National Philanthropy Day

National Philanthropy Day (NPD) is an annual awards luncheon held to honour and recognize those who contribute their time, talents, financial support and other resources to Edmonton’s philanthropic organizations. The Association of Fundraising Professionals, Edmonton & Area Chapter's Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon gives us an opportunity to say "Thank You" and collectively express our appreciation by recognizing individuals, corporations, foundations and fundraisers for their time, talent and dedication to the spirit of giving.

 

The Clitar Heroes Foundation began with the passing of Krista Michelle Simms. Before passing away, Krista had spent time in Palliative Care Unit 43 at the Grey Nuns Hospital. Her mother, Leslie Gierulski, wish to give back to the unit in her daughter's honour. By reaching out to friends of Krista and to now-president Patricia Lachance, the Clitar Heroes Foundation was formed. They had dreams of creating the Krista Michelle Simms Room, a Palliative Care room designed and decorated to truly feel like a home-away-from-home. The Clitar Heroes fundraised through various initiatives and, after raising sufficient funds to complete the Krista Michelle Simms Room, they decided assist with renovating all of Unit 43. They have raised over $180,000 to date. We cannot thank you enough, Clitar Heroes. This award could not go to a more driven and enthusiastic group of women. Thanks to you, it is now possible for Palliative Care patients and their families to stay in a comforting, home-like environment at the Grey Nuns Hospital.

The Clitar Heroes are already beginning preparations for their next endeavor!

 

 

23 years ago, Eppy's daughter had to have a brain tumor removed while she was also pregnant. During this difficult time, Eppy was a constant for her daughter, providing ongoing support and care. This event was so significant for Eppy that she has remained a grateful donor to Edmonton's medical community, specifically the Misericordia, ever since. Thank you so much for your contributions these past 23 years, Eppy. Your support means so much to the community and we are grateful to help you give back!

 

Eppy Graf - second from the left (holding cane)

 

Lesley Melton has been a member of the Covenant Foundation Board of Directors for the past four years. Lesley came to the Foundation due to her strong affiliation and loyalty to the Misericordia Community Hospital, where she both trained for her career and worked as a registered nurse. As she was transitioning out of the workplace, she decided that she wanted to stay involved with the health community. Most recently, Lesley served for two years as the Chair of the Everyone's a Winner Golf Tournament. Through her insight and thoughtful leadership, the tournament has remained a success. As a member of the Melton family, Lesley has expressed how fortunate she and her siblings feel to have been raised by hard-working, generous parents who instilled in them the desire to give back to their community. The Covenant Foundation is truly blessed to have the support of this wonderful community leader.