The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services (PART 3)
The Faces of oneROOF Youth Services
Meeting The People Behind the Impact
PART three
oneROOF Youth Services is a non-profit organization in Waterloo Region making a difference for youth aged 12–25 who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Every day, our team of skilled professionals, along with passionate volunteers, students, and staff, work together to provide safety, support, and opportunities for young people in need.
Their efforts go far beyond meeting urgent needs—they focus on long-term solutions that help youth build stability, independence, and brighter futures. By recognizing and celebrating these changemakers in the social sector, we shine a light on the vital role they play in creating stronger, more resilient communities.
Scroll to see just a few members of our team who are making a difference each and everyday!
Sophia Krusky
Street Outreach
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
“My role at oneROOF as the street outreach worker varies in many unique ways. I mainly provide support to youth experiencing homelessness aged 12-25 in the community; this can include in encampments, at soup kitchens/drop-in centers, independent housing, abandon areas., ect. As the street outreach worker, I work very closely with community organizations, partners and workers. I get connected with many transient youth to provide any support I am able to offer; from assisting with transitioning to shelter, access to basic needs (food, water, hygiene), checking-in to ensure well being or getting youth connected with other needed resources like nurses and pet care.
I also provide support with youth in the community and at oneROOF with court support, this can mean transportation to court and even staying with them through court. While I work very closely with youth in community based settings, I also strongly support youth at oneROOF as I originally started as a YSW here at oneROOF.”
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
“I absolutely enjoy my role at oneROOF as I am very passionate about the work I do day-to-day. I am extremely grateful oneROOF has provided me with the opportunity to be in the role I am in and provide continued support to youth in the Region of Waterloo. I am able to assist wherever/ however I can and always try my best to ensure the well being of youth in need of support. Walking alongside youth on their journeys have been a privilege of mine, truly meeting youth where they are at and assisting with growing through some of the hardest struggles many of these youth are facing. My role here at oneROOF has opened my mind and heart in many different ways, working with these wonderful youth have also helped me grow as a stronger worker with an abundance of sympathy, passion, and care. Many youth I have worked with have taught me so much of my role and about myself as a worker, in such a positive light. I appreciate how much my understanding of youths ' different paths and journeys have deeply grown my understanding and will continue to do so everyday.”
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
“Outside of work, many different little things bring me joy; for example going on summer night walks, spending time with friends and family, and going on (what I like to call) 'therapy drives' while I blare my music. Besides the little things that bring me joy, I absolutely love going on adventures like going to the beach, hikes, and fun outings. One last thing that I do most often outside of work is binge watching some of my favorite shows and taking the time I need to relax, especially after a busy day!”
Brittany Plummer
Next Steps Housing, Case Worker
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF?
As a Case Worker at Next Steps Housing, I specialize in supporting vulnerable youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. I work collaboratively with clients to develop and implement personalized plans that promote long-term stability, independence, and well-being.
My responsibilities include assisting youth in securing housing, accessing employment opportunities, and connecting with mental health, addiction recovery, and other community-based support services. I provide ongoing emotional support and facilitate regular one-on-one sessions focused on life skills such as budgeting, household management, and goal setting.
Additionally, I help clients navigate complex systems—including court obligations, medical appointments, and job readiness programs—while fostering critical skills such as coping strategies, boundary-setting, and trigger awareness. My work is grounded in trauma-informed, client-centered practices, with a strong emphasis on empowerment and resilience. I am deeply committed to helping young people realize their potential, break cycles of homelessness, and build a foundation for a healthier, more secure future.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
“My commitment to social work stems from a deep-rooted belief in equity, compassion, and collective responsibility. I have never pursued this path simply because it is meaningful—I do it because it reflects who I am at my core. Social work and social justice have always been central to my life’s purpose. I believe that supporting others and advocating for systemic change are not only vital contributions to society, but also a personal calling. This sense of purpose has guided my journey and continues to drive my passion for creating a more just and inclusive world.”
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
“Outside of work, my greatest joy comes from being a mom. Watching my kids grow, learn, and come into their own is an experience I treasure every day. Family time is everything to me—not just with my husband and children, but also with my parents, who are my rock and biggest supporters. You can usually find me on the sidelines of a soccer field, proudly (and loudly!) cheering on my son during his competitive matches. At home, I’m often dancing and singing along with my daughter to her favorite songs. My family is my heart, my motivation, the center of everything I do.”
Madison Bell
Social Media & Marketing Specialist
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF?
“In my role, I’m able to merge my creative vision and passion for social justice to bring oneROOF’s mission to life! My responsibilities include: donor recognition, fund development, event planning, website maintenance, marketing and public relations, brand management, and content creation for all oneROOF social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube). Through these efforts, I’ve strengthened our community engagement and awareness, elevated our digital presence, and helped ensure consistent support for the youth we serve.”
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
“My journey with oneROOF Youth Services began as a high school volunteer, where I first witnessed the impact of community care and advocacy. Over the years, my involvement has grown, eventually leading me to step into the part-time role of Campaign Coordinator in 2019. In that position, I supported fundraising efforts that helped make our current campus a reality — an experience that deepened both my connection and commitment to advancing oneROOF’s mission. I now work full time as oneROOF’s Social Media & Marketing Specialist, curating their voice online, educating the public on their services, and invoking the power of storytelling to inspire change.
I’ve had the privilege of working at oneROOF Youth Services for six years now. In that time, I’ve watched the organization overcome challenges, exceed expectation, and deepen its impact on this community. The dedication of our frontline staff is both inspiring and humbling. It's an honour to document and fuel their work through my awareness and fundraising efforts.”
