November 13, 2025
Dr. Patrick White is being recognized this year with a National Philanthropy Day Award from the Edmonton & Area Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The Mental Health Foundation nominated Dr. White to thank him for his fundraising efforts. Supplied.
Story by Deanna Dament
Philanthropy, first embraced by ancient Greek thinkers as “love of humanity,” continues to shape healthcare in Alberta. It’s reflected in the quiet dedication of volunteers, the bold generosity of donors, and the steady leadership of foundations who believe in a healthier future for all.
Across the province, stories of giving unfold every day. A student-led bike-a-thon grows into a movement that raises millions. A local artist whose Art for Heart fundraiser supports sick kids. A memorial golf tournament becomes a lifeline for ovarian cancer research. A legendary athlete and his friends rally a community to raise more than $20 million for cancer care. These are more than events—they are acts of hope, resilience, and compassion.
On Saturday, Nov. 15, National Philanthropy Day invites us to pause and recognize the people and organizations who uplift our communities and strengthen our healthcare system.
Thank you to all our nominees. Your generosity is changing lives.
This year, our foundation partners nominated the following outstanding individuals for National Philanthropy Day Awards through the Association of Fundraising Professionals:
ATB Community Foundation — Mental Health Foundation
The ATB Community Foundation is a long-standing partner of the Mental Health Foundation, raising more than $500,000 to support initiatives across Alberta. Their support for youth programs like Kickstand is critical, helping expand access to care when it’s needed most. ATB employees are not only donors, they are also advocates, collaborators, and leaders in the community.
Dr. Patrick White — Mental Health Foundation
Dr. Patrick White has dedicated his career to improving mental health care in Edmonton, with a focus on supporting the most vulnerable. As a volunteer board member for numerous health and social service organizations, he has helped raise millions for life-saving programs. His quiet leadership and deep compassion have made a lasting impact on mental health services in Alberta.
GFL Environmental — Mental Health Foundation
Since 2022, GFL Environmental’s annual golf tournament has grown and is now a powerful fundraiser for the Mental Health Foundation. Their continued support reflects a commitment to community wellness and mental health advocacy. GFL’s leadership shows how corporate generosity can cause meaningful changes across Alberta.
GreenShield — Mental Health Foundation
GreenShield is helping transform youth mental health care in Alberta through a $300,000 investment in Kickstand, an organization that offers free mental health services to young people. Their initiatives promote health equity and culturally responsive care. GreenShield’s support is helping build Kickstand’s services and making them more accessible to youth across the province.
RE/MAX River City — Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
Since 2008, RE/MAX River City’s team of 250 Edmonton Realtors has supported children’s health through the Miracle Home and Commercial Program. Led by Broker/Owners John Carter and Shane Parent, agents donate a portion of their commissions, raising more than $2 million for the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. Their commitment to giving back continues to make a difference for families across the region.
David Tuff — Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
David Tuff founded Art for Heart in 2017 to support the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through creativity and community. What began as a one-day event is now a two-week fundraiser featuring art sales, auctions, and live art battles, raising more than $85,000 to date. David’s passion and leadership help fund urgent needs, research, and equipment that support children’s health across Alberta.
Cameron and Brady Miller — Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
Inspired by their own family’s experience, brothers Cameron and Brady Miller have been fundraising for the Stollery Children’s Hospital since 2014. Through birthday fundraisers and lemonade stands, they’ve raised more than $13,000 in appreciation of the care Cameron received as a baby. Their efforts continue to support kids and families across Western Canada.
COBS Bread — Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
COBS Bread has built a strong tradition of supporting children’s health through its six Edmonton locations. Over the past five years, they’ve raised more than $53,000 for the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation through events like Dough-Nation Day. Their ongoing contributions, including fresh baking for family events and staff discounts, reflect a deep commitment to community care.
Norma Gordon — Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
Norma Gordon has been a generous and dedicated supporter of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation for many years. She helped launch the annual Tee Up for Tots golf tournament and continues to show up at countless events with encouragement and care. Her unwavering support has touched nearly every part of the hospital’s work and continues to uplift patients, families and staff alike.
Adam Sweet — Glenrose Hospital Foundation
Adam Sweet joined the Glenrose Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees in 2019 and quickly became a driving force behind some of its most impactful advancements. His leadership helped secure Alberta’s first seven-axis robotic carver for prosthetics and played a key role in obtaining $2 million in federal funding to expand patient care. Adam’s commitment to innovation and his belief that “good enough isn’t good enough when lives are on the line” continue to shape the future of rehabilitation in Alberta.
Wendy King — Glenrose Hospital Foundation
From 2019 to 2024, Wendy King served as Board Chair and Trustee of the Glenrose Hospital Foundation, guiding the organization through a period of growth and transformation. Her leadership helped bring major initiatives to life, including the Brain-Computer Interface Program and the Chadi Centre for Pediatric Rehabilitation. Wendy’s vision and values-based approach inspired lasting change across the hospital and community, setting a new standard for rehabilitation care.
Rencon Industries Inc. — Glenrose Hospital Foundation
Rencon Industries Inc. has been a committed supporter of the Glenrose Hospital Foundation since 2016, consistently sponsoring the Courage Gala to help advance rehabilitation care in Alberta. Their contributions have supported innovative technology, facility enhancements, and improved outcomes for thousands of patients recovering from life-altering injuries and conditions. Rencon’s generosity and belief in the Glenrose’s life-changing work continue to make an impact on families across the province.
CPKC — University Hospital Foundation
At CPKC, they believe that while railroads are the arteries of a nation, it’s the communities that truly make a country thrive. That’s why, through CPKC Has Heart, they have already helped raise more than $60 million to help improve the heart health of adults and children across North America, including at Alberta Children's Hospital, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Stollery Children's Hospital, and the University Hospital Foundation. And along the way, they are showing heart whenever they can.
Jane Squire Howden — University Hospital Foundation
Jane Squire Howden has demonstrated commitment and leadership within her voluntary and philanthropic work at the University Hospital Foundation. Not only has she generously donated, but Jane continues to be a part of the Festival of Trees Santa’s Breakfast committee and is heavily involved in the Santa’s Little Guests program, purchasing toys to give to students facing economic hardships.
Norm & Angie Assiff — University Hospital Foundation
Norm and Angie Assiff have made significant contributions to the University Hospital Foundation, helping to advance patient care and healthcare innovation. Their philanthropy reflects a strong commitment to improving health outcomes in the community.
Bud Salloum — University Hospital Foundation
Bud Salloum's philanthropy has touched nearly every corner of the University of Alberta Hospital. His contributions have supported major initiatives, such as the construction of the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, as well as advancements in neurological care and other innovative areas of medicine. His impact continues to shape the quality and reach of care available to patients across Alberta.
Renee Hopfner — Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation
Empire Company Limited is a national leader in corporate giving, supporting access to healthy food and youth mental health through its Healthier Tomorrows strategy. Since 2020, Empire and its Family of Brands have donated more than $100 million across Canada, including nearly $2 million to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation thanks to corporate donations and matching gifts, employee giving and point-of-sale campaigns. Their Family of Support initiative helps fund early intervention, research, and care spaces for children and youth in Alberta.
Organon — Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
Organon is advancing women’s health in Alberta by supporting research and education through the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation. Their sponsorship of key publications is helping raise awareness about health disparities and encouraging informed policy discussions. This work is contributing to a more equitable and informed healthcare system for women.
Tiny Footprints YEG — Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
Tiny Footprints YEG is helping families cope with pregnancy and infant loss by supporting bereavement care at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. Their donations and events have enhanced resources for grieving families, offering comfort and connection during difficult times. Their efforts continue to strengthen compassionate care in the hospital.
Hillberg & Berk Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation
Hillberg & Berk is helping celebrate and support women receiving care at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. Their contributions have recognized both patients and staff, adding meaningful touches to the hospital experience. Their ongoing involvement reflects a strong commitment to community and women’s wellness.
Bellerose Bike-A-Thon — Alberta Cancer Foundation
For over 20 years, the Bellerose Bike-A-Thon has empowered students at Bellerose Composite High School to lead with heart. What began as a modest fundraiser amongst a few students has evolved into a major annual event, raising millions for cancer care in Alberta. It’s a powerful example of youth-driven change and enduring community commitment.
Sherlock Holmes Charity Golf Tournament — Alberta Cancer Foundation
Uniting business and community leaders, the Sherlock Holmes Charity Golf Tournament honours legacy through action. Focused on ovarian cancer initiatives, this annual event channels collective generosity into meaningful support for cancer research and care across Alberta.
Glenn Anderson Day of Golf Committee — Alberta Cancer Foundation
Founded by NHL great Glenn Anderson, this iconic golf tournament has raised more than $20 million for the Cross Cancer Institute since 1986. Fueled by passionate volunteers, its nearly four-decade legacy continues to inspire hope and advance cancer treatment in Alberta.
— With content provided in partnership with contributing foundations.
For more information on our philanthropic partners and how you can show your support, please visit ahs.ca/give.
