Board of Directors - Bios and Spotlights

Board of Directors - Bios and Spotlights

kamaljit lehal

doug neale Secretary

devinder sekhon Treasurer

louella mathias

Vice Chair

Chair

amanda bratch

anoop khosla

craig east

jeff scott

michael kendler

sheryl pringle

tim beachy

Kamaljit Lehal Board Chair

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Lawyer with her own practice with a focus on Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Claims, Immigration and Worker ’ s Compensation Board (WCB), Mediation

Board Member

1996

Current Office Held:

Board Chair (2019)

Background and Contribution

 Former employee of Surrey Community Services Society as a childcare worker in 1982/83

 Legal background and experience

 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 participation in community committees including:

 Member of the Community Coordination Committee for Women ’ s Safety and EVA BC (Ending Violence Association BC)  Supervising Lawyer of a Law Foundation Project with EVA BC regarding Immigrant Women and domestic violence

 On the legal aid roster for immigration duty counsel

 Member of Mediate B.C. Civil Roster

 Past Chair of the CBA National Equality Committee

 Member of the Family Roster of Mediate BC

 Civil Resolution Tribunal Member

 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

Louella Mathias Co - Vice Chair

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Consultant

Board Member

2013

Current Offices Held:

Co - Vice Chair (2019) Vice Chair, Risk Management Committee Member, Governance Committee

Background and Contribution Louella brings more than 25 years of experience in the public, not - for - profit and post - secondary sectors. A dynamic and seasoned executive leader, Louella ’ s background includes senior positions in the public, not - for - profit and post - secondary sectors with an emphasis on enterprise risk management, strategic and business planning, program review and policy development. Louella began her career at the City of Toronto, working on both, housing, and income assistance portfolios. After moving to BC, she worked on funding and program evaluations at the United Way of the Lower Mainland; managed policy and evaluation for the Canadian Cancer Society BC and Yukon; and worked in leadership roles at the BC public and post secondary sectors. Louella now owns her own consulting practice and assists organizations implement risk management programs and improve their governance processes and practices. Louella holds a Master of Public Policy (MPP), a BA (Hons) in Psychology, a Graduate Diploma in Public Relations and Corporate Communications, and Certificates in Canadian Risk Management (CRM) and Board Governance. She has presented at public and post - secondary sector conferences, and published works on a wide range of topics including food security, corporate social responsibility, and policy intervention to promote the wine industry. Other Activities or Community Involvement Louella is also a Board Member of Board Voice BC. She has previously volunteered as Chair, South Asian Women ’ s Group; Chair, Shelters Panel, United Way of Greater Toronto, and appointed by Order - in - Council to represent York Region at the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Louella is delighted to be a member of the Options Community Services Board and looks forward to contributing to the areas of risk management and board governance. She lives in Surrey with her husband Kevin, and their German shepherd dog, Hannah.

Devinder Sekhon Board Treasurer

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Chief Financial Officer Non - Profit Sector

Board Member

2021

Current Offices Held: 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

 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 , spending time with family and friends

Doug Neale Board Secretary

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Retired after 35+ years as an educator (teacher, vice - principal, principal, local association president and UBC student teacher faculty advisor)

Board Member

2006

Current Offices Held: Board Secretary

Chair, Governance Committee Member, New Housing Development Committee

Past Offices Held:

Director and Past Vice - Chair, Surrey Community Services Society

Background and Contribution

 Conflict resolution training and experience

 Bargaining experience

 Organizing and running meetings

 Public speaking/presentations

 Leadership experience

 Knowledge of Surrey community issues, challenges and opportunities

 Working with and appreciating diverse communities

Other Activities or Community Involvement

 Chaired and/or served on numerous education committees including:  learning conditions  bargaining  staff utilization  student assessment  Served on a provincial committee that provided help for schools to resolve internal conflicts  Volunteered as a campaign worker for civic, provincial and federal candidates

 Volunteered as a Crisis Line worker

 Served as a volunteer on many onetime events such as a homeless count, charity golf tournament, etc.

 Coached track & field and basketball

Amanda Bratch Board Director

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Consultant in business and healthcare

Board Member 2019

Office Held

Member, Governance Committee

Background and Contribution Amanda 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

Anoop Khosla Board Director

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

President, Director (four companies)

Board Member 2019

Office Held

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

Offices Held

Director and 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

 Surrey Board of Trade - member of Finance and Taxation Committee

 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

 Past Director & Treasurer - Board Voice Society of BC

 British Columbia Automobile Association and related entities

 BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation

 Elizabeth Fry Societies of Greater Vancouver and Ottawa

 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)

Jeff Scott Board Director

Residence

Delta

Occupation

President & CEO, Coastal Pacific Xpress

Board Member 2021

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. Other Activities and Community Involvement For the last 10 years Jeff has 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 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.

