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About
5th on 5th is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and employees who work with youth and business to build the bedrock of a strong, abundant community.
How to get involved
5th on 5th runs on our fantastic volunteers generously giving their time to make a difference in the lives of youth in and around our community. If you’d like to get involved, simply give us a call and see how you can contribute to changing lives today.
Board of Directors
President
Leslie Stitt
Vice President
Lane Anderson
Treasurer
Lori Toews
Directors
Santiago Rivera
Wendy Herbers
Ashley Soames
Jill Manning
Chris Broughton
Investing in our community since ‘94
Right around the time Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Joey, Ross, and Chandler met, our first Executive Director was setting up shop here at the corner of 5th St. and 5th Ave. in sunny Lethbridge, Alberta.
While the ‘Friends’ have moved on, we’re still here, offering the same high-quality, free programs to help educate youth as they try to find a job. This continuing commitment has allowed us to help hundreds of thousands of youth between the ages of 15 and 30.
Our programs include:
- Group-based workshops
- Outreach education programs
- Career mentoring
- Connections to local employers
- Employment programs meeting specific needs of participants (such as individuals with disabilities, etc.)
Through these offerings, we’ve not only been able to help youth find employment that often exceeds their expectations, but we’ve also been able to help local businesses create a stronger, more dynamic workforce while building into the community.
Our Mission
To support youth on their path to becoming responsible, capable, and caring individuals through programs and services that provide opportunities to pursue goals in:
- Academic development
- Career development
- Social development
- Employment
Our Vision
To be Southern Alberta’s foremost organization in providing advocacy and leadership, in the provision of youth programming and services to help youth become productive members of society.
Our Team
Executive Director
Trevor Brown
Trevor's role is to lead the daily operations of 5th on 5th Youth Services. This can be in many different areas, so his days are unique, and he often has to pivot to meet the changing needs. He works closely with his Board of Directors in setting and implementing the organization's vision and strategic plan. In addition, he explores different funding opportunities (through proposals, grants, donations and fundraising) to maintain their successful programs and develops new programs to fill gaps in service.
He manages the day-to-day operations of human resources. He works closely with Kathryn, the Finance Director, to manage the organization's finances. Since 5th on 5th Youth Services owns the building, he also provides tenant management and maintenance. So, you can sometimes find Trevor patching the roof or unplugging toilets.
Trevor started working for 5th on 5th Youth Services on October 5th, 2016. He has had a non-traditional approach to education and employment. Trevor volunteered a lot when he was a teenager and was invited to sit on a provincial Youth Advisory Panel. He loved discussing pressing social issues with other amazing youth from across the province and advising the different levels of government on policy. He was initially in university on a path towards dentistry. However, after experiencing a friend's suicide, he realized he couldn't see himself as a dentist anymore and decided to travel to Africa and across Europe at 19. It was then he decided he wanted to work with youth. He started his first company Operation Humanity as a Consultant providing presentations, workshops, and training to schools, organizations, and government.
Bullying and suicide prevention were very important issues to him, and these topics connected Trevor with the Outreach and Education team from Lethbridge Family Services. Trevor started as a contractor and moved into a full-time position where he began developing programs, facilitating one-day experiential workshops, teaching suicide intervention training and writing grants. Trevor worked at LFS for 11 years until program funding was no longer available. During this time, he returned to university to finish up one semester and ultimately completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Minor in Religious Studies.
Trevor loves working at 5th on 5th Youth Services most because this position keeps him on his toes. He enjoys working with an incredible, committed staff that goes above and beyond to help youth access their programs. In addition, he enjoys working with the Board of Directors in the strategic direction of 5th. This position allows him to focus on the bigger picture and dive into the small details to ensure the organization's long-term success.
In his spare time, Trevors spends time with his incredible 10-year-old daughter who he loves to watch movies with, be silly, sing songs, and eat delicious foods together. In addition, he has three cats between 14 and 19 years old. He is also one of the owners of Good Times Lethbridge Comedy Club and loves being in a room full of laughter.
