Our Board

  • Paul Raso | Director and Chair

    Paul Raso is an accomplished educator and community leader with over 13 years of experience with the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB). After 10 years as a teacher and 3 years as a vice principal, Paul made the significant decision to resign from his position to focus on establishing a nonprofit organization aimed at bridging educational gaps in low-income communities. His grassroots initiative seeks to provide experiential learning opportunities and foster strong community partnerships to address the inequities faced by underserved youth.

    Paul’s commitment to youth development is further exemplified by his work with Beat the Streets, where he has been instrumental in expanding programs that foster discipline, confidence, and leadership skills in young athletes. His vision continues to inspire collaboration and support, helping to create lasting impact in low-income communities.

  • Neal Ewers

    Neal Ewers | Treasurer, Secretary

    Neal Ewers is a highly respected figure in the Canadian wrestling community, known for his exceptional coaching skills and unwavering commitment to youth empowerment. As the former Executive Director of Beat the Streets Toronto, Neal was instrumental in transforming the organization into a leader in youth development, providing underserved communities with access to wrestling and mentorship. A former member of the Canadian National Wrestling Team, Neal achieved an 8th place world ranking and won a silver medal at the Pan Am Championships. His career also boasts four All-American titles and an NAIA national championship, demonstrating his dedication and expertise in the sport.

    Beyond his personal accolades, Neal has devoted his life to mentoring and supporting young athletes. Through Beat the Streets Toronto, he developed programs designed to provide low-income and at-risk youth with access to the life-changing benefits of wrestling. Today, Neal continues to shape the next generation of athletes as a coach and mentor at Battle Arts Academy, where he remains a passionate advocate for youth development.

  • Olu Quamina | Director

    With a strong background in social services and extensive experience in mediation, advocacy, and leadership, Olu Quamina brings over a decade of expertise in building strategic networks with schools, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders. His work focuses on prevention and proactive engagement, particularly in reducing gang involvement in communities like Alexandra Park.

    Olu's innovative leadership style and targeted youth support initiatives have been instrumental in addressing critical social issues through the development of programs tailored to the unique needs of children and youth. His approach emphasizes collaboration and teamwork as essential components for creating environments that promote positive development for young people.

  • Foster Carr | Director

    Foster Carr served as the Meals on Wheels Supervisor at Dixon Hall Neighborhood Services, where he was responsible for coordinating volunteers and managing employment services. During his tenure, Foster played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization’s capacity to serve adults and seniors, particularly those with disabilities or terminal illnesses, ensuring they had access to essential nutrition and care.

    In addition to his operational leadership, Foster contributed as a fundraising manager, securing vital resources to sustain and expand the program. His initiatives helped grow the scope of services offered, enabling Dixon Hall to provide more comprehensive support to vulnerable individuals.