The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services (PART 5)
The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services
A Little More About Our Frontline Staff
PART five
At oneROOF Youth Services, our work is built on the belief that every young person deserves safety, stability, and the opportunity to thrive. Serving youth aged 12–25 across Waterloo Region, we rely on a dedicated team of skilled social service professionals, compassionate volunteers, and committed staff who show up each day with empathy and purpose.
This team plays a crucial role in supporting youth as they navigate challenges, set goals, and build brighter futures. Their impact extends far beyond day-to-day responsibilities—they help create lasting change by fostering resilience, trust, and community connection.
Each month, staff submit written statements of self, service and purpose, describing their work and career journeys. On social media, we share #oneROOFStaffSpotlights, listing shortened versions of these submissions. Here, we share their full submissions. Join us as we continue spotlighting the incredible individuals who make our mission possible. Scroll to meet a few more members of our team.
Zoey Taylor
Youth Support Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
In my role as a full-time Youth Support Worker at oneROOF, I provide day-to-day support to youth staying in the shelter. I help create a safe and welcoming environment, assist with daily routines, and offer guidance as youth work toward their personal goals. I meet youth where they’re at and try to build trusting relationships so they feel comfortable and supported. Every day looks a little different, but my goal is always to make sure youth feel heard, respected, and cared for.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I enjoy working at oneROOF because it gives me the opportunity to make a positive impact in young people’s lives. It’s so amazing to see the youth grow, and work toward their goals. I really enjoy creating a safe, open environment where they can just be themselves and feel supported. Plus, the team here is very supportive and welcoming.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends, family, and my dog. They always keep me grounded and happy. I also enjoy shopping, going out for coffee or dinner, and doing fun, relaxing things that let me unwind and recharge. I really value my downtime and love doing all the fun, simple things that make life feel good.
Brianna Rieck
Next Steps Housing Case Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
I recently started my current role at oneROOF Youth Services as a Next Step Housing case worker. I will be supporting vulnerable youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. I look forward to working with participants to access resources, develop life skills, and enhance wellbeing. Next step housing is all about meeting individuals where they are at and is vital stepping stone toward long-term stability.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
What I love most about our work being a part of someone’s story, building meaningful connections, offering stability, and witness the power of compassion and consistency. It is deeply rewarding to see how genuine support can create lasting change, and it’s a privilege to walk alongside youth as they grow, build confidence, and achieve goals. oneROOF is a place that leads with compassion and understanding, and I’m grateful to be part of a team that truly cares about the people we serve.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and exploring different hiking trails. Taking time to do the things I love is an important part of my self-care, and it helps keep me grounded motivated for the work I’m passionate about.
Jared Penner
Next Steps Housing Case Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
As a supportive housing case worker at OneRoof I work closely with the residents here to help them set and achieve goals, learn life skills, and promote self-efficacy.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I really love the connections that I get to build here after transitioning from my former career in restaurant kitchens. It's great to be working directly with people to hopefully make a long-term impact on their lives.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work I've carried on my passion for cooking and I love watching the Blue Jays (even when they break my heart)
Earl Loreto
Street Outreach
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
I am a Street Outreach Worker at oneROOF Youth Services. My role varies day to day, but overall, outreach focuses on supporting youth between the ages of 12 and 25 who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of it. We often connect with youth living in encampments, accessing soup kitchens or drop-in centers, or living independently. Our goal is to provide them with their basic needs such as food, clothing, and hygiene supplies, while also building trust and relationships. As a Street Outreach Worker, I also help youth navigate and connect with community organizations, service partners, and other support workers to ensure they have access to the resources and opportunities they need.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
What I really enjoy about outreach work is being able to support young people in finding their own strength. A lot of the youth we meet have gone through so much, and sometimes they’ve been told over and over that they won’t make it. I love being someone who listens, believes in them, and helps them see what’s possible. Whether it’s connecting them to housing, getting them an ID, or just showing up consistently, those small moments of trust and progress are what keep me going. It’s not always easy, but seeing someone start to believe in themselves again makes every challenge worth it.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I really enjoy spending time with my family. We love going out on trails together, playing board games, singing karaoke, and just sharing good food. Those moments really bring me joy, they help me recharge, stay connected, and keep a good balance in my life. I think it also reminds me of the importance of community and belonging, which ties back to why I enjoy outreach work so much.
Deep Odedra
Supportive Housing Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
As an Overnight Supportive Housing Worker at oneROOF, I provide support to residents during the overnight hours, ensuring their safety and well-being while maintaining a calm and supportive environment.
My role also involves being available for guidance or assistance when residents need someone to talk to, and helping to create a stable atmosphere where they can rest and feel secure.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I enjoy working at oneROOF because I get to make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth who are working toward stability and independence. It’s rewarding to be part of an organization that values compassion and understanding, and to know that even the small moments of support can have a positive impact on someone’s day.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and exploring new places. I also appreciate quiet moments that help me recharge, like going for late-night drives or relaxing outdoors.