The new Chair and Vice Chair of the Almonte General Hospital/Fairview Manor (AGH/FVM) Foundation are excited about new opportunities to support the work of the Hospital and Manor.
Al Lunney and Debbie Quarrington assumed the positions of Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, in June. Both joined the Foundation Board in 2011.
“I got involved with the Foundation because I am committed to the Hospital,” says Mr. Lunney, who is a former Mayor of Mississippi Mills. “I was Mayor when the AGH/FVM Redevelopment Project was completed and officially opened, and, our family has also used the Hospital.”
Ms. Quarrington, who owns the Almonte Tim Hortons, joined the Board because she believes the Hospital and Manor are vital parts of the local area. “Almonte is very lucky to have such a great hospital and long-term care home,” she says. “I wanted to support them in any way I could.”
The Foundation’s current priority is to raise funds to buy new equipment and replace worn-out equipment. “The Redevelopment Project put the Hospital front and centre, but now that we are no longer in a capital campaign, we need to let the community know the Foundation is still here and that the Hospital and Manor have equipment needs that must be met,” explains Mr. Lunney. “We need to get out into the community and tell people, including newcomers to the area, about all the spectacular things the Hospital and Manor provide. We also need to reach out to everyone outside of Mississippi Mills who uses our facilities, such as residents of Lanark Highlands and West Carleton.”
Ms. Quarrington, who helped organize a spring dinner and dance to raise funds for the Foundation, says special events are important to the Foundation and to the community.
“Special events raise needed funds, and also help us share the purpose of the Foundation and of our fundraising efforts,” she explains.
The Foundation Board, which has a number of new members, is currently planning activities to raise awareness of the Hospital and Manor and of their equipment needs.
“The convenience and peace of mind the Hospital and Manor bring to our community are priceless,” says Ms. Quarrington. “None of it would be possible without our great physicians and staff, along with all the volunteers, and, of course, the generous donors who support the Foundation. We very much appreciate all their efforts and support.”
