Our Team

Shelly started her career with Kennedy House in 2000 as the Human Resources Manager and has been Executive Director since 2007. Shelly is responsible for developing and implementing the agency’s strategic plan, overseeing the operations of the agency, and ensuring that all clients’ needs are met.

Passionate about working in non-profit and social services, Shelly is a graduate from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Education. She also possesses a Diploma in Human Resources Management and additional training courses from York University’s Shulich’s Executive Education Centre.

Thanosan Balakumar joined the Kennedy House team as Human Resources Manager, bringing over eight years of progressive HR experience across talent acquisition, employee relations, workforce planning, organizational development, and people strategy. He holds a Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM) from York University and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Specialist in Human Resources Management, from the University of Toronto. A member of Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), Thanosan is currently pursuing his CHRP and CHRL designations. As an HR leader, he is passionate about strengthening organizational effectiveness, fostering inclusive and high-performing cultures, supporting employee development and engagement, and aligning people strategies with organizational priorities to help Kennedy House make a meaningful and lasting impact on youth and families.

Rosalinde (Rosie) graduated from Trent University in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology. She began her career with Kennedy House in 1986 at the Kennedy Road program as a Child & Youth Worker. Over her tenure with the agency, Rosie has worked as an Assistant Supervisor, Program Supervisor and Client & Family Service Worker. Since 2014, Rosie has been an integral part of the Kennedy House Senior Management Team, assuming the role of Clinical Manager for the agency. Rosie has established strong relationships with the Ministry of Children and Youth Services, Ministry of Community and Social Services, and children’s aid societies. Rosie took on a leadership role in the establishment and growth of the Developmental Services offered by Kennedy House for youth and young adults living with developmental disabilities. Rosie has dedicated her career to improving the lives of those we serve by demonstrating and promoting an individualized, therapeutic, relationship-building model of care for clients.

Vivian graduated from University of Toronto with an Honours Bachelor of Arts, with a Specialist in Sociology. After graduating from University of Toronto, Vivian went on to study at Centennial College, graduating with a diploma in Community and Justice Services.

Vivian has over 20 years of experience working with both youth and adults who are, or have been, involved in the Criminal Justice System.  Vivian worked in both Open Detention and Open Custody facilities for youth, as well as in a Community Residential Facility for those on Day Parole before securing a job working in the Direct Accountability and Diversion Office at Old City Hall.

During her time working in the Courts, Vivian further developed a passion for supporting those who are experiencing homelessness, and thus, made the transition to working in the shelter system in 2020. She is excited to be on the Kennedy House team and brings her passion of working with youth to the Kennedy House Shelter Team, and Toronto as a whole.

Tania joined Kennedy House in March 2023 as a member of our Senior Leadership Team. She began as the Manager of Residential Services and was recently promoted to Associate Director of Development & Operations. She brings more than 15 years of extensive experience managing 24-hour operations and day services. Tania is a graduate of Centennial College and has completed additional educational and professional training relevant to the sector.

Community outreach is a central part of her life. Recognizing the significant needs within the community, she is committed to being part of the solution. Kennedy House enables her to give back by supporting youth and their families.

Through her role, Tania helps ensure Kennedy House follows established protocols and standards to create a safe working and living environment. She also focuses on building strong connections and relationships both within and beyond the residence. Having a positive impact on clients, her team, and the broader community is both rewarding and inspiring, and she looks forward to continuing her journey with Kennedy House.

Katie McGregor has more than 20 years of experience working in mental health, education, youth justice, and community services. Throughout her career, she has worked alongside children, youth, families, and multidisciplinary teams, supporting individuals through evidence-informed, person-centred, and trauma-informed approaches to care.

Katie joined the Kennedy House team in 2024 as Assistant Manager of the Youth Justice Facility, where she oversaw daily operations, supported multidisciplinary teams, and helped foster a safe and structured environment focused on rehabilitation, growth, and healing. She brings extensive experience in trauma-informed practice, crisis intervention, staff development, and leadership.

As Senior Manager of Developmental Services and Outreach, Katie provides leadership across D-Stay, Outreach Programs, and organizational operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality supports and services. She is committed to empowering both staff and program participants while promoting inclusive, supportive environments where individuals can achieve their personal goals and reach their full potential.

Katie is also Kennedy House's Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour (UMAB) trainer and takes pride in supporting staff development across the organization through training, mentorship, and skill building.