100 Women Who Care Dufferin donate to Hospice Dufferin

Written By JASEN OBERMEYER

Hospice Dufferin will be greatly benefiting from the efforts of the 100 Women Who Care's Dufferin chapter.

The women gathered for their third and final meeting of the year on Monday, Nov. 26 at the Hockley Valley Resort. In one hour, the women successfully raised $11,300 for the hospice, and through the whole year, raised $35,600 for three non-profit organizations.

Participants were able to nominate an organization ahead of time, with the top three nominators given five minutes to pitch to those in attendance, and each participant pledged to contribute $100.

The other nominees were Habitat for Humanity Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph, and the Orangeville SPCA animal centre, with Habitat for Humanity and Hospice Dufferin originally being tied, a first time. During the re-vote, Hospice Dufferin won out.

Hospice Dufferin's Executive Director Maureen Riedler, who has been with the hospice for 17 years now, explained to the ladies they are a community volunteer visiting hospice. “We provide services in our community that allow individuals to stay in their home.”

She said they serve 450 people a year, impacting 2,500 people, and have nearly 50 volunteers. “Volunteers fundraise approximately 50 per cent of our budget.”

She said the money raised would go toward their wellness program. “We currently do not receive any financial assistance for these programs.”

Ms. Riedler explained the program as encouraging spiritual and emotional wellness. “Many of our projects are often about legacy, meaning, and opening up of communication at a difficult time for families.”

As part of the program, there is also art therapy for caregivers. “Art can be very powerful.”

An example of the program she gave is the use of a hug scarf. “It's a way for families to talk about end of life, it's a way for volunteers to connect with children when they work with them.”

Ms. Riedler noted the Hospice is also looking to continue growing their grief quilt project. “It's about making sure people realize that when we're grieving we're not the only ones and we're not isolating ourselves.”

The women will continue their efforts to provide for organizations serving the county, and will have four meetings next year, all at Hockley Valley Resort.