Kamaljit Lehal Board Chair
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Lawyer with her own practice with a focus on immigration and mediation
Board Member 1996 Board Chair (2019 to present)
Background and Contribution
Former employee of Surrey Community Services Society as a childcare worker in 1982/83
Legal skills and knowledge
Personal perspective as an individual from the South Asian community (a key community group) Experience as a woman running a business and balancing family life with four children
Other Activities and Community Involvement Past and current positions held and participation in community and legal committees including:
Board Chair, Habitat Housing Society
Member of the Community Coordination Committee for Women ’ s Safety of EVA BC (Ending Violence Association BC) Member of FREDA advisory committee (SFU Centre for research on violence against women).
Supervising Lawyer on two Law Foundation of BC research projects.
Member of Mediate B.C. Civil Roster and Family Roster
Certified Arbitrator
Past Chair of the CBA National Equality Committee
Member of Executive on the CBA National Women Lawyer ’ s Forum (2019 to Current) Member of Executive on the CBA National Immigration Section (2019 to 2022)
Member of SABA BC (the South Asian Bar Association)
Member of the TLABC (Trial Lawyers Association of BC)
Civil Resolution Tribunal Member (2015 to 2019)
Alternate Chair of the BC Review Board (1998 to 2010)
Past member of the Indo - Canadian Women ’ s Organization
Past captain of all women ’ s dragon boat team
Jeff Scott, ICD.D
Residence
Delta
Occupation
President & CEO, Coastal Pacific Xpress
Board Member 2021 Board Co - Chair
Member, Risk Management Committee
Member, New Housing Development Committee
Background and Contribution Jeff obtained a Bachelor of Commerce Finance from the University of British Columbia. During his university days, he worked for the Port of Vancouver and was encouraged by a colleague to attend British Columbia Institute of Technology ’ s Diploma in Shipping and Marine Operations program. Jeff was headed to the RCMP when unintentionally, he followed in his father ’ s footsteps and was assigned a work project at Fraser Surrey Docks as part of his second term. He started out as a dispatcher and spent the next 28 years working through all departments and areas of the organization. During the last 10 years, Jeff was appointed President and CEO at the height of the global financial crisis. He lead the organization through restructuring, diversification, rebuilding and most recently a sale. Jeff stayed on until the end of April 2020. Jeff joined Coastal Pacific Xpress as President and CEO after their recent divestment from Versacold. Both FSD and CPX are head quartered in Surrey. He is also on the board of Fibreco, a privately owned bulk materials handling terminal located in North Vancouver on Burrard Inlet. Other Activities and Community Involvement Recently, Jeff had been a director on the Reach Child and Youth Development Foundation where they recently completed a successful capital campaign to build a new $5 million outreach and services facility in downtown Ladner. The new building has allowed them to support more children with special needs and their family. Jeff is currently on the board of the Fraser River Discovery Center. The Center provides a place to learn, explore, share, understand and celebrate the diversity of the living, working Fraser River. The Musqueam Indian Band (MIB) and the Fraser River Discovery Centre Society (FRDCS) are developing the Fraser River Discovery Centre as x ʷ tatə l̕l əm, a Place of Learning about the Indigenous heritage and teachings of the Fraser River. Jeff has volunteered at local community events and was actively involved as a youth coach for many years in local soccer, baseball and hockey associations. Previously, Jeff was Chair of the Board of the BC Maritime Employers Association and is currently Chair of the Fraser River Industrial Association advocating for sustainable and responsible economic activity in the Lower Fraser River. Jeff is a Quantum Shift Fellow for the Ivey Business School and a member of McKay CEO Forums. Jeff recently obtained the Institute of Corporate Directors designation (ICD.D) from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.
