Who we are

HOPE Start exists to support people through meaningful transitions — whether that means finding work, building confidence, or developing the life skills needed to move forward with purpose.

We believe that sustainable employment and personal well-being are deeply connected. Many of the people we support face complex, overlapping barriers, and success rarely comes from focusing on just one area of life. That’s why our work brings together employment services, employer partnerships, and emotional life skills support under one integrated approach.

Through our Employment Ontario–funded services, we support job-seekers in identifying their strengths, clarifying goals, overcoming barriers, and finding work that fits. We also partner with employers to support inclusive hiring, onboarding, and retention — staying involved beyond the hire to help ensure long-term success for both individuals and workplaces.

Alongside this work, the Hope Start Foundation offers a structured Emotional Life Skills program that focuses on communication, self-discovery, and life direction. This program supports individuals who may not yet be ready for employment, or who benefit from building confidence, insight, and foundational skills before taking next steps.

At HOPE Start, our approach is person-centred, strengths-based, and practical. We meet people where they are, respect their lived experience, and work collaboratively to build pathways that are realistic, empowering, and sustainable.

Our goal is simple: to help people move forward — with clarity, dignity, and support.

Three young, diverse team members having a discussion around a computer in a modern office.
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    Marsaye Treen

    FOUNDER, DIRECTOR

    Marsaye Treen brings over 20 years of dedicated service in employment support programs, including extensive work with the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Employment Supports program. As Founder of Hope Start Employment Services, she leads a team of seasoned professionals with deep expertise in helping job-seekers build meaningful careers and assisting employers in securing qualified candidates. Marsaye’s leadership and insight drive inclusive, results-focused employment solutions that make a difference in both individuals’ lives and business outcomes.

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    Matthew Wadlin

    SERVICE DIRECTOR

    Matthew Wadlin is an experienced Social Service Worker with a strong background in program development, service delivery, and individualized employment supports. Over his career, he has worked extensively with youth, recent graduates, newcomers, and individuals facing health or developmental barriers, including those with dual diagnoses and concurrent disorders.

    Matthew specializes in creating and implementing personalized service plans that guide clients through every stage of their employment journey — from resume development and job search strategies to training, placement, and retention. His ability to navigate both public and private funding programs allows him to advocate effectively for his clients and connect them with the resources they need to succeed.

    Known for his collaborative, person-centered approach, Matthew is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome barriers, achieve their goals, and build sustainable careers through meaningful community partnerships and innovative employment strategies.

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    Amy Jessop

    EMPLOYMENT SPECIALIST

    Amy Jessop brings over 20 years of experience supporting job seekers from all walks of life in achieving meaningful and sustainable employment. As an experienced Employment Consultant, she has a strong background in individual and family services, with expertise in career development, mock interviews, conflict resolution, and career assessment.

    Amy’s approach is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and practical support. Drawing on her Therapeutic Models of Mindfulness Certificate from Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Social Work, she integrates mindfulness-based strategies into her coaching to help clients build confidence and resilience throughout their employment journey.

    With her deep community connections and commitment to person-centered service, Amy empowers individuals to identify their strengths, set achievable goals, and take confident steps toward employment success.