Entries by Sonya Beimers

Dave – VON Sakura House

Dave's Day at VON Sakura House

Dave spent his volunteer day at VON’s Sakura House Hospice in Woodstock. He met with Brittany Bratt and her team, as well as the volunteers at the house.

Dave volunteered his time on their AGM and Thank you Day for regular volunteers. He spent his day cleaning and setting up the ballroom in the basement of the house for the events, and cleaning up and putting away everything at the end. By assisting, Dave was able to give the regular volunteers time to enjoy the Thank you.

Dave met with multiple volunteers, employees and board members to learn what the home did for its patients and guests.

Our donation will be used to assist with the purchase of supplies, ingredients and equipment for the volunteers in the Kitchen Group to prepare snacks & meals for the guests and patients at the home.

The kitchen has a “Wish Tree” where they hang cards with items needed and desired for the kitchen such as baking supplies, snack foods, nuts, coffee & tea, travel size toiletries such as mouthwash & toothpaste for those that left home without them, etc.

Multiple volunteers are always need for things such as yard care, greeting staff, patient companions, as well as kitchen help.

"Plain amazing the heart & empathy these people have"
Dave Elliot

Bryden – BFM Foundation Canada

Bryden's Day at Mission Thrift Store - London

 Mission Thrift Store exists to serve the communities where the stores are located, with affordable products, financial assistance and hope.

Bryden spent September 26, his volunteer day, with Mission Thrift Store. He spent his day receiving shipments, processing them, testing hardware items and preparing them to be placed on the salesfloor.

Bryden selected the organization because it aligns with his values, and those of Tradition Mutual Insurance. He also wanted to give back to his local community. 

Kimberly – RMHC Southwestern Ontario

Kimberly's Day at RMHC Southwestern Ontario

Ronald McDonald House Charity Canada helps more than 25,000 families stay close to their sick child during their time of treatment. This Canada-wide charity provides a “Home away from Home.” Ronald McDonald House provides home cooked meals and living quarters so families can stay together during these unforeseen circumstances.

RMHC has many local volunteers who offer support to families on various levels during difficult times.

Kimberly’s sister and her family spent over 6 months in the Ronald McDonald House and she saw firsthand how much Ronald McDonald House truly cares for the families that come through their doors. Kimberly chose to give back to her local community as a simple “thank you” for all that RMHC London has done for her sister and her family, as well as our local community.

Kimberly spent the day baking homemade goodies and preparing crafts for the kids staying at the Ronald McDonald House. During her day of volunteering, she also got to meet several families and hear their journeys.

There are many volunteer opportunities available at the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about Ronald McDonald House, or to donate or volunteer, please visit rmhc-swo.ca.

Kelly – Kirkton Agricultural Society

Kelly's Day at the Kirkton Fair

The Kirkton Fall Fair/Kirkton Ag. Society showcases agriculture in the local community. Their organization provides education and opportunities through their 4-H and Junior Farmers groups, and explores new opportunities through learning.

Kelly selected this organization because she grew up here and continues to live in this community. Her time volunteering with the Ag Society was spent putting up security fences, organizing the education tent, moving straw bales, setting up the community centre (to help display local talent!), as well as clean up and take down duties.

“I would do this again in a heartbeat. Supporting my local community is near and dear.”

Pictured from left to right: Jo-Dee Hern, Director at Large; Kelly Wheeler, Tradition Mutual Employee; Catherine Liscumb, Past President of Kirkton Fall Fair; Becca Gibson, President of Kirkton Fall Fair