Growing up in Montreal in a Jamaican family and trying to find a sense of belonging have influenced how Chris McKenzie, development officer for our foundation, approaches life.
"I feel privileged to be born in Canada and (to be) in a position where I’m able to make a difference and create awareness, whether it’s for some of our causes within the foundation or Covenant Health in general or helping transition new Jamaicans or Africans.”
He recognizes the importance of visibility and seeing representation of different ethnicities, nationalities, cultures and backgrounds throughout Covenant because it all leads back to creating a greater understanding of people’s needs and concerns.
"If people see themselves as being included, they will ideally feel more content. So, if we focus on the patient first and how to make them the most comfortable, then work our way back from there, to me that’s the key because it also opens the door for cultural competencies and diversity."
In addition to his work of developing and executing fundraising initiatives to help our foundation achieve its mission, Chris volunteers delivering books at the Misericordia Community Hospital to get involved and discover more about what it’s like working in health care.
"It’s been helpful (volunteering) and having conversations with the patients, watching how the nurses and doctors interact as well as learning various terminology on different units. It’s not only been a way for me to give back but also to get a new perspective on things I wouldn’t have even thought of before.”
Chris is able to share his firsthand experience from volunteering with potential donors and also hear their stories from being in care and what has been impactful for them.
"Seeing patients and residents in the environment that you know is supposed to be supportive, learning on the ground level what’s considered transformational or impactful — it can be as simple as enhancing care spaces with things like murals in memory care units or new table and chairs that provide greater comfort and safety, or it can be as complex as the foundation's recent $2.3-million investment in the new, state-of-the-art Misericordia ER that has helped advance and innovate the way emergency care is delivered for patients and their families,” says Chris.
“Some of the most powerful interactions I’ve had so far have been with our donors and learning about their experiences in care. It’s incredibly fulfilling to help build the bridge between the community and Covenant and hear about the impact we’re creating together.”
Written by Gwendoline Hunka, Communications Advisor, Covenant Health
To connect with Chris or another member of our team, please visit our contact page.