Recipients of the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation 2026 Volunteer Awards gather with family, loved ones, and UHKF representatives on Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026. Photo via UHKF.

University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF) has recognized four individuals and groups for their dedication and generosity—efforts that have played a vital role in advancing health care across Kingston and southeastern Ontario, according to the organization.

“Our volunteers are the foundation of so much of what we achieve at UHKF,” said UHKF President and CEO Tom Zsolnay in a media release issued on Thursday, Apr. 23, 2026.

“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.”  

University Hospitals Kingston Foundation is the charitable foundation supporting Kingston Health Sciences Centre and Providence Care. According to the release, it inspires generosity for the health of families in our region and beyond. UHKF raises funds for healthcare facilities, programs, equipment, education and research that benefit the 650,000 people living in Kingston, southeastern Ontario, and beyond.

In the release, UHKF shared the following details on this year’s UHKF Volunteer Award honorees:

Davies Award for Philanthropic Leadership
(Two recipients)

(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 health-care 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, Brookes 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.

The volunteers were honoured at a ceremony on Wednesday, Apr. 22, 2026, at the Cataraqui Golf & Country Club, UHKF detailed.

More information on the awards is available on the UHKF website.