Jodi Collins

Jodi Collins is a lifelong Fort McMurray resident, a passionate mental health advocate, and a community leader. Born and raised in Fort McMurray, Jodi has deep roots in the region and an unwavering commitment to supporting the community that helped shape her. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to a career in mental health, driven by both personal experience and a desire to improve access to care for others.

Jodi’s educational path began in an unexpected place—she initially trained as a 3rd Class Power Engineer. However, life experiences, particularly those involving her daughter’s mental health challenges, led her to shift her focus towards a career in mental health. In response to her family’s struggles navigating the mental health system, Jodi completed a Children’s Mental Health Program at Mount Royal University and is currently pursuing a Social Work degree through Northern Lakes College. “The frustrations we encountered accessing services were a driving force behind many of my educational and career choices,” Jodi shares, emphasizing her determination to help others navigate these challenges.

Professionally, Jodi recently began a new role with the Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) as a Child and Youth First Responder with the Mobile Crisis Team. Prior to this, she spent five years at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) as a Mental Health Coordinator. The most rewarding part of her work, she explains, is “the incredible humans I get to support and walk alongside each day.” Through her career, Jodi has developed a profound respect for the resilience of the human spirit and learned invaluable life lessons from the people she serves.

Jodi’s passion for helping others extends beyond her professional life and into her extensive volunteer work. She has been involved in numerous community initiatives, including a particularly memorable experience starting a breakfast program at St. Anne School during Fort McMurray’s boom years. “We made thousands of muffins each week, and it was incredible to see everyone come together to support an entire school community,” Jodi recalls. She is also a facilitator with the Youth Justice Committee, promoting restorative justice by encouraging young people to repair relationships. Like many in the community, Jodi has participated in food bank drives and delivered hampers for Santas Anonymous, constantly inspired by Fort McMurray’s generous and giving spirit.

Jodi’s commitment to mental health advocacy is deeply personal. Her daughter’s experience navigating mental health services has fueled her passion for improving access to care in the region. Reflecting on the challenges facing Fort McMurray, Jodi believes the most significant issue is the lack of accessible mental health services for both youth and adults. While she acknowledges the dedication of local mental health professionals, she emphasizes the need for more resources to meet the growing demand. Jodi sees great potential in expanding peer support models as a way to bridge these service gaps. “Seeing peer supporters in our hospitals in various roles would be incredible,” she suggests, having witnessed firsthand the transformative power of peer support during her time at CMHA.

When asked about her biggest influences, Jodi credits her parents for setting a strong example of community involvement. “I grew up with phenomenal role models as parents,” she says, explaining how their commitment to helping others has shaped her own passion for giving back. As she looks to the future, Jodi’s goals are rooted in both personal and professional growth. She is eager to complete her Social Work degree while also enjoying the simple pleasures of life with her husband, Craig, and children, Taylor and Colby. Professionally, she looks forward to learning from her team at ATC and continuing her work in mental health.

Jodi Collins is a testament to the power of community support, resilience, and compassion. Her work in mental health and her volunteer efforts are driven by a desire to make Fort McMurray a better, more supportive place for everyone. Despite her discomfort in the spotlight, Jodi’s humility and dedication shine through, making her a truly deserving recipient of the Top 50 Under 50 recognition.

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