Michelle Mann , OD, MPH Board Director
Residence
Langley
Occupation
Optometrist/Owner of Mishe Optometry located in Surrey
Board Member
2022
Board Secretary
Member, Risk Management Committee
Background and Contribution
Born and raised in Surrey and understands the needs of the community First generation Indo - Canadian so has a personal perspective of the growing South Asian community in the Valley Medical perspective with a public health background Independent small business owner
Education
MCPHS University | Worcester, MA | September 2014 to May 2018 Master of Public Health – May 2018 Doctorate of Optometry – May 2018 Simon Fraser University | Burnaby, BC | September to May 2013 Bachelor of Sciences Major: Health Sciences – Life Science and Biostatistics
Other Activities and Community Involvement
Unite for Sight (2010) Travelled to Ghana to provide vision screenings and eye care services to patrons. American Optometric Association (2013 to 2017) Student member Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (2013 to 2017) Student member MPH Thesis (2018) Examined the relationship between individuals with history of marijuana use and likelihood to develop glaucoma. BC Doctors of Optometry Quality Assurance Committee (2022 to present) Discipline Committee (2019 to present) Langley Memorial Hospital Giving Hearts Gala Committee (2021 to present) Township of Langley Agricultural Advisory + Economic Enhancement Committee (2022) Township of Langley Heritage Committee (2022 to present)
Hobbies
Metro Women's Soccer – Division One | 2019 to present Playing soccer at a competitive level since the age of 5
Devinder Sekhon Board Treasurer
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Chief Financial Officer Non - Profit Sector
Board Member
2021
Board Treasurer
Chair, Finance Committee
Education
UBC Vancouver, BC Master of Business\Health Administration
FP Canada Institute Canadian Certified Financial Planner
Chartered Professional Accountant - CPA, CGA
Awards and Publications
CRA Excellence in Service and Innovation Award 2001 Queen ’ s Gold Jubilee Medal (for Community work) 2002 Author, study paper : “ Barriers to Cost - effective Elder Care in British Columbia ”
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Habitat Housing Society (Surrey, BC) Treasurer and Board Member (2021 to present) Development Disabilities Association (Richmond, BC) Board Member, Treasurer ( December 2017 - Present) Promoting Community Engagement 411 Seniors Services Society (Vancouver, BC) Treasurer and Board Member September 2013 to 2018 Advanced negotiations with the City of Vancouver for new seniors centre. City of Surrey Member, Library Board 2002 to 2005 Progressive Intercultural Services Society (PICS) Surrey, BC Board Member, Treasurer, President 1997 to 2005 PICS Charitable Foundation Board Member, President 2006 to 2014 Successfully added social housing and healthcare service provision to pre - existing settlement services.
Languages Fluent in English, Punjabi, and Hindi
Interests and Hobbies Cycling, golfing and spending time with family and friends
Amanda Bratch Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Consultant in business and healthcare
Board Member 2019
Chair, Governance Committee
Member, Finance Committee
Background and Contribution Amanda has a long history of working in our community in both a healthcare and finance capacity. She brings her personal perspective as an individual from the South Asian Community as well as her experience as a woman, balancing family life with two children.
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Member of Women In Sales (WINS) BC Past Manager of the Coastal FC Soccer Club Past Manager of the South Surrey White Rock Minor Softball Association Past member of the Indo - Canadian Women ’ s Organization Past member of an all women ’ s dragon boat team
Amardeep Khosa, B. Tech, MBA Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Director of IT NTT Data (BC Provincial Healthcare Contract)
Board Member 2023 Member, Risk Management Committee
Background and Contribution Telecommunications Engineer with 25+ years of experience as a Strategic Leader in IT Operations, Client Experience, and Global Technical Support across public and private sector having tenure with renowned brands like NTT Data, Technical Safety BC, Avigilon, Telesat, Clean Energy, Bell Canada, Rogers Communications, Armtec, and Network Innovations.
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Volunteer Activities & Contributions Founding Member ..................................................... 1999 to present Baba Farid Society Surrey (Non - Profit Organization) Stage & Lighting Director .......................................... 2000 to present Gurdip Arts Academy Victim Services ........................................................... 2005 to 2007 RCMP Surrey PAC President ............................................................. 2006 to 2008 Anniedale Traditional School Simon Fraser University (SFU) Master of Business Administration (MBA) ................................... 2015 Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) Computer Information Systems (Diploma) ................................. 1996 Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) Bachelor of Technology - Telecommunications (B. Tech) .............. 1990 Education Canadian Mental Health Association Road To Mental Resiliency ........................................................ 2018 APMG International ITIL Foundations ..................................................................... 2016 MICA Leadership Development (Director Level) ................................... 2006 BCIT Internet Security ..................................................................... 2004 Global Knowledge ICND (Cisco) ........................................................................... 2002 Telus Advance Learning Project Management ................................................................ 1999 Certifications
Languages
Fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and conversational Urdu
Hobbies
Landscaping, Golf, Travelling
Anoop Khosla Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
President, Director (four companies)
Board Member 2019 Member, New Housing Development Committee
Background and Contribution Anoop has a solid background in Management in a manufacturing environment. He is highly competent in all aspects of management from sales to finance and has extensive practical experience in development of strategic plans in project management. He is also skilled in conflict resolution. Anoop speaks English, Hindi, Punjabi and Swahili. Served on Canadian Standards Association committee for development of Roof Tile Products and Installation Standard Received Small Business Development Award from BC Ministry for Small Business
Received Diversity Award from Chamber of Commerce
Served as Chairman of the Canadian Roof Tile Manufacturing Association and represented Canadian Association in North American Association
