The new executive director of the Huron House Boys Home (HHBH) brings a wealth of experience to the position.
Monday, September 9 marks Mike McGill's first day in the role.
He's been with the youth organization for 17 years, having started as a relief worker in 2007.
He went on to serve in various roles as a residential counsellor before obtaining the position of program manager/supervisor, where he oversaw day to day operations, and developed and implemented mental health programs.
McGill said he's excited to get started.
"I started in the Child and Youth Care program at Lambton College and, over my time at Huron House Boys Home, I've just loved the place," said McGill. "I've developed a deep commitment to the mission which is supporting the youth in our community. Over the years, after learning the different aspects of the job, I now have the opportunity to not only continue the great work we've always done but certainly help shape the future of our services."
McGill said one of the goals is to ensure the organization adapts to meet the challenges of the youth they serve.
"Right now, my main focus is going to be reinforcing the community bonds and enhancing our services to better support the youth that we serve," he said. "It's going to involve strengthening partnerships with the local organizations. I think we're going to certainly focus on continuously improving our programs to meet the evolving needs of our youth. We're going to try to build a robust network of support and focus on the impact of our service delivery. We want to ensure our programs are making a lasting difference with our youth."
McGill said there are certainly some obstacles to overcome.
"One of the biggest challenges will be continuing to adapt to complex mental health needs of the youth that we serve," said McGill. "We're seeing more and more young people across the province dealing with significant emotional and psychological issues. Staying ahead of those latest mental health topics and advancements and integrating them into our program is important. Another challenge is certainly ensuring that we have the resources, both in terms of funding and community support, to keep providing the high level of care that our kids deserve."
McGill grew up in Watford and moved to Sarnia 11 years ago. He is active in sports and spends time outdoors hunting and fishing.
He has two sons, aged 10 and 12, and recently had a baby girl born in July.
McGill takes over for Brett Gatt, who left for a position with a youth organization in London.
Huron House Boys Home, located in Bright's Grove, was established in 1970.
According to the organization's website, they offer a treatment-based approach designed to support young boys in their growth into successful adults.
The facility is licenced to accommodate up to 28 boys aged 12 to 18.
It stands as a dedicated children’s mental health facility, with goals centred on promoting community engagement, educational success, positive transformation, and personal responsibility.