Jillian Hutton

Job Title
Switchboard Operator/Receptionist

Department/Location
Robert & Lily Lee Family Community Health Centre

How long have you worked at VCH?
21 years

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I am the link between the community and our staff, be it through phone calls or clients attending programs or seeking information on services at our health centre.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
Through the many years of working for VCH, I have had the pleasure of working with many employees and have formed long lasting friendships. Even though I have recently changed job sites, I still keep in contact with many former colleagues. Some of these staff members have also relocated to Vancouver and now pass by my new desk.

Which True North goal does your work contribute to the most?
Promote better health for our communities

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I served in the military as a finance clerk. Basic training was a piece of cake after being spending many years in my childhood under the “guidance” of a grandfather who served in the British military. He was tough!

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Something in the chocolate food group. Lemon flavoured water (especially in the summertime) and healthy snacks ( I have two teenagers at home!)

Who or what inspires you?
My personal time with my children, watching them grow up into beautiful and amazing young adults.  I strive to be a mentor and provide them with the qualities necessary to in turn achieve their goals. After all, they are always watching me!!!  My mother brought up three children on her own and taught us to appreciate what we have and to respect the world around us.

Most healthy habit:
Biking around Richmond with my children for most of the year and leaving the car at home.  We love packing picnics so we always carry lots of water and the food is tasty yet healthy.

Favourite vacation spot:
When I was a child, we lived for five years in a small town on the outskirts of Brisbane, Australia.  Several times, my family went on trips up the Gold Coast so I have to say it is has to be Australia. My cousins live in Bondi Beach and Manly, so Sydney is the next destination on my list to visit.