC. Currently, Jane is the lead researcher on a multi-year project examining the successes and challenges of building capacity and expanding child care in Canada’s public and non-profit sectors.

Melissa Beaucaire
Manager - Children's Services Division, Region of Durham

Melissa Beaucaire has over 25 years of experience working in the nonprofit and human services sector, with a focus on policy and program development, leadership and working with vulnerable populations. Melissa has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and English from the University of Ottawa and an Honours Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Algonquin College.

In her current role as a Manager in the Children’s Services Division for the Regional Municipality of Durham, Melissa oversees a directly operated Special Needs Resourcing program and the EarlyON Child and Family Centres. Melissa recognizes the essential role social services play in aiding individuals and values the contributions and impact of front-line workers.

Melissa Biksa
Manager, Healthy Growth and Development, City of Hamilton, Public Health Services

Geri Blinick
RentSafe Project Manager, Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment

Geri Blinick (she/her) serves as the project manager for RentSafe, an initiative of the Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health and Environment (CPCHE), that aims to address unhealthy housing conditions affecting tenants living on low income in both urban and rural communities across Ontario.  Geri also supports CPCHE’s policy advocacy toward improving children’s environmental health. Geri is a registered social worker who has worked in the not-for-profit sector in housing, homelessness, community health and environment.

Abi Bond
Executive Director, City of Toronto, Housing Secretariat

Brittany Bridge
Program Analyst, Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Brittany Bridge is a Program Analyst with the Region of Waterloo Housing Services, where she leads and supports various projects related to End of Mortgage and community housing administration. Brittany has held multiple roles in Housing Services at the Region of Waterloo and Starling Community Services. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Politics from Wilfrid Laurier University and is currently pursing a Project Management Certificate from the University of Waterloo.

Tricia Brisebois
Supervisor, Program & Policy, City of Windsor

Tricia Brisebois is a Register Early Childhood Educator and is the Supervisor of Program and Policy with the City of Windsor, Children’s Service. She has more than 30 years of experience in the child care and early years sector. She has had a leadership role in several innovative initiatives for child care and early years in Windsor Essex and is passionate about creating a system of quality programs and services for families and educators.

Lisa Caschera
Special Projects Coordinator, City of Windsor

Lisa Caschera is a Registered Early Childhood Educator and an Ontario Certified Teacher, currently working as the Special Projects Coordinator with the City of Windsor’s Children’s Services Department. With over ten years of experience in child care and early years, she has gained extensive experience across various roles within the child care and early years sector in the Windsor-Essex region. Lisa is deeply committed to enhancing the quality of child care and early years programming, and she brings a strong passion for supporting the growth and development of the sector.

Catherine Chambers
Organizational Development Consultant

Catherine Chambers is a researcher, organizational development consultant, and Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT). She began her career in the social assistance sector where she worked as a caseworker, trainer, and program analyst. Her work has taken her across Canada and the United States. Catherine has had the opportunity to work with individuals from a range of professional backgrounds and areas of expertise on projects at: CBC-Radio Canada, Ontario Ministry of Health, Ontario Council for Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI), Simcoe-Muskoka Children’s Aid Society, and various corporations including Microsoft USA.

Catherine has been an instructor in the Teacher of Adults program at Centennial College, and in the Bachelor of Adult Education Program at Brock University. She holds 2 graduate degrees in education (Master of Adult Education and Master of Teaching) from the University of Toronto where she is currently completing her PhD.  Her research focuses on the impact of diversity and inclusion on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Lisa Chase
Advisor, Special Needs Resourcing, Peel Region

Lisa Chase has worked in the early years and child care sector for over 25 years with the last 22 years at Peel Region.  As an Advisor in the Early Years and Child Care Service division, her current work is focused on quality assurance, compliance and enhancing accountability in special needs resourcing (SNR) service delivery across the second largest region in the province. Lisa's work on the development of SNR service delivery standards for Supervisors and Resource Consultants in addition to the framework of supports for both child care and SNR service providers, has resulted in significantly improved and consistently high-quality services for children and families.

Bernice Chau
Policy Development Officer, City of Toronto, Children's Services

Bernice (she/her) is a Policy Development Officer with Toronto Children’s Services. She is passionate about storytelling, and amplifying the voices of 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Bernice is a training professional and Certified Human Resources Professional. Prior to joining the City of Toronto, she worked in the non-profit sector supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth.

Naveed Chaudhry
Executive Director, Peel Multicultural Council

Naveed Chaudhry was appointed Executive Director of the Peel Multicultural Council (PMC) on September 28, 1998, assuming his position after 10 years of distinguished service with the Council. He started working at PMC in 1988 as Research Coordinator and worked his way up through hard work, innovation, and commitment to PMC’s goals and objectives. 

Naveed’s career with PMC spans 35 years of the past 46 years of PMC history. He has served in various capacities, including program development, management, administration, outreach, and service delivery.  

Naveed came to Canada from Pakistan in 1982. He graduated from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario, with a Masters of Science Degree in Geology in 1984. Naveed is an experienced and computer- literate manager, able to translate goals and objectives into solid community opportunities. Under his leadership PMC, programs grew from $500,000 per year to over $5,000,000 per year. 

For his efforts, he has received many awards from organizations as well as elected officials. On September 21, 2012, Mr. Bob Delaney, MPP, Mississauga-Streetsville presented Naveed Chaudhry the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. He received King Charles Coronation pin presented Mr. Shafqat Ali, MP, Brampton Centre on December 17, 2024.

Erica Clow
Housing Programs Advisor, Regional Municipality of Waterloo 

Coming from a policy role in Strategy, Performance and Partnerships at the Region of Waterloo, Erika is a new arrival to the world of housing in her position of Housing Programs Advisor. She provides support and direction to Non-Profit and Co-operative Community Housing Providers across the Region of Waterloo.

Alexis Cook
Grey Bruce Community Safety and Well-Being Planning Coordinator, County of Bruce

Alexis is a dedicated health advocate with a Master of Public Health, a Bachelor of Applied Science focusing in Adult Development and Psychology and post graduate certificates in Brain Disorders Management and Infection Control. With specialized training in research, project management, harm reduction and stigma she brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Her extensive experience spans across public health, acute care, and congregate settings, embodying a commitment to improving community well-being and fostering health equity. In her free time Alexis volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, spends endless hours gardening and loves to explore new spots around Grey and Bruce with her family.

