Andrea Gates

Job Title
Speech and Language Program Leader

Department/Location
Richmond Public Health

How long have you worked at VCH?
7 years

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I work as part of a team of speech-language pathologists who support Richmond’s preschool children to reach their full communication potential through direct services and community capacity building.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
The amazing people (clients and staff) who I interact with every day

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
I provide the best care by leading and participating in continuous quality improvement of services and promote better health for our community by spreading the word about how to support communication development in preschoolers.

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
In 2011, I completed the Goofy Race and a Half Challenge at Disney World, running a half marathon one day and a marathon the next.

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Peanut butter, apples and something in a Mason jar.

Who or what inspires you?
My grandma – I hope I can have her spirit and zest for life in my 90s.

Most healthy habit:
Running, mountain biking and teaching people skills to mountain bike safely (Check out VCH’s campaign re: mountain biking safety at www.vch.ca/shredsafe.)

Favourite vacation spot:
Somewhere with family/friends and without cell phones and internet access 🙂