Experienced mental health leader to guide organization’s next chapter of growth, innovation and community impact
NEWMARKET, Ont. — July 13, 2026 — The Canadian Mental Health Association York Region and South Simcoe (CMHA YSS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Chung as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Andrew joins CMHA YSS with more than 20 years of leadership experience across the non-profit healthcare and community services sectors, including mental health, settlement services and social development. He assumes the role at a pivotal time as demand for community-based mental health and addictions services continues to grow and the organization advances its strategic plan, From Belief to Action, while preparing for the future York Region Mental Health Community Care Centre (The Centre).
Following a comprehensive national search, the Board of Directors selected Andrew for his proven ability to lead organizational growth, build strong partnerships and advance innovative, equitable models of care.
“Andrew is a collaborative and visionary leader whose experience reflects both the opportunities and challenges facing community mental health today,” said Rob Bull, Chair of the Board of Directors, CMHA York Region and South Simcoe. “Throughout the search process, we were looking for someone who could build on our organization’s strong foundation while helping shape the future of community mental health. Andrew’s commitment to innovation, partnership and equity makes him the right leader for this next chapter.”
Most recently, Andrew served as President and CEO of HF Care (formerly Hong Fook Mental Health Association), where he led the organization’s transformation into a recognized leader in culturally responsive mental healthcare. During his tenure, HF Care expanded services across the Greater Toronto Area, launched a national mental health first responders training program, advanced a major capital
campaign for a new community health hub and significantly expanded youth and family mental health services.
Earlier in his career, Andrew held senior leadership roles in philanthropy and communications, including Director of Philanthropy at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Foundation, where he helped advance major research and mental health initiatives. Andrew said he is looking forward to listening, learning and building on the organization’s strong reputation across York Region and South Simcoe.
“CMHA York Region and South Simcoe has earned the trust of its communities through compassionate care, strong partnerships and a clear commitment to improving mental health for everyone,” said Chung. “I’m honoured to join an organization with such an incredible team and important mission. My first priority is to listen to employees, clients, families, partners and supporters, so that together we can build on the tremendous work already underway and continue creating innovative, accessible mental health services that respond to the changing needs of our communities.”
Andrew holds a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Healthcare Policy and Research from Cornell University, where he was recognized as the 2023 Dr. Lorna Breen Mental Health Fellow. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University.
As CEO, Andrew will lead one of Ontario’s most significant community mental health organizations, serving thousands of people each year through a broad range of mental health, addictions, housing and community support programs across York Region and South Simcoe.
About Canadian Mental Health Association, York Region and South Simcoe
Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the most established, most extensive community mental health organization in Canada. As the nationwide leader and champion for mental health with 75 branches across the country, CMHA facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve mental health and community integration, build resilience, and support
recovery from mental illness and addiction.
CMHA York Region and South Simcoe (CMHA YSS) is one of the fastest growing branches of CMHA, last year serving more than 21,000 clients. With a vision of providing Mental Health to All, CMHA YSS offers more than 30 mental health and addictions programs for youth, adults, family caregivers, local businesses, and community organizations. To find out more about the work of the Canadian Mental Health Association York Region and South Simcoe, go to www.cmha-yr.on.ca.
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Media contacts:
Ketzia Barron
Communications Advisor
kbarron@cmha-yr.on.ca
289 879 2401
