Meet Our Dedicated Team
At Epilepsy South Central Ontario, our staff are the foundation of our mission and the reason our work matters. Each team member brings a deep commitment to improving the lives of people living with epilepsy, combining professional expertise, creativity, and compassion in everything they do.
Our professionals work collaboratively to build a supportive and inclusive community, advocate for individuals and families affected by epilepsy, and deliver innovative education, empowerment, and support initiatives that make a real difference.
Together, we strive to create an environment where people feel understood, equipped, and inspired on their epilepsy journey
David Charchalis
David Charchalis is the Chief Executive Officer of Epilepsy South Central Ontario, where he leads with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to client care. He is a passionate advocate for individuals and families living with epilepsy, empowering them to live inclusive and fulfilling lives.
David joined the agency in 2012 as Manager of Volunteer Services, mentoring volunteers and coordinating fundraising programs, children’s camps, and awareness events. He served as Chief Operating Officer from 2017 to 2023, overseeing operations, strategic communications, and event production, before assuming the role of CEO in 2023.
David holds a diploma in Social Service Work from George Brown College and as a Certified Life Skills Coach, he leads by example. He fosters a work environment that is positive, collaborative, and inclusive, guided by his personal TASK mission: Teach, Advocate, Support, Knowledge.
With a 45-year background in theatre as a producer, director, choreographer, stage manager, designer, and performer, David brings creativity, energy, and innovation to his team and the wider community. Outside of work, he is a huge fan of the TV show Survivor.
Carly Smith
Carly supports youth and young adults living with epilepsy and seizure disorders through counselling, advocacy, empowerment, and resources via our Youth Empowerment Program and support groups.
A Child and Youth Worker graduate (2015), Carly prides herself on providing an inclusive, empathetic environment where individuals feel safe to be themselves, grow, and achieve their goals.
Her background includes working in schools and mental health, specializing in autism, psychiatric disorders, anxiety, and depression—experiences that deeply inform her strengths-based, trauma-informed approach.
As an epilepsy educator, Carly leads seizure first aid training, coordinates the annual Family and Youth Conference, and is a certified memory coach for those with epilepsy. Carly welcomes all youth and young adults to connect with her for support and guidance—and reminds them: “You are NOT alone!”
Trevor Gordon
Trevor Gordon is Media and Government Relations Manager at Epilepsy South Central Ontario, where he leads community engagement, media relations, and digital communications. He manages TV appearances, educational segments, social media, website content, and promotional materials, while supporting sponsorship opportunities, volunteer recruitment, and fundraising initiatives to strengthen the organization’s programs and impact.
Trevor also serves as the National Digital Strategy and Communications Lead for the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance, overseeing online content, bilingual campaigns, and national awareness initiatives such as Purple Day. He manages social media and communications for Epilepsy Ontario and runs the Epilepsy Shop, a mission-driven e-commerce platform funding programs for individuals and families living with epilepsy.
He serves on the Best Medicines Coalition committee and stays up to date on drug shortages across Canada. Trevor is recognized for his creative, fearless approach to communications, digital strategy, and advocacy. Outside of work, he enjoys concerts, traveling, cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays, and solving tech challenges to support his colleagues.
Steve Kieffer
Steve has been a member of our adult epilepsy support group for several years and proudly took on the role of host in 2025. In addition to facilitating group sessions, he offers one-on-one peer support, delivers educational presentations, and shares insights from his personal journey with epilepsy.
With over a decade of lived experience navigating epilepsy, Steve is deeply committed to helping others with their journey. He was incredibly fortunate to be one of the first people in Canada to benefit from a new surgical procedure. Steve hosts a compassionate virtual gathering where people impacted by epilepsy can connect, ask questions, share experiences, knowledge and know that they are not alone! He knows how sharing and feeling understood is an immense relief when living with epilepsy.
With a professional background in technology, Steve brings experience in clear communication, problem solving, global collaboration, and leading teams to achieve dynamic goals – skills that enhance his effectiveness in group facilitation and advocacy. With a listening ear, he provides empathy and a sense of community to those who interact with him. Personally, he loves cycling, kayaking and outdoor adventures, demonstrating that fulfilling pursuits are possible alongside epilepsy challenges.
