We are IH: Richard Richter

We are IH is a recognition campaign to spotlight Interior Health employees and medical staff – through pictures and stories.

Name: Richard Richter (he/him)

Job Title: Health, Safety and Prevention Advisor

Years of Service: 3 years

Worksite: Community Health & Services Centre

Community: Kelowna

Ancestral Territory: “Syilx” (Saay-ilks) / Okanagan Interior Salish

Favourite Quote: "Spread the love you have to share." _-Unknown

Richard Richter was born in Vernon and raised in Whitecourt, Alta. After living and working all over British Columbia, he's happy to be back in the Okanagan.

"My parents always said, 'If you're not happy in your job, there's always opportunity to change.' "

As a teen, Richard studied to become a chef -- ultimately receiving his Red Seal certification. He worked in Victoria restaurants before returning to the mainland.

A stint with a private ambulance company led Richard to change course and begin a career as a health and safety professional. Most recently, Richard spent three years in 100 Mile House as a health and safety manager for the forestry industry before joining Interior Health three years ago.

"Safety is everyone's responsibility--both on the job and off the job. Accidents can happen anywhere so awareness is a key factor."

In his free time, Richard enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his wife, daughter and two dogs. Adventure parks -- including Disney -- are their happy places.

Photo captions: Top: Richard pauses during his work day. Centre: This fun and outgoing leader once dressed as an elf to hand out candy canes to colleagues during the holidays. Below: "Family is No. 1. We work to provide, play and enjoy our lives."

Richard's nomination keeps the We Are IH loop going:

“I'd like to nominate my wife, Teri Richter. She has worked as a psychiatric nurse with IH since 2015, first in 100 Mile and now in Kelowna. She provides compassionate care to her clients and patients. Teri is a fabulous partner and mother -- we've been together 20 years, married just over 19 -- she is just an amazing person!" _{- Richard Richter}

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