Faces of WEST
Christine Mitchell
President & CEO of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation
“Dream big, and don’t apologize for it! Surround yourself with people who cheer for you and challenge you. Learn to laugh at setbacks and keep going. Remember, you’re the author of your own story, so write it boldly, and never be afraid to edit along the way.”
- Tell us about yourself.
I’m Christine Mitchell, President & CEO of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation. My career is centered around creating impactful change in healthcare philanthropy, with a focus on innovative fundraising and building strong community relationships. I love engaging with people and crafting strategies to ensure rural communities have access to exceptional healthcare. Outside of work, I’m a huge fan of vampire novels—there’s something fascinating about the mix of intrigue and immortality. I also enjoy playing pickleball, which helps me stay active and unwind.When it comes to food, I can’t get enough of Mezzo Ristorante in Windsor—it’s my favorite spot for its ambiance and incredible Italian cuisine. Fun fact: my colleagues often joke about my ability to juggle multiple responsibilities while still making time for my family, friends, and hobbies. For me, leadership is about fostering a team environment where everyone feels empowered, and I’m proud of the incredible people I work with every day. - What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
My motivation to become involved with WEST stems from a deep belief in the power of education and community support to change lives. I’ve always been inspired by organizations that create opportunities for individuals to succeed, especially for women who face barriers in their personal and professional journeys. WEST’s mission to empower women through skill development, mentorship, and access to resources aligns with my values and passion for fostering equity and inclusion. Seeing how WEST helps women build confidence, gain independence, and achieve their goals motivated me to contribute to this vital work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an organization that uplifts women and strengthens our community. - What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
My motivation to become involved with WEST stems from a deep belief in the power of education and community support to change lives. I’ve always been inspired by organizations that create opportunities for individuals to succeed, especially for women who face barriers in their personal and professional journeys. WEST’s mission to empower women through skill development, mentorship, and access to resources aligns with my values and passion for fostering equity and inclusion. Seeing how WEST helps women build confidence, gain independence, and achieve their goals motivated me to contribute to this vital work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an organization that uplifts women and strengthens our community. - In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
What truly distinguishes WEST is its focus on building a community where women can connect, share experiences, and support one another. The organization’s emphasis on fostering confidence and leadership ensures that participants not only gain employment skills but also the tools to advocate for themselves and thrive in every aspect of their lives. This blend of practical training and emotional support creates a transformative experience for the women it serves, ultimately helping them contribute meaningfully to society and break down barriers to equity. - What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
My advice? Dream big, and don’t apologize for it! But here’s the secret: dreams are like plants—you need to water them with hard work, patience, and a little bit of humor when things don’t go as planned. Surround yourself with people who cheer for you and challenge you. Learn to laugh at setbacks and keep going. Remember, you’re the author of your own story, so write it boldly, and never be afraid to edit along the way. Most importantly, celebrate every win, no matter how small—it’s those little victories that pave the way to big ones! - What empowers you?
Simple—seeing others light up when they realize their own potential! I get a huge boost from collaborating with passionate people who believe in making things happen. Whether it’s watching someone transform their life through WEST or working alongside my team to drive change in healthcare, the magic happens when we all come together with a common goal. I thrive on making things better, breaking barriers, and having a good laugh along the way. The energy of a community striving for something bigger is what really powers me up! - Describe a significant barrier or challenge you’ve faced due to your identity or background. How did you overcome it?
Well, let’s be real — being a woman in a leadership role in healthcare and philanthropy hasn’t always been a walk in the park. I’ve definitely encountered moments where people might not have expected me to be in the position I’m in now, but here’s the thing: I’ve always believed in shaking up expectations.Honestly, I turn challenges into motivation. I’ve leaned into my strengths — connecting with people, being a lifelong learner, and finding creative solutions to problems. The work we do at CKHA Foundation is all about making an impact together, so it’s been a team effort every step of the way.
