James Kelly

Executive Director

James has been working in youth and family services in Vancouver for over 25 years — both in a front-line and management capacity. James began his role as Executive Director at Peak House in 2009. James identifies as trans, is passionate about social justice, and committed to providing anti-oppressive and inclusive services in his community. In addition to his work at Peak House, James has served on numerous community board of directors, and works alongside organizations and individuals providing consultation, workshops, mentorship and leadership training.

Taryn Grant

Program Manager

Taryn Grant is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and over 20 years of experience in social services. Having lived in various regions across Canada, including Iqaluit, NU, Taryn has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by diverse communities. She specializes in the concurrent disorder sector with youth and has extensive experience in youth corrections, as well as addressing anti-human trafficking and violence among Indigenous Peoples.

With more than a decade of supervisory and managerial experience, Taryn has played a pivotal role on committees like the action plan for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirited and initiatives to raise awareness about anti-violence practices. Her commitment to her work has earned her several awards, including recognition for excellence in indirect services with clients.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Taryn enjoys spending her spare time outdoors, engaging in activities such as dragon boating and camping. Her energetic and professional approach makes her a valued advocate in the field of social services.

Lilian Garcia

Administration

Lilian is an administrative professional with over 10 years of experience. Her motivation stems from supporting her team members and ensuring businesses run smoothly and effectively. Additionally, Lilian is currently enrolled in a degree program at Douglas College, specializing in Communication, with an expected graduation in 2025. In her free time, she enjoys engaging in outdoor activities with her husband and their sweet young daughter.

Stephanie Vranesich

Intake Coordinator

Stephanie is a dedicated Child and Youth Care Worker with ten years of experience in providing support and advocacy to youth and families.  Now serving as Intake Coordinator, Stephanie ensures that every client receives a compassionate and thorough introduction to services, helping them navigate the resources they need to thrive.  Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work, Stephanie is committed to deepening her expertise and enhancing her impact within the field of social services.

Fabienne Kuhn

Mental Health & Substance Use Counsellor

Fabienne Kuhn has been working in various mental health settings over the past years. She gained her Masters degree in Psychology in Bern, Switzerland. After moving to Vancouver and building up her own counselling practice, she realized she prefers a collaborative approach and started her role as a clinical counsellor at Peak House. Fabienne is passionate about integrating embodiment practices and somatic experiencing into her sessions and enjoys working with youth. When she is not at work, she can be found creating mosaic art in her studio.

Kelsey Beliveau-Wanek

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker Coordinator

Kelsey is a dedicated professional serving as the program supervisor at Peak House. With a bachelor’s degree from SFU in Psychology, and a minor in Criminology, she combines her academic knowledge with a profound passion for mental health and addictions work. Kelsey’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her workplace; she actively contributes to the community as a member on the advisory committee for the Youth Future’s Education Fund. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in empowering former youth in care by helping them access financial assistance for their post secondary education. Kelsey’s drive and empathy shine through in her work, embodying the spirit of compassion and support that is integral to the field of mental health and addictions.

Murphy Ryan

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

Murphy first learned about Peak House when he was a teenager himself, in the late 1990s, through participation in activism alongside Vikki Reynolds, who served as the program’s Clinical Supervisor for many years.

After completing his undergraduate degree in Linguistics and Gender Studies at SFU, Murphy joined the Peak House team as a Youth Counsellor in 2006. He left Peak House to prioritize parenting in 2010, and went on to earn a Master’s degree from the Society, Culture & Politics in Education program at UBC. Read more…

James Braun

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

“Jamie” (he/him) is honoured to be a part of the Peak House staff. Jamie has been an active member of the sober community since 2021, and sincerely believes in the power of sobriety to make dreams come true. Jamie completed a Bachelor of Arts from UBC in Cognitive Systems in 2021. He is currently pursuing a Master of Counselling from City University to become a Registered Clinical Counsellor by 2025. Rain or shine, you may find Jamie strolling through Vancouver’s beautiful West End enjoying the view.

Kirsten Robert

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker

Kirsten (she/her) has been working with diverse youth in clinical and educational settings for the past ten years. Kirsten is passionate about supporting individuals in reaching their goals and aspires to make a difference in her work. She holds a Master’s degree in psychology and neuroscience and degrees in fine arts, psychology, education and art therapy.

