Jill Wickins

Jill Wickins is a stalwart figure in the early childhood education community, having dedicated over four decades to the field. As a Registered Early Childhood Educator with Compass Early Learning and Care, she has left an indelible mark on the lives of over 4000 children and their families. Throughout her extensive career, Jill has worn many hats, embodying roles ranging from educator to advocate, leader, and mentor.

Her approach is rooted in the belief of a value/strength-based methodology, which she applies not only to succession planning but also to day-to-day operations. Jill understands the pivotal role of fostering deeper understanding and cultivating confident decision-makers and leaders within the early learning environment. She places significant emphasis on building robust relationships with community partners, families, children, and colleagues, recognizing them as invaluable resources for creating nurturing and enriching early learning environments.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jill finds solace and fulfillment in her family and farm life, cherishing her role as a grandparent to two beautiful grandchildren. Despite her numerous achievements and accolades, Jill remains grounded and humble, attributing success to collective effort rather than individual accomplishment.

An ardent advocate for fair compensation within the early childhood education sector, Jill champions equitable pay for all educators and support staff. She fervently believes that their contributions to children, families, and communities warrant recognition and fair remuneration.

In facing professional challenges, Jill is undeterred by obstacles, often generating innovative solutions to enhance accessibility and meet the diverse needs of families. She is relentless in her pursuit of staying abreast of industry changes, supporting various programs, and advocating for the success of all involved.

Jill's leadership in the community is unparalleled, admired by hundreds for her unwavering dedication to children and families, her empathetic nature, and her sense of loyalty to the field of early childhood education. Her impact extends beyond the confines of her role, inspiring others and raising the standard for childcare in her community.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jill's commitment shone brightly as she worked tirelessly to facilitate emergency childcare for frontline workers and provided clarity and reassurance to families navigating uncertain times.

In sum, Jill Wickins is a beacon of resilience, compassion, and advocacy, whose profound influence has left an indelible mark on the landscape of early childhood education.

Social Posts

After more than a decade of dedicated leadership, we are sharing the news that our CEO, Jim Russell, will retire in July 2026.

Since joining United Way Peterborough & District in 2011, Jim has been a steady and passionate force for community change, leading more than $36 million in revenue generation and championing critical work to address poverty, homelessness, and income inequality across our region.

Under Jim’s leadership, United Way Peterborough and District has strengthened its role as a trusted community partner through impactful research, including Housing is Fundamental, multiple Point-in-Time Counts, and The Gap reports on income adequacy and living wages.

Jim’s commitment to Peterborough & District, and to building a more equitable, resilient community, has left a lasting mark. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and look forward to celebrating his legacy over the coming months. 

Please join us in congratulating Jim on his incredible contributions to our community!
🎄✨Festive sweaters described in one word only!

We brought the holiday spirit in support of our @unitedwayptbo workplace campaign!

Which one’s your favourite? 🤨

#UnitedWayPTBO #BuildingCommunity
As the holidays approach, we wanted to share a quick update on our office hours.

Our office will be closing early on Wednesday and Thursday of this week as we celebrate the season with our staff, board and committees. We will then be closed beginning at noon on Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) through January 5, returning to regular office hours in the new year.

If you or someone you know needs support during this time, please remember that help is available by calling 211, 24/7.

Wishing you a safe, restful, and joyful holiday season. 🎄✨
Looking for food support this holiday season? 

Please visit the City of Peterborough website for information on food banks and free meals. 

peterborough.ca/foodcalendar
❤️It’s Thank You Thursday!❤️

Thank you to the whole team at J & M Automotive who welcomed us into their shop to present a generous gift to @unitedwayptbo 

We also want to thank @darcybonner2829 Campaign Cabinet member, for helping build these strong community connections. 

We’re so grateful for local businesses who step up for our community! Remember that every dollar raised here, stays here supporting our 20 outstanding partner agencies.
❄️Even with the snow coming down outside, our spirit week continues strong with Statement Sock Day!

🧦Bold statements, adorable animals, throwback characters - the team brought it all. 

❤️Proud of this team for finding joy, colour and community no matter the weather!
Consider this your official invitation to United Way's PJ Day! 🎉🛏️ 

Feeling the winter chill? Warm up with us this Friday, December 12th and get cozy in support of United Way Peterborough & District’s annual campaign.

To participate, simply donate $5 and enjoy rocking your fuzziest slippers, comfiest PJs, or favourite track pants all day long. You can event invite your coworkers and make it a workplace PJ party! 

When you donate to the United Way, every dollar you give supports 20 local partner agencies doing vital work right here in Peterborough & County.

Ready to get cozy for a cause?
👉 Visit the link in our bio to take part!
☕️We kicked off our @unitedwayptbo Staff Spirit Week with a cozy hot chocolate bar at our all-staff meeting! 

❤️Even though our team gives in many ways year-round, Spirit Week is a chance to come together, have some fun, and show what workplace campaigns can look like across our community!

😊Cheers to Jim for starting us off with a smile. Stay tuned to see what the rest of Spirit Week brings!
Donate To the United Way
Donate