Four outstanding individuals and groups are being recognized by University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF) for their dedication and generosity—efforts that have played a vital role in advancing health care across Kingston and southeastern Ontario.
Here is a look at this year’s UHKF Volunteer Award honorees:
DAVIES AWARD FOR PHILANTHROPIC LEADERSHIP
(Recognizes individuals, organizations and groups who have demonstrated outstanding philanthropic leadership benefitting Kingston’s health-care facilities.)
The Mending Hearts with Declyn Lemonade Stand was started by the Carman family to honour their son and brother, Declyn, who passed away in 2022 at the age of three months due to a congenital heart defect. The family’s annual community event has raised more than $24,000 for Pediatric Cardiology at Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC). Their efforts have created a lasting tribute to Declyn while also strengthening pediatric cardiac care in southeastern Ontario.
John M. and Bernice Parrott Foundation has been a steadfast champion of specialized health care for southeastern Ontario residents for over two decades, having given $1.9 million to various initiatives at KHSC in addition to supporting health-care organizations in the Quinte region. In 2025, a $500,000 gift was instrumental in helping UHKF reach its campaign goal for the robotic surgery program at KHSC.
SISTER DOROTHY FOURNIER AWARD FOR VOLUNTEERISM
(Granted to an individual, organization or group who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer commitment by dedicating their time to UHKF.)
Adrian Brookes became a UHKF supporter following life-changing surgery at KHSC. His experience, combined with a growing awareness that the provincial healthcare funding model leaves hospitals to rely on community support for essential equipment, inspired him to get involved. Today, he is both a generous donor and a deeply engaged, hands-on volunteer. From organizing UHKF’s first-ever floats in surrounding municipalities’ holiday parades to showing up at community events, Adrian contributes his time and energy to help build support and momentum for healthcare philanthropy.
IAN WILSON AWARD FOR VOLUNTEERISM IN FUNDRAISING
(Granted to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer efforts in the solicitation of donations through an event, organized campaign or informal activity.)
Sam Davies has played a meaningful role in promoting health-care philanthropy in southeastern Ontario. His numerous volunteer leadership roles include being a member of UHKF’s Campaign Cabinet and the YGK Healthcare Champions Executive Committee and providing philanthropic support through the Davies Charitable Foundation. He actively opens new doors of support for UHKF by leveraging his personal and professional networks to support local health care.
“Our volunteers are the foundation of so much of what we achieve at UHKF,” says UHKF President and CEO Tom Zsolnay. “This year’s recipients exemplify the spirit of giving that drives meaningful change in health care. Because of you, patients receive better care, families feel supported, and our community grows stronger.”
The volunteers were honored at a ceremony on April 22 at the Cataraqui Golf & Country Club.