Representative of technical and standard councils for CSA, ASTM, ICBO
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Advisory Council Member to ICBC President
Served as Director of Surrey Chamber of Commerce
Chaired as Director of South Fraser Child Development Center
Trustee of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society
Craig East Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Professional Designation
Chartered Professional Accountant - CPA, CA Institute of Corporate Directors - ICD.D
Occupation
Retired
Board Member 2001
Past Treasurer
Chair, Audit Committee
Member, Finance Committee
Member, Risk Management Committee
Background and Contribution
Financial and business expertise, board governance experience, Audit Committee, management skills, high interest in community - based organizations Director, Habitat Housing Society Member, Finance and Taxation Committee, Surrey Board of Trade Member, Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada Member, Institute of Corporate Directors 22 years in public practice with Deloitte (formerly Touche Ross) 30 years in various industries in Metro Vancouver
Past Community Involvement
Board Voice Society of BC
Elizabeth Fry Societies of Greater Vancouver and Ottawa British Columbia Automobile Association and related entities BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Advocacy Group - Whistler Strata Hotel Property Taxes Greater Vancouver Homebuilders Association Surrey Board of Trade VR953 Strata Corporation (Whistler Village Inn & Suites - a Strata Hotel)
Laura Lattanzio Board Director
Residence
White Rock
Occupation
Western Canadian Rehabilitation Manager
Board Member 2023
Office Held
Member, New Housing Development Committee
Background and Contribution •
Skilled manager with over 25 years of experience providing rehabilitation services for people with disabilities and disability management for employers within the private sector • CEO of a corporation that provides concierge services throughout North America • Former Employment Counsellor within the social services sector • Bachelor of Business Administration and Psychology from Simon Fraser University Numerous courses and training in leadership, board governance, privacy and confidentiality, and health and wellness Other Activities or Community Involvement Past and current positions held and participation in committees includes: - Community Integration Services Society, Past General Board Member, 2014 - 2021 - MPA Society, Past Chair (Member of the Governance Committee, Chair of the Nominations Committee, Member of the New Development Committee), 2004 - 2011 - Feed the West Coast Foundation, Present Board Member, 2023 - Cmolik Foundation, Mentor, 2023
Louella Mathias Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Management Consultant
Board Member
2013
Office Held
Chair, Risk Committee
Past Office Held
• Board Vice Chair • Member, Governance Committee
Background and Contribution
Risk Management
Senior leadership experience in the public and not for profit sectors Board Governance Strategic and business planning
Education
Master of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, BC Graduate Diploma, Public Relations, Xavier Institute of Communications, India Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Honours) , University of Mumbai, India Certifications Certificate, Canadian Risk Management, Global Risk Management Institute Certificate, Non - Profit Governance, BoardServeNYC, New York, USA Certificate, Leadership Development Program, The Niagara Institute, Ontario Certificate, Financial Management, BC Government Strategic and Business Planning, BC Government
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Currently, Co - Chair, Board Voice Society of BC Member, Social Services Sector Round Table BC – Advising government, and advocating for enhancements to the sector Served as Vice President, Goan Overseas Association, Vancouver, British Columbia Volunteered on the Policy Steering Committee of Volunteer Organizations Consortium of British Columbia Appointed by Order - in Council to Regional Grant Review Team, Ontario Trillium Foundation Served as Chair - Shelters Panel, United Way of Greater Toronto Served as Chair, South Asian Women ’ s Group, Toronto
Michael Kendler Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Retired Lawyer - real estate development, corporate and commercial law
Board Member
1990
Past Board Chair
Member, Audit Committee
Member, New Housing Development Committee
Background and Contribution
Legal expertise
Political connection
Knowledge of community (lived and worked in Surrey since 1975)
Understanding of Society Constitution and Bylaws
Rob Malli Board Director
Residence
White Rock
Occupation
IT Helpdesk Director, Chief Financial Officer Western Wealth Capital
Board Member 2023
Member, Audit Committee
Member, Finance Committee
Rob is an accomplished, ambitious and grounded professional with extended family roots in the Vancouver area. The previous 15 years of his career he was a progressive Chief Financial Officer in Banking, Public Transportation, Real Estate and Airport industries, leading strategic financial planning and all corporate services functions including strategic real estate development and management. Rob has been on a number of Boards over his career including United Way of Greater Vancouver (2018 - 2021), Alberta Motor Association (2014 - 2018), VanCity Development Corp, Vancouver Economic Development Commission, and a number of not for profit boards related to his children ’ s sports clubs. Rob prides himself on taking a people centric approach in the pursuit of ambitious and often lofty organizational ambitions. He believes that the achievement of these goals is most worthy of celebration when they are accomplished in a way that delivers people success, community betterment and strong financial returns. Rob is no stranger to rolling up his sleeves and working with staff at all levels to help ensure there is true alignment of people, process and vision. Being strategic and intentional is his passion and he is very excited to join and contribute as a member of the Board of directors.
Sandra J. Hentzen Board Director
Residence
Surrey
Occupation
Chief Operating Officer Independent Investigations Office of BC Ministry of Attorney General
Board Member 2023 Member, Governance Committee
Background and Contribution Sandra brings over 30 years' experience in the Human Resources field, with the past 15 years in executive roles. Prior to joining the IIO in 2018, Sandra was the Vice President, Human Resources at Coast Mountain Bus Company for two years, and retired from TransLink as the Executive Vice President, Human Resources after six years. Sandra is a strong people leader and mentor, with practical experience in conflict resolution, workplace investigations, and mediation. She is a certified executive coach and seeing others succeed is very rewarding to her.
