An Alert from Creating Alternatives
The site is closed for the day due to inclement weather.
Menu
our staff
leadership team
Danielle Dang
Executive Director
Danielle has over 16 years of progressive leadership experience within the healthcare sector and has a proven track record of successfully planning and implementing large-scale projects. Danielle holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy, a Master’s in Health Administration, and is a certified Health Executive with the Canadian College of Health Leaders.
Danielle was an accomplished occupational therapist for adults and seniors in the areas of mental health, acute medicine, palliative and community care settings. She further reinforced her clinical skills in the United Kingdom working within the National Health System (NHS).
As a Senior Planner for the Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) Danielle led the French Language and Aboriginal Services and contributed to the planning of seniors’ services.
During her role as Senior Director of Planning and Care Initiatives at Lumacare, Danielle has been credited with leading the organization through extensive growth and innovation. Her portfolio included Business Development, Quality and Risk, Programs & Services, and IT. She briefly held the position of Interim Agency Lead during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Executive Director for Creating Alternatives, Danielle is fully committed to lifelong learning and looks forward to bringing the organization to new heights.
LINA MELCHIORRE
Finance & Office Manager
As the Finance and Operations Coordinator, Lina uses her knowledge of financial management to ensure organizational flow and to optimize day-to-day functions. With a well-rounded knowledge of the organization from her beginnings in an all-encompassing administrative role, Lina has been an integral part of the Creating Alternatives team since 2011.
As a Leader, Lina brings her positive energy and encouraging attitude to the staff team. Lina truly enjoys every aspect of Creating Alternatives.
“It’s not how much you have that makes people look up to you, it’s who you are” – Elvis Presley
MARIA REA
Program Manager
Maria’s 30 year history in developmental and mental health services has garnered her a wide variety of skills in developmental disabilities, dual diagnosis, adult education, non-profit organizations and crisis intervention.
Since joining the Alternatives family in 2011 Maria’s determination for social justice, advocacy, collaborative approach, and exceptional interpersonal strengths has established trusting relationships with her families, participants, and colleagues.
JESSICA NOFTLE
Program Supervisor
Graduating in 2017, Jessica is a University of Guelph-Humber Alumni, with an Honors Bachelor of Applied Social Sciences, and a Social Service Workers diploma. Jessica also has a specialization and certifications in Linguistics from York University.
Jessica joined Creating Alternatives in 2015, and has been a dedicated and evolving part of our team ever since. She is passionate about promoting equality, encouraging independence and ensuring the goals of all persons are met without barriers. Jessica brings a keen eye to detail, artistic media creation and innovative programming, to the Alternatives family.
Using her charismatic, approachable and non-confrontational personality, Jessica strives to create a constructive and welcoming team environment.
Program team
Lilanie SORIANO
Program Collaborator
Lani graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education and was able to teach in public high school for more than 15 years before immigrating to Canada. She was able to get her Personal Support Worker Certificate and worked in Nursing Home for 7 years simultaneously, gladly joined at Creating Alternatives later.
Lani has been is an essential member of the Creating Alternatives family for over 9 years. Lani is highly skilled at coordinating multiple everyday activities. Lani is extremely committed, reliable and enthusiastic in maintaining safe, clean, and positive environment. She is compassionate in assisting the participants’ personal well being with independence and self-respect. Her passion in art and cooking are well manifested in her community-based activities that are preferred by all participants.
Laura Rotundo
Administrative Assistant
Laura joined Creating Alternatives in October 2020 as a part-time Administrative Assistant in the Finance Department. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto. Upon graduation she trained as a Montessori teacher and taught elementary school for several years.
In 1993, she left her teaching position to become the office manager for her husband’s construction business. Laura truly enjoys working at Alternatives and assisting families with Funding, and Family Managed Home Care. This position has introduced her to many wonderful participants, colleagues, and families.
Laura has a good sense of humour, loves cooking, playing Candy Crush and travel; but what makes her happiest is spending time with her husband and 3 adult children.
Lisa Aulicino
Administrative Assistant
Lisa joined the Creating Alternatives team in 2022 as an Administrative Assistant, providing support to the Board, its sub-committees, and the Executive Director.
She ensures that workloads are organized, timelines are adhered to, and projects are supported. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Finance Degree from the University of Toronto and has over 30 years of experience in the consulting, accounting, and franchisee industries.
She is grateful to be applying the skills and insights she has developed over the years to such a meaningful organization.
LUANA DA SILVA
Program Facilitator
Luana attended the University of Guelph-Humber under scholarship and graduated with an honors Bachelor’s degree in Applied Social Sciences and a Social Service Workers Diploma.
Joining Alternatives shortly after graduating in 2021, Luana has quickly become like family, as well as an essential member of the Alternatives team. Her passions towards equality and promoting inclusivity for individuals living with a disability are at the forefront of her goals for social change.
Luana strives to continue building her knowledge and skills in her line of work surrounding community engagement, advancements, as well as helping create new opportunities. In sharing her love for the arts, Luana encourages individuals to broaden their horizons, explore their own passions, and discover new interests and hobbies.
MARIAH CASTRO
Program Facilitator
Starting her journey at the University of Guelph Humber studying Family and Community Social Services under scholarship, Mariah graduated with an Honors Bachelor’s degree in Applied Social Sciences and a Social Service Workers diploma.
Mariah found her passion working with individuals with developmental disabilities soon after graduating university in 2021. Once beginning at Alternatives, Mariah knew she found her second family.
