The Team
Our team is greatly supported by over 180 volunteers, who play a crucial role in bringing our programs, administrative functions, and successful events to life.
Jaya James
Executive Director
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519-265-4299 ext 22-
I can help you with answering questions about how Hope House operates and our goals for the future. As the Executive Director, I am responsible to ensure we have a clear focus and are moving towards our mission and vision. I provide leadership to our social enterprise, the Better Food Co that produces prepared meals each month for sale and supports our food programs. I often say that my job summed up is to move everything out of the way so my staff can do their jobs to the best of their ability.
Mark Filo
Facility Manager
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519-265-4299-
I can help you by providing a clean and comfortable environment for you when you come visit us at Hope House.
Gillian Cornell
Programs Director
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519-265-4299 ext 29-
I manage the many programs at Hope House. I coach our support staff and help with the day to day as needed.
Brady Finn
Ongoing Support Worker
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519-265-4299 ext. 23-
I assist community members through system navigation and offer ongoing support.
Jason Schwartzentruber
Custodian
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I am the Hope House Custodian. I maintain the building in various capacities. From cleaning to general building repair, I complete the tasks required.
Brian Baker
Food Production Lead
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Brian works with the Community Dietitian and the Food Market Supervisor to determine what excess food items need to be used and develop meals that support good health. He also creates the food production schedule as well as train and supervise volunteers in preparing these meals.
He also supervises the volunteers during the Better Food Co production weeks. This includes supporting the lead volunteer Better Food Co chef in the preparation of the meal they have designed.
John Collins
Community Engagement Manager
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519-265-4299 ext 27-
I can help show you where your dollars go within the walls of Hope House and the community we serve. I can tailor a giving program that reflects both your personal or Corporate goals with a yearly review. Understanding our programs and the people we serve begins by building relationships with our Champions. I welcome the opportunity to showcase our amazing facility with a guided tour and program information.
Molly Roberts
Community Dietitian
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I manage the Seniors ’ Community Food Market at seven subsidized housing locations across Guelph. At these markets I address immediate food security needs by providing nutritious food and necessities. I also provide a meaningful point of social contact, helping seniors stay safe, active, and connected to their community.
Rainbow Chow
Tax & Benefit Coordinator
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519-265-4299 ext. 35-
I coordinate our volunteer income tax preparers to complete income tax and benefit returns for eligible individuals, to ensure they receive, or continue to receive the benefits and credits they are entitled to. I will also give support to community members for other tax-related concerns.
Oby Onugha
Communications
Manager
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519-265-4299 ext 33-
I create, implement and oversee communications, be it internal or external, that effectively describe and promote Hope House and its programs. I also help connect people to Hope House via email newsletters, the website and social media. My role is key in keeping the community, volunteers, and donors connected and up-to-date.
Jennifer Jolley
Intake Support Worker
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519-265-4299 ext. 26-
I can help you register to access the services provided at Hope house. I can also help you navigate other supports and resources in the community.
Pam Harrison
Community Farmer
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226-510-5254-
I am the Community Farmer. I run the farm and decide the growing plan. Serving vulnerable people in Guelph, the North Field Food Farm produces veggies using organic methods for distribution in the Hope House Free Food Market as well as other food security organizations in our community. I also lead our horticultural therapy sessions.
Nicole Barrette
Volunteer & Placement Coordinator
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519-265-4299 ext 32-
I am responsible for ensuring the safe and effective delivery of Hope House immediate relief programs by onboarding, training, and supervising volunteers. I oversee and provide support to individuals participating in the Ease into Work program. Please contact me if you’re interesting in volunteering!
Meg Ryan
Executive Assistant
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519-265-4299 ext. 31-
I assist the Executive Director and the management team with the day to day operations of the organization, and I help to ensure that Hope House can continue to operate at maximum capacity.
Susan Tough
Food Market Supervisor
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519-265-4299 ext 24-
I keep our Food Market stocked and organized. I help community members shop the market for food and other items while giving guidance on how to make the most of their budget, while giving ideas on nutritious and delicious recipes.