He loves travelling and just recently travelled down to Peru. He says that he has a weird connection with wild animals. He swam with pink dolphins, hung out with a sloth, played with monkeys, and had a 10 ft baby anaconda over his shoulders, to name a few.
With all the twists and turns Trevor experienced in his life, the phrase he finds himself saying regularly is "C'est la vie."
If you want to learn more about Trevor, don't hesitate to contact him at executivedirector@youth.ab.ca.
Finance Director
Kathryn Erickson
Kathryn started in February of 2012. Before coming to Fifth on Fifth, she worked at two different accounting firms, Moriyama Burton and BDO Dunwoody. She completed her BMgt in 2007.
What Kathryn loves most about her job is the variety. Her work includes everything from very high-level accounting to simple bookkeeping, so there's always something new, and not two days are exactly alike. She also likes that even though her work is mainly routine accounting, her work supports the efforts of her co-workers working directly with clients. It makes her efforts seem much more meaningful.
In her spare time, Kathryn loves to read. She also likes to play games – fun fact, she is a long-time Pokémon Go trainer and an enlightened Ingress player. She loves to play Animal Crossing and is currently trying out MineCraft with her grandkids. Kathryn loves to draw and paint, although she doesn't do it as much as she would like to.
Kathryn's favourite quote is by Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the beauty in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that one life has breathed easier because you lived here. This is to have succeeded."
If you want to learn more about Kathryn or her 5th on 5th Youth Services role, don't hesitate to contact her at finance@5thon5th.ca
Administrative Assistant
Elizabeth Munoz
Elizabeth Munoz is our Administrative Assistant and Payables Clerk at 5th on 5th Youth Services, a role she wholeheartedly embraced in March 2023.
Prior to working with us, Elizabeth graduated from Lethbridge College with a degree in Business Management, ready to apply her knowledge to real-world situations. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Hospitality Management, making her a whiz at customer service. Elizabeth honed her skills in Mexico, where she worked for three years as an admin for a construction company, managing accounting duties with precision. Upon moving to Canada, she took roles as a barista and server in various local businesses.
Elizabeth cherishes her job at 5th on 5th. Working with a team that shares her passion for supporting young people is the highlight of her workday. Witnessing the growth and empowerment of the youth we serve, she believes, is an experience that words can't fully capture; it must be lived to be truly appreciated.
Elizabeth enjoys the simple pleasures of life when she's off duty. She finds joy in cooking and baking, taking leisurely walks or biking trips with her husband, and spending time with her two pets, Arya, a beautiful blue heeler, and Panchino, a lovely cat. Summer days often find her gardening, swimming at lakes, or simply hanging out with friends on patios.
Elizabeth lives by a powerful quote that she would like to share: “Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”
Employer Recruiter
Zainab Olatunji
Introducing Zainab Olatunji, our dynamic Employer Recruiter and Classroom Instructor at 5th on 5th Youth Services. In her dual role, Zainab bridges the gap between employers and participants in our career-focused and work experience programs while providing invaluable assistance in the classroom.
Zainab joined us on November 1, 2022. Before this, she held the position of Program Leader at an out-of-school program and worked as a Support Worker in a mental health organization. A proud graduate of the University of Lethbridge, Zainab holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience.
What Zainab enjoys most about her work at 5th on 5th is the vibrant atmosphere and the extraordinary individuals she collaborates with. She is continually inspired by the organization's commitment to maintaining a balanced work-life environment, fostering a positive company culture, investing in its employees, and endorsing goal-oriented leadership. The opportunity to engage with youth brings her immense fulfillment. Additionally, knowing the significant impact we have in the community, for both young individuals and employers, makes her proud to be a part of our team.
When she is not helping to shape the future of youth or connecting employers with potential talents, Zainab enjoys spending her spare time with her family and friends. She unwinds by meditating, exercising, journaling, and delving into inspiring books.
Zainab lives by the quote, "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” It's a powerful testament to her philosophy of using her skills and talents to make a difference in others' lives.
Youth Employment Coordinator
Trevor Wagenvoort
Trevor's role is to oversee all the programs under the Youth Employment Skills Strategy. Actively recruiting employers to work with Youth from 15 to 30 years of age.
