Board of Directors

Ensuring Sunrise remains an inclusive pillar of our community.

President
Mark Belliveau

I have been a Volunteer at Sunrise beginning in 2000. In 2007 I joined the Board and in 2009 became Board President. Sunrise is a wonderful, amazing, unique and much needed organization. Sunrise brings all of our Members, Families, Staff and Volunteers together creating friendships, experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

Vice President
Victor Vella

I have been on the board of directors since 2009. My son has been a member of Sunrise since its inception and thoroughly loves it. I am on the board to make sure everyone in Sunrise can enjoy their experience as much as my son has and continues to.

Treasurer
Don Boychyn

I've known about Sunrise since its inception in 1991 as my son, David, was one of the original members. I have been actively involved as a Board member since 2001 when Sunrise expanded to include a day program. Sunrise is unique in that it provides recreational events and activities for its members as well as offering a day program. The fact that volunteers are an integral part of the organization makes for a wide circle of friends for members and volunteers experience a broader perspective of individuals with special needs in our community. It is equally important that Sunrise provides not only recreational and day programs for the members but also provides an element of needed respite for families and caregivers

Secretary
Janet Moore

I've been involved with Sunrise since 1997 as both a volunteer and former summer student. It has been a vital part of my life since high school, and I am proud to now serve on the Board of Directors in addition to attending as many events as I can. I have travelled a lot in my life, and there has not been a place I have found that is as vibrant and welcoming as Sunrise. Our members and families make Sunrise what it is and I hope that both as a volunteer and a Board Member, I can continue to uphold our values and our mission.

Facilities
David McBride

My daughter Andrea has been a member of SYG for 6 years. I joined the Board in July 2015 out of a keen interest to be of service to the group and help to move it forward. I love the thought of what Sunrise is about and all the staff, members and volunteers. It is my strong desire to see Sunrise grow and prosper, and continue to provide a safe and supportive environment for our staff, volunteers and members

Director
Wes DeKlerk

Our son joined Sunrise Youth Group in 2020 and their virtual day program helped him to thrive though the Covid-19 pandemic. Sunrise has an incredible team of people that have built a strong and supportive community for members. Their focus on wellness, education and life skills has provided our son with opportunities to learn and grow while meeting new friends. I joined the Sunrise board of directors to support their incredible team and to give back to an organization that performs such a vital role in our community

Director
Olivia Hill

I have been a volunteer at SYG since 2013 and I was lucky enough to make it onto the board at the end of 2020. I love everything SYG gives to their programs and members - the energy you get from being around the staff, volunteers, and members is the most joyful, honest energy I've ever felt and I wanted to join the board so I could help give back the feeling SYG gives to me. My favourite events are the dances (all of them) and Camp Wabikon

Board Liaison
Ellen Boychyn

I have been involved with Sunrise since 1991 when it began, when our son David, 16 at the time, joined. I have been on the Board of Directors for a few years quite some time ago, and now enjoy volunteering as the Board-Staff liaison or Staff Facilitator. I am encouraged by the innovative, creative, and supportive people, volunteers and staff that are devoted to Sunrise and committed to the mission and values of Sunrise. In the words of our leading founder, people with special needs just want to do the same things as everyone else. They just need a friend to do them with.