Our Team

Brian P. Hart

Founder, Kate’s Rest Foundation

Brian P. Hart brings over forty years of expertise in community economic development across southeastern Ontario, with a focus on job creation, sustainable farming, renewable energy, and energy-efficient building practices. His extensive career includes initiatives such as:

- establishing several job creation and computer training centres in remote rural communities,

- co-developer of the wind farm developments on Wolfe and Amherst Island as well as the energy efficiency retrofits to the buildings owned by the city of  Kingston,

- launching a renewable energy cooperative, and

- creating social enterprises centred on climate controlled farming.   

For the past nineteen years, Brian has channeled his passion for community development into the founding and management of Kate’s Rest Foundation, the region’s only permanent supportive housing initiative.  Under his guidance, the Foundation has provided not only housing but also essential resources and opportunities for supportive social enterprises that emphasize sustainability, self-sufficiency, and social impact.   Brian’s dedication to integrating innovative solutions with community-driven approaches has transformed lives and fostered economic resilience in rural, underserved communities throughout the region. His leadership continues to inspire impactful projects that prioritize inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and lasting positive change.

Stefan Popa

Director, Property Management

Start Term: 03/10/23

Stefan is a former resident of Kate’s Rest. In the early years of the Foundation, Stefan was instrumental in launching the first social enterprise, the insulation business. He managed that company for six years. He then moved on to general construction, where today he is employed as a heavy equipment operator. Stefan volunteers at the Foundation not only with maintaining the property, he is Chair of our Property Management Committee. Stefan and his wife live on Big Island.

Simona Sanislav

Director

Start Term: 09/11/21

Simona has over 20 years experience as a counselor/occupational therapist in mental health. She is passionate about helping people to overcome challenges and work towards personal growth. Simona strongly supports approaches focused on strengthening our relationships (with ourselves and others) and building communities and lives that are peaceful, complete and safe. 

Mary Di Mambro

Director, Communications

Start Term: 01/01/25

With over 20 years of experience in government relations and corporate communications, Mary builds strategic frameworks that drive growth and impact.  Her passion for making a difference extends into the non-profit sector, where she applies her expertise to drive meaningful change.

After witnessing emerging artists struggle to navigate the music industry, Mary left her C-suite career to become an Artist Manager, dedicated to guiding musicians toward success.   An optimist, problem solver, out-of-the-box thinker, and adventurer, she thrives on tackling challenges and creating opportunities.

Mary has an insatiable appetite for knowledge, constantly immersing herself in books that foster spiritual growth. She also loves exploring new cultures and landscapes, always seeking deeper understanding and connection. 

David Walsh

Director

Start Term: 11/10/23

David has a background in commercial real estate and has had a keen interest in supporting individuals who are unhoused, beginning with his volunteer work at an addiction drop-in centre where he hired individuals to do restoration work. David has served on the boards of several non-profit housing organizations and is interested in building support for community-based options that lead to a more caring society.