Jim Russell – The United Way

Peterborough’s CEO of the United Way is passionate about lasting change within the community and experiencing cottage life in the Kawarthas

Jim Russell photo by Carol Lawless
Jim Russell photo by Carol Lawless

What are you most proud of accomplishing in the five months you’ve been CEO of the United Way of Peterborough?

“Meeting 100 leaders of this community in 100 days. I did it in less time actually. I’ve found that I can schedule more meetings and see more people because there’s so little traffic in this city.”

What do you love about your job?

“No two days are the same. And I love the staff here. They’re on fire and excited about the opportunity to build community and make lasting change.”

What is your favourite place to eat?

“Hot Belly Mamas. I’ve been coming to Peterborough to go to this restaurant when it was  located on Water Street. And I have no idea what else is on the menu other than corn soup, pulled pork and sweet potato frites.”

Jim Russell photo by Carol Lawless
Jim Russell in his United Way office photo by Carol Lawless

What is your greatest hope for the people you serve?

“That the people who are already vulnerable in our community receive the support they need so that they don’t get left behind.”

 What do you love about life in the Kawarthas?

“I love the fact you can drive for 20 minutes and you’re in a rural setting. Another 10 and you’re by the water. Literally. When people in Toronto go their cottages, it’s a five-hour exodus out of the city. Not here. It’s amazing. I’m really excited to be living and working here.”

Previous articlekawarthaCHOW
Next articleGood Libations with Louis Karkabasis
Carol Lawless
Carol Lawless is the fund development coordinator at the New Canadians Centre Peterborough. She is also a writer and editor with more than 30 years' experience. Carol lives in Peterborough with her daughters Grace and Joan and their beagle, Lally. You can follow Carol on Twitter at @CarolLawless.