Chair
Katherine Parker is an Adjudicator and a seasoned former federal government Executive who brings a wealth of experience from public, private and non-profit sectors. She has held senior federal government positions including Director General of Human Resources, and Chief Audit Executive. In the private sector, she held global positions in Human Resources and change management with industry wide recognition for her achievements. Katherine has a degree in psychology and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. She is dedicated to supporting the violence against women sector as a volunteer.
Treasurer
Wayne Walker – Temporary Leave of Absence. is a seasoned finance professional with a strong background in healthcare administration. He earned his diploma in Business Administration from Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology, Timmins Campus, in 1987. His career in the health sector began at Timmins & District Hospital, where he worked in the finance department from 1995 to 2008, gaining valuable insight into the workings of the healthcare system.
Since 2008, Wayne has been a dedicated member of the finance team at the Canadian Mental Health Association, contributing to the delivery and support of vital mental health services across the region. His commitment to community well-being is matched by his personal values—Wayne has been happily married to his partner for over 20 years, and together they have raised three adult children. He is also a proud grandparent to one grandson who brings immense joy to their lives.
Wayne and his family relocated to Brockville in August 2021, and he is honoured to serve on the Leeds and Grenville Interval House Board of Directors. His involvement reflects a deep desire to give back to the community and support the mission of providing safety and empowerment to those affected by domestic violence.
General Director
Stephanie Whyte – Temporary Leave of Absence. Stephanie is currently employed as an auditor. Prior to that, she worked in the finance department of a mental health care organization for close to ten years. There she gained valuable experience in the reporting, analysis and budgeting processes of not for profit organizations as well as an appreciation for clinical work and an understanding of the importance of community support services. Stephanie is a CPA candidate who holds both a diploma and a degree in business administration with an accounting major. She is very happy to have the opportunity to use her education and her experience to support LGIH.
General Director
Heather Rowat is a dedicated entrepreneur and community member based in Prescott, Ontario. Earlier this year, she brought her passion for baking to life by opening a patisserie in Brockville. Since moving to the area in 2007, she has been actively involved in both professional and volunteer capacities, contributing to the local community in meaningful ways.
Beyond her business, Heather is a proud mother of two young boys who are deeply engaged in sports and their church youth program. She enjoys playing on local sports teams and continuously exploring new recipes to refine her craft.
Heather is excited to join the board at LGIH and looks forward to making a positive impact through her contributions.
General Director
Caroline Rigutto is a dedicated public servant who has been working for the municipal government in Community and Social Services for almost 25 years. Caroline is an experienced policy analyst, building local policy related to addressing the needs of persons living in low-income in Leeds and Grenville and increasing affordable housing options. Through her work she has also supported non-profit housing providers’ operations and governance to have successful tenancies. In her work in the community as a volunteer, Caroline is an experienced fundraiser, building a grassroots effort to bring a community walk to Brockville, and advocate, where she has advocated for access to specialty medications in Canada. Caroline has a Bachelor of Arts honours degree in sociology with a minor in political science, and as a lifelong learner is dedicated to continuing her education to build new skills that she can use to support others. Caroline is pleased to join the board at Interval House to help support women and their children that are in need.
General Director
Lauren McEwan brings over a decade of experience in the construction industry, with a background in project management for residential, commercial, and heritage builds across Eastern Ontario. As co-owner of a construction company in Kemptville, she is passionate about quality craftsmanship and supporting local trades. Lauren is known for her leadership and ability to guide projects from concept to completion. Outside of work, she enjoys running, horseback riding, camping and spending time outdoors with her family and animals. She is proud to contribute her skills and experience to the Leeds and Grenville Interval House Board.
General Director
Daniella Maylor is a multidimensional professional that brings with her a background in finance, administration and operations support across a variety of sectors. She is passionate about accuracy, efficiency and supporting organizational success through strong administrative and financial processes. Her recent work at REST Centres includes leading multi-entity financial reporting, audit preparation and grant-aligned budgeting for housing programs supporting marginalized populations. Daniella is tech & software savvy and has worked extensively with multiple cloud-based platforms to streamline operations and enhance transparency.
Her passion for community work is rooted in lived experience growing up in Peel Region, where she was actively involved in youth programs such as the Boys and Girls Club, Go Girls! and YMCA. These early experiences shaped her understanding of systemic barriers and inspired her commitment to equity-focused leadership. Daniella’s approach is informed by anti-oppressive frameworks and a belief in inclusive, community-centered change. She leads with integrity, compassion and a vision for sustainable impact.
General Director
Victoria McKeage has many years of experience in management positions, including operational management and project management, across manufacturing facilities in Canada and Mexico. She has developed strong leadership skills through overseeing diverse teams and ensuring efficient operations. Her extensive background includes credentials such as Six Sigma Greenbelt, Project Management Certificate, and Human Resources Management Certificate.
After her diagnosis of breast cancer, Victoria reevaluated her life and gave back time for the community. This pivotal experience inspired her to focus on causes she genuinely cares about, strengthening her resolve to make a meaningful impact. She became actively involved in local volunteer initiatives, finding solace and purpose in supporting others facing challenges.
Victoria is pleased to join the board at the LGIH and help support women and children in need. She looks forward to collaborating with fellow board members, using her experiences to advocate for improve resources and compassionate care within the organisation.
Executive Director
Melissa Leveck has a BAH and BEd from Queen’s University. She began her career in the VAW field in 2015 working in a domestic violence shelter in Alberta for 7 years, and as Executive Director for 5 years. Melissa is committed to ensuring that survivors of violence have a safe place to heal from their trauma.