We were honoured to present an award that recognizes Chris’s invaluable role in Capacity Canada’s success since 2010.
In 2010, Chris Howlett was introduced to Cathy Brothers and Andrew Wilding at the Accelerator Centre in Waterloo Region. It’s been over a decade since, and Chris’s loyalty and continued support for Capacity Canada has been heartwarming.
A software developer by profession, Chris readily makes connections between technology and charity and has been a consistent champion in finding technology solutions that help charities grow and create new solutions to social issues. He continues to volunteer his time at Strong Start, a charity organization based in Waterloo that helps children learn to read.
With a career in technology spanning over seven decades, Chris credits his mother for spiking his interest in computers. His mother, Patricia Howlett, was part of the Women’s Royal Naval Service (popularly called Wrens) and worked at a top-secret code-breaking substation in Eastcote, Middlesex, UK, as part of the Enigma project.
It was in the year 1967 when Chris started his first job as a software developer with IBM. After seven decades of working in the software developing industry, Chris retired from his profession in 2020. But that hasn’t stopped him from volunteering his time with numerous other organizations.
Chris and his wife Lynn have been the longest standing supporters of our work, mission and vision. A valued and precious mentor to Capacity Canada, his humble and self-effacing style is lovable. Capacity Canada is blessed to have Chris by its side during its journey that began over a decade ago, and wants to recognize this through the establishment of an eponymous award.
"People involved with Capacity Canada in the early stages are still around even a decade later. Capacity Canada stands true to its mission and work. And that's what I appreciate about the organization."
“Chris has been the backbone and protector of Capacity Canada from our earliest days. He understands the importance of supporting innovation and growth in the charitable sector. In addition to sharing his knowledge and experience with Capacity Canada as a volunteer coach, Chris and his wife Lynn have been our most generous donors each year since 2010.”
