On the evening of November 15th there was so much to celebrate with the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation as part of National Philanthropy Day! Being able to celebrate in person this year was an extra bonus for everyone.
The Foundation recognizes the special meaning of philanthropy and annually gives awards in various categories including Youth, Individual, Corporate and Hospital Philanthropists of the Year.
Congratulations went to Team Anjema for receiving the Youth Philanthropist of the Year 2022. Fraser, Ryerson and Brielle Anjema were recognized for their contributions to the Peachbud School Challenge hosted by Cairn Christian School in Smithville.
This team of three loved soliciting for pledges and managed to reach over 165 family members, friends and neighbors. They told everyone about the importance of supporting their local hospital and as their mother is a nurse, they understand the importance of healthcare for the community.
“We are excited for next year’s race and visiting our neighbours again” said Team Anjema. The Foundation is thankful for these young people and to their parents for instilling the importance of making a difference in the community in our youth.
Tony Joosse stands for “All Things Grimsby’ and the WLMH Foundation Governing Board and Staff were pleased to present him with the Individual Philanthropist of the Year 2022.
Volunteering for provincial and municipal politics, Grimsby’s sports associations, Chamber of Commerce and the Museum Board, helping his neighbourhood and most recently co-chairing the Save and Build WLMH team, Tony is a very busy man giving back to his community.
This man does not take no for an answer and will succeed in whatever he puts his mind to. Tony states, “a strong, great hospital is the foundation of a strong, great community and that’s what West Niagara is! One Team One Dream!”
Business Philanthropist of the Year Award 2022 went to Yorkville Asset Management! Since 2012, this organization has sponsored and volunteered at Foundation events such as the golf tournament and National Philanthropy Day celebration.
“Small hospitals are like small businesses; they are small but essential for Canadians. Keeping our communities well serviced means these communities do not face the challenges of immigration to bigger cities. Rural or smaller communities are also essential to preserving family values and our culture. No one wants a long journey to receive treatment when they are already dealing with hardships.” These are the words of the CEO of the Foundation’s Business Philanthropist of the Year, Hussein Amad.
Born in Kingston Ontario the Hospital Family Philanthropist of the Year wanted to be a physician since the age of 4. “Dr. Danielle Charbonneau’s passion for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is extraordinary” said the Foundation.
Leading a very busy family and career life, Dr. Danielle still finds time to volunteer on committee and board positions within the Hospital and the Foundation and participates in fundraising events such as the Peachbud race.
Dr. Danielle interviewed for the position at WLMH while on a canoe trip in the West Coast of Canada, West Niagara is fortunate that the satellite phone system connected, and our local hospital gained a top notch, dedicated and very hard working physician to care for our community.
A special announcement was made that evening as well in honour of Dr. Jon Ginsburg. A new named endowment fund for the Foundation has been established to commemorate his life work and recognize Dr. Jon Ginsburg’s many years of service given to WLMH since 1980.