50 Women of Options - An Options Community Services Campaign

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One youth at a time.

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The Gamechangers Fund

Raising $1M For a Discretionary Fund To Help Local Youth

Last year we embarked on our first-ever capital campaign for an affordable housing build. Thanks to our first Women of Options, and partnerships like yours, the campaign was a success and the 100-unit complex at 81st Avenue and King George Boulevard is in development!

This year some of these remarkable women are back, along with new faces in the group. They have a passion to join Options in making life-altering differences in the lives of youth in our community. We call them and their supporters, Gamechangers!

We are raising $1 million to develop a long-term discretionary fund to assist youth who need the kind of support that cannot otherwise be provided in a timely manner, if at all, by other agencies or the government. This includes financial support as well as enhanced support services and mentorship when requested.

Each “Woman of Options” has committed to help raise $25,000 towards this fund. Your support and encouragement will help them reach their goal.

THE STORY

Just One of Many

It was a cold Friday afternoon in November when Nichole received a call from a public health nurse. A new mom, Sharon, was in need of support. Could Options help?

“Of course!” came the answer. 

Nichole reached out to Sharon, arranged for her to receive a Christmas hamper, and set up an appointment for the following Monday morning. 

During their appointment, Sharon told Nichole that she had been looking for a basement suite or an apartment, but had been turned down everywhere she looked. Finally, desperate to find shelter for her baby and herself, Sharon spent her last $1,800 to rent a motel unit in a sketchy part of town.

The $1,800 bought her 30 days of shelter for her and her baby. After that, she would be homeless. Nichole knew that the motel was an unsafe environment for a young mother and her baby.

Sharon also confided that she had been subject to intimate partner violence. As a result, Nichole started the referral process to have Sharon and her baby admitted to the safety of one of the Options’ transition houses. Options staff was able to support Sharon with $1,800 through the use of its discretionary funds to give her a much needed hand up.

Of course!

NICHOLE OSBORNE
OCS PROGRAM MANAGER, GROWING TOGETHER

Today, Sharon and her baby have their own place in subsidized housing offered by Options. She is currently a full time student studying for a career in early childhood education. 

For many young people like Sharon, Options becomes a lifeline, helping to remove what seems to be an insurmountable barrier, giving them a way out of crisis, and providing hope for their immediate future.

THE project

Investing In Our Future

by CHRISTINE MOHR, CEO, OPTIONS COMMUNITY SERVICES

Christine Mohr | OCS Woman of Options

Options Community Services works with young people within a wide range of circumstances. These include youth who are aging out of government care, newcomers to Canada, unemployed, street entrenched, pregnant and parenting, affiliated with gangs, seeking their high school diploma and more. 

At Options Community Services, our 80 plus programs serve a broad base of individuals and families in the South Fraser area. These programs are primarily funded by various levels of government, and at present, we are often constrained in how we can use funds to support young people in our communities due to limitations outlined in our funding contracts.

Our staff are as ethnically diverse as our clientele. They speak many of the languages spoken by the youth of our communities and they understand cultural nuances. Our dedicated team of over 600 gifted and experienced OCS staff and volunteers make selfless and collaborative contributions every day, as they passionately strive to better the lives of the young people and families they serve.

Amanda | OCS former client

Often, young people may need something little, but what they need will make a huge difference to their lives.

Take Priya, for instance. She was in the final year of her program that would see her become a dental hygienist. After completing the program, Priya would be in line for making $54 per hour. In addition to her studies, Priya was managing two jobs and caring for her child.

Despite working two jobs and being eligible for subsidized day care, Priya was still $300 per month short of covering her day care expenses. It seemed she might have to drop out of the program because no existing resource was able to help her.

Fortunately, staff from Options were able to find $3,600 to cover her day care expenses and now Priya will graduate and take a position that will provide for her and her child for years to come.

Please consider donating to this life-changing fund by supporting one of our Women of Options 2022: Gamechangers. Let’s invest in our future by supporting today’s youth when and how they need it most.

