Mark Zuberbuhler – Executive Director
Before joining DDA in 2025, Mark was the Chief Executive Officer for AiMHi, a community living organization based in Prince George. He is a Board Director for the BC CEO Network and for Open Door Ventures and has many years of experience in strategic planning, operational effectiveness, and program innovation. Mark was previously the Executive Director for Pioneer Community Living Association, Board President and Interim CEO for the Pacifica Treatment Centre, and served on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia. Earlier in his career, he was at the University of British Columbia in the Information and Learning Technology groups. Mark began his career in the media industry, producing and directing programming for Global TV and CTV. His interest in the arts also led him to serve as Board President for the Vancouver Folk Music Festival.
Shazia Jafri – Director of Finance
Shazia assumed the role of Interim Executive Director in September 2024 and has been serving as the Director of Finance since 2015. Prior to this, she spent 23 years in progressive roles within DDA’s Finance Department. During this time, she successfully earned her professional CPA, CGA designation. Before joining DDA, Shazia began her career as an articling student at a small public practice firm, then relocated to New Jersey, where she worked for a large clothing designer. With over 30 years of finance experience in both the non-profit and private sectors, Shazia has provided effective leadership and strategic direction for all financial functions at the Association, while also contributing to improving the lives of the individuals and families DDA serves.
Deanne Ziebart – Director of Day & Community Services
Deanne started her career at DDA in June 1992 on a three-month “temporary” contract that was renewed 4 times and then finally made permanent. She wanted to try this sector after volunteering at Special Olympics as part of a master’s level Special Education course. At DDA, she started as a life skills worker for a dual-diagnosed woman and has worked as a job coach, workshop facilitator, Manager of Jobs West, Assistant Director of Vocational Services and is now Director of Vocational & Community Services. Prior to joining DDA, Deanne was a summer intern for 4 summers and then worked for two years at an energy company in Calgary. She likes working at the intersection of non-profit and business and understands both can learn much from each other.
Joe Grilo – Director of Information Technology
Joe grew up in the BC coastal town of Kitimat and attended university at UBC. After working in BC for several years, Joe moved to Alberta to pursue his IT career. Joe was employed as an IT consultant specializing in non-profits, working with notable organizations such as United Way of Calgary and Centre for Newcomers. Following his consultant role, he was hired on by the Canadian Cancer Society as the Director of IT and Operations for the Alberta & NWT Division, a position he held for over three years. After 18 years in Alberta, a move back to BC ensued and Joe began with DDA in February 2017 as Director of Information Technology. Since taking on the position, he has been steadily upgrading DDA’s IT infrastructure.
Andrew Roets – Director of Child & Youth Services
Andrew has worked for the Developmental Disabilities Association for over 35 years in various capacities of child development, youth and leisure-based programs. Before DDA, he was employed by The City of Vancouver in Parks and Recreation. He worked in a variety of areas and venues during his 6-year tenure with them. Educated at the University of British Columbia and having received a certificate of completion in the “Leadership Development Program” from Career-Path Learning Systems Inc., Andrew has focused in the area of Team development/dynamics. Andrew is also knowledgeable in the area of adult education, as a senior instructor for the “Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Program” from the Crisis Prevention Institute, Inc. for over 15 years. Andrew has been involved on a variety of committees and boards in the community, including numerous community Soccer Clubs and Leagues.
Donna Cain – Director of Living Options
Donna began her journey with the Association in 1987 as a care worker in one of our group homes. Over the years, she became a fierce advocate for Living Options, a field she finds both meaningful and rewarding, and is currently the Director. Donna feels fortunate to work alongside such dedicated staff and support individuals and families who are continually inspiring her. She remains committed to inclusive, person-centred services. She is grateful to be involved in this important work (along with the opportunity to occasionally host theme parties for the individuals living in our group homes). Born and raised in Vancouver, Donna enjoys travel and learning from different cultures, and good coffee.
Graham Chaplow – Director of Human Resources
Graham began working at DDA in 1993, spending 14 years in the Residential program where he held various roles including Residential Care Worker, Manager, and Assistant Director. Since 2007, Graham has been working in Human Resources. He is a graduate of the Human Resources program at BCIT and obtained a CPHR professional designation in 2010.