Other Activities or Community Involvement
Current Volunteer Caregiver Support Group Facilitator with the Alzheimers Society of BC Previously served as a Governor (Board Director) - BC Corps of Commissionaires
Previously served as a Board Member of the Boys and Girls Club of SCBC
Previousy served as a Board Member of the BC Rapid Transit Company (SkyTrain)
Tim Beachy Board Director
Residence
Langley
Board Member
2011
Past Board Chair (2013 to 2019)
Chair, New Housing Development Committee
Member, Audit Committee
Background and Contribution
Community volunteer activism and leadership
Professional of experience in a wide range of consulting assignments
Senior management experience
Development of cooperatives and other community - based enterprises
Project design, organizational assessment
Strategic planning
Occupation
Retired, professional consulting practice.
Active as a Director/Officer in the following organizations:
Options Community Services Society
Chair, WJS Canada
Kamaljit Lehal BOARD DIRECTOR | 1996 to present
I was born in London England, my parents were born in Nairobi Kenya, my grandparents in Punjab India and my four children are first generation Canadians. My parents moved to Canada in 1975 when I was ten years old, it was a tough transition to leave my friends behind and go from being the oldest in the class to the youngest. Somewhere along the way I lost my British accent, however, I am told it resurfaces on occasion.
I always knew from a young age that I wanted to be a lawyer, in fact I was primed for it being the only girl in the family and having two brothers, I felt like I had to make sure my voice was heard. My parents would often remark when I stood my ground that I should be a lawyer. So I
HARPAL & KAMALJIT LEHAL Italy
went to UBC law school to pursue law and graduated in 1989, and was called to the bar in 1990, this year marks 31 years as a lawyer. Most of my career as a lawyer has been running my own firm and as a sole practitioner, this allowed me flexibility to raise my children and be there for them. However, I was also fortunate and continue to be fortunate to have the support of my husband who has stepped up to the plate in many ways to help raise our children and support my career and community involvement. As a family we have travelled extensively, which we love doing, from local trips within Canada to going abroad to Asia, Nairobi and various countries in Europe - we have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to create some amazing memories. However, I have been banned by my children from taking selfies on our travels as I am not very good at doing them, as can be seen from the spotlight photo. I have been on Options’ Board as since 1996, but my involvement with Options goes back well beyond that to when I was around 18 years old when I worked for Options as a Child Care Worker as a summer job. I also volunteered at one of the transition homes. There was no hesitation when I was asked to join the Board to accept the position, in fact it was a real privilege. I can truly say it has been an amazing journey, the past 24 years on the Board, and an honour to be around passionate and committed Board members that truly have the heart of the community at the forefront. It has been equally a privilege to be surrounded by strong leadership in the CEO, E-Team, and inspiring to see the commitment of staff and volunteers. I am beyond honored to be Chair of this amazing organization and seeing how it has grown to meet the needs of the communities it serves.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
JUNE 2021
Jeff Scott BOARD DIRECTOR | 2021 to present
I was born in Sarnia, Ontario as the youngest of four children and in 1971 my dad relocated us to Tsawwassen to start work at the newly constructed Roberts Bank Coal Terminal. My dad was born and raised in Baie Comeau, Quebec and my mom was from Bathurst, New Brunswick both from large families. With 34 aunts and uncles spread out throughout BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes it brought our cross country family road trips to a whole new level. I started dating my wife in my last year of high school, and we have now been married for 30 years. Carolyn is a primary teacher in the Richmond School District. We are blessed with three exceptional children. My oldest son is entering his second year of law school, my younger son will be finishing his last year of engineering and my daughter will soon be starting her last year of high school with the goal of attending medical school. Our family enjoys spending time together skiing, biking and hiking many of the local trails around the Lower Mainland. We also enjoy travelling and are fortunate to have journeyed together to many interesting parts of the world. I spend my remaining free time golfing, building, genealogy and volunteering. I obtained a Bachelor of Commerce Finance from the University of British Columbia. During my university days, I worked for the Port of Vancouver and was encouraged by a colleague to attend British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Diploma in Shipping and Marine Operations program. I was headed to the RCMP when unintentionally, I followed in my father’s footsteps and was assigned a work project at Fraser Surrey Docks as part of my second term. I started out as a dispatcher and spent the next twenty eight years working through all departments and areas of the organization. During the last 10 years, I had the privilege of being appointed President and CEO at the height of the global financial crisis. I lead the organization through restructuring, diversification, rebuilding and most recently a sale. I stayed on until the end of April 2020 and COVID presented a great opportunity to spend some quality time with my family. I accepted a new challenge in March 2021 joining Coastal Pacific Xpress as President and CEO after their recent divestment from Versacold. Both FSD and CPX are head quartered in Surrey. For the last 10 years I have been a director on the Reach Child and Youth Development Foundation where we recently completed a successful capital campaign to build a new $5 million outreach and services facility in downtown Ladner. The new building has allowed
us to support more
JEFF & CAROLYN SCOTT
