CMHA chief retires
Photo: Contributed
The executive director of the Kelowna branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association is retiring after 17 years in office.
Shelagh Turner said Wednesday that she will step down from office at the end of May 2022: “I feel privileged to have been able to work alongside the most incredible people who are doing really incredible work every day for the people in this community who need help. Being a part of CMHA Kelowna has been the most rewarding time of my life and I consider myself incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to build and create with this organization. “
Turner took over as CEO in 2005, and under his tenure, Foundry Kelowna was started, supporting thousands of youth and families. CMHA Kelowna now operates more than 300 youth and adult housing units in the Central Okanagan.
Turner has worked hard to focus on the homeless, and under his supervision, the nonprofit developed microloans and add-ons for renters at risk of losing their homes.
“Shelagh’s strength is in surrounding herself with truly talented, capable and passionate people, all united by a common purpose and pushing the limits of what is possible,” says CMHA Kelowna Chairman of the Board Stuart Yanow.
“For Shelagh it’s always about the team. Be it our Board of Directors, volunteers, donors, or our amazing staff. His leadership has brought together an incredible collective of people who have an impact by building homes, building lives and building communities. “
Turner received the 2016 BC Premier’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in the Community.
“I am proud of all that we have been able to accomplish,” says Turner. “And I firmly believe that it is time for someone else to make their leadership mark on this great organization.”
The CMHA Board of Directors will begin the hiring process for a new CEO in the coming weeks.
