Meet Ashley Cerra
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Hey! I’m Ashley, Communications and Development at Sault Area Hospital Foundation (SAHF). I joined the Foundation in January 2024, and feel really lucky that the work I do every day supports our community.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Rarely do two days look the same, which is why I love it. My role is a mix of storytelling, campaign development, and a lot of collaboration. I work closely on SAHF lottery programs and support campaigns like Christmas and GivingTuesday.
A big part of what I do is help people understand how their support is making a real difference for patients and care teams right here at Sault Area Hospital (SAH). I’m often drafting stories on how donor support makes outstanding care possible.
However, during 5 Car Draw season, it’s a whole different ballgame. I’m often working with sponsors and dealerships, coordinating and connecting with volunteers, organizing promotions, setting up signage, and making sure everything runs smoothly. It’s busy and fast-paced, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What do you love most about the work you do?
I get to work with an incredible team and see firsthand how incredibly generous this community is. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is being able to share real stories of impact – whether that’s new equipment or patients receiving excellent care.
I even had the chance to work on a story about my mom’s recent knee surgery, which made it especially meaningful. Just like you, the people I care about rely on SAH.
But one of the most exciting parts of my job? Calling lottery winners! Every call is different, and everyone has a story. People share why they bought their tickets – they may have worked at SAH, had their own healthcare experience, or simply wanted to give back.
Getting to surprise someone with a big win, whether that’s cash, a new car, or a trip, never gets old.
Why do you work at Sault Area Hospital Foundation?
Before SAHF, I started my career in event planning and marketing locally, and then spent about five years at an agency managing lottery and gaming clients across Canada. I gained a lot of experience, but I really missed being connected to the community.
When this opportunity came up, it felt like the perfect fit. I could take everything I had learned and apply it in a way that makes a difference for my community. Now, the work I do helps bring equipment and services to our hospital, and that makes it so much more meaningful.
Healthcare touches everyone at some point, including me. Our hospital has been there for my family and friends. As a kid, I remember having to travel out of town because a family member wasn’t feeling well. Seeing how much has changed, and knowing that SAH can now provide more care close to home, means a lot.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love spending time with friends and family and I’m always looking for an excuse to bring people together, whether that’s a dinner party, game night, or a themed party (Halloween is my time to shine).
I’ve also recently gotten back into reading, so I’m always open to book recommendations!
I’m not a big fan of winter, but once summer hits, you’ll usually find me at Pancake Bay or spending time in my backyard.
If you could choose a theme song for your work day, what would it be?
“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen. It’s upbeat, energetic, and a good reminder to keep tackling the day!
What message would you want to share with our supporters/community?
We truly couldn’t do this work without the support of this community. Every donation, every ticket purchased, every fundraiser helps fund critical medical equipment to our hospital for our friends and family.
And if I can leave you with one last thing… Don’t forget to get your 5 Car Draw ticket!😉
