Oct 26th, 2026

Women of OCH: Danielle McGee

Turning Experience into Opportunity

“Not everyone starts with the same opportunities. Sometimes seeing someone in a role, or having one person encourage you, can make a real difference.”

For Danielle McGee, Senior Advisor, Government and Stakeholder Relations at Ottawa Community Housing, these words reflect her personal experiences and a career dedicated to public service.

Having grown up in social housing, Danielle understands firsthand how access to opportunities and community support can shape someone’s future.

A career in public service

Before joining OCH in 2022, Danielle spent 16 years working in government and politics, including 12 years within the City of Ottawa as Director of Community Relations in the Office of the Mayor.

She built a career contributing to campaigns, public policy, and community initiatives at all three levels of government. She is proud to have played a role in large-scale city building projects including the early development of what is now Gladstone Village.

But some of her most meaningful experiences came from the constituency work, helping individuals overcome everyday barriers and reinforcing her belief that public service is about improving people’s lives.

Building partnerships at OCH

In her current role, Danielle works to strengthen government relationships, identify funding and policy opportunities, and build partnerships that support OCH’s priorities.

Working alongside teams across OCH and external partners, she has contributed to initiatives such as Complex Care Housing, Community Safety Services and the Bumblebee Initiative. Her work also extends to broader sector collaboration, including participation in the Housing and Homelessness Table and helping bring six organizations together for Ottawa’s Health and Housing Symposium.

For Danielle, the most rewarding part of her work is bringing people together to address longstanding challenges and find practical solutions.

Opening doors for others

Danielle encourages women starting their careers to get involved, build relationships and embrace new experiences.

“Be someone others find easy to work with. Being collaborative, reliable and respectful is sometimes underestimated, but it is a real leadership strength.”

Her own experiences have reinforced the importance of encouragement, mentorship, and creating opportunities for others.

This Women’s History Month, we recognize Danielle and the women across OCH whose experiences, leadership and contributions help strengthen our organization and communities.