Stephanee Doucett
Reaching Home Manager, Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle (ALFDC)

Stephanee Doucett is Algonquin from Wolf Lake First Nation in Kipawa, Quebec. She is the current Reaching Home Manager with the Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle. Stephanee supported the development of the STARS Supports Assessment, including Indigenous-specific community engagement, communications and trainings.

Helen Doyle
Environmental Health Work Group Chair, Ontario Public Health Association

Helen Doyle is chair of the Ontario Public Health Association’s Environmental Health Workgroup, collaborating with public health partners to promote and advocate for action on environmental health issues including: climate change, air quality, water quality, housing, built and natural environments and children’s environmental health. Following a 30 year career with York Region Public Health, Helen now teaches part-time with Conestoga College’s School of Health & Life Sciences – Bachelor of Environmental Public Health Program.

Kristen Fernandes
Housing Program Coordinator, Region of Durham

Melissa Fitzpatrick
Manager, Ontario Works, County of Lambton

Melissa Fitzpatrick is the Manager of Ontario Works with the County of Lambton. Melissa has worked with the municipality for over 20 years and has managed Children’s Services, Homelessness Prevention, Circles Lambton, and currently the Ontario Works department. Melissa is a graduate of Memorial University of Newfoundland with a degree in psychology and has a Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor. She has dedicated her career to supporting individuals, families, and vulnerable populations.

Gary Gladstone
Lead, Stakeholder Relations, Reena and Chair, Intentional Community Consortium

Gary Gladstone leads Stakeholder Relations at Reena, where he has spent the past eight years advocating for affordable, supportive housing for individuals with developmental disabilities. He is also Chair of the Intentional Community Consortium (ICC), a coalition of 40 agencies working to scale inclusive housing solutions across Canada.

Gary is the immediate past Chair of the Government Relations Committee of OASIS and has played a key role in ensuring developmental disabilities are recognized in Canada’s National Housing and Dementia Strategies. In 2023, he was awarded the Order of Vaughan for his leadership and advocacy.

Kim Godin
Manager, Children's Services, County of Lambton

Kim Godin, Manager Children’s Services Department with the County of Lambton. Kim brings over 30 years of experience in Social and Employment Services, Child and Community Development, having served vulnerable families, children, and youth. Kim is a graduate of Western University in Public Administration, Project Management and Fanshawe College Child and Youth Care.

Faith Hale
Executive Director, Ska:na Family Learning Centre

Faith Hale, a proud member of the Three Affiliated Tribes of the MHA Nation, is the Executive Director and co-founder of Ska:na Family Learning Centre (SFLC), one of Ontario’s first Indigenous organizations focused on Child Care and Early Years programming. Faith was instrumental in researching, developing, and implementing an urban Indigenous culturally relevant early years framework. Under her leadership, SFLC continues to grow, offering diverse programs and services, while Faith mentors the Child Care and Early Years sector through collaboration with various boards, committees, and networks.

Faith holds a Master of Education, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wayne State University, a Bachelor of Education from Brock University, and an Early Childhood Education Diploma from St. Clair College. As a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), she has served on the College of Early Childhood Educators advisory committee, presented at various conferences, and led research projects in education and community development at local and provincial levels.

In addition to her work with SFLC, Faith is the President of the 7 Generations Indigenous Centre (7GIC), a College of Early Childhood Educator Mentor, and has held leadership positions such as past Second Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) and delegate appointee to the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services Board. 

Christina Hall
Housing Navigator, Developmental Services Ontario

Christina Hall is a dedicated professional with over 25 years of experience in the field of Developmental Services, supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She excels in advocating for equitable housing solutions and collaborates with regional service managers and provincial housing navigators to educate stakeholders and the community on inclusive housing initiatives.

Christina’s career spans leadership roles where she has developed and implemented training programs, promoted person-centred planning, and advanced best practices in service delivery. She brings strong leadership skills and has also engaged in contract work as a college professor with Fanshawe College, contributing to the professional development of those entering the field.

Her expertise is built on a solid academic foundation, including a Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Studies with a Health Focus, a Developmental Services Worker Diploma, and certifications in leadership and crisis intervention. Christina frequently delivers presentations, webinars, and workshops on housing solutions, quality assurance, and inclusive service models.

Christina is committed to fostering inclusive communities and supporting individuals with diverse needs. Outside of work, she enjoys running, gardening, spending time with family, and being outdoors.

Nikki Hanson
Youth Services Manager, John Howard Society of York Region

Nikki Hanson, Program Manager of Youth Services at JHSYR, has a BA from the University of Guelph for Criminal Justice and Public Policy as well as a Diploma from Seneca College for Social Service Work. She has been with the John Howard Society of York Region for over 8 years, beginning her career as a placement student helping adults reintegrate after a period of incarceration. Nikki’s passion lays with helping adults and youth navigate the complexities of the Canadian criminal justice system and is a strong advocate for basic human rights, working hard to address gaps in service and to reduce barriers for York Region residents. She has developed and maintained programs for youth who have witnessed/experienced domestic violence and continues to support families and youth throughout the region with help from an amazing team of 12, front line staff.

Brynn Harlock
Housing Programs Advisor, Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Brynn Harlock is a Housing Programs Advisor with the Region of Waterloo Housing Services, where she supports community housing providers to strengthen their operations, governance, asset management, and financial position. Prior to her work in Waterloo, Brynn worked with non-profits and co-ops as Housing Programs Coordinator in Durham Region. She is also an instructor for the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association (ONPHA), specializing in Rent-Geared-to-Income administration. Brynn holds a Master's degree in Religious Studies and a certificate in Sexual and Gender Diversity from Queen's University.

Jane Hartley
Executive Director, Victim Services Bruce Grey & Steering Committee Member, Grey Bruce Community Safety and Well-Being Plan

With over 25 years of experience in victim services, crisis intervention, and advocacy, Jane Hartley is a dedicated leader committed to supporting individuals and communities in times of crisis. Recognizing that no single agency can address all the complex needs of victims, Jane has been instrumental in developing multi-sectoral collaborations that bring together law enforcement, healthcare professionals, mental health providers, and social service agencies. She believes that effective partnerships lead to more accessible and holistic support, reducing barriers and empowering individuals on their path to healing. Throughout her career, Jane has played a key role in enhancing coordinated responses to crisis and trauma, working closely with emergency service personnel, frontline support workers, and advocacy groups. She is also actively engaged in advancing best practices in victim advocacy, including initiatives aligned with the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA). Jane holds degrees in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Western Ontario and a diploma in Child & Youth Counselling from Lambton College, equipping her with a deep understanding of victimization, trauma-informed care, and community-based support services. Beyond her professional work, Jane is married and a proud mother of two. She resides in a small rural community in Bruce County, where she enjoys the beauty of lake life with her family and their beloved dog, Piper.

Jason Hastings
Director, Strategic Initiatives, Region of Peel

As a passionate believer in the potential of people and communities, Jason Hastings has spent his career finding ways to make a difference. As the Director of Social Development, Planning and Partnerships at Peel Region, he leads a dedicated team that applies advanced data & analytics, evaluation, community development, continuous improvement and other approaches to move the needle on social issues. A fan of tackling tough problems, his work is focused on building welcoming communities for newcomers, ensuring every child gets the best start in life, everyone has a roof over their head, people have access to good jobs and enough money to live their lives. Jason has held similar roles with York Region, the City of London and United Way. He holds an MPA from the School of Policy Studies at Queen’s University and a BA from Western University.

Christine Heavens, MBA, CET
Director, Community Development and Services, Cochrane District Services Board

As the Director of Community Development and Services, Christine Heavens brings extensive expertise to her role within the CDSB. She excels at conceptualizing, articulating, and executing solutions to address complex, multifaceted regional and community issues through culturally inclusive and person-centred approaches supported by strong community and business partnerships. With 25 years of management and leadership experience in the public sector—over half of which as a senior corporate leader —Christine has successfully led both in-person and remote teams. 

Her innovative approaches and collaborative efforts to address systemic barriers have earned her considerable respect within the Cochrane district and across the province. Ms. Heavens is an active member of the Boreal SSM consortium and executive team, serves as chair of the Far Northeast Training Board, chairs the Literacy Network Northeast Working Group, and the District School Board Ontario Northeast Special Education Advisory Committee.

Christine holds a master’s in business administration (MBA) focused on global leadership, is a Certified Engineering Technologist, and a Survey Technician. She is also finishing a master’s degree in education focused on leadership in learning.

Rachel Hirstwood-Judd, BA
Supervisor Adult Protective Services (APS) and Outreach Teams, Regional Municipality of Durham

Rachel Hirstwood-Judd is a Supervisor with Family Services Durham (FSD) in the Region of Durham’s Social Services Department. She holds a BA in Psychology from the Faculty of Health at York University, and has worked for the past 17 years with Family Services Durham in various roles including Adult Protective Service Worker (APSW), Supports Intensity Scale Assessor, and Supervisor of the Adult Protective Services (APS) program and various outreach initiatives. Rachel has a passion for supporting FSD programs with expanding outreach services and partnering with agencies to ensure marginalized individuals, including those with a developmental disability, those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and older adults at risk of harm, do not fall through systemic gaps. Rachel and her teams work hard to combine community resources, health, housing, and social supports to create personalized circles of care to assist individuals to live as independently as possible in the community of their choice. Providing low barrier supports and services is a priority for Rachel and FSD’s APS and outreach programs.

Jennifer Howson
Special Projects Coordinator, City of Windsor

Jennifer Howson is a Registered Early Childhood Educator with over 25 years of experience and brings a wealth of experience from working in diverse roles across the child care and early years sector. She currently serves as Special Projects Coordinator in Children’s Services with the City of Windsor, where she supports initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for young children and their families. Her work is grounded in a strong commitment to supporting the whole family, understanding that the systemic barriers facing Ontario families directly affect children's development and well-being. Jennifer is passionate about building inclusive, responsive systems of care and continues to advocate for policies and practices that prioritize equity, accessibility, and child wellness.

Ramona Karteros 
Manager of Income and Social Supports, Peel Region

Ramona Karteros is an accomplished leader with 20 years of experience across Human Services, Health Services, and Corporate Services. She specializes in strategic planning, building inclusive teams, managing large-scale projects, and leading organizational change. She excels at fostering strong partnership with diverse stakeholders, including community groups, unions, and government partners. Ramona is committed to driving positive community impact and social change.

In her current role as Manager of Income and Social Supports at the Region of Peel, she leads a multidisciplinary team and drives innovation in service delivery. Her leadership has been instrumental in developing new service models, cultivating inclusive workplace cultures, and shaping regional social services and health strategies.

Lori Kempe
Executive Director, Children First in Essex County

Lori Kempe is the Executive Director of Children First in Essex County and Executive Lead, Lead Agency for Child and Youth Mental Health at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare.  Over the past 28 years, Lori has held a variety of positions in children’s mental health, developmental services, and child welfare in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent communities.

Joanne Kennedy
Program Manager, Housing and Ontario Works, Cochrane District Services Board

Joanne Kennedy's distinguished career with the Cochrane District Services Board (CDSB) spans an impressive 35 years. Beginning as a frontline worker in the Housing department, Joanne's dedication and passion for helping others propelled her into management. In her current role as Program Manager, she is a valued contributor to both housing and Ontario Works initiatives.

Throughout her career, Joanne has actively participated in several regional and community boards, driven by both her personal commitment to community service and her professional dedication to CDSB. She has played a pivotal role in leading and informing numerous innovative CDSB initiatives, including the expansion and strengthening of partnerships as part of the Social Assistance Modernization project and the Employment Service Transformation (EST) roll-out for the district.

Joanne's leadership is characterized by her unwavering commitment to employee and client success. She fosters a culture where every voice is heard, and lived experiences are valued as essential knowledge for progress. Joanne champions a collaborative team approach, emphasizing the importance of strengthening relationships and partnerships to support collective efforts.

Chris Kindy
Case Manager, Haldimand Norfolk Health and Social Services

Chris Kindy is a Case Manager at Haldimand Norfolk Health and Social Services and a Mental Health Worker with the Canadian Mental Health Association – Brant-Haldimand-Norfolk. With a background in Sociology from the University of Guelph and Addictions Studies from McMaster University, Chris has a deep understanding of the social issues impacting his community. He also serves as Vice President for CUPE Local 4700, advocating for workers’ rights.

Having faced his own challenges with Epilepsy and Mental Health, Chris feels privileged to work in roles where his main goal is to advocate for those who need it most, ensuring they have access to the best resources and support. He is particularly passionate about raising awareness around issues such as homelessness, mental health, and food insecurity.

Chris is an active member of several boards and committees, including Rotary Sunrise Norfolk, Epilepsy Ontario, Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk, and the Crisis Workers of Ontario. Outside of his professional and advocacy work, Chris enjoys spending time with his family—walking his dog Penny and traveling the world with his wife Emily and daughter Maren.

