This is definitely an exciting time for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation.
We now have a new executive-director. Carey Bornn began his new job this week and is looking forward to meeting donors, hospital staff and others in the community in the months ahead. He has an extensive background in fundraising, including previous stints with the St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation in Vancouver and the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation in New Westminster.
Welcome to the South Okanagan-Similkameen, Carey!
Fundraising efforts ramp up
Carey Bornn arrives as the SOS Medical Foundation continues our campaign to raise $20 million for medical equipment for the Penticton Regional Hospital expansion.
We’re gaining incredible community support from a number of organizations.
Tim Hortons in the South Okanagan has come through with $30,536 from its annual Smile Cookie campaign which ended Sept. 18.
The Naramata Bench Charity Home Tour hosted by Ritchie Custom Homes, was a complete sellout. More than 130 people toured three new homes on Sept. 10, raising almost $10,000.
Special thanks to participants in the 20th annual Peach City Tees Up for Cancer ladies golf tournament at the Penticton Golf & Country Club last month. The two-day tourney saw an incredible $45,000 raised for PRH.
The second annual Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race, hosted by the Summerland Yacht Club was another big success. The Aug. 20 race on Okanagan Lake off Powell Beach in Trout Creek generated $25,500 for our campaign.
(see video here: Tubbers turn up the heat)
Our PRH campaign has also gained support from other charity organizations. The Warm Hearts Charitable Foundation has contributed $7,000 donated by FortisBC employees.
A huge thank you to all those involved in these efforts.
Construction digs in
Drive down Government Street next to PRH these days and you’re sure to notice construction is beginning on the new $312.5-million patient care tower. Just like any major construction project, there can be a few inconveniences as well.
For most patients, it means the main public parking lot is now on the south side of the hospital off Industrial Avenue. A new public entrance next to the lot leads to the basement floor of the hospital.
Admittedly, navigating the hospital’s basement floor can be a bit confusing, but daytime volunteers are available at the information desk part way down the entrance hallway. The elevator is practically just around the corner.
The existing main/emergency entrance off Carmi Avenue will remain open 24/7 throughout the construction period. A limited number of parking stalls are available and patients can be dropped off.
Staff parking is now relocated to the newly developed lot on the south side of Industrial at Camrose Street. The property was donated a few years ago by businessman David Kampe.
PRH appreciates everyone’s patience as construction continues.
Volunteer help needed
Finally, a word about volunteers. We need more!
The SOS Café, located in the front lobby at PRH, is a fundraiser for the SOS Medical Foundation and currently operates from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Except for the café’s dynamic manager Marybeth Zelent, it is staffed entirely by volunteers. The café is now looking to expand its hours, possibly including weekends. Student volunteers are also welcome.
The hospital itself is looking for more volunteers too. For more information on any volunteer position, contact PRH volunteer co-ordinator Carole Patane at 250-492-4000 (ext 2294) or email carole.patane@interiorhealth.ca.
John Moorhouse is the development and communications officer for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation. For information on donating, call 250-492-9027 or visit our website sosmedicalfoundation.com.