Assisted Living Alberta
James, Robin
Robin began her career with Lethbridge Housing Authority in 2006 and was appointed the Chief Administrative Officer in 2017. In this role, she leads the delivery of nearly 1000 units of affordable, supportive, and transitional housing, as well as the newly expanded Wellness Shelter operated in partnership with the Blood Tribe Department of Health. Under her leadership, the organization also delivers a range of essential services, including Rent Assistance programs, the Gender-Based Violence Benefit, Housing-Connect initiatives and Homelessness Support Services.
Robin is driven by a vision to create a comprehensive housing continuum – one that meets individuals where they are and supports them with safe, recovery focused and affordable housing options. Her goal is to empower clients to achieve their highest level of independence and long-term success. In recognition of her exceptional commitment to providing affordable secure housing for the community of Lethbridge, Robin was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in March 2025. Most recently, Robin has taken on an additional leadership role as Co-Chair for the Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Advisory Panel on Homelessness.
Deputy Minister, Assisted Living and Social Services
Assistant Deputy Minister, Corporate Finance and Accountability and Senior Financial Officer
Deputy Minister, Assisted Living and Social Services
McDonald, Karen
Karen McDonald’s career has focused almost exclusively on the field of gerontology, including a decade in seniors’ supportive housing and fifteen years with the Sage Seniors Association, with half of that time in the role of Executive Director. Karen is currently Chair of Community Leadership Council (Alberta) and Provincial Director of Healthy Aging Alberta. She also recently took on the role of Co-Chair of the Canadian CBSS Interim Community Leadership Council to advance national sector development and was a member of the MAPS Strategic Advisory Committee. Karen completed her MBA and BA at the University of Alberta, and her current volunteer work includes the Board of the Muttart Foundation.
Overguard, Heidi
An independent businesswoman based in Sundre, Heidi Overguard brings to the Alberta Health Services Board nearly a decade of experience in rural healthcare advocacy. Prior to joining the AHS Board, Ms. Overguard was chair of the Sundre Health Professional Attraction and Retention Committee, which she helped establish in 2011, as well as Vice-Chair of the Sundre Hospital Futures Committee, a health foundation committed to attracting and retaining health professionals and facilities in Sundre for the benefit of local and area residents. Ms. Overguard stepped down from both of these committees to join the AHS Board. Ms. Overguard’s passion for healthcare runs in her family: her mother worked as a registered nurse at Sundre Hospital and Care Centre for 35 years, and her grandfather served on the Sundre Hospital Board for more than 15 years. In addition to her healthcare-related efforts, Ms. Overguard operates and co-owns several Sundre and area businesses. Since 2016, Ms. Overguard has also been a member of the Mountain View County Municipal Planning Commission, which reviews and approves development applications. She is a former Secretary/Vice President of the Sundre & District Chamber of Commerce (2009-14) and the Sundre Economic Development Committee (2007-09). Ms. Overguard lives in James River, north of Sundre, with her husband and three children. She enjoys spending time with her family, travelling to the mountains, photography and hiking; and loves all aspects living in rural Alberta.