We’re excited to announce that Michael Braithwaite (he/him) will be joining Jack.org as our new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), starting on June 16, 2025.

Michael brings over 30 years of experience in the not-for-profit space and has worked tirelessly over his career to advance social impact initiatives across the housing and youth services sectors. A champion for change, he has extensive experience working with and for vulnerable communities to improve access to services that transform lives.

“We live in a world where access to mental healthcare remains inequitable, particularly for youth. It is an honour to join the Jack.org team to continue its vital work to ensure youth have the mental health support they need. I am grateful to the Jack.org team and our brilliant youth leaders for their commitment, passion, and hard work to make true change happen. I look forward to working with them, as well as with our donors, partners, and funders, to continue to create accessible pathways to the mental health youth need to thrive.”  — Michael Braithwaite

As the CEO of Blue Door, one of Canada’s leading housing and homelessness service organizations, he led the creation of social programs to provide job training and pathways to meaningful employment to prevent homelessness; he worked closely with partners and funders to develop six new supportive housing projects across the Greater Toronto Area, including the region’s first supportive housing program for 2SLGBTQ+ youth; and he grew the organization's capacity to serve more communities, expanding its programs to Durham, Peel, Niagara, and Halifax. Before Blue Door, Michael served as CEO of Raising the Roof, where he launched a national program to transform underutilized properties into affordable housing. Prior to that, as the Executive Director of 360°kids, he led the development of several innovative programs to support vulnerable youth.

Michael’s leadership has earned recognition across the sector, including an award for excellence in Leadership in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the Chamber of Commerce and the King Charles III Medal for his outstanding work in community service.

“Michael brings a wealth of experience and integrity to the role, and we are so pleased to welcome a leader who demonstrates such knowledge, experience, and deep commitment to youth and vulnerable people,” says Zach Pendley, Board Chair of Jack.org. “We have every confidence that Jack.org and young people in Canada are in capable and compassionate hands with Michael at the helm.”

As the need for urgent action for youth mental health grows, Michael’s deep sector experience, commitment to equity, and record of developing programs that drive meaningful change will help Jack.org ensure that all young people in Canada have access to the mental health education and support they need to thrive.

We look forward to welcoming him to the incredible Jack.org team.

Questions? Reach out to us at hello@jack.org and we’ll be happy to help.