MEET OUR TEAM

Chair

I began my career supporting autistic adolescents in a residential training centre before pursuing nursing studies at BCIT. I later taught children with diverse learning needs in the elementary school system. I hold a degree in Sociology from Simon Fraser University and completed Art Therapy training at the Vancouver Art Therapy Institute. Through these experiences, I developed a strong foundation working with children, youth, and adults across educational and care settings.

After completing my Art Therapy training, I worked in the Downtown Eastside with PACE Society as a Peer Support Coordinator. I then joined Crabtree Corner (YWCA), where I served as Supportive Housing Program Manager for 18 years. My work focused on family wellness and reunification, supporting and advocating for single mothers to retain or regain custody of their children.

Shortly after beginning my work at Crabtree, I became involved in early conversations about establishing a Neighbourhood House in the Downtown Eastside and was later recruited to serve as Board Chair.

I have known the Downtown Eastside since childhood and have witnessed its many changes over the decades. I am deeply committed to this neighbourhood and honoured to contribute to work that continues to strengthen, nourish, and support our community.

Treasure

Matt is a Partner at Crowe MacKay LLP and a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) with extensive experience advising private enterprise and not-for-profit organizations on financial reporting, tax, and governance matters. Matt serves as Treasurer of the Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House, where he supports strong financial stewardship and long-term sustainability. He is committed to using his professional expertise to strengthen community-based organizations and advance positive social impact. Matt is a lifelong Vancouverite, and when not in the office, enjoys spending time with his wife and three young daughters.

Director

Director

Director

Director

Sonya volunteered with the DTESNH for several years before joining the Board in 2024.   With a passion for community and a background in banking, she is eager to share her positive energy and skillset.   Professionally, Sonya has worked in banking for over 28 years specializing in real estate and Indigenous lending.  Outside of work and volunteering, you will find her outdoors enjoying the local parks and mountains and keeping up with her 2 teenagers. 

Director

Immigrated with her family from Hong Kong at the age of 5 and grew up in Burnaby and Vancouver. After working in the non-profit sector (immigrant and settlement and Chinatown BIA), she began a career in city planning, including her current role at the City of Vancouver where she supports community-serving spaces. Ada has previously served on the board of a non-profit childcare, and in her spare time she enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her husband + two kids + two cats.

Director

Laurie is a Filipino-Canadian law graduate and policy professional who brings global perspective and local heart to her work. Having lived in five countries, she carries a deep appreciation for multiculturalism, connection, and community into every space she’s part of. Laurie currently works with the BC Public Service and volunteers as a youth mentor with the Urban Native Youth Association and as a Team Lead with Amici Curiae. She approaches governance holistically and in her free time can be found travelling, cooking for loved ones, or exploring the Pacific Northwest with her sweet sidekick pup, Pirate.

Director