ABOUT US

Our People

Chief Executive Officer

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John Neufeld is the CEO of the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, bringing more than 25 years of experience in community leadership and social impact. Known for his thoughtful, strategic, and collaborative approach, John previously spent 16 years as CEO of House of Friendship, leading innovative efforts to meet the needs of the region’s most vulnerable neighbours. His earlier work with foster children and youth at Bridgeway Family Homes sparked a deep commitment to prevention and early intervention—core pillars of the Foundation’s mission.

John holds a BA in Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo, an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University, a degree in Theology from Canadian Mennonite University, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Toronto. He also holds the ICD.D designation and was selected for the Governor General’s Leadership Conference in 2022.

A long-time resident who fell in love with Waterloo Region as a student, John is passionate about helping the community thrive through strong partnerships and meaningful investment.

Garry Haack

ghaack@lshallmanfdn.org

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Garry is our Director of Operations and has been with the foundation for more than 18 years. Prior to this, he worked as a site foreman and business owner in the commercial metal roofing and cladding industry. Garry’s deep community roots include 15+ years as a coach and board member with minor sports, spanning football, softball and hockey. He was an active volunteer with Sertoma, a service club dedicated to the deaf and hard of hearing, and has also volunteered with the Child Witness Centre.

Claudia Haack

Claudia is our Finance Manager and has been associated with the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation since 2006, when she took on the role of part-time bookkeeper. During that time, she performed an identical role with the Strong Start Charitable Organization.

In addition to her current role with the Foundation, Claudia performs a similar function for Capacity Canada and is employed by Hallman Construction, simultaneously juggling a few different hats.

Claudia has shared her treasury skills as a volunteer with numerous sports and service club organizations over the years including LaSertoma.

In addition to her work in the non-profit sector, she has also worked in her family’s business, where her finance career began. She holds financial accounting qualifications from Conestoga College.

Donations Advisory Council

The Donations Advisory Council helps to review all grant applications and make recommendations based on whether there is a good match between a request and the mission and priorities of the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation.

The Council members are:

Wegdan Abdelsalam

Kerri Hallman

Sue Hallman

Susan Joy Hallman

Dr. Rita Khan

Neha Lalany

Karin Voisin