Thriving together, 

Christine Mohr

Chief Executive Officer, Options Community Services

For more OCS youth stories and information on this fund, please see our campaign handbook.

Women of Options

We have a responsibility and a duty to invest the time and resources into our Youth. With the right tools these kids will have all the opportunities to succeed and shape their future.

Detective Anisha Myette | Co-Founder, Her Time
Kamaljit Lehal | OCS Woman of Options

Kamaljit Lehal

Lawyer and Founder, Lehal Law & Chair, Options Community Services Board of Directors

About
Kamaljit has been a lawyer for over 30 years, an advocate for women fleeing violence, and a member of Options Community Services Board of Directors since 1996. As a former youth child-care worker for Options, she strongly believes that the Options campaign to raise a discretionary fund for issues faced by our youth is essential to fill the many gaps that exist.

“It goes without saying that youth are our future, therefore, as a community we must ensure that all youth have a level playing field, and for those that don’t it is our responsibility to make sure they are provided with the support and resources required to pursue their goals and stand on their own feet.”

GIVE TODAY >

Daniela Fisher - 50 Women of Options

Daniela Fisher

Owner, Naturally Given and Partner, Glarea Elevated Learning

About
Passionate about her work as an Emotional and Energy Healer/Well-being Coach, Daniela Fisher’s main purpose is to fearlessly elevate humanity to its highest frequency of LOVE. We all came here to learn how to love and to shine bright! She is excited to be part of Women of Options for the second time.

“The more we support each other, the more we can create a stronger, more supportive community and therefore world.”

GIVE TODAY >

Kamaljit Lehal | OCS Woman of Options

Gurjinder K. Bhurji

Real Estate Professional Royal Lepage Wolstencroft Realty, Owner, Stylin’ Confidence Beauty Salon

About
As a Realtor, Gurjinder Bhurji is always looking for ways to help people and loves to be involved with the community. She believes youth are our future community leaders but for them to progress, they need a balance of healthy stable living environment plus the ability to educate themselves in their passion and talents.

“Programs that benefit youth to be able to reach their educational, professional goals are essential to those that cannot afford to do so on their own. These benefits and programs are Options goals and funds raised to help these goals.”

GIVE TODAY >

Jamie Squires - 50 Women of Options

Jamie Squires

President and Managing Broker, Fifth Avenue Marketing | Matching Gift Sponsor

About
Over the past 19 years, Jamie Squires has worked her way up at Fifth Avenue Marketing from advertising to president and managing broker. She is looking forward to creating awareness, and helping our province’s youth get on track and giving them the ability to lead healthy and fruitful lives.

“My big thing is getting the whole industry involved. When it comes to youth and community, we should all be working together to help. An investment in youth is an investment in the future for all of us.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Raj Arneja

Author, Director, Community Engagement, Nanak Foods

 

About
Author Raj Arneja is author of the memoir Love at First Sight: A Mother’s Journey to Adoption. She is also the director of community engagement at Nanak Food focusing on philanthropy and community, and believes initiatives like the Options’ affordable housing project allows people to secure housing and be part of a community.

“I am thrilled to be part of helping to develop an emergency fund for youth at risk. A small amount of money at the right time can make a game changing difference in a child’s life.”

GIVE TODAY >

Judy Higginbotham - 50 Women of Options

Judy Higginbotham

Former Surrey City Councillor

About
Elected in 1983 as a city councillor in Surrey, Judy Higginbotham served for 25 years before retiring. She is now an active volunteer for many organizations and looks forward to raising the money needed for the Options discretionary fund to assist youth who need support.

“I believe all children are the community’s responsibility. Providing accessible and essential social programs to assist youth in need and funding arts and recreation programs to encourage healthy activities is necessary to building a strong, active and safe city for all of our children.”

