Seasoned professional with in depth skills in community development and organizational management. In-depth experience with, and knowledge of, grass roots programming, community coordination and fostering healthy group dynamics. A creative problem solver with the ability to manage complex organizational and interpersonal relationships.
Community-focused professional with proven track record in building strong relationships and executing community programs. Known for ability to collaborate effectively within teams and adapt to changing circumstances to meet individual and community needs. Skilled in outreach, communication, and fostering partnerships to achieve impactful outcomes and build trust within communities.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Community & Partnership Developer (Inclusive Schools & Community Services)
YORK REGION DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
08.2010 - Current
Investigated, develop and implement community partnerships and programs with key stakeholders and professionals across York Region to ensure equitable and inclusive practices
Identified and addressed issues and gaps in services within schools in York Region which were designated as high priority schools based on high levels of poverty and other areas of marginalization
Hired, trained and supervised culturally specific staff (3) to work with marginalized communities (2011-2014)
Worked collaboratively with school staff in delivering workshops on early learning opportunities (Promoting Home Language, Early Literacy Initiatives, Play Based Learning, Transition to Kindergarten Series)
Developed and delivered innovative workshops on Poverty and Classism which were presented to the Ministry of Education, York University, York Region District School Board, Halton Catholic Board of Education, Grand Bend OISE, Quest and various Internal YRDSB teams
Mobilized key community stakeholders to develop and implement various programs in schools experiencing high levels of poverty
Developed funding proposals with community partners to increase funding opportunities (Community Investment Funds, Region of York, Food for Learning)
Trained staff and community partners to identify and address areas of need within 'at risk' communities
Project Lead - CONNEX NEWCOMER YOUTH PROGRAM
(secondment) York Region District School Board
02.2022 - 03.2024
Optimized resource utilization by accurately forecasting project needs and allocating resources accordingly throughout the project lifecycle.
Managed budget of of approximately $850,000
Collaborated with interdepartmental teams to ensure seamless integration of various project components.
Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
Partnered with school staff, Administration, and community partners to facilitate a responsive program to meet Newcomer Needs
Implemented best practices in documentation management systems that improved efficiency, accessibility, and security of project-related information.
Adapted project plans in response to changing requirements, minimizing disruptions to project timelines.
Streamlined communication channels between departments, facilitating smoother project execution.
Reported monthly to federal funders on project budget, progress, and technical problems.
Recruited and oversaw personnel to achieve performance and quality targets.
Facilitated weekly workshops to newcomer youth in targeted schools in adherence to project requirements
Collect and collate weekly session feedback in order to Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution.
Coordinated with community stakeholders to define project scopes, aligning objectives with business goals.
Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement.
Balanced multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining focus on priorities and deadlines.
Developed and implemented project plans and budgets to ensure successful execution.
Facilitated workshops for newcomer youth to collect project requirements and user feedback.
Professor, School of Early Childhood Education (diploma Program - Part Time)
SENECA COLLEGE
01.2000 - Current
Develop, coordinate and implement various curriculum and field courses in Early Childhood Education
Specialty areas include Advocacy and Anti Bias Curriculum, Child Abuse -Recognition, Responding, Healthy and Safe Environments, School Age Curriculum and Development, Interpersonal Relationships and Communication
Program Lead -CONNEX NEWCOMER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
(secondment) York Region District School Board
10.2018 - 03.2021
Developed a funding proposal to support the successful settlement of Newcomer Youth resulting in securing over $835,000 over a 3 year period, 2021-2024
Developed and delivered a 3 year Newcomer program that evaluated the effectiveness of Mentorship programs with Newcomer youth resulting in increase in overall feelings of acceptance, belonging and engagement
Supervised and managed the day to day operations of the project, in conformity with the department, Ministry of Immigrant and Refugee Canada, schools and system's needs
Supervised, provided direction to York University research team over a 3 year period in order to gauge effectiveness of program
Supervised and supported 2 program, staff, 4 teacher candidates and numerous volunteers
Managed a budget of $680,000, and provided appropriate financial reports
Developed and delivered in school training to staff addressing Issues Facing Immigrant, Refugee Students
Developed, managed and supervised financial requirements and reports in accordance with YRDSB and IRCC guidelines
Worked collaboratively and maintained excellent working relationships with funder, system partners, internal and external stakeholders and with various departments within YRDSB (ILL, Reception Centre, Funded Services, ISCS)
E-Learning Professor (Resource Teacher Program)
SENECA COLLEGE
01.1999 - 04.2004
Enhanced student understanding by designing interactive and engaging lectures.
Developed innovative teaching methods tailored to diverse learning styles, enhancing student comprehension and success rates.
Developed diversified course curriculum to meet regulatory standards and support learning objectives required for working with families and children with exceptionalities.
Executive Director
COMMUNITY NETWORK OF CHILDCARE PROVIDERS
01.1996 - 01.2000
Managed agency providing leadership and training to over 90 non-profits childcare centres across the GTA
Coordinated various workshops, training seminars and staff development opportunities for childcare staff and Board of Directors
Responsible for the hiring, dismissal, performance appraisals and growth plans of agency staff
Operational and contractual responsibilities and reporting
Deputation and presentations to various levels of government
Membership- re-launched corporate membership resulting in +20% increase in centre and corporate memberships
Annual Conference and Training - developed and delivered successful conferences for over 200 delegates
Professor School of Early Childhood Education (Continuing Education)
SENECA COLLEGE
05.1992 - 01.2000
Executive Director
MARKHAM NEIGHBOURHOOD SUPPORT CENTRE
01.1993 - 01.1996
Secured new funding sources in excess of $160,000 in two years
Developed, implemented and secured funding for three new parent child resource centres
Developed and implemented York Region's first Youth Drop in Centre at Markville Mall
Launched various fundraising campaigns initiatives resulting in revenue of $50,000 in a two-year period
Child Care Consultant
COMMUNITY SERVICES COUNCIL OF YORK REGION
01.1991 - 01.1993
Coordinator, Recreation & Leisure
YORK SOUTH ASSOC FOR COMMUNITY LIVING
01.1988 - 01.1991
Supervised department which delivered various leisure and recreation programs for individuals with exceptionalities and their families.
Secured funding grant for the development of an innovated program to support adults with exceptionalities in planning their vacation interests
Education
B.P.H. & E. (specialty in Health Promotion ) -
University of Toronto
Principles in Adult Education -
Seneca College
Skills
Community engagement
Partnership development
Community integration
Transition planning
Effective communication
Accomplishments
Developed and successfully secured Federal grant of approximately $850,000 to develop and investigate different delivery modules for newcomer youth programs in York Region District School Board. (2022-2024)
Developed, coordinated and hosted for Breakfast event for Consulate General of Israel, in recognition of $6800 donation.
Child and Youth Counsellor/ Intervention Support Worker at York Region District School BoardChild and Youth Counsellor/ Intervention Support Worker at York Region District School Board