Ottawa and Eastern Ontario Community Board in action

Our Ottawa and Eastern Ontario Community Board has donated $8.5 million since 2005 to 599 grassroots projects, charities and organizations.

How we made a difference in 2024

$400K

Budget allocated

24

Local charities

Clarissa Arthur (Chair)

Executive Director, Nelson House of Ottawa-Carleton, Author, Public Speaker

With more than 25 years of experience in the community and social services sector, Clarissa Arthur leads Nelson House of Ottawa-Carleton as Executive Director. Nelson House is a first-stage emergency shelter for women and children fleeing violence, and in her role, Clarissa guides the organization’s strategic direction while overseeing all aspects of its management and operations. Her commitment to this work is grounded in both lived and professional experience, giving her a unique, trauma-informed perspective on community issues.

Clarissa’s career includes impactful roles at the Parent Resource Centre, Andrew Fleck Children’s Services, Youville Centre, and the Education Foundation of Ottawa. As the former Chair of the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Task Group, she has been a steadfast advocate for the well-being of children and families; advocacy that contributed to her recognition as one of 2022’s Accomplished Black Canadian Women.

Her collaborative approach, passion, and deep sector experience align seamlessly with her role as Chair of the TELUS Ottawa and Eastern Ontario Community Board, where she is committed to strengthening pathways to innovation, opportunity, and hope for youth across the region.