GIVE TODAY >

Joan Forge - 50 Women of Options

Joan Forge

Retired Government Relations and Communications Professional, Affiliated with BC Lions Football Club

About
Being relatively new to the Fraser Valley, Joan Forge is looking forward to getting involved and making a difference in her new home. Since retiring from her government and community relations business, Forge Ahead Communications, Joan is living out her dream of designing and creating handcrafted items and has started an online business called One Day Mercantile.

“I want to be more than a bystander. This is a chance to get involved in the community we now call home and to help youth in need.”

GIVE TODAY >

Shelly Lynn Hughes - 50 Women of Options

Shelly Lynn Hughes

Owner, Fresh Magazine and Project Her 

About

Shelly Lynn Hughes is the owner and publisher of Fresh Magazine and the founder of a community called Pursuit 365. She has experienced having plenty and needing help from others and knows everyone needs help every now and then. If she can help someone else then that’s what she wants to do.

“Everybody needs a helping hand every now and then and if I can make a difference in my community then I want to do that.”

GIVE TODAY >

Louella Mathias - 50 Women of Options

Louella Mathias

Co-Vice Chair, Board of Directors, Options Community Services

About
As Co-Vice Chair of Options Community Services, Louella is keenly aware of the depth of community needs and the lack of funding to meet those needs. Louella is committed to advocating for services that make a difference to the lives of individuals in the community.

“Youth form one of the largest groups with unmet needs. I’m hoping that you too will help create this innovative response to meet a wide range of non-funded youth needs.”

GIVE TODAY >

Rebecca Darnell - 50 Women of Options

Rebecca Darnell

Lawyer, DLG Darnell Law Group

About
Before attending law school, Rebecca Darnell honed her skills in banking, as a court recorder/transcriber and as a freelance paralegal at several law firms. Her work in family law has shown her how many women are trapped in unhealthy or abusive relationships because they don’t have the economic means to leave.

“I am a long time supporter of youth at risk and I especially support anything that positively impacts youth mental health whenever possible. This Women of Options Gamechangers project is so timely and such a worthwhile cause.”

GIVE TODAY >

Rebecca Bollwitt - 50 Women of Options

Rebecca Bollwitt

Digital Media Publisher (Miss 604/sixty4media)

About
Born and raised in Surrey, Rebecca Bollwitt has blogged about life in BC since 2004 on Miss604.com. She is looking forward to supporting the 2022 Options Community Services Gamechangers Campaign to help fund youth programs and resources in the community.

“Access to youth sports programs … forever shaped who I am and gave me valuable skills I use to this day. I am so happy that Options will be investing in the future of Surrey through its youth.”

GIVE TODAY >

Kiran Dhaliwal - 50 Women of Options

Kiran Dhaliwal

HR Consultant / Federal Public Service

About
For 15 years, Kiran Dhaliwal worked in human resources and for the past seven years has been involved in public service federally and provincially.

“There is a critical need for youth support in Surrey and I am very excited to be a part of this and to work closely with the voices and experiences of the other women who have joined to make this happen.”

GIVE TODAY >

Tammy Dyer - 50 Women of Options

Tammy Dyer

Deputy Executive Director, Options Community Services

About
As a long-term employee of Options Community Services, Tammy Dyer has served in many capacities, including ECE in the young parent program, senior manager for the Early Years program, and now deputy executive director at Options.

“I realized… how important it is for everyone to have reliable support as they navigate their way through life.”

GIVE TODAY >

Jas Salh - 50 Women of Options

Jas Salh

Investment & Insurance Advisor, IA Private Wealth

About
With many years of experience in the securities industry, Jas Salh’s knowledge of the markets and dedication to providing excellent customer service aid her in understanding and satisfying the requirements of clients. She focuses on both building her business and giving back to the community.

“Together, we are all stronger. Together, we are a force for positive change in the world.”

GIVE TODAY >

Taylor Thoen - 50 Women of Options

Taylor Thoen

CEO, BTV-Business Television

About
Taylor Thoen is the CEO of BTV, a TV production and Digital Marketing Agency with the longest running investment TV show in Canada.

