Matthew Mitchell
Managing Director
Matthew grew up in Hamilton, Ontario. In his teens, he began volunteering with several organizations. Volunteering with organizations like: Free the Children, Mount Hamilton Youth Soccer Club, Rotaract, Green Venture and the YMCA, Matthew learned firsthand the importance and impact of volunteerism for both the community and individual. Matthew moved to Ottawa to do an undergraduate degree at the University of Ottawa. At the end of his degree he decided teaching was not for him. After University he began working at Dovercourt Recreation Association. It was here he experienced non-profit recreation and became captivated by working in a non-profit and recreation setting. .In his spare time Matthew is an avid hiker and runner. He enjoys watching and playing a variety of sports, and is a staunch supporter of the Montreal Canadiens.
Joanne Merrett
Health and Wellness Coordinator
Joanne, OSCA’s Health and Wellness Coordinator, is a versatile professional with expertise as a Functional Movement Specialist, Rehabilitation Therapist, Master’s Level Personal Trainer, and Holistic Health and Pain Management Coach. Her passion for health and fitness blossomed during her marathon and duathlon endeavors, driving her to explore the mechanics of human movement, physical limits, and recovery.
Transitioning from a career in law, Joanne pursued further education and certifications in Health and Fitness. Now, she spearheads the development of health and wellness programs at OSCA, including group fitness classes, educational workshops, personal training, and an improved gym space. With the goal of creating an exceptional health and wellness environment, Joanne is dedicated to supporting the well-being of OSCA members and the community.
Chris Lawson
Web Support
Chris Lawson is a freelance writer and web producer who has lived in Old Ottawa South since 2008. A Toronto expatriate, Ottawa has been home since 1992. He produced his first website in 1996 and has been fascinated by computer-mediated communications since 1986 when 2400 BAUD modems were exotic luxury items. He’s an avid road cyclist and wilderness canoe tripper.
Katherine Boisvert
Program Director
Katherine Boisvert is a dedicated professional with a passion for community engagement. As the Program Director at Old Ottawa South, she has been instrumental in shaping and overseeing the diverse range of programs offered at the Firehall. Her journey began 17 years ago with preschool programs, where her commitment to nurturing young minds first took root.
Beyond her professional life, Katherine finds joy in various interests. Camping in the great outdoors allows her to unwind and reconnect with nature. She is also an avid pottery enthusiast, channelling her creativity into crafting beautiful ceramic pieces. Katherine’s involvement in the Girl Guides organization is a testament to her dedication to empowering young girls and fostering leadership skills. Her family holds a special place in her heart, and she values spending quality time with them, especially with her children. Katherine’s work and passions reflect her unwavering commitment to community and family.
Laura Barclay
After-4 Coordinator
Darcy Middaugh
Preschool and Child Program Coordinator
Darcy began his journey in recreational facilities from a high school Co-Op placement. Initially working with preschool and after-school programs, he soon realized the satisfaction of instructing children and became eager for more opportunities in the field of recreation. After returning from college where he studied Early Childhood Education, he split his time instructing a variety of programming for children as well as serving in a Coordinator role. Darcy’s commitment to OSCA and his belief in its potential for personal development and community building are unwavering. His passion for fostering growth and creating a positive impact has made him an invaluable asset to the Ottawa South Community Centre.
Beatriz Pereira
Operations Coordinator
Beatriz’s professional journey began with a solid foundation in healthcare. She pursued her passion for caregiving by attending nursing school. Her career trajectory initially led her to work as an elderly caregiver, where she provided essential support and companionship to seniors. This experience allowed her to cultivate empathy and a nurturing spirit. Later, she transitioned into the role of an administrator at a restaurant, showcasing her versatility and organizational skills.
In 2019, Beatriz moved from Brazil, relocating to Canada and that marked the beginning of a fresh chapter in her career and her life.
Even before joining the Old Ottawa South Community Association (OSCA), Beatriz displayed a remarkable commitment to community service. She volunteered with esteemed organizations like the Ottawa Food Bank, Red Cross, and homeless outreach initiatives. Her contributions demonstrated her dedication to making a difference in the lives of those around her.
Beatriz’s introduction to OSCA came through her role working for the City of Ottawa. As she became more acquainted with the community center’s programs and events, she felt the desire to become actively involved with the community.
Outside of her professional commitments, to unwind Beatriz enjoys the freedom of bike rides, channeling her creativity inside the pottery studio, watching a nice korean movie, and exploring around Ottawa.
She’s also on a journey to broaden her linguistic horizons, learning Spanish to facilitate better communication with diverse communities aside from already speaking English and Portuguese.
Her journey from Brazil to Canada has enriched her perspective, and her dedication to OSCA and its programs continues to create a positive impact in the Old Ottawa South community.