Mariah values equality and autonomy above all, and her passion for supporting her community and its individuals shines through each day in finding new and unique opportunities for the participants of Creating Alternatives. Through her sunny and fun demeanor, Mariah always puts a smile on the faces of everyone when she walks through the doors each day.
Currently on Leave
MEGAN VENTURA
Program Facilitator
Joining the team in 2021, Megan brings a fresh new perspective to the Alternatives family. Graduating with Distinction from the University of Guelph-Humber focusing on Psychology, Megan strives to promote awareness and kindness to all within the organization. With a high level of compassion, Megan works to implement facets of her academic career within program, focusing on mental and physical well-being. She believes that all individuals should have the knowledge to live a healthy and happy lifestyle, without barriers.
Michael Nyim-Asare
Personal Support Worker, Program Driver
Michael Nyim-Asare is an exceptional individual with a passion for helping others. His kind and caring personality, strong morals, and positive attitude have made him a standout in his field. As a Personal Support Worker (PSW) and a driver, Michael spent 12 years working with older clients, assisting them with daily tasks and providing emotional support. He approached his work with a love for connecting with people, and his ability to remain patient and kind in challenging situations made him a favorite among his clients. Michael’s dedication to his work has earned him the respect and admiration of many.
In addition to his work as a PSW, Michael is a certified Joint Health Safety Committee Member, certified by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Ministry. He is passionate about health and safety and is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to a safe and healthy environment. His certification reflects his expertise in health and safety regulations, and his ability to advise and educate others on best practices. Michael’s commitment to serving others and his desire to make a positive impact on the world make him an inspiration to those around him. He is a shining example of what it means to be a caring and compassionate human being, and his impact on the lives of others is immeasurable.
Rachel Perricciolo
Program Facilitator
Starting in 2014, Rachel has been a dedicated member, friend and confidant in the Creating Alternatives family. Rachel is a 2018 Seneca College Alumni , graduating with a Social Service Workers diploma. Rachel has a passion for culinary arts, promoting independence as well opportunities for all participants to reach their full potential.
Using her creative, and adaptable mentality, Rachel strives to create strength based programs for individuals.
SABRINA OLIGO
Care Coordinator
Sabrina is a University of Guelph-Humber Alumni, with a Bachelor of Social Sciences, and a Social Service Workers diploma. Sabrina joined Alternatives in 2019 and has become an integral part of the team with the use of a person-centered and strengths-based approach in her practice. Sabrina is passionate about promoting inclusivity and breaking barriers for persons living with a disability, as well as supporting families in advocating for their loved ones.
Through her compassion and dedication to the individuals she supports, Sabrina strives to provide ample opportunities for success in all aspects of their lives.
Serrina Castro
Program Facilitator
A 2019 graduate, Serrina found her passion for helping others through completing her Social Service Workers diploma at Humber College. Since joining the team in 2021, Serrina shows her dedication and passion to the team by building meaningful relationships, encouraging members to put their very best efforts forward, and promote a diverse and safe environment for the Alternatives community to grow and develop as a family.
Serrina values a strong and encouraging environment where she can collaborate, openly communicate and succeed with a team. Her enthusiasm and commitment to aiding all individuals to achieve their own levels of success is a driving force each day.
VICtoria POON
Program Facilitator
With over 12 years of unwavering commitment, Vicki’s journey with us began as a student and blossomed into a profound dedication which truly embodies the essence of dedication and integrity.
As a Sheridan College alumna, graduating in 2010 with a diploma in social service work, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. Vicki’s dedication extends far beyond the workplace; she is a passionate advocate for promoting happy and healthy lifestyles, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Her values are anchored in fostering honorable relationships with participants and their families, creating an environment of inclusivity and warmth.
With her exceptional organizational skills, Vicki brings a spirit of collaboration and determination to our team, enriching our work environment with her open communication and unwavering dedication. Vicki’s presence is a testament to the power of integrity, kindness, and a genuine zest for life in all that she does.
Kiera Wright
Program Facilitator
Kiera first joined the Alternatives Family in 2023 as a student and was delighted to stay on as a staff starting in early 2024. Kiera graduated with high academic honours from Canadore College in 2024 with a diploma in Recreation Therapy.
Kiera also holds an Honours bachelor’s degree in biology from Toronto Metropolitan University, providing her with a biological understanding of disability. Prior to coming to Creating Alternatives, Kiera discovered her passion for advocating and advancing the lives of those living with disabilities and strives to bring a fun holistic approach to her programming.
Kiera has a commitment for inclusive and meaningful recreation for all and strives to incorporate all she has learned throughout her career to improving the lives of others. Recreation Therapy has taught Kiera to help individuals achieve not only an independent life but a meaningful and pleasurable one as well.
Rose Genova
Program Facilitator
Rose Genova, a graduate of Seneca College in 2023 with a diploma in Social Service Work, embodies dedication and compassion in her role within the Alternatives family. Her journey began during her placement with the organization from 2022-2023, where she forged meaningful connections with participants.
Rose finds joy in seeing other grasp a new skill or experience a new opportunity; she is there to encourage and uplift all to reach their fullest potential. Recognizing her impact and finding her place within an organization with familial values aligning with her own, Rose continues her mission of building strong relationships, and making a difference in the lives of others.
Find us
- 4300 Steeles Ave W #18, Woodbridge, ON L4L 4C2
- Monday-Friday: 8am to 4pm
- (905) 264-9007
- Registered Charity No. 864168711RR0001
Programs
Copyright © 2023 Creating Alternatives. All rights reserved.
Charity Website By 1Business Box