Trevor started working at 5th on 5th Youth Services on October 13, 2005.
Trevor loves his job the most because every day is a completely different challenge. He is always learning. Working with clients and employers are two completely divergent groups. Yet, somehow he has to bring them together and find the best fit. Working with clients, he sees the evolution of individuals and growth that can't be explained; it can only be experienced. The staff is and always has been amazing. He works with and has worked with incredibly talented people. Coming to work is a blessing for Trevor.
Trevor has been with his wife for 31 years. They have 4 kids and 3 grandchildren so far. Golfing and walking in the summer & slipping and not falling in the winter have been his biggest activities over the past couple of years. Post-Covid, he hopes to head back to the gym and lose the love handles.
His favourite saying is: "Every Morning, you have two choices: Continue to sleep with your dreams, or wake up and chase them."
If you want to learn more about Trevor, don't hesitate to contact him at trevor.wagenvoort@5thon5th.ca
Reach-Up Program Coordinator
Ildiko Dorchak
Ildiko started her role at 5th on 5th Youth Services just a little while ago, March 17, 2005 😉
Before working for 5th on 5th, Ildiko worked as a Substitute Teacher; She also attended the University of Lethbridge for her Bachelor of Education.
Ildiko loves everything about her job! She feels so lucky to work with such wonderful and caring co-workers; "Our ED is awesome!"
She feels privileged to work with people with disabilities and she is thankful for each and every day that she has the opportunity to help.
Ildiko loves the outdoors, walking - herself or with Ollie (her son's gorgeous Golden Doodle), rock hunting, gardening, painting with acrylics, reading, spending quality time with her family or friends or attempting to learn a new and creative outlet.
Ildiko's favourite saying is:
"OH MY GOSH!"
If you want to learn more about Ildiko or the Reach Up program, don't hesitate to contact her at ildiko.dorchak@5thon5th.ca
Reach-Up Job Developer
Jen Boehr
Jennifer started at 5th on 5th Youth Services 14 years ago. Previously she worked as a Newspaper Reporter/Photographer for six years in Pincher Creek and Taber. She obtained a Communication Arts Diploma (with an emphasis on Print Journalism) from Lethbridge College in 2002.
The Job Coach position appealed to her because of the communications/promoting aspect. Another reason for her career change was that she loved interacting with youth when volunteering for a group called Youth 4 Youth while living in Taber.
What Jennifer loves most working at 5th on 5th Youth Services is that every day is different, as you meet new people and encounter different challenges/situations. It allows her to help individuals with self-disclosed disabilities find employment they enjoy and positively impact their lives. Hearing from clients, she helped several years ago telling her they still love their jobs, is heart-warming. "I also love working with the fabulous people who make up the 5th on 5th team."
Jennifer enjoys spending time with family, friends and her puppy named Molly. She loves being a Mom to her two daughters. She also enjoys photography, baking, camping, swimming, walking and going on picnics.
Her two favourite sayings are:
"Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional."
"If you have a dream, chase it because a dream won't chase you back."
If you want to learn more about Jennifer or her program, please contact her at reachup@5thon5th.ca or call 403-329-3555 ext. 504
FLI Instructor
Ana Torres
Meet Ana Torres, our dedicated FLI Instructor at 5th on 5th Youth Services. Her role is not just a job, it's a calling. Ana's goal is to empower youth groups to conquer their barriers by teaching them essential life skills like self-care, mental health awareness, budgeting, and communication. Her mission is to inspire them to stride into the workforce with confidence and success.
A psychology graduate from Mexico, Ana moved to Canada in 2014 and has since committed her career to supporting at-risk children and youth. Her desire to collaborate with other community organizations and further hone her skills brought her to us in 2017, where she has now been a vital part of our team for nearly six years.
Ana finds her work with 5th on 5th Youth Services genuinely enriching. The unique experiences she has with young people and witnessing them surmount challenges and achieve their goals are the highpoints of her role. To top it all, she is blessed to work with a fantastic team of coworkers who share her dedication and drive.
