OUR TEAM
Patti Ridlon, Operations Director
With an extensive background in social services, nonprofit leadership, and addiction recovery, Patti joins the team at a pivotal time as Ryandale continues to expand its programs and services to address the growing housing crisis in Kingston. Patti, originally from Baltimore, Maryland, brings a wealth of knowledge gained through her co-founding One Promise Recovery Housing, which continues to operate clean and sober homes for men and women. Her hands-on experience with recovery housing complements Ryandale’s mission to provide safe, temporary accommodations while fostering independence and stability. Patti’s operational expertise and her commitment to fostering partnerships align perfectly with Ryandale’s mission to empower individuals on their path to stable housing.g a critical period of transition and witness them achieve stability and independence.
Dave, Manager
Dave brings a wealth of experience with individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. With a background in both the private and public sectors, he is committed to the development and evaluation of social programs, with a particular focus on encouraging and empowering men to rediscover their purpose after severe hardships.
Steve, Assistant Manager
Steve is a skilled general labourer and support worker with over 10 years of experience in construction, carpentry, masonry, and community service. Known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and compassion, he brings high-quality results to every role—whether on a job site or in a support setting. His expertise includes drywall, site prep, maintenance, and safety protocols, along with training in conflict resolution, trauma-informed care, and overdose response. Steve is also a board member of a 12-step recovery program, where he supports others through mentorship and lived experience In 2023, he graduated from Northern College’s General Arts and Science program with a focus on psychology and human behaviour, further strengthening his ability to work with people in crisis. Certified in First Aid, CPR, and de-escalation, Steven is both a capable builder and a trusted advocate—dedicated to helping others and building stronger communities with care and integrity.
Halima, Support Worker / Outreach
In January 2024, Halima joined Ryandale Transitional Housing. She currently holds the titles of a Support Worker and Outreach. Halima has completed her post-secondary education at St. Lawrence College through the Community and Justice Services Program, where she has completed student placements at a local Youth Facility and a Federal Institution. Employment at Ryandale has allowed Halima to assist individuals seeking support through the KFL&A area during occupants’ rehabilitation process through a holistic lens. Inspired by Ryandale’s mission to break systemic barriers of socioeconomic challenges, she is determined to make a difference in her community. Her goal is to create ripple effects that lead to a more inclusive and supportive society, one step at a time.
Mandy, Program Coordinator
Mandy an experienced program coordinator with a strong background in grassroots organizing, cultural programming, and land-based learning. Originally from Sharbot Lake, located on unceded Algonquin territory, Mandy was raised around Indigenous land-based practices that continue to shape and guide her work today. Now based in Kingston, she brings a relational and trauma-informed approach to everything she does, rooted in her commitment to community wellness, language revitalization, and the healing power of land-based connections.
Kaycie, Support Worker
Kaycie joined the Ryandale team while attending St. Lawrence College, where she graduated from the Community and Justice Services program as their Valedictorian for 2023. She brought forth her unique experiences and perspectives from various positions within the community that focused on social determinants of health, vulnerable and at-risk populations, harm reduction, and homelessness. Kaycie’s commitment to the community, familiarity with vital resources, and knowledge of legislation and benefits have greatly supported the progress of our occupants at Ryandale. Her role is to support occupants and staff through day-to-day operations. She also volunteers in the fundraising and media departments. Kaycie is currently obtaining her bachelor’s degree in justice studies and has future aspirations in law; however, she plans to hold Ryandale close to her heart. “Since my first day with Ryandale, I knew I found something special here, I found an agency that prioritizes accessibility, equity versus equality, diversity, and inclusion while fostering a holistic approach; I value that our occupants are provided with individualized care plans tailored to their unique circumstance’s, rather than a cookie-cutter model.”
Omar, Support Worker
Omar is a results-driven management professional with a strong track record of leading high-performing teams across diverse and dynamic environments, internationally. With extensive experience in service strategy, process optimization, and stakeholder engagement, Omar brings a collaborative and solutions-oriented approach to his work. His background includes expertise in instructional design, training program development, and service budget management, all with a focus on improving client outcomes and organizational efficiency.Since 2024, Omar has gained valuable frontline experience in Ontario’s social services sector, deepening his understanding of the housing and employment support needs within the community. His passion for fostering a culture of continuous improvement aligns closely with Ryandale’s mission to provide transitional support and advocacy for individuals facing housing insecurity.
Ryan, Support Worker
Ryan joined Ryandale Transitional Housing while studying for his Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, bringing a person centred and trauma informed lens to his support work. Prior to joining Ryandale, Ryan served as an acting team lead at an inpatient treatment facility for youth in British Columbia, where he also contributed to the recreational planning committee and participated in case planning with interdisciplinary care teams. The organization emphasized experiential and adventure based therapy as a means of fostering resilience and personal growth, an approach that continues to inform Ryan’s appreciation for relational, strengths based care. At Ryandale, he offers empathetic and goal oriented support to residents navigating complex life transitions. His academic training and frontline experience complement Ryandale’s mission to provide safe and empowering environments for individuals working toward stability. Ryan is especially passionate about creating affirming spaces for marginalized communities and supporting residents in reclaiming autonomy and hope. “Ryandale creates space for people to rebuild and it is a privilege to walk alongside them in that journey.”
Board Of Directors
| Tim Barber – Director / Chair | Jeff Thompson – Director / Vice Chair |
| Paul Smtih – Director / Secretary | Renee Tulk – Director / Treasurer |
| Ani Garg – Director | Daria Adèle Juüdi-Hope – Director |
| Meghan Leuprecht – Director | Saeid Tahamtan – Director |
| Theresa Mitchell – Director | Scott Woodall – Associate / Former Director |