children with special needs and their family. I have volunteered at
local community events and was actively involved as a youth coach for many years in local soccer, baseball and hockey associations. Previously, I was Chair of the Board of the BC Maritime Employers Association and currently Chair of the Fraser River Industrial Association advocating for sustainable and responsible economic activity in the Lower Fraser River. I am a Quantum Shift Fellow for the Ivey Business School and a member of McKay CEO Forums. I recently obtained the Institute of Corporate Directors designation (ICD.D) from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto where I met fellow Director Craig East. Craig had reached out to me during the final session of our Directors course and asked if I would be interested in joining the board at OCS. I had heard him talk passionately about his involvement and I liked the idea of getting involved in a larger more diverse community organization in Surrey. We also felt that my past experience in Risk Management, Governance and Community Engagement would be of benefit. Learning more, I was impressed with the wide range of social services OCS provides and all the different levels of community it supports. Through challenges some of my relatives and friends have unfortunately experienced, I have personally witnessed the benefits of several OCS programs. I am excited to join the board and bring my experience and passion for community to help support the great work that OCS, its staff and volunteers undertake every day.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
JUNE 2021
Michelle Mann BOARD DIRECTOR | 2022 to present
I am a first generation Indo-Canadian born and raised in Surrey, BC. I am the eldest of three (I have a younger sister and a younger brother). My parents worked tirelessly to provide us with a childhood that was rather busy. It was filled with various activities which led me to play soccer competitively during my youth. Sports taught me valuable life skills that I still carry with me to this day. My involvement in extracurriculars kept me away from trouble, my parents always stressed the importance of education and to go above and beyond what they could achieve. After high school, I attended Simon Fraser University where I achieved a Bachelor of Science. At a very young age, I always knew I wanted to be in the
medical field and it wasn’t until I was 16 years old I knew for sure I wanted to be an optometrist. I appreciated how this field of medicine is so intertwined with technology and allows you to have a good work-life balance. Throughout undergrad, my main objective was to do what I had to do to get into optometry school. So in 2013 I was accepted into MCPHS University and was going to finally pursue my life long dream. So I headed to Boston for optometry school and this was going to be my first time living on my own and also visiting the east coast. I was not nervous, I was ready. It was definitely challenging at times but I would not trade that experience for anything in the world. Not only did I learn to become an optometrist but I learned how to be fiercely independent. During my rotations, I was able to explore areas of the US that I may not have been able to see otherwise. I was very fortunate to live in Connecticut, Texas, and Utah. During my rotations, I was able to serve various groups from military veterans to the more vulnerable. At the end of my rotations, although I enjoyed my time in the US, I knew it was time for me to come home. After working at various optometry clinics across the lower mainland, I was presented the opportunity to open my very own clinic from scratch. This was a very overwhelming project but with the support of my family, I am happy to say that my clinic opened in Surrey (back to my roots) in June 2022. This has been a full circle moment for me and being able to provide such a valuable service to my community is such an honor. Moving from Boston, I came back and now live in Langley. When I moved back, I wanted to get involved to better understand the community I reside in. I think it is important to be a productive member of society and to do that, you have to be aware of the needs of our community. I am very fortunate to sit on a few committees in Langley (Langley Memorial Hospital and Township of Langley). These committees have taught me so much and I have met such wonderful and inspiring individuals. I was approached to join the Board of Directors of Options and I am truly honored to be sitting with individuals that come from diverse backgrounds but all have a common goal to do better for their community. I am looking forward to being a part of Options and continuing to contribute to their great work. MICHELLE MANN
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
NOVEMBER 2022
Devinder Sekhon BOARD DIRECTOR | 2021 to present
I was born in Punjab India in a small farming village. I spent all of my growing years in India at various schools and universities.
I met my wife, Bunty, while I was completing my Masters’ program at a
university in India. Bunty was born and raised in Canada but was visiting India at that time. I followed her to Canada, right after finishing my studies and we got married in 1978. We are blessed with 3 beautiful children, 2 girls and a boy who are not children any more. We are proud grandparents of 7 grandchildren.
xxxx
I went through all the ups and downs of settling in a new country and learned a lot of valuable lessons along the way. Hard work, perseverance and the generosity many wonderful friends, colleagues, and family have enabled me to be in a position to enjoy this wonderful life and the privilege of contributing to make and keep this community, a best place to live. I deeply believe in human equality and social justice. I believe a decent place one can call home is the very foundation of a civil society and a fundamental human right. Any opportunity I get to contribute to this cause is a privilege. I want to cherish and make the most of it. I have enjoyed various sports throughout my life to keep fit; including, playing field hockey on a university team in India, running long distance and participating in couple of marathons. For leisure, I play tennis, squash, golf and my new found love, cycling.
