The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services
The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services
How Our Staff Are Shaping The Next Generation
PART ONE
oneROOF Youth Services is a non-profit organization based in Waterloo Region, supporting youth aged 12-25 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We accomplish this task by relying on a robust team of social work professionals and passionate volunteers, students, and staff. This diverse team strives daily to meet our organization’s mission statements, through individual dedication and a collective passion for serving this vulnerable population.
By acknowledging the efforts of staff in the social sector, we highlight their invaluable contribution to creating stronger communities. Their work goes beyond addressing immediate needs, focusing on long-term solutions to help individuals regain stability and independence. Scroll to celebrate our team.
Natasha Monteiro
Host Homes & Family Reconnect Department Head
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
As the Department Head for our Host Homes and Family Reconnect programs at oneROOF, the majority of my role focuses on ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of services for the youth we support. Both the Host Homes and Family Reconnect programs aim to prevent youth homelessness, so a significant portion of my work involves community engagement to ensure that we are a recognized resource for youth facing precarious housing situations, with the hope of preventing the need for shelter beds. Additionally, I coordinate the Host Homes Program, which involves everything from the recruitment and training of home providers to screening and matching youth, as well as case management once youth are placed in the homes. I also serve as a public trustee worker for youth who require that support, assisting them with budgeting and guiding them on their path to financial independence.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I’ve had the privilege of working at oneROOF for nearly 7 years, witnessing firsthand its incredible growth from a small house on Queen Street to a massive campus with four buildings, each offering a variety of programs designed to best serve the youth in our community. It has been very rewarding to see youth come through our doors, access the resources they need, and leave empowered with the tools and confidence to live independent, self-sufficient lives. oneROOF has become and continues to be, a pivotal chapter in the lives of many youth, and I’m honoured to play a role in shaping that ongoing narrative. I look forward to seeing what's to come for oneROOF and the youth who access our services.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
I truly value the time spent with my family and friends. I also love attending concerts and local events, whether it’s exploring vendor markets or enjoying a comedy show. I also love a good road trip, especially when there is a great playlist to sing along to.
Diane Costa
Intensive Shelter Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
At oneROOF, I act as an intake coordinator to determine youth referrals. I work on goal setting with the youth to understand where they're at, where they want to be, and how we can work together to get there! I primarily focus on housing, employment, and educational opportunities while being open to assisting with any other needs, such as; income, legal applications, immigration support, education for youth, and more.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I love my work — this is because I get to work with so many different people from so many different places that help me expand my learning and understanding. I enjoy working with the clients we have and making sure they can be set up for success, however possible. What brings me joy in this work is knowing that I am often stepping up for people who don't always have someone — if I can better someone's day or life even by 2% that is a positive experience.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy being in the community, being creative with art, and spending special time with my cats :)
Alan Dawdy
Programming Coordinator
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
As the Program Coordinator, I have been able to grow and offer a variety of youth participation in program activities. I originally started off as a volunteer here at oneROOF and ended up having so much fun that I thought I would step it up a notch and apply for the [Program Coordinator] position. The previous experience as a volunteer gave me great insight on how to expand the number of programs and events offered each week using our generous volunteers, staff and our own oneROOF youth who all have a host of skills, experiences and talents that they want to share. It has been great to see the youth grow and create positive connections with other youth, staff and volunteers through interacting in a supportive environment through these fun events, as well as see youth develop life skills through the more structured workshops provided by our staff and community partners in the region.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
Program Coordinator is one of the best jobs at oneROOF because I am fully immersed with the youth as they play games, learn life skills, participate in sports and are part of the great conversations that happen as we sit around a table doing crafts or art programs. I love the dynamics of working with a volunteer, staff or one of the oneROOF youth; taking their idea for an event and helping them develop and take charge of an activity that will create a positive memory for the youth at oneROOF.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
My work time is spent planning and preparing for upcoming tasks and events. Outside of work I enjoy the simplicity of free time which gives me the chance to be in the moment and just see what happens as the day progresses and plays out.
Kevin Dobing
Youth Support Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
My original role at oneROOF was as a youth support worker. Having spent over 30 years as a youth counsellor at Lutherwood. After retirement, I was becoming restless when oneROOF Youth Services relocated to within walking distance of my home it seemed perfect to become initially a volunteer then a part timer. Currently I am 'Hamper Kevin' and as the name suggests I look after the food hamper program.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I have always enjoyed working with youth and building positive relationships. Working in the hamper program allows me to build relationships in a non threatening environment providing support and consistency to a population often struggling with life's challenges. The team at oneROOF also are dedicated and energetic in their efforts to provide a welcoming and safe environment to an often volatile and regularly misunderstood demographic.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
My wife of almost 50 years, my 7 grandchildren, my 2 sons and daughter, my two boxer dogs, camping, music and friendships. Oh and I almost forgot, Leeds United football club!
Courtney McFarlane
Supportive Housing Coordinator
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
As the Supportive Housing Coordinator at oneROOF, I oversee the maintenance and operations of our supportive housing units, ensuring that our tenants have a safe and stable place to call home. I manage maintenance requests, prioritize repairs, and collaborate with staff to address any housing-related concerns. I’m also part of the on-call supervisor team, supporting staff during emergencies and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. My role is all about creating a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment for the youth and tenants we serve.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I love working at oneROOF because I get to make a real difference in the lives of young people who need support. I actually used to be a youth who accessed ROOF (before the name change), so being able to come full circle and now work here has been incredibly meaningful. I know firsthand how important safe housing and supportive staff can be, and now I get to be part of that for others. Seeing a tenant thrive in stable housing or knowing I’ve helped make their space feel safer and more like home is so rewarding. The work can be challenging, but it’s meaningful, and I’m surrounded by a passionate team that truly cares about the youth we serve.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I find joy in spending time with loved ones and cherishing moments with friends and family. Music is a big part of my life, and dancing in the kitchen—especially in memory of my best friend—brings me happiness. I’m also passionate about suicide prevention and advocacy, and I dedicate time to learning and supporting this cause in any way I can.
Joelle Dagnon
Host Homes Coordinator
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
I started as a youth support worker working overnights in the shelter; I now work as a coordinator for the Host Homes Program. We support youth both in shelter and who are at risk in community to find a stable space with volunteer home providers who open up a space in their home for youth in need. I support the onboarding and training of providers, screening and placing of youth, and supporting the youth with their goals in finding stable housing after their stay. We also often keep in touch with youth beyond their stays in the Host Homes program to ensure they feel supported and secure in their transition to independence, knowing they can always reach out for support or guidance when navigating new experiences of adulthood.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I have enjoyed my work at oneROOF both in shelter and in the Host Homes Program because I have gotten the opportunity to meet so many incredible young people. While it is challenging to see so many young folks experiencing challenges in our community, it is so great to see the community also step up to support them. I am grateful to be a part of facilitating those connections between youth and the wonderful volunteer home providers in the program, and getting to see the youth receive the stability they need and see first hand that their community cares about them.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with friends, cleaning, crafting, and watching a good documentary!