Millie Colbourne (MED’93, MPA’07) is one of three finalists in the charitable giving category of the national RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards.

The Breton Ability Centre’s CEO has undertaken major organizational changes at the non-profit organization she runs. After an independent review of the facility led to its license being suspended in 2011, Colbourne took the recommendations to heart and began making structural changes to improve the lives of the facility’s residents.

Firstly, she felt that the residents were not as engaged as they could be, and that their skills and strengths were not being put to use. Despite the residents’ disabilities, Colbourne recognized their potential that was going untapped.

So, the CEO dedicated her time to increasing staff training and the creation of jobs for the residents. Through social enterprises such as the centre’s gift store, minigolf course and print shop, residents are able to exercise and grow their skills through meaningful employment. In fact, 30 of the facility’s residents have gone on to work independently in the community.

It is this passion and dedication to bring about positive social change that has earned Colbourne a nomination for the national RBC award. The award winner is to be announced on November 18 at a reception at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto.

Colbourne firmly believes that such organizational change is not possible without a team willing to work together, and is grateful to her dedicated staff for all of their contributions.

Read more in “Breton Centre CEO nominated for RBC award” on thechronicleherald.com.