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
“In my free time, you can find me hunched over my iPad drawing, conquering a new and obscure hobby, or mastering Facebook Marketplace with my fiancé."
Madeline Watkins
Chef
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
I'm Madeline and I am the chef here at oneROOF Youth Services. Every week, we receive a wide variety of food from the Food Bank. It is my job to create a menu for the week based on what the Food Bank could provide. I do get to submit an order every week, but can only request items from very generalized categories such as "frozen beef" and "canned vegetables". Any type of food in that category could show up, such as ground beef or canned corn. While this system does pose certain challenges depending on the week, I love it because it keeps me on my toes and it constantly calls for creativity.
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
I enjoy my work here at oneROOF because I get to help young people who need it. Many of us are lucky enough to have a good support system to help us when we struggle to support ourselves. oneROOF acts as that support for the youths of our region. I get to use my passion for cooking to make sure that struggling doesn't turn into starving. It is hard work, but totally worth it.
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
My friends bring me joy outside of work. I have met some of the most incredible people during my time at oneROOF and they help me keep it together inside and outside of work hours. I don't know what I would do without them!
Bridget David
Family Reconnect
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
“I serve as a Family Reconnect Worker and Case manager supporting at-risk youth as they navigate complex life challenges. I work closely with youth to identify their unique needs, goals, and obstacles. My role involves family mediation and reconnection, focusing on prevention and diversion by facilitating difficult conversations between youth and their families in a safe, supportive space. I help build and repair trust, evaluate extended family members as potential reconnection options, and ensure sustainable and nurturing reintegration.
My approach includes organizing and facilitating individual and group family meetings, cultivating trust, putting boundaries and accountability contracts in place as needed to strengthen relationships and communication. I assist in all aspects of youth development to support their journey toward independence and stability. I also collaborate as part of the case management team to design, adapt, and implement intensive case plans, connecting youth to critical resources such as housing, education, and mental health support.
Beyond case work, I contribute to program development with community partners, staff onboarding ensuring our support is sustainable. I’m committed to nurturing the full development of youth and helping them achieve both long-term and short-term goals which includes support with service navigation, immigration and settlement matters, court involvement, and advocacy, all while tracking progress to empower and foster meaningful outcomes.”
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
“I enjoy working at oneROOF because it's an inclusive space, Our staff are diverse, dedicated and very passionate about their work. I love the open-door policy with my management and staff that allows me to witness transformation and continuous growth. Whether it’s a youth securing their first safe housing placement, intensive shelter support, reaching a milestone or reconnecting with family in a way that was never thought possible, those moments remind me why this work matters. The collaborative Team spirit at oneROOF fuels my passion. We truly believe in the potential of every youth and that energy keeps us going. We work from a strength-based approach and build each interaction around dignity, resilience, and hope which matches my values. "At the end of the day, witnessing the resilience of youth and walking beside them through both struggle and triumph is a privilege I never take for granted." Truly we aim to work with youth, so no one slips through the cracks, and we support the youth to meet their identified goals.
I love that at oneROOF, we meet youth where they’re at; physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. We empower them to lead the next chapter of their lives, and I find deep fulfillment in creating safe spaces where their stories are heard and their goals are respected. Working constantly challenges me to grow in my social service practice and as a person. It’s not just about providing services; it’s about walking alongside youth on their journey and celebrating every milestone, no matter how small. That sense of shared progress is what makes this work truly meaningful to me. It’s in these moments of shared growth and hope that I’m reminded of the quiet victories, the breakthrough moments, and the resilience I witness daily that make this work not just meaningful, but transformative.”
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
“Outside of work, I find joy in spending time with my loved ones, photography, making videos, creating memories, traveling, and reconnecting with my values and faith. Whether it’s taking spontaneous road trips, trying out a new recipe, or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a good movie, these moments help me recharge and stay grounded. I also love attending community events, which keep me engaged and allow me to celebrate the vibrant spirit of those around me. Ultimately, these everyday joys remind me of what truly matters and fuel the passion I bring to everything I do.”
Tunde Akintola
P.A.R (Emergency Shelter Staff)
1. Tell us about your role at oneROOF
“I works as a PAR shelter worker at oneROOF youth Service with the following roles below:
Providing assistance with daily living, including meal Preparation, personal care, and as well as emotions; support and crisis intervention.
Maintaining and cleaning up youth beds and common areas as required and laundry.
Conducting intakes interviews, and orienting them to the shelter rules and expectations
Maintain total hygiene/ health and safety of the clients.
Performs supportive listening and assists youth with problem solving.
AND MUCH MORE!”
2. why do you enjoy working at oneROOF?
“I am impressed and motivated to work at oneROOF youth services because of the range of services offers in contributing to the growth, support and overall well-being of young people in area of helping youth experiencing or at risk of homelessness by providing them with shelter, support and opportunity for growth.
oneROOF contributes to positive change in the lives of young people, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals which align to my passion, goals and objectives. It also offers a variety of roles, in terms of employment program and supportive housing to outreach and volunteer opportunities. I also enjoy a wonderful and great team to work with here at oneROOF and good supervisors.”
3. what brings you joy outside of work?
“I am passionate about helping others and l believe that, oneROOF Youth Services is an organisation that, can really make a different in people's lives. l strongly believe everyone deserve a place call home and l would love to help make that happen for as many people through the oneROOF platform.
Ultimately, the ability to make a positive impact in someone’s life, contribute to the overall enjoyment of working in a shelter environment like oneROOF Youth Services.”