October 24, 2017
Regan Anderson, the CEO of Wayside House of Hamilton and AMHO member, was recognized today at Health Quality Transformation for his dedicated leadership and commitment to person-centered care.
The Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Dr. Eric Hoskins, presented Anderson with the Minister’s Medal Honouring Excellence in Health Quality and Safety, emphasizing that “to say Regan is committed to improving the mental health and addiction system is an understatement.”
Wayside House of Hamilton is a not-for-profit community organization that provides residential treatment and supportive housing for men and transitional aged young men with addiction and concurrent disorders.
A true demonstration of his commitment to his work, Regan states that the award is not about him, “it’s about the guys.” He says the award “celebrates the success” of many Wayside alumni, but is also a tribute to those men they have lost. Most importantly, he wants people to know “clients matter, and change is possible.”
“When clients talk about Regan, they use words like ‘unconditional love,’ ‘respect’ and ‘seeing my value,’” said John Hartnett, President of Wayside’s Board of Directors, and the person who spearheaded Regan’s nomination. “Regan is incredibly respected throughout our organization, the community, and the sector for his unwavering commitment to putting the needs of clients, his guys, at the center of everything he does.”
“It’s impossible to not feel incredibly inspired after hearing Regan speak about his work,” said Gail Czukar, CEO of Addictions and Mental Health Ontario. “At a time when we are facing an unprecedented addiction crisis in this province, this award sends an important message –that people with addiction matter and addictions matter.”
“Regan’s tremendous commitment and passion are exemplary and he deserves this award. But he is too professional to say what I will say – that the incredible work he does cannot be sustained on passion and personal sacrifice alone. It also takes resources, and more are needed.”
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column_inner][/et_pb_row_inner][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_section]