Teresa Fortune

I was born and raised in Oliver, BC, and am proud to call this community home. I was born at St. Martin’s Hospital in Oliver and grew up in Willowbrook alongside my six siblings. My parents, Jo and Terry Johnson, instilled in us the importance of community service and giving back.

My father, Terry Johnson, played an integral role in the inception of Desert Sun Counselling Centre, recognizing the growing need for drug and alcohol counselling services in the South Okanagan. Since its founding, Desert Sun has grown tremendously, due in large part to the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Marieze Tarr. I am honoured to continue my father’s legacy by serving on the Board and supporting an organization that makes such a meaningful difference in our community.

Professionally, I am the Clinical Operations Manager at South Okanagan General Hospital. I began my healthcare career in Whitehorse and moved to Oliver in 1995, starting as a nurse on the acute care ward and later working in the Emergency Department before moving into management.

Outside of work, I am the proud mother of three adult sons. Jamie (28) is a Physical Education teacher in Keremeos, Jack (25) works for the Town of Oliver in the Public Works Department, and Trey (22) is a plumber based in Vancouver.

I am grateful for the opportunity to support Desert Sun Counselling Centre and help strengthen the health and well-being of individuals and families throughout the South Okanagan.

- Teresa Fortune