Our Staff Team
Amy Kohut
Director of Programs & Community Engagement
amy.oasisd@gmail.com
Amy joined Oasis in 2018 as a volunteer while between jobs and became an employee in 2019. With a background in the corporate retail industry, where she spent most of her career, Amy brings a unique perspective to her role. She sees her transition from retail to community service as a journey from retail into refuge—a calling to help create a welcoming space where all feel valued and supported.
“I love being part of Oasis because it’s more than just work. It’s a way to walk alongside the community, for the community.”
Diana Garnica
Spanish Senior’s programs & Finance Officer
diana.oasisd@gmail.com
Diana joined Oasis Dufferin Community Center in 2021 with a passion for both numbers and people. Originally from Colombia, she holds a degree in IT engineering and a certificate in business management from Canada. As the Finance Officer, Donor Relations & Special Projects Lead, Diana oversees the organization's finances while also leading and inspiring the seniors group. She finds joy in creating meaningful connections, ensuring financial sustainability, and developing initiatives that empower the community. Her role bridges strategy and impact, helping to foster a welcoming and inclusive space for all.
“I love being part of Oasis because of the strong sense of familiarity and community. Working closely with people and seeing the impact of our work makes me feel at home, creating connections that go beyond just a job.”
Erika Abele
Women’s Counsellour.
erikaoasis@rogers.com
After completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto Erika began volunteering at the Oasis Dufferin Community Centre. In 2001 she became part of the Staff at Oasis working in numerous programs such as the food bank, afterschool program and conversational ESL classes. In 2007 she began working in the counselling program at Oasis that serves Newcomer Women providing emotional support as they settle in Toronto. In order to serve this community, she completed her Master of Divinities from Tyndale University in 2012 with a focus on Counselling. In 2019 she also completed a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor.
Erika is currently the Director of the Women’s Counselling program that offers individual counselling to under-resourced Women that Speak Spanish.
Erika has two children, Sarah and Christopher who are her greatest joy. In her spare time, you can find her going for long walks in the woods or kicking the ball around with her son.
“I appreciate the privilege of journeying with newcomer women. I’ve witnessed their resilience as they face many barriers settling into Canada. I’ve learned from the community and I continue to be shaped by the people that I meet everyday.”
Harry Compton
Food Banks & Operations Manager
harry.oasisd@gmail.com
Prior to coming to Oasis, I had some amazing jobs and felt like I did some great things but I never felt like I had purpose. Working at Oasis has given me that. I now understand what community is and how we all play a part in shaping what we want it to be. By supporting our community and our programs I have found my true purpose.
“Oasis is a place for belonging, for fun, for faith, for understanding, for redemption and for compassion. It is a place for all of us.”
Board of Directors
We are grateful for the leadership that our board of directors provides.
Sofia Pazmino, President
Richard Kvistbo, Treasurer
Gladys Castro, Secretary
Mary-Jane Clarry
Pauline Kioko
Esther Barnes
Julio Miranda
Our Volunteers
Our volunteers are the heart of our community, bringing compassion and dedication to everything we do.
Learn how you can join the team and help make a lasting impact!