Donor Spotlight: John Jenah and the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation
Having seen the exceptional care at Humber River Health firsthand, John Jenah feels a deep, personal connection to its mission. “I’ve personally seen patients receive excellent care at Humber River Health. I have much respect for many of the surgeons that are here,” he shares with appreciation. He praises the leadership and staff for their dedication and excellence, noting that such qualities reinforce his commitment to support their work.
For over two decades, the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation has been a steadfast pillar supporting healthcare and education in Ontario. Since 2001, Jenah has led the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation, driving his dedication and resources into enhancing patient care and sparking medical innovation. The Foundation’s commitment has profoundly impacted institutions like Humber River Health, which has made a significant impact on healthcare in Ontario over the past 15+ years.
Jenah’s involvement with the Foundation began through his professional relationship with the late Paul Helliwell. Assigned as Helliwell’s chartered accountant in 1981, their professional rapport blossomed into a strong partnership founded on mutual respect and shared vision.
After Helliwell’s passing, Jenah assumed leadership of the Foundation, focusing on projects that offer lasting benefits in healthcare and education. Such contributions to Humber River Health have been life-changing, including a transformative donation in 2015 toward the new Hospital build. Additional funding has supported critical projects like surgical services, seniors’ heart research, and a 250-seat auditorium, providing space for facilitating cutting-edge collaboration in support of Humber’s rigorous education vision.
The Foundation’s philanthropic philosophy centers on supporting special projects that drive innovation and efficiency in healthcare. With targeted investments in technology and research, patient care can improve and further enhance Humber’s ability to recruit and retain top medical professionals. “This type of support will retain and attract new surgeons,” says Jenah. “The latest and greatest are here at Humber River Health!”
Through the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation, John Jenah continues Paul’s legacy by making a lasting impact on healthcare in Ontario—enhancing medical services, fostering innovation, and improving patient experiences.
Healthcare lives at Humber River Health thanks to the generosity of the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation.