CUPS’ Carlene Donnelly Recognized as a Woman of Inspiration
Earlier this month, CUPS’ Carlene Donnelly was incredibly honoured to be named a 2020 Women of Inspiration™ by the Universal Women’s Network (UWN), in the category of Social Impact. Every year, the UWN recognizes extraordinary women who lead by example, who inspire others to be more and who make a ripple impact across their communities. And Carlene is no exception.
Making an impact in our community
CUPS helps thousands of individuals and families every year. The majority come with immediate needs: housing, education for their children and critical health care. While it is important to provide short-term support for these clients, this approach does not address the root-causes of their challenges. As a result, the cycle of poverty often continues.
To make a real impact, Carlene knew something had to change.
Having worked in the non-profit sector her whole career, Carlene had heard about a compelling, new approach that involved applying brain science to develop integrated care plans that are tailored to the client’s unique needs. Research was revealing that the experiences we have when we are young shape our brains for a lifetime, and that healthy brain architecture sets the foundation for healthy life outcomes.
“I realized that we needed to change the narrative. The question shouldn't be “what’s wrong with you?” it should be, “what happened to you?” Carlene reflects.
A harbinger of change
Empowered with this knowledge, Carlene engaged stakeholders, brought in the Board of Directors and decided to take CUPS in a new, unprecedented direction, breaking away from the traditional non-profit operational model toward an evidence-based, integrated care program that was built on brain science.
Today, CUPS is the only non-profit in Canada applying brain science to creating lasting, positive change for our community.
What is a woman of inspiration?
“Through my work at CUPS, I have had the privilege of working closely with a number of inspirational women in our community,” says Carlene. “They are not afraid to venture into uncharted waters. They are undeterred and create change instead of waiting for it to happen. They walk the walk and talk the talk, showing others through action what is possible when you set your mind on a goal.”
At CUPS, Carlene has always strived to show that a woman of inspiration has the power to influence not just those around her, but an entire community — staff included!
This recognition shows that individually, women are all inspirational, but together, they are unstoppable. Congratulations!