Lucky for us Connie joined the FDOI Team in April 2025, and fit in right away! Connie ironically, is an avid thrifter; what a fit! Her previous 30 plus year career was primarily in corporate credit and collections, but in the past few years, she reinvented herself several times in areas very new to her. These new experiences have helped her learn and turned her into a stronger version of herself.
She is eager to work with the FDOI team, sharing her experiences and learning along the way. If you pop by the thrift anytime soon you can see Connie’s style and influence already in full display in the store.

Gregory M. C. Orleski is President of the Board of FDOI (Fonds d’aide de l’Ouest-de-l’Île) and brings more than 25 years of senior leadership experience guiding organizations through growth, change, and moments of increased responsibility.

A business leader trained in law, Gregory has spent his career working at the intersection of strategy, governance, and execution—supporting initiatives that require strong stewardship, clear decision-making, and alignment among people, funding partners, and institutions. He is widely recognized for his pragmatic leadership style, sound judgment, and ability to bring diverse stakeholders together around a shared purpose.

A central strength of Gregory’s leadership is building trusted relationships and partnerships with governments, public institutions, foundations, and community organizations, helping translate shared intent into sustainable action. His work consistently focuses on ensuring that resources are well-managed, partnerships are durable, and missions are delivered with integrity and impact.

At FDOI, Gregory is helping lead the organization through a significant expansion, strengthening governance and supporting fundraising and partnership efforts so the organization can reach more individuals and families facing food insecurity, financial hardship, and social isolation.

Bilingual in French and English, Gregory has lived in the West Island for more than 25 years. His long-standing connection to the community and commitment to collaborative leadership guide his work in ensuring FDOI continues to grow responsibly and compassionately, in service of those who need it most.

Shant Kancachian is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. He holds both a B.Eng and an MBA from McGill University and has extensive experience in financial management, having worked as a commercial lender and controller in various corporate settings. His deep understanding of business operations and financial strategy has enabled him to effectively contribute to the success of the organizations he has worked with.

Shant’s passion for community development led him to transition into the non-profit sector, where he served as the Executive Director of an alternative school, focusing on innovative educational models. His leadership in this role helped drive growth and create opportunities for students in a unique learning environment. Additionally, Shant worked as a Social Economy Commissioner, collaborating with non-profits in the West Island to secure grants and support impactful community projects.

With a strong blend of business acumen and a commitment to social impact, Shant brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset to his work, helping organizations achieve their financial goals while fostering positive change in their communities.