Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of the Victoria-based RAK Foundation, all graciously volunteer their time to help the organization realize its vision. In addition to monthly meetings and an annual planning retreat these Directors are actively engaged on an almost daily basis, evaluating applications for assistance (via email) and periodically assisting with administrative tasks.
Every Director has personally witnessed and been impacted by the terrible effects of substance addiction, either personally or via family or close friends. And each has witnessed miracles of recovery, seeing previously addicted individuals working hard through recovery programs to rebuild their lives.
Our Board meetings are also supplemented by two external advisors, who work daily in addictions counselling and client support. Their continuous guidance has greatly assisted the Board since the RAK Foundation's inception, providing education, "live-on-the-street" examples, and sometimes case-by-case advice and feedback.
The 2009 Board of Directors includes:
Mr. William (Bill) G. Mercer, Chair of the Board of Directors
Bill is a retired Assistant Deputy Minister of the BC Ministry of Health, who has recently re-entered the workforce as an independent consultant. His success as a public servant was recognized in May 2002 when he was awarded the Queen's Jubilee Medal for Public Service to the Province. Bill's recent volunteer work has also included his current performance as Chair of the Board of Directors of Mount St. Mary's Hospital, and a three-year appointment on the Saanich Police Board.
Ms. Margaret (Peggy) Tier, Director and Secretary / Treasurer
Peggy is an independent businesswoman with her own private accounting practice, which she has operated for over 20 years in the Greater Victoria area. Peggy is one of the founding members of the RAK Foundation, continuously serving on its Board since inception, and acting as primary liaison on a day to day basis with all referring organizations and counselors.
Mr. Peter Lawrence, Director and Vice-President
Peter is a Victoria-based Management Consultant, who works extensively in the Information Technology field, with both public sector and private sector clients. Peter has been active in supporting individuals through their recoveries for over 20 years.
Mr. Gordon Harper, Director
No one in our community is very far removed from the harmful consequences which often result from the use of alcohol and other drugs. Gordon Harper is a social activist and an advocate for those who struggle with substance use issues. He is Executive Director of the Umbrella Society for Addictions and Mental Health, and has served on many regional committees and initiatives concerned with the interconnected issues of addictions, mental health and homelessness. Earlier this year, he was named 'Unsung Hero' for 2009, in recognition of his tireless work on these concerns.
Mr. Marc Tassé, Director
Marc is currently and MBA Candidate and a Business Development Consultant with his own firm, specializing in developing product distribution networks. He has also been involved in several municipal community development projects. Marc has experience managing employment assistance and subsidy programs targeting low income families. He brings to the RAK Foundation over 20 years of volunteer community service experience.
Mr. Paul Tier, Director
Paul is a Senior Management Consultant, and provides technology consulting, primarily in the health sector, to government and private sector clients across Canada. Paul is one of the founders of the RAK Foundation, and has been active in its support since its inception in 2003.