“Helping our community and contributing in a meaningful way is very important to BTV and myself personally. Options’ Youth Program offers much needed support for youths at risk or in need, and we’re fortunate to be able to support that cause”

GIVE TODAY >

Michelle DesRosiers - 50 Women of Options

Michelle DesRosiers

Sr Vice President, Project Operations, Fifth Avenue Real Estate Marketing | Matching Gift Sponsor

About
At the age of 15 Michelle started working in the Real Estate Industry in a very junior role. Immediately falling in love with what she was doing she knew this was the path she wanted to take. Fast forward to today and she is now the senior vice president at Fifth Avenue Real Estate Marketing Ltd. leading a team of industry professionals. Though people may never know about her involvement in this Options’ campaign, it’s the opportunity this initiative is going to bring so many lives that excites her.

“I am honoured to be participating in this campaign. Having family members that work with youth in need on a daily basis, I understand the lack of support currently available. Every youth deserves an opportunity to thrive and chase their dreams, which is why I couldn’t possibly say no to supporting this initiative.”

GIVE TODAY >

Shelly Howard - 50 Women of Options

Shelly Howard

Technology Sector – Partner Development Manager

About
As someone who has always been interested in the power of innovation, Shelly Howard has spent her entire career working to help customers and partners leverage technology to drive new and improved business solutions. Working together to drive positive outcomes is in her DNA and she is excited to bring her passion to the Options’ project.

“One small act of kindness can have a ripple effect that changes the lives of many in the years to come.”

GIVE TODAY >

Christine Mohr | OCS Woman of Options

Christine Mohr

CEO, Options Community Services

About
Although she has been in her role as CEO of Options Community Services these last 16 years, Christine Mohr has had her hands in social services for more than 40 years. She believes this Options Gamechanger Discretionary Fund will be of utmost significance in the lives of young people caught between the cracks of bureaucracy and despair.

“Sometimes families are unable to provide all of what is needed, especially in hard times. Supporting Options Gamechanger Fund is one way we can all help.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Lisa Xie

Founder, Community in You(th)

About
Lisa is an alumnus of Young UN and has supported United Nations’ vision on various roadmaps towards Sustainable Development Goal 2030 and is the founder of Community in You(th), a community organization aimed to empower youth voices and engagement of youth volunteerism.

“We must shelter Surrey’s youth to build a safe and supportive environment for all youth who will one day call this city their home.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Lizzie Allan

Comedian, RTC
Co-Founder, Hilarapy

About
Lizzie Allan is a self-designed comedy therapist and professional comedian. Whilst embracing her own healing journey from madness and addiction, she discovered that comedy and vulnerability had the power to change the world. Lizzie will be sharing more about this Options Community Services campaign from the stage.

“When one person shines their light, it helps many people find their way. I love witnessing people shine.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Sandy Avelar

Sergeant, VPD and co-founder of Her Time

About
Sergeant Sandy Avelar has been with the Vancouver Police Department for 24 years and is the co-founder of Her Time, an internationally-recognized program designed to educate young women and girls on the dangers of becoming involved with gangs and organized crime.

“I have met so many women whose lives may have taken a different turn if they had the opportunity to engage with the services Options provides.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Gurpreet Kaur Bains

Department Head, Modern Languages, LA Matheson Secondary, Surrey School District

About
As the languages department head at LA Matheson Secondary School, Gurpreet Kaur Bains is passionate about her role as an educator and a “mentorship through identity” facilitator. She looks forward to meeting other like-minded women through this campaign and making youth issues front and centre.

“This campaign won’t end in September. It’s going to be an ongoing cause and I will continue to support it.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Karen Lee Batten

Recording Artist, 2020 BC Country Fans Choice Award, 7 Time BC Country Female Artist of the Year

About
Karen Lee Batten is a country recording artist and was a Top 10 finalist on Canadian Idol, which gave her immediate national recognition and an exciting industry entry point. Karen Lee’s voice remains as timeless as it is relevant, commanding an adoring spotlight wherever a song might take her.

