People First award winner: Dale Handley
We’re thrilled to profile Dale Handley. Dale won the Award of Excellence in Leadership in this year’s People First Awards.
Here’s what his colleagues say about him:
“Dale is kind, passionate, organized and understanding. He challenges us to be creative and has included all staff in decision-making. He is respectful and leads us in best practices. He honours our unique skills. Dale has hired an energetic team of individuals who all wish to provide person-centred, trauma-informed care for youth.”
Congrats, Dale for the amazing work you do every day, and for being an inspiration to your colleagues!
Job Title
Head Nurse
Department/Location
Carlile Youth Concurrent Disorders Center and North Shore Intensive Youth Outreach Service
How long have you worked at VCH?
2.5 years
Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
My primary role has been to lead the clinical development and implementation, and provide ongoing support and leadership to programs within Youth Mental Health and Substance use.
What’s your favourite thing about your work?
There are many, but what stands out for me are the moments when there has been intentional change that has led to improved outcomes for youth. VCH has really provided me with an opportunity to review the current state, and look for opportunities to serve the youth from across VCH in an innovative manner.
Which True North goal does your work contribute to the most?
Innovate for sustainability
One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
My favourite sport in the world is Australian Rules Football.
Three things you always have in your fridge:
Left-over pasta
Expired sandwich meat (for all the lunches I “plan” on making)
Milk
Who or what inspires you?
The people that inspire me are those that are willing to experience the discomfort of doing something new while maintaining a compassionate approach to others, are willing to challenge themselves to explore creative and innovative thinking, and bring a sense of fun and joy to everything they do.
Most healthy habit:
The occasional and irregular jog with my dog along the sea wall.
Favourite vacation spot:
Difficult to choose but would have to say returning to Melbourne, Australia. I love the spirit, coffee and sports every time I return- along with spending time with my family and friends!!
Do you know someone at VCH who you’d like to see profiled in VCH News? Send your suggestion to news@vch.ca and we’ll follow up with them. Don’t worry, we won’t tell them you suggested them. It’ll just be our little secret.
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