Joel Jasper

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

Heba Khalid

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker

Heba (she/her) has been on the relief team with Peak House since 2019. With years of experience working with children and youth, Heba has worked in inner city schools, treatment facilities, day treatment program, and for the new immigrant and refugee society. Heba has a background in visual arts and dance/movement, she took this creative work and combined it with her interest in working with folks to process trauma and cultivate connection. Heba has her RTC and completed certification in Expressive Arts Therapy and is a member of the ‘Healing in Colour’ team of BiPOC therapists. Heba is a certified Yoga Instructor with a special focus in trauma informed yoga which she has been able to offer to marginalized communities in Canada and the US. She is a new mama so she is spending most of her time enjoying her expressive little one and learning the world of parenting.

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker: Full Time

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker: Full Time

Kim Kozak

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker: Full Time

Kim is a highly dedicated member of of the sober community, as well brings 3 years of experience working in treatment facilities in client facing support roles. She also has spent more than two years working within non for profit organizations, serving women on the downtown eastside.  Kim brings an empathetic, yet positive and enthusiastic attitude in supporting the young individuals at Peak House. She aspires to help promote change and growth in hopes of allowing youth the opportunity for a bright future!

Kim holds a degree in Communications Arts, and is very passionate about promoting the importance of self care, self love, and connection. Kim is a former competitive athlete in sports like track and field, and fastball. In her spare time, she is an avid runner, enjoys hiking, and playing recovery team sports such as slow pitch, and soccer.

Cameron Macfarlane

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

With a focus on creating a positive impact in people’s lives. Cameron is a focused and passionate individual with a background in youth mentorship. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work, Cameron aims to specialize in working with youth to aide in their development towards a brighter future. With experience in athletics and community volunteering, Cameron puts emphasis on persevering through goals and being a team player to support and serve others in the community.

Megan Macfarlane

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

John Duong

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker (On Call)

Mia Prokopetz

Mental Health & Substance Use Support Worker

Megan Ireland

VCH Nurse Practitioner

Laila Biergans

Overnight Staff

Laila has been employed by Peak House since 1989 as youth councillor and night attendant. Holding a bachelors in political science from McMaster University. Post grad studied criminology and philosophy.
Laila is a book addict, cat lover and drawing portraits.

Ernest Dushime

Overnight Staff

Jean Leonardo

Kitchen Coordinator/Cook

Caitlin Grisack

Chair

Caitlin Grisack (she/her) has been leading innovative programs in the public and not-for-profit sectors for over 15 years. Specializing in essential services, trauma, and conflict transformation, she is a change champion and social justice advocate committed to building healthier workplaces and communities. Caitlin holds a master’s degree in Leadership and is a certified Psychological Health and Safety Advisor and Mental Health First Aid trainer. Having started her career working with high-risk youth, Caitlin is proud to have been a member of the Peak House Board since 2013.

Emily Coates

Vice Chair

Emily, a lifelong resident of East Vancouver, has been a dedicated Realtor with Sutton Centre since 2003, following a successful career in banking with RBC. She earned her Associate Broker’s License in 2011 and her Property Management License in 2014. In 2015, Emily took on a leadership role as Owner/Director of Sutton Centre Realty and currently serves as Vice President.Currently pursuing her MBA at Dalhousie University, Emily is passionate about community engagement. She has volunteered with various organizations, including PADS, and remains an enthusiastic contributor to the Realtors Care Blanket Drive, which her father co-founded over 23 years ago. A strong advocate for equality and second chances, she actively supports youth initiatives in her community. In her free time, Emily enjoys traveling, savoring coffee, cooking, and cherishing moments with family and friends.

Marc Goffaux

Secretary

Marc was born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil before moving to Canada to pursue his Bachelor’s degree in 2012. He quickly embraced the Vancouver community where he is proud to call it his home. When he is not working or visiting family abroad, you can find him enjoying either a cup of joe at your local coffee shop or hiking one our beautiful mountains.

Angela Lee

Director

Public engagement is important to Angela (she/her) who has been a lifelong volunteer at various organizations.  Born and raised in Vancouver, she calls East Vancouver home.  She is committed to making positive changes in her community and supporting its youth.  She is a lawyer who has been practicing for the past 16 years in and around the Lower Mainland, as well as previously in Alberta and B.C.’s beautiful North.   Issues such as equity, diversity, and inclusion as well as victim support are key passions of hers.  Outside of work and volunteering, Angela takes advantage of the many outdoor activities available in our backyard, reading books with her cat in her lap, and traveling the world with her partner and friends.

Shannon Richardson

Director

Shannon (she/her) is a Marketing Director with over 15 years of experience. As a mother of two teens, she brings a unique perspective to the Board, combining marketing expertise with a passion for helping at-risk youth.

Stephanie Fitzsimmons

Treasurer