Our Team
At Fernwood Neighbourhood House, our team is made up of passionate staff and volunteers who care deeply about community
We work together to nurture belonging, connection, and joy — creating programs and spaces that reflect the needs and strengths of the people who live here.
From early childhood educators and youth program leaders to community organizers, gardeners, and food security champions, every member of our team plays a part in supporting Fernwood’s well-being. Together, we make sure Fernwood Neighbourhood House remains a welcoming place for everyone — a place to connect, learn, and grow.
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Our Board of Directors
Fernwood Neighbourhood House is guided by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors whose leadership helps shape the vision and direction of our work.
The Board ensures that our mission — to nurture a neighbourhood where everyone experiences belonging, connection, joy, and acceptance — is upheld in all aspects of our programs, partnerships, and operations. Their volunteer governance provides stewardship of our financial sustainability, organizational integrity, and accountability to the community we serve.
We are proud that our Board reflects the spirit of Fernwood: diverse, community-rooted, and collaborative. Each member brings lived experience, expertise, and care for this place — supporting our efforts in food security, child care, affordable housing, and community development.
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.
Make an Impact
If you’re passionate about community-led change and want to contribute your skills and perspective, we welcome you to consider joining our Board.
Please note that not all qualifications are required to apply. If you have questions or would like to learn more about this opportunity, please contact chair@fernwoodnrg.ca. Candidates must be living in Fernwood.
Key Responsibilities
- Attend 6 board meetings annually, in-person meeting and occasionally online as well as the Annual General Meeting.
- Participate in a rotating chair and secretary schedule as determined by the board.
- Help steward the organization’s vision, mission and overarching objectives.
- Oversee the organization’s financial viability and risk management.
- Uphold appropriate governance processes, including executive director oversight, board succession, and other fiduciary responsibilities.