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Faces of CMHA WW: David Pell, Chair of the Board

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1. What is involved in your role as Board Chair?

The Board is responsible for overseeing the governance of the organization including its strategic development and financial management. As the Chair I provide leadership with core Board tasks including the successful completion of the Annual Work Plan and our Strategic Plan 2018-2021. I work closely with the CEO; this work includes monthly discussions regarding items the CEO would like to examine and conducting Helen’s annual performance review. Also, from time to time I am CMHA’s representative in discussions with community partners.

2. What brought you to the CMHA Board?

I was attracted to the opportunity for personal and professional reasons. Members of my extended family have suffered from PTSD and addictions. As a result of their experiences, I became aware of the lack of adequate mental health services and welcomed an opportunity to support CMHA’s work. CMHA was looking for a board member who was familiar with philanthropy and could contribute to the development of a culture of philanthropy within CMHA. My professional work involved helping non profit organizations in Canada and globally make significant changes in how they functioned. The change CMHA was aspiring to make was something I was familiar with. Further, the opportunity came at a time when I had decided to leave full time work and to be more involved in the community where I live.

3. How do you support people who work of CMHA WW in your role? 

As the Chair I help the Directors to be engaged in a role where they can contribute to the Board’s work. Usually this involves participation in one of standing committees or participation in CMHA events. My role also involves providing support to the CEO. Acting as a sounding board for questions and issues regarding CMHA WW’s strategic plan and relations with our partner organizations.    

4. What are you proud of during your time at CMHA WW?

I am very impressed with the dedication of the staff to their work and the organization. The recent Accreditation with Commendation is a testimony of the staff’s strong performance. As a member of the Board, I am very proud of our dedication to CMHA WW’s Mission and Vision. We want CMHA WW to be a model of best practice for the sector.

5. What would you like people to know about being on the Board of CMHA WW?

The Board has a culture of respect, trust and engagement. Members are prepared to volunteer a significant amount of their time in order to support the work of the staff. We are very aware many people in our communities are not able to access the mental health services they need. As Directors we are committed to doing what we can to rectify this problem.

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