160 Chalkfarm Drive, Unit 101, North York, Ontario, M3L 2J1
Contacts: Kwame | Daisy
647-343-5533
Charles "Spider" Jones
Founder
An award winning journalist in both the music and boxing fields, Jones is a three time former amateur Golden Glove Champion and was inducted into the Canadian Boxing Hall of fame in 1996. Spider was recently voted “Boxing Commentator and M.C. of the Year” by the Board of Governors for the World Boxing Federation.
Spider is also a highly popular motivational speaker who is much admired for his diligent work among the youth. His inspirational life story “Out of the Darkness” reveals his amazing rise from the impoverished, gang infested, inner-city projects of Detroit and Windsor and how, as a grade five dropout, he eventually returned to school at the age of thirty to become an honour student. Spider’s favourite thing is talking to his Nighthawks, whether it be about sports, entertainment, or hot issues.
Lisa Kostakis
Chief Executive Officer
Lisa is a graduate of York University with a degree in Psychology, and a graduate of Ryerson University with a Social Worker degree. She has over 33 years of experience within the non-for-profit sector working and leading organizations throughout the City of Toronto.
As the current CEO, Lisa demonstrates leadership and commitment in carrying out the Mission and Vision of the agency and the clients and community that it serves. Key to her concern is ensuring that the agency provides effective support systems, programs, services, advocacy, strong role models for children, youth and families, as well as, community capacity building.
Furthermore, is pivotal in developing and sustaining strong partnerships with other community service organizations and becoming a strong leader in many initiatives such as community safety, accessible services, government relations, systemic change, and new stakeholder partnerships. Lisa was also a recipient of the Queen Diamonds Jubilee in 2013, for her many years of service in the various communities that she has served throughout her career.
Katherine Young
Chair
Katherine Young is an experienced Community Coordinator with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Strong community and social services professional skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Career Development, Coaching, and Educational Technology. Katherine has been with BTA since its inception and is excited to see the organization grow and the participants flourish along the way.
Lily Wong
Board Member
With over 23 years of experience in the property management and development industry, Lily has gained a reputation for her keen understanding of the needs of communities and her ability to implement charitable initiatives to meet these unique needs. She takes a hands-on approach to improving the quality of life for community residents in some of Toronto's highest priority neighbourhoods, and has played an instrumental role in multiple successful revitalization and turnaround efforts.
Lily has held a diverse array of positions across the industry. She is able to use her expertise in the areas of operations, finance and strategic planning to expand the scope of Believe To Achieve (BTA) and the number of communities it is able to serve. Lily holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology Management from Ryerson University. She is also dedicated to maintaining continuing education, which includes certificates in e-business, telecommunications, business management and human resources. As Director, of Greenwin Cares, Lily manages the day-to-day operations of Greenwin's charitable and community development arm. Greenwin Cares operates and supports a range of social programs throughout the GTA, and has raised over $6 million for charitable initiatives.
Lily's commitment to community revitalization extends far beyond her professional capacity. She is a member of Eva's Initiatives for Homeless Youth and is the Treasurer for her local chapter of the Girl Guides of Canada.
Eric Green
Board Member
Eric has been instrumental in the redevelopment and enhancement of many of Toronto's leading hospitals, including Mount Sinai, Princess Margaret, Scarborough, Wellesley and North York General. He has also played a role in Greenwin's office, industrial, infill housing, condo, high-rise, and small suburban housing projects.
Mitchell Blass
Secretary
Mitchell graduated from York University when he studied Biology and Psychology. Mitchell returned to advance his education, graduating with a Post-Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management. He briefly worked at an animal and nature education Centre located in Vaughan after graduating from the course. Mitchell now works as a licensed Life Insurance Broker with the firm Masters Insurance where he focuses on Group Benefits insurance.
Mitchell has been active in politics for over 30 years as a volunteer, political staff member and advisor. He has held many different positions in various campaigns over the years as well at leadership positions in a provincial campaign training school. Responsible for a multi-billion dollar budgets, communication, political strategy and policy development.
Jean Rye
Treasurer
Jean is a retired advertising and Public Relations specialist. Jean’s experience helps BTA maintain a positive public image and strengthening its relationships with key stakeholders. In addition Jean has experience in the Long-term Care facilities and commercial moving companies.
Lou Rye
Board Member
Lou is a breast cancer survivor and now retired. In her spare time she enjoys being with family and friends. Lou previously worked at the Toronto District School Board bringing a wealth of knowledge within customer service, sales and in the cleaning industry.