Making a Difference to Alberta Children, Youth and Families

Paul MacKenzie is an ARNET 2024 Scholar and recipient of a Diane Davidson Memorial Scholarship. Paul began work with Hull Services in 1997 as a relief worker and held several positions before deciding to become a nurse. He entered nursing school at the age of 32.

Hull Services has a longstanding reputation for delivering leading-edge mental health services to children, youth, and families in the Calgary area. They are committed to using a trauma-based approach to care during difficult times. Hull provides an opportunity for individuals to pursue well-being and happiness, with a focus on mental health.

Hull Services was supportive of his decision to become a nurse and Paul was able to continue working with them until he completed his undergraduate nursing degree. Many years later when the Hull Services agency nurse retired, he returned and stepped into the Director of Nursing role. Paul describes his role at Hull Services.

I get to manage the health needs of the kids we work with, develop health and wellness policies and procedures for the agency, support the staff with their health concerns, and of course hang out with kids. Our kids have a wide range of needs, from skinned knees at the playground to starting addictions treatment.

When we spoke to Paul to share the news that he was selected for an ARNET scholarship, he responded in a quiet, humble way and then said,

This is a gamechanger for me. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have had as a Registered Nurse and for having the support of Hull Services as I complete my Master of Nursing.

Congratulations Paul and thank you for the work you do!