Away from work, Ana cherishes spending quality time with her family and closest friends. An avid fan of anime and drama movies, she delights in immersing herself in diverse storylines. A foodie at heart, she loves trying out dishes from different cultures.
Ana's favourite saying, "Asi es la vida," is a powerful reminder for her when things don't go as planned. This phrase means life is full of ups and downs, but every experience, positive or negative, presents an opportunity for growth and learning. This outlook keeps her grounded and ready to face any challenges that come her way.
NET Instructor
Victor Iyilade Jr.
Victor started at 5th on 5th Youth Services as an Equity Coordinator in May 2018 after completing his BA in Psychology. His previous role focused on tackling racism and discrimination issues within the community at a grassroots level. He transitioned into the Newcomer Employment Training (NET) Instructor role in October 2020. He is more focused on empowering newcomer youth in the community to enter the Canadian workforce through teaching life and employment skills as well as offering multiple training opportunities.
Victor's favourite part of working at 5th on 5th Youth Services includes the supportive environment in that he sees staff members as everyday humans with complex needs and has built-in a fabric that allows flexibility to maintain a healthy work and life balance. This empowers the staff members to return the same courtesy to the diverse clientele and meet them at their various points of need.
Victor enjoys living alone, playing soccer, boxing, listening to music, MCing/Hosting Events, meditating, taking over the grill at his friends' houses during summertime, and occasionally hanging out with my nephews and nieces.
His favourite saying is: "IT IS WHAT IT IS. Everything that has a start date will have an end date. That includes pain and suffering."
If you want to learn more about Victor or his program, don't hesitate to contact him at net@5thon5th.ca
Career Mentor
Brent Salter
Brent started his role at 5th on 5th Youth Services in November 2020. Before working for 5th on 5th, Brent worked as a Case Worker for Children Services and a Support Worker for McMan; He has been working in the field for the past nine years. He graduated from the Child and Youth Care program at Lethbridge College.
Brent loves to work with youth and help them achieve their life goals. He also really enjoys the team he is working with at 5th on 5th Youth Services.
Brent enjoys golfing and coaching Baseball. He has a wife, an eight-year-old son, a three-year-old daughter, and two stepchildren he likes to spend time with.
If you want to learn more about Brent or his role at 5th on 5th Youth Services, don't hesitate to contact him at careermentor@5thon5th.ca
On-The-Job Coach
Teymur Gafarov
Teymur started working for 5th on 5th Youth Services in November 2020. He graduated from the Bachelor BMgt Finance program in 2015. Before this position, Teymur was a Building Operator, Tennis Coach, Soccer Coach, Accountant, Financial Advisor, and Grower – pretty much a bit of everything.
The thing Teymur loves the most about working at 5th on 5th Youth Services is helping people and the people he works with.
Teymur has a dog named Lucy and spends most of his spare time with her. He loves staying active - working out, hiking, playing sports (soccer, tennis, basketball), and swimming. He loves board games with friends and also enjoys reading.
Teymur's favourite saying is: "If a problem can be solved, no need to worry about it. If a problem can't be solved, what is the use of worrying."
If you want to learn more about Teymur or his program, please contact him at fli@5thon5th.ca or call 403-329-3555 ext. 506.
Lethbridge FIRST Recruiter
Scott Quan
Scott works on the career focus, work experience portfolio, and the new Lethbridge Facilitating Investment for Red Seal Trades (FIRST) program.
He started at 5th on 5th Youth Services in May 2022. Prior to this position, he has been a teacher for 11 years. He received his B. Sc. In 2007, and his B.Ed. in 2010.
What Scott loves most about working at 5th on 5th Youth Services is the people he works with. In his short time at 5th on 5th, he has had a great time while working; this made his transition easy. "The team is a tight-knit group that I am glad to be a part of."
Scott grew up in Lethbridge and still lives here with his wife and two kids (4 & 2).
If you want to learn more about Scott or the programs he is running, please contact him at recruiter@5thon5th.ca or call 403-329-3555 ext. 513.
Careers & Opportunities
Want to make a splash in your community? Join our team and get involved in setting up the next generation for success!