2008 Recipients | Gala Committee | Sponsorship

Rouge Valley Ajax and Pickering hospital
Rouge Valley Ajax and Pickering hospital is an innovative leader in quality family-centered care, with programs including 24/7 emergency, mental health, obstetrics and paediatrics. Construction has begun on a major redevelopment project which will add 140,000 sq. ft. of new and renovated space, including a new Emergency department. Rouge Valley continues to improve its programs and create new ones catering to the needs of the growing communities in west Durham.

Special Olympics Ontario
"Let me win – but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” That is the Special Olympics motto under which the athletes in attendance here tonight train and compete. They are a small representation of the 800 Special Olympic athletes who competed in the Durham Region Provincial Spring Games this past May/June. They also represent the many athletes from the Durham Region that train and compete throughout the year in one or more of the Spring, Summer, or Winter training programs.
Special Olympic programs have been active in the Durham Region for over 25 years and continue to grow each year. Programs are now offered in 5 and 10 Pin Bowling, Basketball, Aquatics, Athletics, Softball, Soccer, Floor Hockey, Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Learn to Skate, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Nordic Skiing, Alpine Skiing, and Snow Shoeing.
Running these programs throughout the year and/or hosting a Provincial Game is very costly. It is only through support from the community, and with fundraisers such as this Gala, that Special Olympics are able to offer these programs. On behalf of all of the Special Olympians, we extend to you our sincere appreciation and thanks.

Community Care Durham
Community Care Durham, established in 1977, is a multi-service registered charitable organization providing Home Support, Respite (Caregiver Relief) and Mental Health Services to adults and their caregivers who have needs related to physical disability, aging and/or mental health. The services are provided free of charge or for a minimal fee and are administered through nine service locations across Durham Region. Community Care Durham relies on a small dedicated staff and 2,200 volunteers to run its program. Your support will directly assist Pickering seniors and adults living with issues related to aging, physical disability and/or mental health to live with independence and dignity in their own homes, where they want to be.