“When I first heard about the campaign from a great friend of mine Paulena… I thought about how powerful it was, and how amazing that all of these women are coming together with a strong message and a goal to raise funds to help the lives of so many who feel like they have no options. They do have options, and I wanted to be a part of this.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Kristin Catroppa

Philanthropist

About
With a long history of philanthropy and raising funds through a foundation to support children and youth in Surrey, Kristin Catroppa is excited to assist with this Options campaign. She is always looking for ways to demonstrate kindness and compassion.

“I believe everyone should be given opportunities to not be hungry, have education and have a home.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Supneet Chawla

Founder and CEO, ACE Community College, ACE Trades and Technical Institute

About
Supneet Chawla is an internationally trained electrical engineer (Gold Medalist), an immigrant women of colour who owns Industry Training authority of BC (ITABC) and Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) designated very well reputed Construction Trades Training Institution (ACE Community College) in Surrey, BC. She now holds a Canadian professional engineer’s (P.Eng.) licence from Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (PEBC), PMP certification from Project Management Institute, and is a recognized Canadian Electrical Code Instructor from Technical Safety BC.

“We ladies are powerhouses, and nothing can stop us in achieving the life we deserve!”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Joy Dockrey

Cree Elder, Military Veteran, Trauma Counsellor

About
Joy Dockrey has been adopted twice, first when she was five years old and then by the Haida Nation. When she found out about this Options campaign, Joy was excited as she believes this will alleviate some of the troubling statistics that are showing up.

“This was a door that opened, and I have been waiting for it to open for a long time.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Karen Dosanjh

Vice-President, Marketing, OSI Digital & Author, Untold Stories: The South Asian Pioneer Experience in BC

About
Throughout her 25-year career, Karen Dosanjh has broken new ground as a leader in the world of tech marketing and PR. She is supporting Options because she is deeply committed to causes that advance women and youth in our community.

“It’s simply not enough to do well for yourself and for your family. It’s incumbent upon us to have a meaningful impact by sharing our time and talent in a way that creates opportunities for others to thrive too.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Paulena Gidda

Sergeant, RCMP
Owner, Bullets n Beads

About
For the past 26 years, Paulena Gidda has been a member of the RCMP. While on the child abuse and sexual offences unit and dealing with a motor vehicle injury that left her unable to work out, Paulena created the Bullets n Beads jewellery brand to help her deal with her PTSD.

“Having worked sections and units with vulnerable young children, we as a community have to step up, show up and all do our part.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Nadia Hill

Senior Development Manager, New Commons Development

About
Nadia Hill leads a development portfolio of projects including projects in the City of Vancouver and the City of Surrey. She loves her work and is excited to have Options Community Services as a partner.

“There’s so much need, it’s on all of us to do our part.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Tamara Huculak

Partner, Lawyer and Trademark Agent, Richards Buell Sutton LLP

About
Tamara Huculak is a partner, lawyer and trademark agent with Richards Buell Sutton LLP, working out of their Surrey office. As a Surrey resident and active volunteer in the community, Tamara is a mother to a teenager and hopes to help raise the profile of the work Options Community Services does in the community.

“I want to do anything we can to help youth get on their feet, be happy, and become productive members of society.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Jay-Ann Gilfoy

President and CEO, Meridian Credit Union Ltd.

About
Jay-Ann Gilfoy has worked between British Columbia and Ontario for 5 years. Over the course of her career, Jay-Ann has been involved in helping women and has worked with affordable housing financing. She supports inclusion and helping people at all stages to access support.

“I am proud of being part of leadership that has advanced change in diversity, equity and inclusion and bringing financial services to those that need it to do good work.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Sharon Greysen

Realtor, Sutton West Coast Realty (WR/SS)

About
A Realtor since 2008, Sharon Greysen loves her work, especially getting to know her clients. She is happy to be included with the amazing women chosen to help with this year’s Options Campaign. Sharon believes this initiative will make a great impact on local youth with poor mental health, addictions and homelessness.

