Ruth McFarlane is Chief Executive Officer of Durham Christian Homes Society Inc. and a respected leader in Ontario’s charitable, social housing, seniors housing, retirement living, and long-term care sectors. With more than 25 years of experience, she is known for her thoughtful leadership, operational strength, and commitment to quality care and community service.
Ruth brings deep expertise in charitable operations, project management, quality improvement, strategic planning, and health-care planning. She also has extensive insight into health system transformation through her work with boards, committees, and sector partners, including the Ministry of Health, Local Health Integration Networks, Ontario Health, and regional health authorities.
Durham Christian Homes, established in 1983, is an interdenominational organization created to provide housing for seniors in Durham Region. Under Ruth’s leadership, it continues to offer a welcoming community focused on exemplary care and services for older adults.
Ruth has also made a significant contribution to the Ontario Long Term Care Association through her longstanding board service. She served on the Board of Directors from 2013 to 2018, returned in 2020 to join the Executive, and served as Board Chair from 2022 to 2025. She now continues her leadership as Past Chair and Chair of OLTCA’s Quality Committee.