UHKF recognizes contributions from Philanthropists and Volunteers
The University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF) recognized a few of Kingston’s outstanding philanthropists and volunteers at a small, private awards ceremony.
Every year, UHKF accepts nominations from the community for the Davies Award for Philanthropic Leadership and the Ian Wilson Award for Volunteerism, and, new as of last year, the Sister Dorothy Fournier Award for Volunteerism. The recipients of the awards are chosen by the UHKF Board of Directors.
Davies Award recipient: Rose of Hope
The Davies Award recipients are individuals, organizations and community groups who have demonstrated outstanding philanthropic leadership benefitting Kingston’s healthcare facilities and ultimately, the care of families, friends and neighbours in southeastern Ontario.
The visionary women behind the Rose of Hope golf tournament have raised nearly $2.5 million during their 23-year commitment to improving the diagnosis and care for women with breast cancer in the Kingston region, according to a release from UHKF. In 2018, the Rose of Hope committee signed a five-year pledge to raise $500,000 which they completed in 2020, two years ahead of schedule and during a pandemic. Thanks to Rose of Hope, and other generous donors, Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is now constructing a new Breast Assessment Centre which will elevate local breast cancer services to a new level of sophistication, significantly reducing wait times and providing a state-of-the-art environment for patients, according to the release. The UHKF said they are grateful for the continued passion and outstanding leadership shown by Rose of Hope as they support access to quality health care for those in the community that need it most.
“There are a lot of hearts and hands that come together to bring the Rose of Hope golf tournament to life. We all take pride in the Rose of Hope,” said Sherri McCullough, Rose of Hope Chair and award recipient. “We are excited about the developments at Kingston Health Sciences Centre. We are going to be able to offer a new, state-of-the-art facility for breast cancer care. The funds the Rose of Hope raised will go towards equipment—first-of-its-kind in Canada—which will save a lot of lives. On behalf of the Rose of Hope committee and its members, we thank UHKF and the Davies Charitable Foundation for this award.”
Ian Wilson award recipient: John Armitage
The Ian Wilson award was established in 2011 to honour individuals who, like Ian Wilson, set themselves apart by their incredible commitment, their undying enthusiasm, and the sheer number of hours they devote to their volunteer roles on behalf of UHKF and our healthcare organizations. Recipients are volunteers who demonstrate outstanding efforts in the solicitation of donations benefitting our healthcare facilities through an event, organized campaign or informal activity.
“For over three decades, John Armitage has volunteered when it counted the most,” UHKF said. “John has a bold, strategic and collaborative approach, and he is generous with his knowledge and network. His ability to open doors and make new healthcare champions in the construction industry and the local business community is unparalleled.”
UHKF said that results speak for themselves, as Armitage has managed to close several gifts for the Foundation over the years. He has been the recipient of excellent health care at the Kingston Hospitals, and appreciates the important role they play in making Kingston a great place for families and professionals to live and do business, according to the release. UHKF said they are lucky to have John Armitage in their corner as the Foundation embarks on an ambitious capital campaign for the next phase of redevelopment at Kingston’s hospitals.
“Any award that has Ian Wilson’s name on it is an honour,” said John Armitage, Ian Wilson award recipient. “Over the years, when I thought I gave all the time I could give, UHKF and the community have convinced me otherwise. Janice, my wife, my family and myself have benefitted from our local hospitals over the years. I had major surgery and I believe I wouldn’t be here today without it – all thanks to the exceptional care at KHSC. We now need to raise significant funds for the KGH tower. It’s another big ask of our community, but we have a community like no other in Ontario, and I am eager to help support this project.”
Sister Dorothy Fournier Award recipient: Jessica Hutchings
Last year, UHKF established the Sister Dorothy Fournier Award for Volunteerism to recognize the outstanding contribution of long-time UHKF volunteer, Sister Dorothy (“Sister D”). The award is granted to an individual, organization or community group who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer commitment by dedicating their time to UHKF in support of work efforts, event preparation and mission moments, all to benefit health care in Kingston.
Jessica Hutchings and her daughter, Spencer-Elizabeth, have been dedicated volunteers since 2018, according to the release. The story of Spencer-Elizabeth’s birth, long NICU stay and countless other specialist appointments at KHSC, has inspired donors to contribute nearly $334,000 collectively through UHKF.
“Support for our partner sites is more than just giving gifts, it’s also coming together wherever possible to inspire the community and share the great work that both KHSC and Providence Care do,” UHKF said. “As volunteers, Jessica and Spencer-Elizabeth have logged countless hours over the last two years—meeting with Foundation staff, attending media events, being interviewed for stories, appearing for photo and video opportunities, and more.”
UHKF said that the pair’s support has helped UHKF raise mission-critical funds and showcase a truly inspirational care story with the community at large. Hutchings truly embodies the spirit of a grateful patient and family member, and demonstrates outstanding volunteer commitment, according to the release.
“We are so happy and grateful we can volunteer and share our story about my daughter’s, Spencer-Elizabeth, birth and long NICU stay with the community,” said Jessica Hutchings, award recipient. “Without the fundraising, hospital staff and volunteers, Spencer-Elizabeth and I wouldn’t be here today. Thank you for this award!”
At the awards ceremony, Spencer-Elizabeth, with her quiet yet powerful voice, added she was thankful and proudly acknowledged she “helps the babies.”
Learn more about UHKF on their website: uhkf.ca/Home