“Today’s kids are navigating very dangerous influences no matter where they live or what their upbringing is.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Kamal Johal

Assistant Manager in Finance, Options Community Services

About
In 2015, Kamal Johal moved to Surrey from Kamloops and began working with Options overseeing their work with the Employment Program of BC (EPBC). She believes this campaign is worthwhile and understands first-hand how difficult it can be for families to deal with mental health and addiction problems.

“I’m looking forward to giving Options more exposure and educating people about what we do.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Diane Johnson

Founder and Senior Advisor, Descriptive Video Works

About
Before starting her company, Descriptive Video Works, in 2003, Diane Johnson worked in radio and television broadcasting for many years, as well as with the Walt Disney Co. When she heard about this campaign, she was excited for the opportunity to come together with other women who wanted to make a collective difference.

“It’s great to have a company and profit, but it’s more important to make a difference.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Michelle Kim

Author

About
Author Michelle Kim is proud of being from Surrey and her debut novel, Running Through Sprinklers, is about girls growing up and apart in Surrey. She is passionate about supporting her community, especially in this Options campaign that will provide an emergency fund and mentorship program for young people.

“I was so well-supported by so many people and programs as a young person growing up in Surrey that I want to do that in whatever way I can for young people.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Christina Kirchhofer

Partner, Manning Elliott Surrey

About
Christina Kirchhofer specializes in providing accounting, assurance and tax services to owner-managed businesses, as well as advice on personal tax issues.

“The teenage years can be challenging and an awkward time in life. However, with the right guidance, teens can discover that their possibilities are endless. Options has many great resources available to help them tap into their potential.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Daphne Luking-Klassen

Owner, Managing Partner, Gramercy Developments Ltd

About
Daphne Luking-Klassen grew up in a real estate development/construction family and in 2005, she began her own real estate development company with two partners. She received her bachelor of communications from Trinity Western University and her real estate license from UBC.

“I’m looking forward to supporting and being involved with the initiatives Options creates and think it’s a good fit as a real estate developer to support an organization that looks to provide a home and support for those who need it in my own community.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Haleh Magnus

Office Manager & Internal Accountant, Magnus Law

About
With 23 years of experience in accounting, Haleh Magnus co-founded Magnus Law in 2016 with her husband, Duncan. She has two daughters, two cats and an Australian shepherd, Ollie. In her spare time, she works out. Haleh is an avid runner and loves backpacking.

“I believe in woman power, power of mindset and having clear vision. I think this program can support women to reach their full potential.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Rani Mann

Co-founder, Mannkind Charitable Society

About
Rani Mann believes Options Community Services is doing wonderful work in the community and she wants to give youth every chance to become independent. She looks forward to connecting with people in need and supporting them emotionally.

“I have seen so much out there and I know the troubles and the issues and how it could affect them.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Sharon Mason

Author and Realtor, HomeLife Benchmark Titus Realty

About
For more than three decades, Sharon Mason has worked as a realtor and her recently-published memoir outlines what it takes to become and remain a realtor. As a wife, mother, grandmother and mother-in-law, Sharon looks forward to meeting other like minded individuals through this campaign and making a difference.

“The need is great, especially now with inflation and prices going sky high. It’s very difficult for people.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Kirsten McElgunn

Chief Product and Strategy Officer, Prospera Credit Union

About
Throughout her career, the work Kirsten McElgunn has always been the most proud of is when there are shared values and a social purpose that makes an impact through business. She has seen first-hand how education and mentorship links to health and financial inclusion.

“Raising the money is one thing, but years down the road we’ll see the legacy of doing this work now.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Amanda Milford

Agent, Homelife Benchmark Realty

About
Moving her family to Canada from South Africa and restarting their life here is one of the achievements Amanda Milford is most proud of. She feels that working with Options Community Services on this campaign is a great opportunity to help in the community and support youth who could use a hand up.

“I love the area, South Surrey, and bringing my children up here. I feel lucky to live in such a great part of the world and want to be there to help others in the community.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Anisha Myette

Detective, VPD and co-founder of Her Time

About
Detective Anisha Myette had always wanted to become a police officer and is now in her 13th year with the Vancouver Police Department. This campaign with Options aligns with her values, and she is always looking to help members of the community in innovative ways.

“Investing in youth and helping in ways to build their future is imperative and something that I make a priority within my personal life and my career.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Jennifer Phipps

CPA, CA, Partner at Manning Elliott LLP Surrey

About
For the past 30 years, Jennifer Phipps has been working with owner-managed businesses. Raising her two daughters has been her greatest achievement in life. She is excited about supporting Options Community Services.

“There are many vulnerable youth in our community who need support to take that next step.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Lenore Rattray

Writer & Founder, planITgirl Canada Inc.

About
Lenore Rattray is a communications professional who is passionate about writing, networking, making connections, and above all, making a difference. As a trauma survivor, she works to make a systemic impact on understanding mental health through the power of storytelling and community building.

“Our youth are our emerging leaders and owners of this planet. By doing the groundwork now, amidst all of the chaos that they face in the world today, we can equip them with access to the right tools to thrive and help them inherit a healthier future.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Maninder Grewal

Banker, Khalsa Credit

About
Maninder Grewal is a mother, grandmother and banker. She loves seeing women help women, as some of her greatest support has come from her mother, daughters and friends.

“I truly feel that a strong and independent woman can move mountains. We are raising future leaders and members of society.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Jen Temple

CFO, Trademark Group of Companies

About
As CFO for Trademark Group of Companies, Jen Temple is in charge of everything from property management to land development. She is supporting this campaign because she understands first-hand what having the right opportunities and support can mean to a youth.

“I had the love and support and not everyone has that. If I can help with that piece, it’s such a gift for me to be able to give back.”

GIVE TODAY >

Bonny Moy - 50 Women of Options

Bonnie Moy

Real Estate Professional, HomeLife Benchmark Realty

About
Bonnie Moy has 30 years as a Real Estate Professional, and 40 years as an investor providing residential and commercial real estate rental properties. Last year, her White Rock, South Surrey HomeLife Benchmark Realty office rallied around Options, donating $10,000 to the 50 Women of Options Campaign!

“We all benefit when we live and work in healthy and safe neighborhoods. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to support Options in the affordable housing campaign and now this youth discretionary fund.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Brigitte Traverse

Owner, Hair Design by Brigitte

About
When Brigitte Traverse first learned about this Options Community Services campaign, she knew this was her opportunity to help local youth. An expert in the beauty and hair industry, she has owned and managed successful businesses since she was 19 years old.

“I’ve spent the past couple of years behind a desk, so it will be good to get out and see people again. I am looking forward to helping more people and youth in our community.”

GIVE TODAY >

Raj Arneja - 50 Women of Options

Gurjit Tiwana

Owner, Invictus Lawyers

About
In 2019, Gurjit Tiwana collaborated with Paramjit Malhi and opened Invictus Law. She is proud that, as a woman of minority, she has overcome adversity to become a successful practising lawyer and managing her own business. She works to magnify the issues affecting women and advocates for women and their rights.

“I want to continue to help and I see the vast need, especially for young moms and women fleeing abuse.”

GIVE TODAY >

One youth stood up at an AFN youth suicide conference many years ago and told us that the thing they want most is to be heard. I promise I will hear them. I will support them. And I will love them all unconditionally.

Joy Dockrey “Gramma Joy”
Cree Elder, Military Veteran, Trauma Counsellor & Woman of Options 2022

Since launching this campaign, we have been deeply encouraged by the outpouring of support from the community for this important initiative. Not only in the heartfelt donations of many, but also by those who have stepped forward and offered to lend a hand to the fundraising efforts of our Women of Options.

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured but the compassionate actions of its members.

Coretta Scott King
with thanks to our sponsors & partners
BC Housing
Homelessness Services Association of British Columbia
Fifth Ave