OUR MISSION
LGL's mission is to cultivate a resilient and empowered community by promoting awareness of social and environmental issues. We engage students, newcomers, and community members through sustainable initiatives, fostering mental well-being, environmental education, and skill development. Our focus encompasses community gardens, reduce food insecurity gap, diverse workshops, and programs such as Eco-Chic 3R's Boutique. With a commitment of fostering inclusivity, supporting individuals of all genders, and creating a stronger, more connected community.
OUR VISION
Preserve, Restore, Improve. LGL envisions a sustainable future where the well-being of newcomers, community members, and the environment intersect. Through initiatives like community gardens, workshops, and food insecurity programs, we promote physical and mental well-being, empower individuals with essential skills, and reduce financial burdens.
OUR GOALS
LGL's goals involve bringing our community together by connecting education centers, newcomers, students, government, and various community groups, creating a supportive network. We want to actively engage newcomers and students, offering chances to apply their knowledge and skills for personal and professional growth. Our commitment to mental well-being includes keeping impactful programs like Community Gardens, workshops, and outdoor activities. We prioritize empowering individuals of all genders, focusing on building skills for positive mental health. Moreover, we're committed to reducing food insecurity in our community through initiatives like The Good Food Box and Pop-up market programs..
OUR BOARD MEMBERS
Yaneth Londono
Executive Director
Before coming to Canada from Colombia, Yaneth worked as an environmental lawyer for eight years an Environmental Organization. When arriving in Canada, With always having a passion for the environment and to further educate newcomers on environmental issues, she started a non-profit organization called Links for Greener Learning (LGL)
Jenny Andrea Sanchez Alvarez
Treasurer
Jenny Andrea Sanchez Alvarez graduated with Business Accounting Diploma Niagara College in 2010. Her professional experience includes positions as Purchasing Assistant, Customer Service Representative and Administrative Support Staff at Core-Mark International from 2011 to 2013.
Mike Britton
President
Mike has a Double Major in Medical Science and Classical Studies from the University of Western Ontario. In 2014, at the age of 24, Mike was elected as the youngest City Councillor in St Catharines history. Mike now fills his time with property management, political consulting, and is involved in many community groups. He sits on the board of Crime Stoppers Niagara, The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24, the Royal Niagara Naval Association, the Facer District Merchants and Residents Association, and is President of the Rotaract Niagara Club. He is an active volunteer with Central Community Church and Habitat for Humanity Niagara, and is a member of the St Catharines Rotary Club, the United Way of Niagara’s GenNext Cabinet, Seymour Masonic Lodge, the Royal Niagara Military Institute, and Junior Chamber International (JCI) St. Catharines
Clemencia Chacon
Chair
Clemencia has a bachelor's degree in Humanities and several years of experience teaching adults and youth. Since her arrival in Canada, she has been working with Newcomers to help them settle in the community and has assisted them to move forward. She enjoys participating in community activities and has been volunteering with Newcomer programs in the Niagara Region. She is also a freelance interpreter. In her spare time she enjoys gardening, reading, and exercising and she is one of our newest board members.
OUR PARTNERS
Bridges Niagara - is a community based non-profit charitable organization whose team of professional staff and volunteers provide vital settlement services to newcomers as they strive to create a rewarding new life in Canada.
Bridges Niagara – Immigrant and Refugee Services
Niagara College - Language Training Programs Workforce & Business development and Environmental Management & Assessment Program-NC recognizes the difficulties many newcomers face upon arrival in Canada. They offer to arrange programs and services that will help newcomers find the work and education that is right for everyone.
www.niagaracollege.ca
Niagara Region - Water & Wastewater Services Division and Waste Management Services
https://www.niagararegion.ca
YMCA of Niagara - Niagara-Employment and Newcomer Services
https://www.ymcaofniagara.org
