Meet The Team
Creating a welcoming space where everyone belongs.
Say hello to the friendly faces behind Beaches Sandbox! We're here to help while making our community an amazing place to connect and have fun.
Jordan Safer
Executive Director
"Let's have some fun! With 13+ years in the nonprofit and entertainment sectors, I have seen the positive benefits of social engagement, education and fun on the health of society. From public events that bring people together for shared experiences to educational workshops that teach people new skills, impact hubs like Beaches Sandbox are a critical thread that weave together the different parts of our community and help us grow as individuals. I am excited to make an impact in my neighbourhood, and to be a champion for smiling."
Samantha Little
Sr. Manager, Programming
"My passion for community engagement stems from my own upbringing in East York, where I participated in programs offered by various community centres. These experiences significantly shaped my identity, highlighting the transformative power of community involvement. I've been involved in the planning and development of the Beaches Sandbox from its inception. Prior to my current role, I dedicated 12 years to being a childhood educator in schools and childcare centres in the Beaches and East York. I firmly believe in the value of community centres as essential hubs that foster personal growth, connection, and empowerment for diverse communities."
Meghan McCready
Sr. Manager, Marketing & Development
"As a music fan and purpose-driven marketer, I have spent over 13 years working with not-for-profit arts and live music organizations, bringing people together for high-quality programming and education in inspiring and inclusive spaces. We discover more about ourselves and each other through creativity, music, movement, and play. I am thrilled to be part of the Beaches Sandbox team, serving as a steward for this joyful space where individuals, families, and friends can connect and come together to create, learn and have fun."
Sarah Marie Thompson
Manager, Guest Relations
"My greatest passion is to find various ways to help people one step at a time. With my educational background in Marketing, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with a wide variety of people in different age groups. I’ve helped my clients, who include teenagers, adults and seniors, strengthen themselves and their relationship with others so they can live their lives to the fullest and continue to be successful. I am thrilled to be a part of the Beaches Sandbox team to bring the community together and make a positive impact in their lives. "
Braedan Hill
Assistant, Guest Relations, Rentals & Events
"With family and community at the core of my values, I am excited to be a part of a team that allows me to do what I’m best at as an Indigenous person; help and uplift those around me! Beginning my career and working in administrative services, I hope to continue learning and advancing my career in community service and care with the hopes of helping to provide services that build and maintain more fulfilling lives for youth and communities. I am thrilled to join the Beaches Sandbox team and bring together passion and joy to provide important and impactful community services. and continue to be successful."
Theresa Anderson
Coordinator, Guest Relations
"After I retired from The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee 5 years ago, I knew I wanted a part-time position in the Beach community where I could give back and meet new people. After the pandemic, when Beaches Sandbox opened, I found the position I’d been looking for and joined the team as a part-time Front Desk Coordinator. I divide my time between Beaches Sandbox and my role as a part-time lunchroom supervisor at a local school. I have been involved with the Beaches Advisory Committee for over 10 years and am a proud grandparent of my 2 gorgeous granddaughters. I am thrilled to be a part of the Beaches Sandbox team to bring the community together and make a positive impact in their lives."
Sandbox Team
Jason Schuy
"I've been a Beacher for over 25 years and it's always been a dream to give back to the community I love so much. Fun is so important in life. Like they say: if you can't have fun in life, what's the use? As a father of two, I see more than ever in my kids how it can fuel one's spirit. I feel so honoured to be part of creating a special place, filled with joy and happiness. My hope is that it will raise the vibration of our community and ensure the Beaches is an even better place to live in the future."
Co-Chair
Paulette O'Leary
"I grew up in a rural town watching my father give back to the community. Whether it was volunteering or playing sports, Dad loved bringing fun and joy into everyday living; he was my hero. Living this way, I knew I wanted to share this incredible gift with everyone I know and be an example for my two daughters who lived their whole lives here in the Beaches. Living with abilities that are different than the typical person (having MS), I understand it's essential to have fun and live life to it's fullest. Disability actually created opportunity! Living in the beaches for 30 years , it’s my awesome privilege to be able to create fun, inclusive experiences for all. I believe every person has something unique to offer. Great experiences happen when a community comes together, no matter what age or gift!”
Co-Chair
Runa Dhar-Whitaker
"I loved growing up in a Toronto neighbourhood with a local community centre. It had kids to play with and affordable programming. I’m actually still friends with some of the people I met during those years. However, this isn’t an experience felt by all, which makes me so thrilled to part of an organization like the Beaches Sandbox. Those with different abilities have the opportunity to have enriching experiences. My ‘day’ job is as Executive Director of Dream Community Foundation, a role that’s dedicated to improving the well-being of individuals, families and neighbourhoods; aligned with a focus on inclusive communities. For the past 15 years, I’ve successfully lead corporate social responsibility portfolios in the financial and technology sector. Inspired by Jason & Paulette's vision, I’m looking forward to bringing this experience and supporting the growth opportunities for this unique organization."
Director
Kate Zaparanuik
"Growing up in a small town, I’ve experienced the positive impact that being part of an engaged and close knit community has on people of all ages. Beaches Sandbox is a place that fosters connections, provides fun and accessible programming and helps to positively shape the Beaches community. I’m excited to play a role in creating meaningful experiences for everyone who interacts with the Centre." I am thrilled to be a part of the Beaches Sandbox team to bring the community together and make a positive impact in their lives."
Secretary
Aracely Cruz
"Throughout my career as a HR leader, I have been privileged to witness the incredible transformations that occur within inclusive environments. This experience has fueled my passion to create spaces that foster a deep sense of belonging and celebrate the unique strengths of each individual. I am excited to bring my expertise to The Sandbox. By creating a place of inclusivity, people of all ages and abilities can participate in creative programs and unlock their potential, making a positive impact on the community at large. Being an immigrant and a mother of two, I wholeheartedly understand the significance of community support in shaping lives. This drives my eagerness to dedicate myself to uplifting others. Together, we can build a dynamic and inclusive community where everyone is given the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their aspirations."
Secretary
Rob Lang
"As a parent living in the Beaches neighborhood for the past 20 years, you know the challenges of finding high-quality inclusive programs in the community where kids of all abilities can just be themselves and have fun. Witnessing the smiles and laughter of the children as they come through the Beaches Sandbox center is incredibly rewarding, knowing that the Sandbox is making a positive and lasting impact on their lives. The great thing about the Sandbox is that it also provides opportunities for seniors to have fun and learn new things too. It’s exciting to be part of the passionate Beaches Sandbox team dedicated to helping out in the community. With over 25 years’ experience in finance in the software industry, it is refreshing to be involved at the Beaches Sandbox where even the numbers are fun! Thousands of smiles and still counting!!"
Treasurer
Frances Anderson
Bio coming soon
Advisor
Danielle Robinson
Bio coming soon
Advisor
Marc Hull-Jacquin
Bio coming soon
