Our Team & Contact Info

Meet Our Team

Mike Marta

Executive Director/ C.E.O.

Mike Marta

Executive Director/ C.E.O.

Shelley Holloway

Program Specialist

Shelley Holloway

Program Specialist

Shelley Holloway is our Program Specialist. Prior to her position here, Shelley owned MindWare Academy, a private school for children with learning disabilities. She has worked in this field for 20+ years, including serving on the Board of Directors for the LDAO-C. When the position of Program Specialist opened up, it felt like a wonderful next step. Shelley now resides in Prince Edward Island where she enjoys spending time outdoors with her dogs, gardening, and writing. She also spends time volunteering, and has a passion for working with at-risk youth.

Jade Aitken

Program Director

Jade Aitken

Program Director

Jade Aitken is the Program Director and Coordinator at the LDAO-C, bringing over five years of experience in educational and recreational programming for children and youth. Currently pursuing her BA Honours in Psychology at the University of Ottawa, Jade integrates her academic knowledge to create inclusive, engaging, and impactful programs. She has been a key contributor to the LDAO-C Sunshine Day Camp for the past two summers and will expand her leadership this year as the Assistant Director. In her role, Jade oversees program development and delivery, serves as the lead tutor, coordinates parent communications and registrations, and conducts assessments to support families accessing vital services. Her ability to combine organizational efficiency with a compassionate approach ensures a positive experience for both participants and their families. In addition to her role at the LDAO-C, Jade works in the service industry as a server and bartender, refining her interpersonal, multitasking, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments. An avid runner, she has participated in numerous races, demonstrating her dedication to goal-setting and personal growth. Jade is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their full potential, believing that with the right tools and support, success is within everyone’s reach. She is committed to fostering an environment where learning, growth, and achievement thrive.

Bailey Duff

Center Director

Bailey Duff

Center Director

Bailey Duff is the Center Director at the LDAO-C Learning Center on Merivale Road, bringing over a decade of experience in childcare and youth development. With a BA in Psychology from the University of Ottawa, Bailey integrates her academic expertise to create engaging, inclusive, and developmentally supportive environments for children. Her passion for understanding each child's unique skills and abilities is at the heart of her leadership approach. Bailey has worked in various roles, including swim coach, babysitter, camp counselor, and tutor, which have given her a well-rounded perspective on children’s needs and development. Over the past two years, she has also been a key contributor to Sunshine Day Camp, where she enhanced programming and cultivated meaningful relationships with campers and their families. In her role at the LDAO-C Learning Center, Bailey oversees daily operations, coordinates staff training, and ensures program quality while fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all participants. Her approachable demeanor, dedication, and leadership make her an invaluable part of the team. An avid animal lover, Bailey is always happy to share stories about her beloved cats. She is committed to fostering an environment where every child can learn, grow, and achieve their full potential.

Alex Nguyen

Adult Program Coordinator

Alex Nguyen

Adult Program Coordinator

Dave Basil has more than 30 years of experience as a successful technology entrepreneur with a track record of building innovative, high-growth, market-leading software companies. He previously held senior executive positions at RedCloud Security (acquired by Avigilon), Metron Aviation (acquired by Airbus), ERA (acquired by SRA International), MainControl acquired by MRO Software), and General Electric.

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