Meet Our Team
Cathy Steeves
Executive Director
Cathy Steeves is originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba and has called Fort McMurray home for the past ten years. Her work in safety training and in emergency management have allowed her to experience both the oil and gas industry and life in the urban setting. The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is a unique community with a rich Indigenous history and a diverse multicultural representation. Cathy understands the tightly woven fabric of our region and is an advocate for all those who live in our community, knowing the challenges we face together make us stronger and more resilient. With a lifelong purpose to move the needle of humanity forward in service to others. Cathy rallies the social profit sector, businesses and community members to lead positive change for everyone. Rather than looking at the community through a deficit, or down-turn lens, Cathy sees the potential for social innovation leading to social prosperity.
Maryellen Fenech
Director of Administration
Maryellen has been an instrumental member of the United Way team for 20 years, leading the organization’s day-to-day operations as the Director of Administration. She also sits on the National Employee Benefits Committee. Being a resident of Fort McMurray since 1997, Maryellen is well-versed in our region’s non-profit sector and the importance of allocating available funds to where they will have the greatest impact. Maryellen is wife to Dan, proud mom of Gabbi and Olivia and pet mom to their dog Blue.
Tammy McGlennon
Director of Community Impact
Originally from Toronto, Tammy has called our region home for the last seven years. Tammy turned her love of celebrating into a successful business, Blow Up Your Birthday, which she transformed from a struggling venture into a thriving company that heavily gives back to the community. Recognized as one of YMM Magazine’s Top 50 Under 50, Tammy’s commitment to building strong communities shines through her leadership and dedication to making sustainable changes. Firmly believing in giving back to her community, Tammy is a proud supporter of the SPCA and Wood Buffalo Animal Rescue. Beyond her professional endeavors, Tammy is a proud mother to her daughter Victoria, her stepson Memphis, and her fur babies Ben and Audie. Inspired by her father’s values and cheered on by her spouse, Adam, Tammy’s motivation knows no bounds as she continues to lead by example, striving for excellence in both her professional and personal endeavors.
Jonathan Davies
Business Development Leader
Pavlina Vaverka
Finance Coordinator
Pavlina has lived and worked in Fort McMurray for the last 15 years. Through that time she has worked with various organizations in roles that utilized her many skills in payroll, accounting, human resources and management. As the Finance Coordinator she works with the Finance and Administration team to make sure that all the dollars are accounted for and distributed to where they have the most impact. When Pavlina is not working she is continuing her academic pursuits and spending time with her husband Cam, son Xavier and their 2 dogs: Siba and Taz and their Guinea Pig: Fredrick.
Sophia Joyce Piosca
Redpoll Centre Administrator
Born and raised in the Philippines, Sophia moved to Fort McMurray in 2022. She’s fallen in love with the beauty of Fort McMurray since her arrival. And was currently seeking more opportunities to grow and help the community by joining events and volunteering programs. With the background of Business and Accountancy, Business and Administration Central Philippine University. She Graduated as well as Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) as the top 1 of their class. She’s also been a participant at YMCA Bridging the Gap Program and was employed at the Salvation Army as well. She enjoys meeting new people and inspires the young generation to be the best version of themselves to reach their full potential. Spreading positivity and working in the United Way to make Fort McMurray a lovely place is one of her ways to serve the community and live with a purpose.
Laurie Peddle
Community Impact Coordinator