Michael Kendler Board Director

Residence

Surrey

Occupation

Retired Lawyer - real estate development, corporate and commercial law

Board Member

1989

Current Offices Held

Member, Audit Committee Member, New Housing Development Committee

Past Office Held

Board Chair

Background and Contribution

 Legal expertise

 Political connection

 Knowledge of community (lived and worked in Surrey since 1975)

 Understanding of Society Constitution and Bylaws

Sheryl Pringle Board Director

Residence

Langley

Occupation

Senior Vice President of Finance – MR MIKES Restaurants Corporation & Empresario Capital Partners

Board Member

2021

Current Offices Held: Member, Audit Committee Member, Finance Committee

Professional Qualifications and Education  CPA (CGA) (2003 - 2007)  Laurentian University (2005 - 2007) Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree

 British Columbia Institute of Technology (2001 - 2003) Graduation with Honours, Financial Management Program

Areas of Expertise

 Values - based leadership  Strategic planning  Financial reporting & analysis  Budgeting & forecasting  Treasury & cash flow management  People & Culture strategy  Team building & development  Employee engagement & motivation  Systems & controls implementation  Process improvement

Other Activities or Community Involvement

 Personal & Workplace Community Involvement  Founded www.clovers4kindness.com  Coordinate annual MRMIKES Christmas hamper sponsorship (through Options)  Coordinate MR MIKES Support Centre participation in annual Deeds Well Done campaign  Coordinated team volunteer night at Salvation Army Harbour Light Feeding Ministry  Coordinated team volunteer afternoon with the Sources Food Bank  Coordinated team clothing drive for Dress for Success  Coordinate MR MIKES office “ shoreline clean - up ”  Sponsor and attendee of YWCA Women of Distinction Awards  Participant in annual Chairman Tom and Emeritus Chairman Shu Naito's Climb for a Cause  Treasurer - Friends of Rusinga Orphans Foundation (Sept. 2007 - 2014)  Founded to improve human capital capacity in Rusinga Island, Kenya.  Funds raised contributed to a daily feeding program, serving more than 45 children and a scholarship fund that has sent over 40 young female students to Secondary school.

Tim Beachy Board Director

Residence

Langley

Board Member

2011

Current Offices Held: Chair, New Housing Development Committee

Member, Audit Committee Member, Finance Committee

Past Offices Held:

Board Chair (2013 to 2019)

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 Semi - retired, professional consulting practice. Active as a Director/Officer in the following organizations:

 Options Community Services Society

 Chair, WJS Canada

Doug Neale BOARD DIRECTOR | 2006 to present

I grew up in the Alberni Valley on Vancouver Island during an era when parents did not need to know where we were all the time. Streams and forests were in our backyard, so it was easy to develop a great love of the outdoors where friends and I hiked, fished, foraged, played baseball, built treehouses etc. After High School, some of us were fortunate enough to get jobs in the pulp mill where, after getting all the overtime we could we were able to afford our years at University.

I spent most of my working life in the Delta School District as a teacher, vice-principal, principal, and Delta Teachers’ Association president. In fact, in 1970 as a brand- new vice-principal and 1972 as a brand-new principal I was fortunate to open new schools. During my time as a Principal, I also

DOUG NEALE Newfoundland, Canada (2017)

served for several years on a BC Teachers’ Federation committee whose members would travel to different remote communities to try and help resolve simmering disputes. After retiring from Delta, I worked with UBC student teachers for a few years. I loved my years in education and being an active advocate for the public school system. My wife Ann and I have 3 engaged and caring adult boys (men) and 3 beautiful Winnipeg grandchildren from 3 to 11 years old. Ann and I enjoy travelling to different destinations in Canada and around the world. Our favourite trips always seem to revolve around a lot of hiking. Leisure time activities include flyfishing, golfing, hiking, walking our puppy Tika, reading, following politics etc. After retirement, I volunteered as a Crisis Line worker when the Crisis Line was a part of Surrey Community Services Society and I was asked if I would be interested in becoming a Board member. I served on the Board for a short time before it merged with Options and when we were looking at merging, I could see that the two societies would be a particularly good fit and I became an Options Board member. I continued with the Options’ Board because it was apparent that a lot of impressive work was happening in our community because of the dedicated and caring staff. The wide-ranging programs that we operate encompass so many societal issues and I am in awe of the incredible work that everyone does. I am so proud to play a small role on behalf of the Society.

OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY

JANUARY 2021

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

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

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

Sheryl Pringle BOARD DIRECTOR | 2021 to present

I was born in North Vancouver and grew up in Surrey from the time I was 4 years old onward. I count myself lucky to have been an only child – I spent a lot of time with my mom and dad growing up, who were both very dedicated to helping me excel in various sports and school. I was a competitive swimmer, tennis and

badminton player – and having a background in competitive sports taught me many life skills that have helped me through my life experience. I’m a CPA, CGA – and curious about everything. I have a wonderful husband, amazing son, and our dog Eddy is a best friend to each of us. My true joy comes in spending time with my family, and being outdoors.

SHERYL PRINGLE & EDDY

I was lucky that one of my first jobs out of BCIT was working at Surrey Community Services Society, before they merged with Options. In my role as Associate Accountant, I gained valuable experience that helped me obtain my CGA (CPA) designation, but more importantly it opened my eyes to many social issues I would have otherwise not been as aware of. Compassion and empathy have always been core values of mine, but this experience inspired my passion for finding ways to help others and give back. Over the past couple of years, I have had a mystical experience finding four leaf clovers that my son and I turned into a small charity – clovers4kindness.com. Currently I am the Senior Vice President of Finance for Mr. Mikes Restaurants Corporation. I have been lucky to work with this great organization – and its great people – for the past 11 years. Mr. Mikes makes delicious food – but we also prioritize giving back to the communities we serve through our Mr. Mikes Community Connections initiatives. As a resident of Surrey for over 30 years, and now a resident of Langley, I have a vested interest in seeing this community grow and prosper. I am so thrilled that my connection to Options has come full circle, and I am able to give back to an organization that helped me in so many ways.

OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY

DECEMBER 2021

Louella Mathias BOARD DIRECTOR | 2013 to present

My husband Kevin and I moved to Toronto in 1990 with 2 small boys aged 4 and 1 years, respectively. After 30 years of work experience in the social service and education sectors, I began a new career in 2019, as a consultant in risk management and program evaluation. 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’!!

LOUELLA MATHIAS Cairo, Egypt (2016)

Our two sons are now married and starting families of their own. Ryan is a gastroenterologist in Australia, and Andrew is a Chartered Accountant with KMPG in Vancouver. With both boys out of the house, Hannah our German Shepherd rules our roost! I have moved home 14 times and travelled around the globe mostly due to Kevin’s work-related transfers. The moves meant new beginnings, re-establishing social

Hannah

networks, and settling my sons into schools and new routines. I loved the moves. I got to travel to exotic places, broaden my thinking over cultures and customs, and as an added bonus, we have social networks in so many countries. When not working, gardening or volunteering, l am either travelling or making travel plans. I’ve covered 45 countries of the world and know I have a lot more to do! I am also finally returning to my stained glasswork/hobby. 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

MAY 2021

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

Tim Beachy BOARD DIRECTOR | 2011 to present

I was raised on the Pillager Ojibwe traditional lands in North Central

Minnesota. In my late teens, I became a war resister against the Vietnam War and came to Canada as an immigrant in 1970.

In 1971, I married my wife Susan and we have lived communally with friends and family for 40 of our 50 years of married life. We live in Langley, BC on the unceded lands of the Kwantlen people. We have lived in Abbotsford, BC as well as temporarily in Ottawa, Ontario and Eugene, Oregon.

TIM BEACHY | 2021

I have a master’s degree in Applied Community and Organizational Psychology from the University of Oregon. My entire professional career has been practicing in the social services and philanthropic sector; including, Executive Director of a social services organization, Vice President of United Way of Canada and CEO of the United Community Services Co- operative. I joined Options’ Board more than 10 years ago now after being stalked by Board Director, Craig East and Chief Executive Officer, Christine Mohr. The timing was perfect as I had recently left my full-time professional position and was looking for something to do in the sector. In 2013, I began serving as Board Chair and handed over those reins to Kamaljit Lehal in 2019. I continue to serve as a Director and as Chair of the New Housing Development committee.

At age 73, I love to read historical novels and enjoy working in the gardens of our place. I feel fit enough to carry on for a long while yet!

OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES SOCIETY

JUNE 2021

Kamaljit Lehal BOARD CHAIR | 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

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.

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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