Joanne’s career began with 12 years in advertising, communications and event
marketing, where she worked on campaigns for clients such as Scotiabank, Wal-
Mart, Procter & Gamble and Best Buy. She has also provided marketing
consultation to smaller entrepreneurial clients. Additional roles include business
development at Gowling Lafleur Henderson, one of Canada’s top business law
firms. However she always had strong sense of social justice, and felt the desire touse her professional skills in a way that gives back to the community and truly
impact people’s lives. In 2013 Joanne transitioned to the non-profit sector into a
senior marketing role at the YMCA. Currently as Manager of Volunteer Relations,
she oversees all things volunteer-related for a group of 800+ volunteers through
over 40 programs at WoodGreen Community Services, Toronto’s largest social
services agency. In her role she works with a very diverse population of
volunteers and clients, including children, newcomers, adults with developmental delays and marginalized populations. Joanne also serves on the board of directors at Nellie’s, a local shelter for women and children fleeing violence and abuse. She also volunteers for the arts through lending her marketing expertise to the Toronto Northern Lights, an international award-winning a cappella group.