ARNPRIOR, ON – More than 150 guests came together for an evening of Maritime hospitality, great food and community generosity at the Arnprior Regional Health Foundation’s annual A Knight in the Maritimes fundraising dinner, raising funds to help put vital patient care equipment into the hands of Arnprior Regional Health teams.
Held on Saturday, September 19 at St. John Chrysostom Parish Hall, the event brought together longtime supporters, local businesses, volunteers and community members, all in support of local healthcare.
One of the highlights of the evening was seeing so many familiar faces return to an event that has become a tradition for many in the community.
“There is something very special about looking around the room at A Knight in the Maritimes and seeing so many familiar faces year after year,” said Ben Gardiner, Executive Director of the Arnprior Regional Health Foundation. “People come because they enjoy the evening, but they also come because they believe in Arnprior Regional Health. That support was certainly felt this year, especially as guests enthusiastically supported our live and silent auctions.”
Guests enjoyed a steak and lobster dinner, with steaks expertly grilled by the Knights of Columbus and the remainder of the meal prepared by Krave Bistro. Live music from Spencer Scharf added to the Maritime atmosphere throughout the evening.
The generosity continued during the live and silent auctions, with guests enthusiastically bidding on a wide variety of donated items and experiences. The auctions were made possible thanks to the many local businesses, organizations and individuals who generously contributed.
Pilon Family Funeral Home returned as Title Sponsor of A Knight in the Maritimes. During the evening, André Pilon spoke about his family’s commitment to supporting Arnprior Regional Health and giving back to the community where they live and work.
The Foundation also gratefully recognizes event sponsors Pillar5 Pharma, Antrim Truck Stop, Robertson Coyne Mechanical, Mackie Homes, Arnprior Chiropractic Health Centre, Thomas Cavanagh Foundation, Aspira Retirement Living, Arrowmech Plumbing, Clancy’s Drug Store and Biryani House, and Charlotte Leitch, Broker, RE/MAX Absolute Realty.
Behind the scenes, volunteers played an important role throughout the day and evening, helping prepare the hall, welcome guests, support the auctions and keep the evening running smoothly. The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to each volunteer who gave their time to help make the event possible.
A Knight in the Maritimes has been bringing the community together in support of Arnprior Regional Health since 2013. To date, the event has raised $423,437.41, with this year’s event adding another $44,310.00 to that remarkable total.
Funds raised this year will support the purchase of vital patient care equipment at Arnprior Regional Health, helping put the tools healthcare teams need into their hands to care for patients throughout the community.
“Every ticket purchased, auction bid, sponsorship, and donated item helps us put vital equipment into the hands of the people caring for our patients,” added Gardiner. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s A Knight in the Maritimes such a success. It really shows what can happen when a community comes together.”