Kameka Kirby-Chang
Early Learning Capacity Building and Workforce Mentor, Five Counties Children's Centre

Kameka Kirby-Chang is an Early Learning Capacity Building and Workforce Mentor for Five Counties Children's Centre, with over 13 years of experience in early childhood education. A Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with a background in Early Childhood Leadership from George Brown College, Kameka has worked in various roles throughout the sector, empowering both children and educators.

Alison Kooistra
Policy Development Officer, Toronto Shelter & Support Services, City of Toronto

Alison Kooistra is a queer Dutch and Mennonite settler who lives in Toronto with her wife and two children. She is a Policy Development Officer with the Coordinated Access team, Toronto Shelter & Support Services, City of Toronto. Her role focuses on the development and continuous improvement of the STARS common assessment tool in collaboration with community partners.

Jennifer Lamond
Income and Social Supports Program Analyst, Peel Region

Jennifer Lamond is a strategic thinker with 20+ years of experience planning, analyzing, implementing, and evaluating a wide variety of human services initiatives, programs, strategies, and policies. As a Program Analyst for Human Services program delivery, Jennifer has had the opportunity to develop and work collaboratively with internal and external partners on projects to respond to Human Services needs in the Region of Peel.  

Jennifer has a proven track record of applying an evidence-informed decision-making lens to complex human services portfolios.  She is committed to human services programming that is designed with operational staff, lived experts and the broader community.  Jennifer is a passionate advocate for holistic, person-centred mental health and addictions supports.

Erin Landry-Baker
Founder and Principal, Yellow Door Solutions

Erin Landry-Baker is a trusted advisor to healthcare, public sector, and not-for-profit leaders navigating the complexities of change. As the Founder and Principal of Yellow Door Solutions, she brings over two decades of experience in change leadership, strategic transformation, and human-centered facilitation.

Drawing on a rich and diverse background of working with healthcare organizations, municipal services, government agencies, insurance companies, and a global cosmetic retailer,  Erin is known for translating complexity into clarity—and for helping organizations turn disruption into opportunity.  She’s a Prosci-certified Change Management Professional, a trained facilitator, and an executive coach dedicated to building resilient, confident leaders.

Erin’s approach to change is grounded in empathy, practicality, and action. Her style is engaging, collaborative, and refreshingly real, making change feel not only possible, but energizing.

When she’s not guiding organizations through transformation, Erin is often planning her next social gathering, skiing or golfing with her family, or walking her mini labradoodle, Sprout.

Kathy Lucky
Manager, EarlyON Programs, York Region

Miranda Mackie
Manager of Children Services, City of Greater Sudbury

Stacey MacNeil, M.Ed, RP
Manager Intake, EAP and Specialized Services / Emerging Services Lead, Durham Region

Stacey MacNeil is a Manager with Family Services Durham (FSD) in the Region of Durham’s Social Services Department.  She holds a BA in Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master of Education in Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto, and is Registered Psychotherapist.  Stacey has over 25 years of experience working in mental health, including within children's mental health and within the justice field. Stacey completed post graduate certificate programs in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Stacey has over 10 years of management experience, clinically supervising teams and programs, including walk-in and single session therapy programs. Stacey is passionate about program development and design that aligns with increasing accessibility of quality counselling services to the Durham Region community.

Curtis Madden
Community Paramedic & Advanced Care Paramedic, City of Brantford

With 9 years of experience in the paramedic field, Curtis Madden has dedicated the last 6 years to specializing as a Community Paramedic, followed by 3.5 years as an Advanced Care Paramedic. His clinical expertise is backed by a degree in Public Health, which enhances his ability to deliver high-quality care and drive positive health outcomes within the community. Curtis is passionate about combining his medical knowledge with a proactive approach to health, always striving to improve patient care and community wellness.

Julia Mathew 
Administrative Coordinator, Community and Development Services, Cochrane District Services Board

Julia Mathew is a distinguished graduate of the Northern College Office Administration Executive program, bringing over nine years of exemplary experience in the administrative field. Her career is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, ensuring she remains at the forefront of administrative excellence.

Julia’s unwavering dedication, creativity, and integrity, combined with her exceptional skills and proactive mindset, enable her to effectively support the administrative needs of teams, making her an invaluable asset. Julia's innovative and inquisitive nature drives her to explore and implement more effective and efficient work processes, significantly contributing to the advancement of team goals.

In her role at the Cochrane District Services Board, Julia has been instrumental in supporting the organization's efforts through significant change management initiatives, showcasing her ability to navigate complexities while showcasing her adaptability.

Julia brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights from her extensive experience, enriched by her hands-on approach and her passion for improving administrative functions. 

Lisa Marie Middleton
Manager, Asylum Claimant Response, Region of Peel

Lisa Marie Middleton is a strategic leader in human services with over 20 years of experience in policy development, program design, evaluation and working with homeless and marginalized communities. She has a proven track record of translating policy into effective on-the-ground solutions that directly impact communities. Currently serving as the Manager of Asylum Claimant Response at the Region of Peel, Lisa Marie works alongside dedicated teams and service providers to develop and implement programs that support newcomers. Her expertise lies in creating sustainable, people-centered policies while ensuring their successful execution in real-world settings. Throughout her career, Lisa Marie has been committed to addressing complex social challenges, fostering inclusive environments, and driving meaningful change through evidence-based decision-making and hands-on leadership.

Sanaz Milanizadeh
Director of Programming and Operation, John Howard Society of York Region 

Sanaz Milanizadeh is the Director of Programming and Operations at JHSYR, bringing over six years of dedicated service to the organization. She holds an undergraduate degree in Business Management and Child Development and earned her master’s in social work. As a registered social worker, Sanaz is deeply committed to fostering inclusive and impactful community programs.

With a background in retail and commercial management, Sanaz transitioned into the social services field over a decade ago, driven by a passion for social justice and equity. As a first-generation immigrant, she values diversity and intersectionality, advocating for a society where all individuals have equal opportunities to thrive.

Her leadership at JHSYR focuses on creating sustainable, community-centered solutions that empower individuals and drive meaningful change.

Melanie Moore
Director, Planning & Patient Access, Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital

Melanie Moore has been a health system leader for over 18 years, working in Health and Emergency Management oversight, program development and partnership.