I am honoured to join this organization and look forward to serving for many years to come.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
DECEMBER 2021
Amanda Bratch BOARD DIRECTOR | 2019 to present
I was born in England and moved to Surrey when I was 7 years old. I met my husband, Parm through mutual friends soon after graduating from the University of BC, where I attained both my undergraduate as well as Master’s degrees. I was proud to help patients as a Clinical Dietitian and Diabetes Educator at Surrey Memorial hospital and have continued my career throughout Western Canada - always covering the Fraser Health Authority. Our twins, who were born at Surrey Memorial Hospital, are forging their own paths locally after recently graduating from university.
AMANDA BRATCH Canmore and Lake Louise Trip (2020)
I love hiking and enjoyed a 3-day trip in the Canmore and Lake Louise area in September 2020.
Wanting to give back to the community that has given me so much, I was delighted to be selected to join the Options’ Board of Directors in 2019. Current Board Chair and longtime friend, Kamaljit Lehal was instrumental in my initial introduction and has been an exceptional mentor during these early board years. The entire board has been very welcoming and supportive.
I serve on the Governance Committee and focus on embodying the values
of Options’ staff members who work endlessly for vulnerable members of our community; supporting them in a safe, consistent and secure manner.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
FEBRUARY 2021
Amardeep Khosa BOARD DIRECTOR | APRIL 2023 to present
I was born in a small village in Punjab, India, into a farming family. Among my dad’s 10 siblings, he was the only one who had received an education and worked as a teacher. My mother also pursued a teaching career who achieved recognition for her excellence, winning the President’s award for Best Teacher in India. However, her family had a strong military background, with her father serving in WWII and her grandfather in WWI. Growing up, my parents were dedicated community servers who volunteered in various organizations, and they became my greatest inspiration. Recognizing the importance of providing a brighter future for their children, my parents made the decision to move out of the small village when I was 7 years old. This move took us to a city, where I experienced the light bulb for the first time as there was no electricity power in our village as I grew up using oil wick lamps. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have witnessed and lived through the transition from a rustic way of life to the modern era, especially now that I reside in Canada—a dream come true. In 1989, while I was completing my Bachelor of Telecom Engineering degree, I married my amazing wife, Harinder. We met when she was visiting India from Canada. In 1991, as a young newlywed with an engineering degree in telecommunication, I immigrated to Canada and made Surrey our home. I faced numerous challenges as an immigrant, taking on various jobs while continuing my education. Eventually, in 1996, I established my career in the engineering field and held senior positions in different professional organizations. Apart from my professional pursuits in engineering and IT, I have always been passionate about sports. From my early school years to adulthood, I have enjoyed playing various sports such as Field Hockey, Cricket, Volleyball, and Tennis. Currently, I am transitioning to Golf as it offers a less physically demanding experience compared to my previous sports endeavors. Additionally, I have a deep love for landscaping and flowers. During the summer, you can often find me tending to the yard, nurturing flowers, shrubs, and engaging in mini landscaping projects. One of the most impactful experiences in my life was volunteering with the Victim Services division of the RCMP. Through this role, I had the privilege of supporting individuals and families during their most challenging times. This opportunity heightened my appreciation for the significance of community service and showcased the resilience and strength of those facing difficult situations. As a Trained Professional from the Canadian Mental Health Commission, specializing as a Mental Resiliency Trainer for Road to Recovery, I have acquired essential skills to support individuals in building mental resilience. Given the complexities
AMARDEEP KHOSA
of today’s world, I strongly believe that it is
crucial to prioritize the mental health of individuals and equip them with coping mechanisms to navigate life’s challenges successfully. Having successfully raised two daughters who have embarked on their own professional careers, I intimately understand the unique challenges faced by women and immigrants from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds in our society. As a feminist and an immigrant to Canada, I am grateful for the opportunities this country has provided. With the unwavering support of friends, family, and the community, I have lived a fulfilling and grateful life. Now, at this stage of my journey, I am eager to give back to the community. Earlier this year, I connected with Kamaljit to inquire about volunteering opportunities at Options. After a captivating conversation over coffee, she proposed the idea of joining the Board of Directors. Recognizing the value of my experience and background, she believed I could make a productive contribution to Options’ success. I am deeply grateful to Kamaljit for piquing my interest in this role. I feel fortunate and blessed to be part of an organization like Options that makes a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families through community support and services. I eagerly anticipate serving the Surrey community as a member of Options for many years to come.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
JUNE 2023
Anoop Khosla BOARD DIRECTOR | 2019 to present
I was born in Mombassa, Kenya and immigrated to Canada with my parents and siblings in 1972. We initially settled in Burnaby and relocated to Surrey in 1980, where I continue to reside. I am fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi and Swahili. I achieved post-graduate diplomas in Marketing at UBC and in Concrete technology at BCIT. These skills were the foundation of my work in the concrete and steel and concrete product industry. Today, my work continues in the industry as President of Midvalley Rebar Ltd. in Surrey. In 1977, I married my wife and we have a 23-year old son who is currently pursuing his own university studies. Our family’s favourite past time is travelling. We have journeyed to Kenya, India and Europe and enjoyed visiting with many family members in England and Germany.
