The act of giving is something that comes naturally in health care and social services. When we encounter someone in pain, in distress or simply in need of a word of reassurance, our instinct is to give. Most often, we give of our expertise and our professional insight. But we also give of our feelings—compassion, sympathy, humour, patience. And sometimes, especially when we’re hard pressed to find a minute to spare, we somehow give of our time.
So you may be surprised by my suggestion that we’re not quite finished giving yet. At this time of year, when the ideals of generosity and selflessness are granted special prominence, it’s worth taking a moment to think of the many members of society whose lives could be brightened by the same support that we offer to the clients, residents and patients of our CIUSSS.
The easiest way to help is financially. You might consider making a donation to Centraide of Greater Montreal, which invests in a broad network of community agencies where the needs are greatest and the impact against poverty and social exclusion is substantial. If you feel a close connection to your particular CIUSSS facility, you might wish to donate to the foundation that supports it. And if you believe there’s no substitute for personal involvement, any number of deserving organizations could benefit from your presence as a volunteer.
On occasion, potential donors may need extra motivation, which is why we owe so much to the professionalism of the personnel in the foundations of our CIUSSS. Most recently, Myer Bick, President and CEO of the JGH Foundation, was honoured with an Outstanding Career in Philanthropy Award by the Quebec branch of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. It is this sort of commitment that enables all of us to aim higher.
My hope is that the joy and generosity that we’ve experienced during the Christmas and Hanukkah season will make themselves felt throughout the coming year. May 2018 bring you and your loved ones health and happiness, as well as the desire to make a difference by giving to the best of our ability.
Lawrence Rosenberg, M.D., Ph.D.
President and CEO
