Our Story
Gravenhurst Against Poverty (GAP) is a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to addressing poverty in the Gravenhurst community. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive, we work tirelessly to create inclusive, innovative, and compassionate solutions to poverty-related challenges. Our approach is community-based, collaborative, and always grounded in dignity and respect.
Mission
At GAP, we are committed to not only reducing and relieving poverty but also creating lasting opportunities for individuals to thrive. By providing essential resources and creating spaces for connection, we help our neighbours move from surviving to thriving, one step at a time.
Vision
We aspire to a Gravenhurst where every neighbour has the opportunity to thrive—where no one is left behind, and every neighbour can reach their full potential through the collective strength of the community.
Values
At the core of our work is a commitment to acting with compassion, kindness, and respect for the dignity of everyone. We value inclusivity and believe in innovative, community-driven solutions to alleviate poverty. By working collaboratively, we not only address immediate needs but also foster long-term, sustainable change.
Board of Directors
Behind GAP is a dedicated team of volunteers and community leaders working together to reduce poverty and create lasting change in Gravenhurst. We are governed by our Board of Directors and a Management Committee, both made up of passionate individuals who lead our efforts.
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Beth Houston
Chair
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Bonnie Dart
Past Chair
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Marie Little
Vice Chair
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Dave Minns
Vice Chair
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Susanne Collins
Finance Chair
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Peter Stolpmann
Treasurer
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John Twist
Board Member
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Barbara McNeice-Stallard
Secretary
2024-2025 Management Committee
Leading GAP’s day-to-day initiatives are these valued volunteers:
Beth Houston (Chair)
Bonnie Dart (Past Chair)
Marie Little (Vice-Chair, Food Programs Lead)
David Minns (Vice-Chair, IT/Infrastructure)
Susanne Collins (Finance Chair, Fundraising and Donor Development Lead)
Peter Stolpmann (Treasurer)
John Twist (Volunteer Wellness Coordinator)
Barbara McNeice-Stallard (Secretary)
Brenda Whiteside (Volunteer Lead)
Linda Harrison (Wellness Lead)
Amanda Mongrain (Lived Experience Coordinator)
GAP Advisory Council
Our Advisory Council consists of community leaders, service representatives, and individuals with lived experiences, all working together to identify gaps in service and enhance the resources available to those in need. By sharing insights and ideas, the Council helps guide our efforts and ensure we remain connected to the community we serve.
Volunteers and Community Support
GAP is built on the dedication of over 300 volunteers who contribute their time and effort to support our neighbours. Through partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and generous supporters, our team extends far beyond our board and management—encompassing an entire community that works together to uplift one another.
Our Timeline
2017 - The Beginning
GAP was born out of a grassroots effort to address the pressing issue of poverty in Gravenhurst. It all began with a conversation at the Gravenhurst Ministerial Committee and quickly grew into something much larger. Leaders from local churches and community members came together to assess the needs of our town.
2018 - Establishing GAP
Following a needs assessment funded by the District of Muskoka, Gravenhurst Against Poverty officially formed in January 2018. The Steering Committee identified key areas of need, including food insecurity, housing, medical availability, transportation, and mental health support.
2019-2020 - Rapid Growth and Response to Covid-19
This was the most eventful period in GAP’s history. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, GAP pivoted to offering a food delivery program, tripling the number of neighbours we served. Volunteers also grew to over 200, and GAP initiated new programs like the Garden Project and a youth program that laid the foundation for our Youth Advisory Council (YAC).
2021-2022 - Charitable Status and Program Expansion
With charitable status obtained in 2022, GAP expanded programs such as the Coffee Social, Community Kitchen, and Art Drop-In, providing new ways for neighbours to connect and gain valuable skills. We celebrated our 5-year anniversary with an open house and continued to strengthen our organizational structure.
2023 - New Initiatives and Strategic Growth
In 2023, GAP took significant steps to expand its reach and strengthen its organizational structure. New bylaws were implemented under the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA), and GAP embarked on a new strategic planning process to guide its future growth. Although a major initiative to establish a community hub and affordable housing units did not materialize, it galvanized the community’s support for GAP’s mission. With over $500K in pledges and a positive response from Gravenhurst Council, GAP demonstrated its strong reputation as a trusted and appreciated community resource.
