Community Care Northumberland announces new CEO

Photo of Jordan Prosper. Courtesy of Community Care Northumberland

By Cecilia Nasmith

With the retirement of Trish Baird, their Chief Executive Officer for 36 years, Community Care Northumberland announces that Jordan Prosper has been appointed to the position, effective Dec. 22.

The announcement describes Prosper as “an accomplished executive leader in Ontario's community-health sector, bringing more than 16 years of proven experience advancing innovation, collaboration and equitable access to care.”

He currently serves as Executive director at Routes Connecting Communities in York Region, providing strategic and operational leadership to more than 30 community-based programs which – like Community Care Northumberland – include transportation, Meals on Wheels, health promotion, hospice services and adult day programs.

“I'm grateful and excited to join a team that makes such a meaningful difference in people's lives every day,” Prosper said in the announcement.

He also expressed his deep gratitude to his predecessor, the first CEO of Community Care Northumberland whose services – prior to her leadership – were provided by local boards in a number of Northumberland communities.

“She has led with CCN with grace, compassion and unwavering commitment,” he said.

“Her leadership has shaped CCN into the remarkable organization it is today, and I'm grateful for the strong foundation she leaves behind.

“I truly look forward to getting to know the staff, volunteers, partners and community members who make CCN so special. It's a privilege to be joining this community, and I'm excited to begin this next chapter together.”

Prosper's career includes leadership roles with Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes, the Canadian Cancer Society, and the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre (where he advanced cancer prevention, screening and public health education initiatives).

Known as a transformative and forward-thinking leader, Prosper has championed major initiatives in strategic planning, accreditation, digital transformation and unified client-satisfaction tools.

Holder of a Bachelor of Arts in Community Health Sciences from Brock University, he is currently completing a master's degree in Health Management at McMaster. He is also certified in Mental Health First Aid, Finance for Non-Financial Professionals (Ivey Academy) and Risk Management (York University).

As well, he is an active volunteer coach and avid golfer, supported by his wife Lindsay and two young children, Lucas (age six) and Morgan (age four).

CCN also extends its deepest thanks to Baird for her visionary leadership, unwavering dedication and heartfelt service.

“Her impact on the organization and the lives of those it serves will be felt for many years to come,” the bulletin said.

“Her legacy is one of compassion, community connection and a tireless commitment to ensuring that everyone across Northumberland County had access to the care and support they need.”

Baird took the opportunity to offer her own welcome to Prosper.

“His experience in delivering community support services across rural regions, along with a strong volunteer network, aligns seamlessly with the impact we strive to create every single day,” she said.

“I wish Jordan every success and all the very best in this role. His leadership, vision and wide-ranging skill set will guide this organization well into the future.”