Staff
Jessica Hill, Executive Director, with Founder Ron Asseltine
Jessica Hill is the Executive Director of the Guelph Wish Fund for Children, bringing over two decades of healthcare experience and a profound commitment to pediatric care. With a background as a Registered Dental Hygienist, Jessica has refined her ability to provide compassionate, client-centered care and is also skilled at working with diverse teams, bringing together individuals from different fields to achieve common goals.
Jessica’s personal experience navigating her daughter’s rare cancer diagnosis further underscores her empathy and dedication. This journey with the Guelph Wish Fund began in March 2023, fueled by her own experience. Tragically, her 14-year-old daughter, Addy, lost her battle with angiosarcoma in July 2022. Witnessing the challenges and emotional toll of this journey inspired Jessica to advocate for change. Her firsthand experience has provided her with invaluable insight into the struggles faced by families, driving her to ensure that every child's wish is fulfilled, bringing light and joy to replace pain and suffering.
Jessica’s dedication to child advocacy and community support shines through her leadership in organizing major fundraising events. Having raised over $500,000 for Sarcoma research in support of SickKids Hospital, her commitment to improving the lives of children perfectly aligns with the values of the Guelph Wish Fund for Children.
In early 2024, she has obtained her Fundraising Management Certificate, further enhancing her ability to lead impactful initiatives for the benefit of children and their families.
Jessica resides in Elora with her husband Dave, daughter Alyssa, and furry companion Nova. She volunteers her time with various charities and the Centre Wellington Celtics Basketball community, showing her commitment to community service and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
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Vanessa Lodge
Development & Marketing Coordinator
Vanessa Lodge is the Development and Marketing Coordinator with the Guelph Wish Fund. With over 15 years of experience in the non-profit and charitable sector, particularly in community sport and recreation, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to support the families served by the Guelph Wish Fund. Throughout her career, Vanessa has seen firsthand the impact of building strong relationships and fostering community connections.
A lifelong Guelph resident, Vanessa has dedicated much of her career to building strong community connections and advancing opportunities for children and families. She has worked with organizations such as Lay-Up Youth Basketball, VL Collaborative, PIN -The People and Information Network, the Aboriginal Sport and Wellness Council of Ontario, and the Guelph Youth Basketball Association, where she continues to serve as Co-President. Vanessa also lends her expertise as a board member with Active Scholars and the Guelph Sport Council, in addition to her previous service on committees with the City of Guelph and Ontario Basketball.
Vanessa’s dedication to giving back is evident through her ongoing volunteer work and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.