Shelly Mousseau
Program Director, Gateway Residential and Support Services

April Muldoon
Manager of Community Supports, County of Renfrew

April is the Manager of Community Supports with the Department of Community Services. April is passionate about client service delivery and is dedicated to making meaningful changes that meet people where they are at. April believes in the power of inclusive decision-making processes, a person-centered approach, and ensuring that clients are actively involved in shaping the services they receive. Through April’s leadership, April fosters a collaborative environment that prioritizes the needs and voices of the community, striving to create a more responsive and supportive service framework.

Christine Mumford, RECE
Early Years Coordinator, Early Years, Community & Social Services, Northumberland County

Christine Mumford, RECE, is a passionate educator with over 35 years experience in the Early Years Sector.  Her work in the sector has had many facets over the years, including working in programs, being an executive director of a childcare centre, a Ministry Program Advisor,  capacity builder at Five Counties Children’s Centre and presently working for Northumberland County as the Early Years Coordinator. She has extensive training in the Merhit Centres Self-Reg program and is a champion for laying the foundation for creating self-reg havens across the county where early years educators support children and families in understanding that behavior is a form of communication. Christine’s work has allowed her the opportunity to think creatively in ways to partner and build capacity in the early years sector. Her work also engages her in supporting growth plans, program transformation and building relationships throughout the Early Years Community.

Grant Munday
Director of Planning and Development Services, City of Welland

Mary Musson
Senior Director Community Services and Social Development, City of Brantford

Mary is originally from Sault Ste Marie ON and has over 18 years of municipal experience in human services with the City of Brantford. She started her career in 2006 in a frontline role as an Addictions Services Coordinator and advanced to management in 2013. Mary was promoted to the role of Director of Housing and Homelessness Services in 2022 and is currently appointed to the temporary position of Senior Director of Community Services and Social Development adding oversight responsibility for Children's Services and Ontario Works to her portfolio.

A leader in community development, Mary is passionate about breaking down silos and promoting collaboration among community partners to enhance housing and homelessness services. She has championed key initiatives locally including the City of Brantford’s coordinated Encampment Outreach team, overseeing the development of a 26-unit housing project at 177 Colborne Street West, Brantford and the 41-unit housing development at Lucy Marco Place, Brantford which provides affordable housing to individuals and families with wraparound supports from community partners.

Prior to her municipal career, Mary served over 13 years with the Canadian Armed Forces where she met her husband John and continues to advocate for service members and veterans through her passion for running as a race ambassador with the Canada Army Run. Mary strongly believes in community involvement and has been recognized for her long-term volunteer service to Girl Guides of Canada in May 2024 with an Ontario Volunteer Service Award for 10 years of service and in March 2025 as a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Mary’s academic credentials include an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Recreation and Leisure Studies/Therapeutic Recreation Option - Psychology Minor and a Certificate in Supervision from the University of Waterloo as well as a diploma in Municipal Management from the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO).

Windelyn Ortal
Child Care Supervisor, City of Toronto - Children Services

Windy Ortal (she/her) is a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with a Bachelor’s degree in English Studies and extensive experience in non-profit childcare across Toronto. She is currently a Centre Supervisor for Toronto Early Learning & Child Care Services (TELCCS).

A strong advocate for equity and social justice, she champions universal childcare, fair wages for educators, and gender equality. She pioneered the TELCCS 2SLGBTQ+ Working Group and contributes to the City of Toronto’s Pride 365 Advisory Committee and TELCCS Confronting Anti-Black Racism Working Group.

As a DEI resource creator, she authored Celebrating Black Hair & Why Representation Matters, promoting inclusive early learning environments that highlight identity-affirming practices in early childhood education. 

Committed to collaboration and equity, she works to strengthen staff-family partnerships and ensure high-quality, inclusive programs for all children.

Bambi Pepe
Housing Navigator, Developmental Services Ontario

Bambi Pepe is a dedicated advocate for inclusive and accessible housing solutions, bringing over 20 years of experience providing guidance and support to diverse populations across various sectors, including education, developmental services, and community engagement. As a DSO Housing Navigator, she plays a critical role in helping adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) develop individualized housing plans across Northern Ontario. Her expertise in cross-sector collaboration, community engagement, and innovative problem-solving drives her mission to create sustainable, person-centered housing solutions.

Bambi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Education, both earned with first-class standing from Lakehead University. She further expanded her skills with a Human Resource Management Certificate from Confederation College. Throughout her career, she has worked as an ABA therapist, contract lecturer at Lakehead University, teacher diagnostician, and education resource specialist for an Indigenous tribal council—roles that have deepened her commitment to equity, accessibility, and person-directed services.

A lifelong resident of Northern Ontario, Bambi finds balance and inspiration in the outdoors, enjoying hiking, biking, and paddleboarding. Whether she is facilitating knowledge-sharing discussions, exploring innovative housing solutions, or venturing onto new trails, her passion for community-driven change and inclusion is at the heart of everything she does.

Ashley Pettifer
Director, Client Experience and Operations, Ryelle Strategy Group

As Director, Client Experience and Operations, Ashley oversees Ryelle Strategy Group’s management consulting projects in Canada and around the globe. With a laser focus on delivering excellence, Ashley leads teams in driving strategic outcomes and building client’s execution infrastructure across public sector, NGOs, and the Labour movement. Central to everything she does, is a commitment to delivering an exceptional client experience.

Starting her career in external strategy and revenue diversification, Ashley has applied these relationship building skills to organizations’ internal landscape. Leading the firm’s People, Culture & Capacity portfolio, Ashley brings engagement, collaboration and co-creation to organization’s strategic plans, organizational processes, and culture change initiatives.

Ashley’s education and training feature an Honours Specialization in Childhood and Social Institutions from the University of Western Ontario as well as a Graduate Diploma in Social Responsibility and Sustainability from the University of Toronto. This commitment to social justice and population health outcomes has led her to become an active community volunteer holding positions at the highest levels.

Erica Phipps
Executive Director, Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment

Erica Phipps serves as Executive Director of the Canadian Partnership for Children’s Health & Environment (CPCHE), a national collaboration of organizations that work together to advance children’s environmental health protection, and is the founding director of CPCHE’s RentSafe initiative. Erica has worked on environmental health and toxics issues for nearly three decades, with a focus on intersectoral action, policy advocacy, housing and health equity. She has a master’s degree in public health, a doctorate in health promotion and is an adjunct professor at the University of Ottawa.

Lisa Pitcher
Housing Program Coordinator, DRLHC, Region of Durham, Social Services

Lisa Pitcher has been with the Region of Durham as a Housing Program Coordinator since 2017.  Prior to this, she held various roles in the supportive housing space within Durham region and the Ottawa area dating back to 2010.  Lisa is passionate about supporting vulnerable tenants, particularly older adults.  Lisa has had the opportunity to spearhead several community development initiatives as well as facilitate incredibly successful tax clinics for those in need.  She brings extensive knowledge and experience working within the homelessness, transitional and supportive housing sector and holds a Bachelors in Psychology from Carleton University.

Melissa Pitfield
Coordinator of Quality Early Years Programs, City of Greater Sudbury

Melissa is the Coordinator for Quality and Early Years Programs for the Children and Social Services Division at the City of Greater Sudbury. In this role, Melissa provides direction and supports to EarlyON agencies as well as the development and implementation of the new system model for Conditions of Quality and Special Needs Resourcing. Melissa holds a RECE background and has had a wide scope of leadership opportunities in the Early Learning sector that has spanned over 30 years. She has completed certification in the Northern Leadership program (Laurentian University) and certified self-regulation facilitator.

Daniel Quesada-Rebolledo
Outreach Worker, Regional Street Outreach Program, Income, Employment & Homelessness Supports Division, Regional Municipality of Durham

Daniel Quesada-Rebolledo is a Supervisor on the Homelessness Outreach & System Support team with the Region of Durham, overseeing a team of Outreach Workers who support individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness across the region. He previously worked as an Outreach Worker on the same team. Before working in homelessness services, Daniel worked in international development across Latin America, focusing on health and poverty reduction initiatives. He also led an initiative funded by the Government of Canada supporting the well-being of over 30,000 temporary foreign workers across Ontario. Daniel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Studies from Trent University and speaks English, French, and Spanish.

Jackie Quinn
Property Manager, DRLHC, Region of Durham, Social Services

Jackie Quinn has been with the Region of Durham since 2001.  She has held several roles in the Housing Services Division, including her current role as Property Manager. Jackie successfully oversees a very busy portfolio: which includes family, senior and transitional housing communities.  Jackie is incredibly passionate about supporting vulnerable individuals and uses her extensive knowledge of community supports and resources to ensure all tenants needs are met.  Jackie is an accredited member of the Institute of Housing Management; and teaches the Residential Tenancy Law course at several colleges across Ontario.  Jackie is currently expanding her knowledge in the field by completing a Masters Certificate in Public Sector Management.

Daniel Rowe
Specialist, Housing Analytics, Housing Services, Peel Region

Daniel Rowe is a Specialist in Housing Analytics with Peel Region’s Housing Services. He previously worked as a researcher at McMaster University and the MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions at Unity Health, Toronto.

Kim Sangüesa
Manager, Partnerships, Quality and Accountability, Region of Waterloo (Children's Services)

Kim Sangüesa is the Manager of Partnerships, Quality and Accountability in Children’s Services at the Region of Waterloo. Kim is a proud Registered Early Childhood Educator and has worked at the Region for 28 years including roles as an Educator, Home Child Care Consultant, and Supervisor at two of the Region’s directly operated child care centres. In her current role, Kim is responsible for the Region’s quality initiatives program for Early Years and Child Care, and works directly with Special Needs Resourcing Agencies, EarlyON Child and Family Centre Leads and the Early Years Professional Resource Centre operated by Conestoga College. Due to the impacts the workforce crisis has had on the early years sector, Kim is working alongside Children’s Services colleagues and community partners in the development of a long-term Workforce Strategy to support early years programs.

Courtney Sarpong
Child Care Supervisor, City of Toronto - Children Services

Courtney, (She/Her) is a Center Supervisor at O’Connor Early Learning and Childcare Center. She holds a diploma is early childhood education and a bachelors degree in Education and Digital Technologies. As an active member with the Confronting Anti-Black Racism Working group and Advisory Circle within Children Services, she is dedicated to creating an environment for children that emphasizes on breaking barriers that is often imposed on young children. Courtney is a firm believer of the power of active, responsible, and diverse representation in children’s play.

Stephanie Savoni
Counsel, Hicks Morley

Stephanie Savoni is counsel to Hicks Morley in the Toronto office and has been working in the field of workplace safety and insurance law for over 23 years. She is the chair of the firm’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Practice Group. Her practice has been dedicated exclusively to representing employers in workplace safety and insurance law matters for the past 20 years.

Stephanie has significant expertise in workplace safety and insurance law, providing advice and representation to employers on a wide range of issues including claims entitlement, return to work negotiations, re-employment matters, revenue issues, cost relief and benefit issues. She has over 20 years of appeals experience, representing employers regularly at the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Appeals Services Division and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal. A significant portion of her career was spent working for an agency of the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, where she specialized in providing advice and representation to Ontario employers in workplace safety and insurance matters.

Stephanie is well regarded by her clients for helping them navigate through complex workplace safety and insurance issues, and for providing excellent representation when conflicts arise. Her sound and timely advice has assisted countless employers in managing their WSIB claims and appeals. Stephanie has also been a regular guest speaker for employer groups, providing training presentations on various workplace safety and insurance law topics.

Outside of her law practice, Stephanie has enjoyed teaching part-time at the Faculty of Law at the University of Windsor, where she was dedicated to mentoring students and future lawyers. Stephanie currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors of the Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society, and is passionate about supporting children and families in her community.

Andrew Scavarelli
Director, Housing & Homelessness Services, County of Simcoe

Known by his colleagues as an influential leader, strong consensus builder and exceptional communicator, Andrew Scavarelli is a visionary leader who continuously demonstrates his commitment to furthering social and human services integration. Andrew has over 15 years experience in the successful and integrated delivery of municipal social services. Andrew brings breadth and depth in his experience, having began his career with the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) in 2009, where he held progressive leadership roles, and played a key-role in TBDSSAB’s commitment and transition to an integrated service delivery model. 

In 2018, Andrew relocated from Northwestern to Central Ontario, accepting a role with the County of Simcoe, where he currently serves as Director, Housing & Homelessness Services.  Prior to transitioning to the Housing & Homelessness portfolio in late 2024, Andrew spent time as the Director in both the Ontario Works, and Community Support & Wellbeing portfolios. Having served in leadership roles at both the DSSAB and CMSM levels, Andrew possesses a strong awareness of the many unique needs and challenges present within the suburban, rural and northern communities in Ontario. 

Previous affiliations include the United Way, where Andrew spent numerous years as the employee campaign chair, along with spending several years on the admissions committee for the Northern Ontario School of Medicine. Currently Andrew serves on numerous committees including Chair of OMSSA’s Emergency Social Services Network, the Ontario Disaster & Emergency Management Planning Committee, and was recently appointed Chair of the Western Ontario Warden’s Caucus Social Services Committee.

Joel Schryer
Senior Clinical Manager, Children First in Essex County

Joel Schryer holds a Master of Social Work and is the Senior Clinical Manager at Children First, a children’s mental health agency servicing children birth to six and their families. He has worked in numerous social work roles in mental health, child welfare, youth justice and section 23 classrooms. Joel has taught as a part time faculty member at Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and as a sessional instructor at the University of Windsor.

Krista Scott
Housing Programs Advisor, Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Krista Scott is a Housing Programs Advisor with the Region of Waterloo, where she supports non-profit and co-op housing providers. Krista started at the Region in 2010 and has worked on various housing programs including capital repair, rent assistance and community housing programs. She also worked for the city of Stratford’s housing division for three years before returning to the Region.  Krista is an Accredited member of the Institute of Housing Management and has been a member since 2013. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Contemporary Studies from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Business Administration Diploma from Mohawk College and Certificate in Leadership from Western Continuing Studies.

Karine Silverwoman
Consultant and Social Worker, Karine Silverwoman Consulting, (OMSSA Trainer)

Karine is a passionate practitioner, consultant, and educator with over 20 years of experience in leadership within the social work field. She has extensive training in trauma-informed therapeutic approaches, clinical supervision, facilitation, public speaking, and leadership. Karine has worked in a wide variety of settings, including as a clinical consultant for leadership teams and as a social work instructor at Toronto Metropolitan University, Windsor University, and George Brown College.

Karine focuses on conscious leadership, self-awareness, conflict resolution, psychological safety, and transforming workplace culture. Through her training and consultation, she strives to help leaders deepen their skills, align their leadership style with their personal values, and support equity and integrity in the workplace. Her approach is guided by a social justice, anti-colonial, queer/trans affirming, and strengths-based lens. As a trainer, Karine takes a trauma-informed approach to create brave, compassionate, and reflective learning spaces. She interweaves practical examples, humour, and an ethic of care into all her training, and believes in a world where everyone should be able to live and work with dignity, safety, and belonging.

Jeffrey Sinclair
Manager, Homelessness Services, Regional Municipality of Niagara

Dr. Magdalena Smolewski
Lead Researcher/Consultant, Women’s Equity Business

Magdalena (Magda) Smolewski holds PhD, MA, and Hon. BA (with High Distinction) in socio-cultural anthropology from the University of Toronto. For many years, Magda has been an instructor at the University of Toronto and currently is on the faculty of the Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC, as a graduate supervisor. She is a retired, long-time Research Director at the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) and worked at the Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs as a lead for relationships and policy divisions. Magda co-authored (with Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux) Historic Trauma and Aboriginal Healing, published in 2004 by the Aboriginal Healing Foundation and now she provides services as a consultant to Indigenous organizations across Canada, including work on reconciliation, youth leadership, 2SLGBTQ+, Indigenous-led education and training, urban issues, violence against Indigenous women, wellness, healing, and trauma-informed approaches.

Laura Sparling
Manager, EarlyON and Special Needs Resourcing, Peel Region

Laura Sparling has been a Manager with Early Years and Child Care Services, Peel Region for two years. In that role she is responsible for EarlyON, Peel Inclusion Resource Services, system access and inclusion. In 2024 Laura was the co-chair for OMSSA's Special Needs Resourcing working group where she supported the development of OMSSA's Special Needs Resourcing Report. Laura is currently co-chairing OMSSA's EarlyON working group and its 2025 EarlyON discussion paper. Prior to moving to Peel Region Laura worked with the Ontario Public Service for 14 years in a variety of roles including many years with the Ministry of Education's Early Years and Child Care Division.

Erin Stankevicius
Superintendent, Community Paramedicine Program, Toronto Paramedic Services

John Stapleton
Consultant, Open Policy Ontario

John Stapleton worked for the Ontario Government in the Ministry of Community and Social Services for 28 years in the areas of social assistance policy and operations. During his early career, John was senior policy advisor to the Social Assistance Review Committee. His most recent government work concerned the implementation of the National Child Benefit in the late 1990’s and 2000’s.

John was a senior research associate with the Neighbourhood Change Research Partnership at the University of Toronto. He is former Chair  of Ontario Soldiers’ Aid Commission and is a volunteer with West Neighbourhood House and a former volunteer with WoodGreen Community Services of Toronto. John was Research Director for the Task Force on Modernizing Income Security for Working-Age Adults in Toronto and was the co-chair of the working group associated with this project. He is a former Innovation Fellowship at the Metcalf Foundation. He teaches public policy.  He sat on federal Minister Duclos’ advisory committee on poverty reduction, the Minister of Community and Social Services advisory group on social assistance reform and Toronto’s advisory group on poverty reduction.

John has published op-eds in the Globe & Mail, National Post and the Toronto Star. He has written reviews for the Literary Review of Canada and written articles and studies for Ideas that Matter, the University of Toronto, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the C.D. Howe Institute, Realize, the Caledon Institute, The Toronto Dominion Financial Group, the Metcalf Foundation, the Ontario Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth, Employment and Social Development Canada, Indian and Northern Affairs, Civic Action, Policy Options. Toronto.com and many others.

John is the former chair of the Board of West Scarborough Community Legal Services and is a member of the Council on Aging of Ottawa’s Expert Panel on Income Security. He is the Past President of the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame and remains on its Board of Directors.

Kirby Steinhoff
OMSSA Trainer, integrative consulting inc.

Kirby Steinhoff (she/her) has been in the employment and social services field for over 10 years, starting as a frontline crisis counsellor in a domestic violence shelter and transitioning to Ontario Works case management is currently employed with the City of Greater Sudbury as a caseworker. 

Kirby has worked as a trainer and policy developer and is considered a subject matter expert and has trained both front-line and supervisory staff on various SAMS modules and directives.

Kirby has completed an Undergraduate degree from Western University in Women’s Studies and Feminist Research, a diploma in Human Resources from Fanshawe College and Master of Arts in Labour Studies from McMaster University with research focused on social policy, inclusion and contemporary work. 

Ria Sutton
Program Analyst, Client Services, Housing Services, Peel Region

Ria Sutton is a Program Analyst in Client Services for Peel Region’s Housing Services division. Ria has led the implementation of the Needs Based Portable Subsidy program since August 2023 which has secured housing for a large number of individuals in the region’s homeless population and makes housing more affordable for households at-risk of eviction.

