Erie Shores HealthCare has permanently honoured the decades of service provided by its dedicated volunteers. A special tribute wall was unveiled on December 17, 2025, marking the 75th anniversary of the hospital's Auxiliary in Leamington, Ontario.
A Legacy of Service Celebrated
The unveiling ceremony served as a heartfelt thank you to the countless volunteers who have supported the hospital for three-quarters of a century. The Auxiliary has been a cornerstone of Erie Shores HealthCare, contributing not only countless hours of service but also significant fundraising efforts that have directly benefited patient care, equipment purchases, and facility improvements over the decades.
More Than Just a Wall
This tribute is designed as a lasting physical testament to the community spirit that has fueled the hospital's mission. The wall features elements that chronicle the Auxiliary's rich history, from its founding in 1950 to its present-day activities. It stands as a daily reminder for staff, patients, and visitors of the profound impact that volunteerism has on local healthcare.
The installation is located within the Erie Shores HealthCare facility in Leamington, ensuring it remains a central part of the hospital community. The project was spearheaded by the hospital foundation and administration to ensure this milestone did not pass without a proper and permanent commemoration.
The Enduring Impact of Volunteers
The celebration underscores a critical truth about healthcare in communities across Canada: volunteers are an indispensable resource. From staffing gift shops and information desks to organizing major fundraising campaigns, hospital auxiliaries provide vital support that extends far beyond the capabilities of core medical staff.
The Leamington Auxiliary's 75-year journey mirrors the evolution of community healthcare itself, adapting to new challenges while maintaining a constant commitment to compassion and service. The tribute wall ensures that the stories of dedication and generosity that have defined this group will inspire future generations of volunteers.
As Erie Shores HealthCare looks to the future, this anniversary and its accompanying tribute solidify the foundational role the Auxiliary plays. It is a recognition that advanced medical technology and skilled professionals are powerfully complemented by the human touch and community heart provided by its volunteers.
