The Leadership Challenge – Julie Quenneville
By Julie Quenneville
As I reflect on the transformative power of philanthropy, I can’t help but think about what an honour it is to serve in this sector. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life who want to change our world for the better. I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that can happen when an entire community unites around a shared vision and purpose.
Philanthropy isn’t limited to a select number of wealthy families in our country. It’s not just about writing big cheques. Everyone, regardless of background or means, holds the power to make a difference. This concept of “approachable philanthropy” has been a guiding force throughout my career and certainly in my work as CEO of UHN Foundation, where we raise funds in support of Canada’s #1 hospital.
This belief is also at the core of our UHN Impact Collective (UIC), a volunteer group of next-generation leaders who are redefining what it means to give back. The UIC has a clear mission: to cultivate a new generation of philanthropists who are committed to helping UHN continue to reimagine health care. This impressive group is lending their time, talent, networks and fresh perspectives to not only raise funds for UHN, but to get more people aware of and engaged in our cause. And they do so in a variety of ways — from dinners and speaking engagements to yoga classes and pickleball tournaments. Their hard work embodies approachable philanthropy in action.
The creation of the UIC reflects our belief in the power of community, and has benefits for both sides that go beyond dollars and cents. By providing a platform for next-generation leaders to explore their potential as volunteers and philanthropists, we are at the same time gaining a better understanding of how to connect with an entirely new cohort of supporters — ones who may not have the traditional direct connection to our cause (in this case, UHN patients or their loved ones).
At UHN Foundation, we are committed to democratizing philanthropy and empowering individuals of all ages and stages to recognize themselves as philanthropists. While we certainly appreciate the transformative power of major gifts and large-scale donations, we want people of all giving levels and capacities to feel that they play just as important a role in transforming health care.
Whether it’s volunteering, organizing a fundraising event, or simply helping to spread the word on social media, there are countless ways people can show their support and drive meaningful change. I recently met two young siblings who donated proceeds from a chocolate bar fundraiser in honour of their late grandmother’s care team. I hope they know that their simple act of kindness not only goes a long way to help the hospital, but also in lifting the spirits of the teams at UHN who go above and beyond for our patients every day.
We all have the power to change the status quo of health care. Donor support through UHN Foundation is helping fund groundbreaking research, acquire the latest and greatest technology, provide new life-saving treatments, and recruit the next generation of great medical minds. The work happening at UHN has an impact close to home, but also around the world. And so every donation, regardless of its size, is helping UHN change the world.
Philanthropy can and should be approachable. It is our job as fundraisers to help people feel empowered to make a difference. As I look to the future, I am excited about how the UIC will continue to evolve. I am equally as excited about the work we are doing to call on more members of the community to join us in our mission to help UHN reimagine health care. Because there is nothing more powerful than a community united.
Julie Quenneville is the CEO of UHN Foundation. Quenneville’s acknowledged dedication to health care has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women; one of Concordia University’s Top 50 under 50; and receiving the Medal of the Quebec National Assembly. She serves as Chair of the Banff Forum and is a member of the Executive Committee of the 2024 President’s Cup, a global team golf competition which will be played in Montreal. Her vast knowledge of philanthropy, modern business strategy, and government relations has made her a sought-after speaker on multiple platforms. Quenneville is a change agent, a passionate advocate for innovative research, and a firm believer that advancing medicine is a global responsibility. She writes this column exclusively for each issue of Foundation Magazine.
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