Meet Chris McKenzie, development officer, Covenant Foundation

Editor’s note: Chris’s story is part of a series of staff profiles we are publishing for Black History Month. Read more stories from Emile, Allison and Ashlee.

Growing up in Montreal in a Jamaican family and trying to find a sense of belonging have influenced how Chris McKenzie, development officer for the Covenant 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 working with the foundation, Chris volunteers delivering books at the Misericordia Community Hospital to both 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 been a way for me to not only give back but also 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 of 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 murals in memory care or an enhancement of a new multipurpose space that bring joy and opportunity to residents,” 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.”