Michelle McDonald

Director of Operations

Michelle started with BIST in November 2010 and works closely with the Board of Directors, Committees and staff to develop new opportunities for the growth and reach of BIST’s programs and services.  She sits on the Communications, Membership and Run Committees. Since starting with BIST Michelle’s says “I am in constant awe of the many volunteers that enable BIST to reach its mission.  We would be nowhere without the dedication and commitment of these individuals”.

In addition to her experience as a Marketing Consultant, Michelle has worked in the non-profit sector for many years, including the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and Toronto Preschool Autism Service.

Outside of work, Michelle loves to ski, run and spend time with her two young children and husband.

Kat Powell

Programs and Services Coordinator

Kat has been working with BIST since the fall of 2008. Kat joined BIST with 10 years’ experience working both here in Canada and overseas in Australia, Asia and East Africa with Non-Profit and Non-Governmental organizations that focus on community inclusion, training of trainers, health promotion and sport for development. Since Kat started working she has always said “I love working and volunteering with organizations that work towards helping people with special needs improve their quality of life and maximize their potential”.

Outside of work Kat enjoys volunteering in the winters with Track 3 as a Ski instructor for children/youth with physical and cognitive needs and in the summer with Camp Oochigeaus – a camp for kids with cancer. When she has the time she enjoys participating in musicals and choirs.

Mary-Ellen Flynn

Programs and Services Assistant

Mary-Ellen started with BIST in March 2013. Mary-Ellen is a Master’s of Science graduate in Occupational Therapy, while also holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Care. Mary-Ellen has over three years work experience working in both community and clinical Brain Injury settings. Mary-Ellen has a wide range of experience dealing with a varied spectrum of clients from mild to severe Brain Injury. In addition she has experience in the areas of mental health, medical research, paediatric and geriatric care. Since Mary-Ellen has started working she has always said “Working in the area of Brain Injury has always been a rewarding occupation where you can really make a difference”

Outside of work she likes to walking and exploring Canada’s great outdoors and is an avid movie goer.

Debra Fine, M.A.

Psychotherapist/Social Worker

Debra stated with BIST in March 2012 helping to develop and facilitate both the Survivor and Caregiver Support Groups.  Debra completed her Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in 2000.  She has worked extensively in diverse mental health settings including non profit and community agencies, universities and colleges and has a private practice.  Throughout her career, Debra has worked with disabilities, chronic illness and other medical issues, as well as a broad scope of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder. Outside of work, Debra enjoys spending time with her family and friends, painting, yoga, swimming, reading and other recreational activities.

Debra looks forward to further developing and growing BIST’s new support groups.