Building on Strong Foundations: OCH Foundation Welcomes Melissa Reeves as New Chair

Melissa Reeves – Chair, Ottawa Community Housing Foundation

Ottawa, ON – September 9, 2024 – The Ottawa Community Housing Foundation (OCH Foundation) is proud to announce the appointment of Melissa Reeves, Chief Operating Officer of Linebox Studio, as the new Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Melissa succeeds Wayne French, whose 9-year tenure as Chair has been instrumental in guiding the Foundation’s vision and mission. Wayne will continue to guide the Foundation in his new role as Past-Chair.

With a robust Board comprised of leaders like former Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson, community advocates such as Nick Ethier (Vice Chair, OCH Foundation & Assurance Partner, PwC Canada) and Tara Lapointe (Vice President, Stakeholder Engagement and Advancement of Society, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council), and other dedicated members, the OCH Foundation is poised to further its mission of empowering the diverse communities within Ottawa Community Housing (OCH). Melissa Reeves, who has served on the Board for 8 years and as Vice Chair for the past 4 years, brings a deep commitment to this mission.

OCH Foundation Chair Melissa Reeves (left), Former Mayor of Ottawa and OCH Foundation board member Jim Watson (middle left), and OCH Foundation Past-Chair Wayne French (right) share a light moment while packing backpacks alongside volunteers at the OCH Foundation’s 24-hour Pack-a-Thon event (August 9, 2024).

“Melissa’s extensive experience in operations and her dedication to community development make her an ideal leader for the OCH Foundation at this pivotal time,” said Wayne French, outgoing Chair. “Her leadership will be crucial as we expand our programs to meet the growing needs of our communities.”

Melissa was initially drawn to the OCH Foundation because of its impactful work with single mothers, children, and families living in OCH neighborhoods. Over the years, she has seen the Foundation’s offerings expand and evolve, and she has been a key supporter in this growth. Under her stewardship, the Board will continue to leverage the expertise of its members to ensure the Foundation’s continued success and relevance.

In her role as COO of Linebox Studio, a leading architecture firm in Ottawa, Melissa has overseen the company’s growth and evolution since 2012. Linebox has also been a steadfast supporter of the OCH Foundation.

A Call to Action: Expanding to Meet Rising Needs

As the cost of living continues to rise, the OCH Foundation has doubled all its programs to respond to the increasing needs of the community. The Foundation is also expanding its reach to include adults and seniors, ensuring that everyone in OCH communities has access to the support they need to thrive.

OCH Foundation staff and Khalsa Aid volunteers distribute milk, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables at an OCH community as part of a Tomorrow Ready aid drop (July 25, 2024)

“Our goal is to reach more members within our diverse communities and offer them the supports they need to thrive,” said Melissa Reeves. “With the strength of our Board and the dedication of our staff and volunteers, I am confident that we will continue to grow and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.”

The OCH Foundation invites community members, partners, and supporters to join us in our mission. Together, we can build a brighter future for everyone living in Ottawa Community Housing.

About the Ottawa Community Housing Foundation

The OCH Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and social well-being of over 33,000 tenants living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH). Through education, employment, and community engagement projects, the Foundation helps tenants achieve personal success and responds to emerging needs.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact

Traci Spour-Lafrance (she/her/elle), Senior Manager, Partnerships & Innovation, OCH Foundation

Cell: 343-997-6400

Email: traci.spour-lafrance@ochfoundation.ca.