NEWS RELEASE
ARCH HOSPICE
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The 2025 Hospice Heroes award winners are here. Hospice Heroes is an annual award ceremony where ARCH recognizes staff, volunteers, and partners who make an outstanding contribution to our community. Hospice Heroes are exceptional people who embody the values of ARCH and are community leaders who inspire positive change.
For the 10th Annual Hospice Heroes, ARCH staff, volunteers, and partners were happy to come together and celebrate at Grand Gardens. It was a beautiful night honouring the wonderful people that make Hospice so special.
We are very grateful to our Hospice Heroes for their exemplary efforts. They are true role models.
Volunteer Hospice Hero – Valerie Eddy
Valerie Eddy, our beloved volunteer of five years, is a constant source of kindness, warmth, and support at ARCH.
Whether welcoming visitors at reception, offering comfort in palliative care, or lending a hand in the kitchen, Valerie’s presence is felt throughout our Hospice Home. Her gentle spirit, compassion, and generosity have made her not only a valued volunteer but a cherished member of our team.
Valerie has a natural gift for making people feel seen, heard, and cared for, offering a steady hand and a listening ear when it’s needed most. Her quiet strength and calm presence have brought comfort to countless residents and families during life’s most challenging moments. She steps in with grace, always with a smile and a heart full of care.
As Elizabeth Andrew once said, “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” Valerie’s heart for helping others is evident in every action, every shift, and every connection she makes.
In recognition of her dedication and impact, Valerie Eddy is honoured as the 2025 Volunteer Hospice Hero. Her contributions continue to inspire and touch the lives of all at
ARCH Staff Hospice Hero – Katherine Williamson
Katherine Williamson is the true definition of dedication, compassion, and leadership.
As she approaches her 10th year at ARCH, her impact is undeniable, helping to raise an incredible $850,000 each year to sustain and strengthen our Hospice. Through her tireless efforts, she has helped bring in over $8 million to ensure that the care ARCH provides remains available to all who need it.
But Katherine’s work is about more than just fundraising – it’s about bringing people together. From heartfelt celebrations and exciting 50/50 draws to a day of friendship on the golf course and peaceful fall walks under the stars, she ensures each event carries purpose, connection, and joy.
Through ever-changing circumstances, she has adapted with grace, navigating challenges through the pandemic, evolving fundraising strategies, and creatively engaging our community. Her expertise in planning and executing events is unmatched, all done with professionalism and passion. Katherine is the heart and driving force behind ARCH’s fundraising successes, inspiring thousands to unite in support of our beloved Hospice Home.
We are proud to recognize Katherine Williamson as the 2025 Staff Hospice Hero. Her loyal devotion continues to create a lasting legacy.
Community Partner Hospice Hero – Aurora's Restaurant
In the heart of every strong community lies partnership, generosity, and care – values that Aurora’s Restaurant embodies wholeheartedly.
Since ARCH opened its doors in 2008, Aurora’s has brought something truly special to our Hospice Home every Saturday: warm, fresh pizza for everyone. This weekly tradition is more than thoughtful, it’s impactful.
In moments that can be heavy with emotion, Aurora’s gift brings comfort, a sense of normalcy, and moments of connection around the table. It’s a gesture that nourishes the body and feeds the spirit, reminding everyone at ARCH that they are supported by a community that cares.
Whether it’s a quiet family gathering or a busy day at Hospice, this meal has become a weekly highlight, offering a little joy in the midst of challenges.
Aurora’s Restaurant has been more than a partner; they are family. Their commitment is steady, their kindness unmatched, and their generosity speaks to their deep understanding of how small acts of care can make a lasting difference.
We are proud to recognize Aurora’s Restaurant as the 2025 Community Partner Hospice Hero. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing compassion.
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