ANOOP KHOSLA
I believe strongly in volunteering and giving back to the community. Over the years, I have contributed in various roles, some of which include: • Serving on the Canadian Standards Association committee; • Advisory Council Member to ICBC President; • Director of Surrey Chamber of Commerce; • Director of South Fraser Child Development Centre; and, • Trustee of Vedic Hindu Cultural Society. Giving back to the community, both from my companies as well as through volunteering, is very important to me. I have always believed that 10% of what you earn should go back to the community and am pleased to share that same philosophy with partners in my company. I have been a Board Director since 2019 and particularly enjoy serving on the New Housing Development committee as it relates to my own work industry and focuses on the very real need for affordable housing in the community.
testimonial Last year, in light of ever evolving situations related to COVID-19, BCSIS reached out to several organizations, programs to arrange groceries for our vulnerable newcomer clients. Canadian Hindu Foundation is one such organization that offered support right in time. Anoop and Raj Joshi from the organization were actively involved in ensuring that people in need attain food security; they personally delivered essential items to our office. With hearts full of gratitude, 34 Refugee Claimants pertaining to different nationalities received bags full of beans, milk, wheat, sugar, tea, coffee, oil, rice, lentils and much more. It was, indeed, heartwarming to witness their active involvement and dedication to support our clients in need. Last month, I again connected with Anoop over a phone call to arrange more food support for newcomers. He responded to our request with the same enthusiasm and desire to create an impact on the society. He patiently learned about the needs and offered complete encouragement to develop a plan in order to help 10 families from India a month for three consecutive months. Together we continue to work around the plan with an intention to make valuable improvements within the program. Working with Anoop has been a true delight. I vouch for his love for the community and thank him sincerely for his contribution, time, and efforts. The society needs more ‘Anoop’s’ to create a remarkable difference and restore our faith in Humanity. Savleen Kaur Employment Support Specialist for Refugee Claimants BC Settlement and Integration Services
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
JUNE 2021
Craig East BOARD DIRECTOR | 2001 to present
I grew up in Fernie, BC, before attending UBC. After UBC, I obtained my Chartered Accountants designation (now known as CPA, CA) and last year earned by ICD.D designation. I have been a resident of Surrey for 45+ years. My wife, Rosemary grew up in Surrey as well, graduating from Queen Elizabeth High School before going on to UBC to become a teacher. We raised our family of three kids and now enjoy watching and helping our six grandchildren grow up in the lower mainland which has been and will continue to be ‘interesting and fun’. Once the youngest child was in high school, Rosemary went back into teaching, with most of her teaching years at Princess Margaret High School.
CRAIG & ROSEMARY EAST Victoria, BC (2020)
Rosemary and I love ‘trailing’ … hooking up our 40-year-old RV trailer to the SUV and travelling over the hills, plains and mountains
of western North America, spending time in small communities. During COVID last year, we re- visited places in southern British Columbia, which we had not been to in years. It was a sharp reminder of the beauty of BC. By nature, I am a curious person with a finance and broad business background. I retired in 2019 after 50 years of working with others to make teams of people perform more effectively. I was introduced to Options by Director, Mike Kendler and joined the Board more than 20 years ago. I believed I could help the Board and management understand the ‘financial’ and ‘the business of Options’ in a relevant and helpful way. Options continues to be an amazing organization of good, caring, and smart people, doing good work for the sustainability of the organization and good work for its clients, stakeholders and the communities. As Chair of the Board Audit Committee and a member of the Board Finance and Risk Management Committees, I have gained a strong understanding of the breadth of Options’ operations. About 10 years ago, the Board asked that I represent Options on the newly-formed Board Voice Society of BC (Board Voice). Board Voice was created to be a provincial voice of Community Directors from across our province for our community services organizations. This experience greatly expanded my understanding of - and passion for, solving the major issues facing our sector. In the fall of 2020, I stepped down from Board Voice which gave me more time to focus on Options. Outside of Options and work, my interests include more than 30 years as an active business volunteer with the Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT). I have found there are many ‘cross-over’ matters that impact both Options’ clients and Surrey Business. Working with Options and SBOT groups to make Surrey a better community for its residents and businesses has been quite satisfying.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
APRIL 2021
Laura Lattanzio BOARD DIRECTOR | APRIL 2023 to present
Born in Labrador and raised in Richmond since 1972, I spent my youth growing up in a close- knit family environment. After my schooling, I met and married my first husband. During our 18 years of marriage, we were blessed with two sons. Unfortunately, that marriage came to an end and while life presented its challenges, we navigated them with love and commitment, always prioritizing the well-being and happiness of our family. In 2017, I relocated to White Rock and married my second husband. Together, we have a blended family of four children, all a year apart, who have now reached adulthood. As they embark on their individual educational and career journeys, I take pride in watching their growth and accomplishments.
