Board of Directors

Rachael Wilson joined United Way East Ontario in January 2026, serving as President and Chief Executive Officer. She guides the organization’s strategic direction and stewards the partnerships and community investments that drive local impact. Working hand-in-hand with the Board of Directors, volunteers, and staff, Rachael convenes cross-sector leaders and aligns efforts on the toughest issues facing our communities. Within the national United Way network, she collaborates with peers across Canada to shape shared advocacy priorities and advance solutions that reach beyond our region.

With a 25-year career in the non-profit sector, Rachael brings a record of transformational leadership, strategic collaboration, and a lifelong commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities. Most recently, she served as CEO of the Ottawa Food Bank, leading the organization through a period of significant change and growth. She also co-led Ottawa’s city-wide Poverty Reduction Strategy in partnership with United Way East Ontario, the City of Ottawa, and hundreds of collaborators across housing, employment, social services, and food systems.

Rachael is focused on advancing United Way’s mission by convening leaders from business, non-profits, government, and communities to address the root causes of our region’s toughest challenges—such as housing affordability, financial stability, mental wellbeing, and social isolation. Her approach is collaborative, evidence-informed, and grounded in the belief that lasting change happens when diverse partners align around common goals and invest for long-term impact.

Rachael holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University and completed business management studies at Algonquin College. She also earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation.