By Pepper Parr
October 19th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
Community Development Halton (CDH) is looking for new Board members.
The organization doesn’t have a big public profile – it isn’t a Burlington based organization anymore; its office is located in Acton and consists of very little space.
CDH is a nonprofit, charitable organization focused on the impact of economic, political, social and cultural forces on individuals, families and stakeholders in Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville.
That is a big job – it is one of those organizations that asks: What if?
It could and should be the equivalent of a think tank engaging with the the community through social research work, community dialogue and community development initiatives to improve the quality of life in the Halton community.
It has been through a tough time in the past five years. Some of the past Board choices were not what was needed.
The staff lost their way and the Board wasn’t able to find the kind of Executive Director that was needed.
Within the last year the organization did a significant pivot; found a new President who brought sterling credentials to the task she had taken on.
Risha Burke with Ted McMeekin
The Board then hired Risha Burke as the Executive Director; Burke was one of those ‘get into the trenches’ types who certainly knows how to write a report – but you tend to find her in the community working directly with community groups.
I once watched Burke appear before Burlington City Council with a young woman of colour; a single parent who had never delegated before but was very impressive – she more than made her point with the help of people who work with the disadvantaged.
Burke attended an event and found herself talking to Ted McMeekan who, at the time was an MP, serving in the Kathleen Wynne Cabinet. Ted was the first CDH Executive Director. It was called the Social Planning Council at the time.
The Gazette hasn’t yet had an opportunity to interview Joanne McKiernan, President of CDH, to get a sense as to how she intends to add some weight to the Board she has and what they will create in the way of a Strategic Plan and a work list for the next three years.
Joanne McKiernan, President of CDH
The Region of Halton needs what a community development organization can do.
Up until now they have had a very strong working relationship with Alex Sarchuk – Commissioner of Social and Community Services and there is every reason to believe that can continue and become even stronger.
Related article:
