OCHE - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Acting Administrative Audit Assistant
Alina is an accomplished and well-rounded professional with a diverse background. Holding an LLB degree in international law and having studied Human Rights, she boasts an in-depth understanding of global legal intricacies and a deep-rooted passion for promoting justice and equality. Adding to her qualifications, she holds a social service work diploma from Ontario's Seneca College, underscoring Alina's commitment to community betterment.
Alina's journey includes an enriching internship at the Parliament of Canada in 2016, where she immersed herself in legislative processes and contributed to the nation's governance. This pivotal experience granted her unparalleled insights into the inner workings of the government. Alina thrived at the Toronto Community Housing Corporation, putting her social service knowledge to practical use, assisting and advocating for residents. Having played an integral role in conducting audits, she has showcased meticulous attention to details and an unyielding commitment to transparency and operational compliance. Armed with a comprehensive education, an array of practical experiences, and a resolute dedication to fostering positive change, Alina is primed to make meaningful contributions.
Cynthia Summers served as Toronto Community Housing's first Commissioner of Housing Equity from 2014 to 2022. Cynthia took an idea and turned it into a reality, building a strong foundation of fairness and advocacy at OCHE, which will carry on long into the future.
Over Cynthia's eight years leading OCHE, Cynthia's commitment to tenants was been unparalleled and together with her team she had significant positive impact. To learn more about her achievements at OCHE, visit our newsroom to read a statement by Timothy Murphy, Chair, Toronto Community Housing Board of Directors.
Cynthia left the office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity on August 22, 2022, taking on an exciting new chapter in her career. We are grateful for her commitment to our communities and wish her well in the future.
Glenn joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity in August 2017, bringing with him an extensive background in Community Counselling, Adventure Therapy and Case Management. Glenn's career began with the Ministry of Community and Social Services working with vulnerable youth in alternative custody environments to help them turn their lives around. Glenn continued his work with youth at the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka working as an outreach counsellor and team leader for youth involved in the justice system. Glenn joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity because he recognizes the foundational role that stable housing plays in the mental and physical well-being of the most marginalized and vulnerable members of our community.
Mary Grace brings with her a background in Journalism and brings to her role her skills in investigative research, communication and report writing. Mary Grace joined the OCHE team because she is passionate about advocating for fair process and helping vulnerable Tenants. Her her goal is to influence people's understanding of what it means to be vulnerable, and is committed to ensuring that Tenants have the resources needed to maintain housing stability.
Job Titles:
- Interim Commissioner of Housing Equity
Melanie is a client-focused collaborative leader who brings more than 17 years of experience in social housing. Melanie brings to the role a deep understanding of the legislative and policy framework for Social Housing, as well as the community resources that are available to support clients who are experiencing challenges. Melanie has been with the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity (OCHE) since its inception and understands its role as an independent accountability office within TCHC.
Melanie joined TCHC in 2006, where she held various positions, prior to joining the OCHE team in 2014. During this this time Melanie worked in various TCHC communities, including Jamestown and Lawrence Heights.
Melanie was a member of the inaugural OCHE team, serving as an Early Resolutions Officer from 2014 to 2017, then in 2017 became Senior Advisor to the Commissioner.
Nancy joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity in June 2018, bringing with her a widespread Social Work background. Nancy holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Social Work from York University, and is a Registered Social Worker.
Throughout her career, Nancy has worked with the Domestic Violence Criminal Courts, frail and vulnerable seniors dealing with Alzheimer's and Dementia, and most recently, as a Caseworker with the Ontario Disability Support Program. With a focus on person-centered approaches to social work practice, Nancy joined the OCHE because she recognizes the need to advocate for those who are most vulnerable in society while respecting people's values and putting people at the center of their care.
Sandy joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity in August 2017, bringing with her an extensive Social Work background. Sandy holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work with a minor in Public Administration from Ryerson University, and is a Registered Social Worker. Sandy's career began as a Child Protection Worker with the Children's Aid Society where she assisted children, youth and their families facing challenges with addictions, mental health, abandonment, abuse, human trafficking, domestic violence and homelessness. With a focus on critical approaches to social work practice, Sandy joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity because she recognizes the need to bring awareness on how vulnerable populations are served and is committed to addressing their needs in a humane way.
Shahla joined the OCHE in August 2022 and has over 16 years of experience in property management. Shahla has worked in both the public and private sector and served as a resource for policy compliance in both sectors.
Shahla joined the OCHE because she believes that housing stability is the core social determinant of health that influences an individual's well-being and she is committed to a client focused experience that is supportive and welcoming.
Steven holds a Bachelor's degree in Geographic Analysis from Ryerson University. He has a background in the public sector, including international experience at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. Prior to joining the team at the OCHE, Steven worked in the Legal Department at TCHC. Steven is passionate about creating connections with tenants and providing support to navigate the community housing system.
Vernessa joined the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity in March 2022, bringing with her over thirteen years of case management experience within the Toronto Shelter, Support and Housing System. Working as a Housing Support Worker, Vernessa assisted people experiencing homelessness secure and maintain housing by offering support and empowering them with the tools necessary to maintain successful tenancies. Before joining the OCHE team, Vernessa was a Tenant Services Administrator with TCHC where she had the opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the Arrears Collection Process. Vernessa values the importance of providing service with empathy, compassion and respect and uses this in her day to day engagement with tenants.