Meet Our Volunteer Board of Directors
At Fernwood Neighbourhood House, our work is grounded in community-led change, collaboration, and inclusivity. We are proud to be guided by a diverse and dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, all of whom live or have a deep connection in the Fernwood community and bring a wide range of lived experiences, skills, and perspectives to their roles. The Board is responsible for ensuring that our mission to foster vibrant, sustainable neighbourhoods is upheld in all aspects of our work.
Our Board members work closely with staff to shape the strategic direction of the organization, oversee financial stewardship, and ensure that we remain accountable to the community we serve. Their volunteer leadership plays a vital role in supporting our food security programs, housing initiatives, child care services, and community development efforts.
If you are passionate about supporting community initiatives and have skills or lived experience to contribute, we invite you to consider joining our volunteer Board of Directors. Together, we can continue building a thriving and inclusive Fernwood. For inquiries, contact our Co-Chairs at chair@fernwoodnrg.ca.
2024-25 Board of Directors
Christy Pham, Director
With 20 years of experience in capital markets and investments, Christy (she/her) has a recent focus on infrastructure and sustainable business strategies. Originally from Calgary, Christy now manages pension funds for BC’s public sector. Her passion for solving climate change and social inequity guides her work, and she enjoys spending time with her family, playing the fiddle, exploring nature, and cooking international recipes.
Eric Swanson, Co-Chair
With 15 years of experience in public interest non-profits, Eric (he/him) brings expertise in policy, operations, and public engagement. He founded Third Space Planning, a consultancy focused on community wealth-building, and has held leadership roles at Dogwood and Generation Squeeze, advocating for environmental and democratic reforms. Eric is passionate about fostering connections and supporting local initiatives in Fernwood.
Jade Ashbourne, Director
Jade (she/they) brings a diverse background in academics, housing, and labour, having worked across B.C., Saskatchewan, and Ontario. Now settled in Fernwood with her partner and child, Jade is passionate about fostering community belonging and inclusivity. A lover of reading and cooking, Jade enjoys hosting conversations on social policy and queer & trans activism over home-cooked meals.
Jesse Margolus, Secretary
Jesse (he/him) is a project management professional with over a decade of experience in housing, land negotiations with First Nations, and food security initiatives. Currently working with the BC Public Service, Jesse supports the development of Transit Oriented Communities. Having lived in Fernwood for over a decade, Jesse enjoys spending time outdoors with his family and growing food at home.
Justin Best, Co-Chair
Justin’s (he/him) connection to Fernwood began in 2001, and over the years, he has lived in various parts of the neighbourhood. Now residing in the Cornerstone building with his twin teenagers, Justin works with Island Health as part of a healthcare team. He has been a strong supporter of Fernwood Neighbourhood House’s Good Food Box program, having volunteered and now contributing annually to support food security. In his spare time, Justin enjoys biking around the neighbourhood and connecting with the community at local cafes and patios.
Lisa Matthaus, Director
Lisa (she/her) uses her government relations, campaign strategy, and community organizing skills to advocate for sound environmental policies that keep our neighbourhoods and our world livable.
Rob Gillezeau, Treasurer
Rob (he/him) is an Assistant Professor of Economic Analysis and Policy at the University of Toronto, specializing in the economic history of Indigenous peoples in North America. He has served as Chief Economist for the Leader of the Official Opposition in Ottawa and as a senior aide to the Minister of Finance in BC. Rob’s work intersects discrimination, protest, and state institutions. He is also a fellow at the Broadbent Institute, co-director of the Indigenous Economics Study Group, and a founding member of the Canadian Economics Diversity Committee. Rob’s financial oversight ensures transparency and integrity at Fernwood Neighbourhood House.