Mary Taylor
Housing Program Coordinator, DRLHC, Region of Durham, Social Services

Mary Taylor is a Housing Program Coordinator with the Region of Durham. With a primary focus on tenant need and eviction prevention, Mary brings empathetic care and advocacy to this tenant support role. She has over 13 years’ experience in human services, with previous positions in Social Services including Caseworker, Employment Counsellor, and Ontario Works Supervisor. She specializes in supports for vulnerable populations and holds a Communications degree from the University of Waterloo.

Barb Tierney
Mesa Coordinator, County of Renfrew

Barb is committed to driving meaningful structural changes that enhance support for the most vulnerable members of the community. With a passion for creating low-barrier access to essential services, Barb works collaboratively as the Mesa Coordinator for the County of Renfrew to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use health, and mental health challenges can be provided with wrap-around supports. Barb believes in an approach that is rooted in compassion and collaboration, fostering partnerships with various stakeholders to build a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Henry Wall
CAO, Kenora District Services Board

Henry Wall is the CAO for the KDSB and reports directly to a Board of Directors comprised of 13 elected municipal and territories without municipal organization officials. He has served on the OMSSA Board for nearly 2 consecutive terms, one of which as Treasurer. Having served on the OMSSA Board for nearly 4 years has given him a good understanding of the sector and the continued potential for OMSSA as an association and leader in the human services sector.

Henry is currently serving on a number of AMO task forces, provincial and regional health/justice/human services working groups and is an advisor on a Premier's council focused on creating equity of opportunity for Ontario youth in the labour market.

Henry has experience with human services sector co-planning integration with Ministry of Health programs and services, as well as co-design and co-planning integrations with corrections and justice systems. Henry also serves as Co-Chair of the All Nations Health Partners, where he reports directly to a leadership board comprised of Mayors, Chiefs and Grand Chief. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, is the CAO lead for the Northern Ontario Service Deliverers Association and served as the Treasurer for the Sioux Lookout Non-Profit Housing Corporation (2009-2014).

Of particular interest to Henry is the involvement that he had in the process that led to the development and signing of the Sioux Lookout Friendship Accord between the Municipality of Sioux, Lac Seul First Nation, Slate Falls First Nation and Cat Lake First Nation; the creation of the All Nations Health Partners and partnerships between KDSB and 17 First Nation communities. Henry believes that as Service Managers we need to develop a process that recognizes that there is mutual need for Indigenous peoples to be involved in all aspects of community development to ensure the ongoing development of culturally sensitive services that meet the needs of all people.

Lauren Waugh
Program Manager - Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Region of Durham

Lauren Waugh is the Program Manager, Policy and Strategic Initiatives (PSI) in the Children’s Services Division (CSD) at the Region of Durham. The PSI team collaborates with all CSD teams, and with internal and community partners to conduct local research and promote the use of evaluation findings to implement data-informed, evidence-driven decisions and initiatives with the early learning and child care community. It also leads the development of policies, strategies and best practices based on community needs. As the program lead, Lauren has a commitment to ongoing research, actively supporting knowledge mobilization and exchange and leads continuous quality improvement initiatives through collaboration.

Dave Wiedrick
Director, Bylaw Compliance and Security, City of Brantford

Dave was born and raised in Brantford and joined the Brantford Police Force in February 1987 retiring in February 2017 after working uniform patrol, Major Crime, was in charge of the Vice Unit, the quality assurance team, and oversaw the entire Uniform division for the service and Admin section and then retiring at the rank of Det-Inspector.  During his career, Dave was an Incident Commander overseeing major police events and the Tac team for 12 years.

In addition to his more than 100 police and leadership courses Dave has certificates and degrees from Mohawk College, Dalhousie University, McMaster University and University of Toronto Rotman School of Business.

Some highlights of Dave’s career beyond his hundreds of solved cases, was volunteering for make a Wish and taking a terminally ill boy to Disney World for the day, Dave was also selected to attend the Simon Wiesenthal Center for Tolerance in Los Angeles California, as well as being the Designated Door Opener (DDO) for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II when she attended Brantford in 1997. 

After retiring from policing at 51, Dave choose a similar slower enforcement path and became the Manager of Bylaw for the City of Guelph.   A few years later Dave joined the City of Brantford as the Director of Bylaw. He currently oversees Bylaw, Property Standards, Security, Parking and Animal Control.

Dave is married to his wife Marie, of 36 years and has a son and daughter and son-in-law and a grandson named Walker. 

Darryl Wolk
Manager, Policy Development and Public Affairs, OMSSA

Darryl Wolk has served as Manager of Policy Development and Public Affairs for 8 years at OMSSA. His portfolio includes advocacy in the areas of social assistance, employment, housing, homelessness, child care, public health, long-term care and community safety and wellbeing.  Darryl graduated from the University of Windsor with an MBA and has 15 years of work experience in the municipal, health and social services sectors.

Bethany Zack
Policy Development Officer, City of Toronto, Children's Services

Bethany (she/her) is a Policy Development Officer with Toronto Children’s Services. In her time with Children’s Services, she has supported the development of a 2SLGBTQ+ Community Advisory, coordinated the 2SLGBTQ+ early learning and child care research project, and supported the launch of Celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ Children and Families learning materials and e-learning modules. Bethany holds a Master of Public Health and Master of Social Work.

Nadine Zacks
Partner, Hicks Morley

Nadine Zacks is a labour and employment lawyer in Hicks Morley’s Toronto office. She provides advice and representation to employers on a wide range of labour and employment issues including grievance arbitrations, wrongful dismissals, employment standards, employment contracts, human rights and accommodation, disability management, and occupational health and safety.

Nadine regularly appears before tribunals, arbitrators, mediators and courts to advocate for her clients. When not litigating for her clients, Nadine provides proactive, practical solutions to the most complex problems, helping employers navigate the nuances of the laws applicable to their workplaces. The wide scope of her practice enables Nadine to advise on a broad spectrum of subjects while always taking the time to understand each client’s individual needs and concerns. She respects the significance and urgency of the challenges faced by her clients and prides herself on responding thoughtfully and quickly, often identifying potential issues and developing preventative policy updates and training sessions to mitigate any future legal risk.

Nadine is the chair of the firm’s Occupational Health and Safety Practice Group and regularly assists clients with responding to and defending orders and charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

Nadine spent her childhood figure skating and now spends her free time back in the arena, watching her two young children play hockey and learn to skate, or skating with them on her backyard rink.