LAURA LATTANZIO
After I graduated from Simon Fraser University, I began my career working in not-for-profit organizations in the lower mainland. Working in this sector provided me with a deep sense of satisfaction as I witnessed firsthand the positive impact I could have on the lives of clients and the community. Over time, my career led me to a managerial role in the private sector where I continue to work as leader to a team of disability management and rehabilitation specialists. I have worked in that organization for 25 years. In addition to that position, I created a business and serve as the CEO. This business provides concierge services to clients throughout North America. Despite my rewarding positions, I have always remained connected to the not-for-profit sector where my career first took root. Recognizing the importance of giving back, I embraced an opportunity to serve as a Board Director in 2004. Since then, I have committed myself to serving on Boards for other not- for-profit organizations. Being a part of the not-for-profit sector allows me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. I choose to serve on the Options Community Services Board because I am impressed by the solid reputation they have built as a leading provider of social services throughout the Fraser Valley. I greatly respect the breadth of services that are offered to many diverse populations in the region. Being invited to serve on the Board of Directors with Options is an honour. I am looking forward to working with the Board of Directors and leadership team and making a meaningful and lasting contribution to this organization.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
JUNE 2023
Louella Mathias BOARD DIRECTOR | 2013 to present
My husband Kevin and I immigrated to Toronto in 1990 with 2 small boys aged 4 and 1 years, respectively. In 2001, we relocated to Vancouver and in 2012 we moved to Surrey where we continue to reside. After 30 years of work experience in the social service and education sectors, I began a new career in 2019 as a management consultant, specializing in governance and risk management.
KEVIN AND LOUELLA MATHIAS Tanzania (2023)
As I look back on these 30 years in Canada, it has been one hell of a ride. Leaving behind a wonderful
lifestyle and moving to a new country with no family support enabled me to develop family-like bonds and I consider myself amongst the lucky ones who was able to ‘choose my relatives’!!
Our two sons are married and begun families of their own. Ryan is in Australia, and Andrew is in Vancouver. Our small family has grown into a multicultural one including Irish and Scottish daughters-in-law and four beautiful grandchildren. I strongly believe in giving back to the community. Over these past 33 years, I have volunteered in different capacities with different organizations in different provinces and totally enjoyed the experiences. In my spare time (what’s that?!) I enjoy creating works in stained glass, gardening and travelling. We’ve covered 45 countries of the world and know we have many more places to explore! I was invited to join Options board by Director, Tim Beachy. Tim and I had worked on a policy project about 15 years ago. In 2012, when I returned to Canada from a 3-year posting to New York, we reconnected, and here I am. I am enjoying my role with Options, and knowing that I am a part of its growth and success is truly fulfilling.
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
SEPTEMBER 2023
Michael Kendler BOARD DIRECTOR | 1990 to present
I moved from Toronto after graduation and have lived and worked in Surrey for the past 45 years. I met my wife Joyce, in divorce court and we’ve been married for 42 years. Together we have raised 3 children. Joyce and I began travelling after our children left home. We mostly did bike trips, but also travelled to Tibet, Antarctica, Egypt, Galapagos Islands, Namibia and Myanmar.
MICHAEL KENDLER Italy (2019)
In 1990, I was approached by Options’ then Board Chair, Trevor Armstrong; a friend in the legal profession and now a Supreme Court Judge, to join the Board. I suspect because he was told to find a replacement before he could step down.
The other directors, including Ken Holmberg and Lyn Policha made me feel welcome.
Over the past 30 years, I have served in various capacities, including 14 years as Board Chair. In addition, I have served on a number of committees for various terms, including the Finance, Audit, Housing Development and Constitution & Bylaws committees. A good argument for term limits!
I have stayed because I like the people and out of gratitude to Surrey, for the opportunities the city has given me.
India in November 2019 started with a few days in the southwest, in Kerala, then an organized bike trip, 5 guests (2 English, 1 Italian and us 2 Canadians), a guide, a driver and a helper.
The tour began in Delhi, continued to Agra, then Rajasthan, ending in Jaipur.
Along the way we stayed in 2 maharajas’ palaces, a national park and one night in hospital following a bike accident. After the tour, my wife and I taxied to Pushkar for the annual camel festival, then Udaipur before returning to Canada.
JOYCE & MICHAEL India (2019)
OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY
FEBRUARY 2021
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