Public Statement: Announcing the Retirement of YWCA Toronto CEO, Heather M. McGregor
July 30th, 2025
After more than 30 years of service as YWCA Toronto’s Chief Executive Officer, Heather McGregor has announced her plans to retire. Her leadership and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the organization into the significant Association it is today. Her legacy of vision, tenacity and innovation will continue to inspire us all.
Under Heather’s stewardship, YWCA Toronto has grown significantly in both scope and impact. Throughout her time as CEO, Heather has strengthened the organization’s community profile by building strong relationships with funders, donors, non-profit organizations and community partners. Today, YWCA Toronto is widely recognized as one of the country's largest multi-service organizations committed to a radical transformation of society where all women, girls and gender diverse people can thrive.
In her tenure, Heather has increased the operational budget of the organization from $7.5 million to $48 million, while expanding our services and programs. Our permanent housing portfolio has grown from 149 units to over 850 affordable housing units, and our Employment and Training department programs have scaled up from three to fifteen to meet the evolving needs of our communities over the years. Additionally, in 2006, Heather created the Advocacy and Communications department, recognizing the importance of demonstrating our feminist thought leadership and advancing systemic change. While our advocacy priorities have evolved and shifted over time, Heather’s aim has been clear: create lasting change.
Notably, in 2023, Heather was awarded the Order of Canada. This is one of the country’s highest honours and recognizes trailblazers who have made a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians.
Heather’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the YWCA Movement have been hallmarks of her tenure.
We are grateful for the lasting impact she has made, and the spirit of innovation and dedication she fostered will stay with us as we move into this next chapter of YWCA Toronto.
In the coming months, we will commence our search for YWCA Toronto’s next Chief Executive Officer, a leader who will build on the foundation that Heather has laid. Heather will remain in her role through March 2026. Our Board of Directors is committed to a thoughtful and comprehensive search process to identify the individual best suited to guide the organization into the future.
Please join us in congratulating Heather on her retirement. We look forward to honouring her legacy throughout the year ahead, including the launch of the Heather McGregor Housing Innovation Fund in the Fall.
Sincerely,
Sarah Yaffe
YWCA Toronto’s Board of Directors, President