*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Geoffrey assumed the role of CEO in September 2021.  Prior to this, he was hired as Manager, LifeStreams Learning in March 2017, and then Director of Learning and Employment Services in April 2018.  Before joining the Garth Homer Society, Geoffrey enjoyed a 20 year career in the performing arts working in theatre, film, television, and radio.  In addition to his own work in the performing arts, Geoffrey has worked with several organizations to develop and integrate arts-based strategies and pedagogies in schools, art centres, theatre companies, and other community-based organizations such as the Calgary Centre for the Arts (Director of Education and Community Engagement), Sage Theatre (Artistic Associate/Festival Director), and Renfrew Educational Services (Consultant, Arts-Learning strategies), along with several post-secondary teaching positions.  

Throughout his career, Geoffrey has used the arts to engage people with developmental disabilities, which has paved the road that led him to the Garth Homer Society in 2015.  He moved to Victoria in 2012 with his wife and son from London, UK where he and his wife completed their graduate studies, and now spends his free time exploring beautiful Vancouver Island with his family. 

Tami is a Chartered Professional Accountant and holds a Masters in Global Business & Innovation Leadership. Prior to joining the Garth Homer Society, Tami was the Director of Finance at the Boys & Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria.  Previously, she held key financial roles in a variety of for-profit organizations, and served on several charitable Boards including the artsReach Victoria and the Octa Collective Society. Having worked in financial management for over 20 years, she believes it is her diverse work experience, and other volunteer activities, where she developed valuable skills of conscientious decision making, and governance, providing her with a unique perspective with regards to achieving the financial goals within a not-for-profit agency. Tami is continually inspired and humbled by the dedication and compassion the many volunteers, instructors and staff of the Society given to improve the lives of individuals by building a strong foundation of life skills, training and employment opportunities, and creativity through the arts. Outside of work Tami enjoys travel, touring on her motorcycle, and is a member of Pacific Opera Victoria.

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Kevin Steeple has been involved with the Garth Homer Society since 1998, joining the organization as a volunteer.  In January 1999 he took a full time position within the Sports and Recreation program. With 11 years of supervisory experience as a Program Coordinator and 7 years as Manager, Client Services, Kevin has a great understanding of the Garth Homer Society and promotes innovative thinking in GHS’s Service Delivery. Kevin was also involved with the transition of prior service delivery models to the current Community Inclusion programs now offered by GHS. As the Director of Client Services, Kevin oversees the intake process for the organization and welcomes the responsibility of building positive long term relationships with Families and Caregivers initiated at contact prior to receiving services at Garth Homer.  Kevin was a GHS Mandt trainer for 7 years and works closely with our current trainers, recognizing its importance in creating a positive, safe and welcoming environment for everyone connected to the Garth Homer Society. Kevin is responsible for developing and managing program budgets, working with new employees, performance evaluations, scheduling, team planning and maintaining the GHS standard of Service Delivery.  

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Adrian Benedek is Director of Programme Innovation at Garth Homer Society. He utilizes his extensive experience in program development and strategic leadership to enhance the society's offerings, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the community. His role in Learning and Employment, and GHS as a whole, is contributing, facilitating and effecting concepts that distinguish GHS as a trend-setter.  

Prior to joining GHS, Adrian served as President of 2Think1 Solutions Inc. There, he excelled in creating solutions for organizational efficiency and growth, helping streamline operations and adopt advanced technologies, particularly for migrants aspiring to work, study, and live abroad. 

A local and a University of Victoria alumnus, Adrian has deep roots in Vancouver Island. His global travels have enriched his perspective, and his passion is in giving back to the communities that have supported him and his family. Adrian enjoys exploring nature and engaging in outdoor activities with his wife and two daughters, always eager to learn and discover the island's beauty. 

Known for his strategic vision and compassionate leadership, Adrian is dedicated to driving meaningful change and fostering inclusive environments. His work is motivated by a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others. 

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

BJ joined Garth Homer Society’s Team in May 2005.  With almost two decades within our organization, BJ has developed strong rapports and gained vast experience within many roles-Casual Staff (all teams in that era), Program Facilitator (STARR and CAT), STARR Team Coordinator (12years), Supervisor Client Services (December 2020-May 2022), MANDT Instructor, Employer Chair of JOHSC, OFA2 for CI teams, long standing member of the social committee, and currently-Manager Client Services since June 2022. 

BJ strives daily at Garth Homer for all individuals and coworkers to feel safe, supported, empowered, encouraged to embrace diversity and be one’s authentic self. 

Outside of GH, BJ’s priority is time with family/friends. She enjoys music, swimming, camping, and paddle boarding. 

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Selena’s diverse career spans 20+years’ experience in management and front-line work in the non-profit social service and arts and culture sectors, including community development and engagement, arts & cultural management, volunteer management, social justice, and conflict resolution. It is in the intersection of these fields that Selena loves working the most, leading with the knowing that when people’s basic as well as creative needs are met, they can truly thrive! 

It is this holistic leadership approach, grounded in inclusivity, empowerment, and compassion that Selena infuses in her leadership style, daily work and relationships with others. She loves her connections with people and knows the importance that those connections have in nurturing the health and growth of her clients and organizational culture. 

Over her career, Selena has gained valuable experience working with a broad spectrum of society, including individuals with diverse abilities, families, youth, immigrants, Indigenous peoples, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and seniors. She values diversity and the richness it creates. 

Selena brings a unique curiosity, a commitment to lifelong learning, and an inspiring dedication to creating belonging for all. She knows deeply,” It takes a village!” 

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Lisa Burke is currently the Quality Assurance Manager at Garth Homer Society. She has long championed the underdog and been engaged with social issues. This was the focus of her education, including graduate degrees from the Universities of Victoria (MA – CSPT) and the University of Denver (IR).  She has worked for nonprofits, including when in Denver, Colorado, the BC government and in academics.  She has been an analysist, a project manager and a risk manager for social service ministries.  Her academic field is international relations.  Lisa has two concurrent projects. The first is analyzing the political economy around MMIW; the second one deals with Cyber-Capitalism and if the location of means of production into all things internet and AI is actually a new form of production.  If so, then how is it regulated? She lives in Victoria with her dog, Haneul, and enjoys her extended multigenerational family, hiking, biking, running and going on weekly adventures. 

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

With a passion for Human Resources and a wealth of experience across diverse sectors, Lea is an Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in the UK, and current working towards her Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Lea has a diverse career spanning education, manufacturing, hospitality and government sectors, where she has gained valuable experience in both unionized and non-unionized environments.  

Outside of work, Lea enjoys leisurely walks and savouring pizza on the beach.  She also loves cheering on and watching her nephew play rugby. 

Tammy joins the Garth Homer Society with over 10 years of experience in the social services sector. With degrees in Human Services and Child and Youth Care, she is eager to apply her skills and experience. A proactive, forward thinker, Tammy is a valuable addition to the GHS team and is excited to contribute to its continued success.

*Photo by OPTIONS program participant Kyra Nowosielska.

Tara brings experience in administration and operations across various sectors, including PR, digital marketing, and technology. Throughout her career, Tara has excelled in supporting executive-level management by enhancing office functions, managing projects, and fostering strong relationships.

She is committed to inclusivity, empowerment, and compassion, valuing diversity and believing in the importance of meeting both basic and creative needs to help individuals and organizations thrive. She brings empathetic problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and attention to detail to her professional endeavors.

Outside of her professional life, Tara enjoys spending time sewing, cooking and hiking with her dog.