BONNYVILLE - The Bonnyville Health Foundation hosted its 25th fundraiser gala on Saturday. Proceeds from the night will go toward mental health initiatives at the Bonnyville hospital, with the event itself acting as a beacon of hope for mental health awareness.
Guests arrived at the C2 Centre field house glittering in their finest to enjoy an evening of fine food, fundraising, and dancing to a live band. The atmosphere was vibrant with lavish decorations and the excitement of celebrating a good cause, but the evening also took earnest moments of reflection, to honour those who have struggled with mental health, and create awareness and hope by sharing stories from community members.
Dawn Weber, executive director of the Bonnyville Health Foundation, spearheaded the April 12 event, and alongside Patti Skuba, chair for the Bonnyville Health Foundation, they kicked off the evening with a video introduction.
“As we planned the details of this event, we were constantly looking back 25 years . . . The reality is, 25 years ago, we don’t think Bonnyville would have been ready for a gala that focused our conversations, awareness and fundraising solely around mental health,” said Weber.
Skuba commented on what an incredible testimony it is to have come this far in ending the stigma associated with mental health, and Weber shared her hope that the gala would help break down barriers even further.
Town of Bonnyville Coun. Kayla Blanchette spoke about the shift that has happened over the past 25 years, in regard to how much more open people are to having conversations around difficult topics such as mental health, addiction, postpartum depression, miscarriages, and palliative care.
“Today, [these conversations are] more open, reducing the stigma for those needing help in our community. A huge thank-you goes out to our local healthcare professionals who have grown and evolved over the years to meet the needs of our community and its wellbeing. I’m looking forward to seeing what the next 25 years brings.”
Kirsten Lynch, director of the Bonnyville Health Foundation, delivered a moving speech about the effects of intergenerational trauma, and how mental health care professionals supported her own healing journey.
Lynch explained that the event aimed to help fund $100,000 toward a mental health seclusion room at the hospital, that will offer privacy, and a quiet and safe space for those dealing with a mental health crisis.
The event celebrated the hard work and dedication of the hospital staff, donors, and volunteers, and included several awards.
Skuba was awarded the 2025 Milestone Volunteer Impact Award for her 30 years of volunteering at the Bonnyville hospital.
A video played, with clips from Skuba’s friends, family, and colleagues congratulating her and speaking to what a wonderful and well-deserving person she is. People spoke to Skuba’s charitable spirit and infectious smile, saying she is a joy and an inspiration.
MD of Bonnyville Deputy Reeve Darcy Skarsen presented the 2025 Bonnyville Health Foundation Milestone Award for Community Impact to Tercier Motors for their outstanding legacy of service, generosity, and dedication to making the community a better place.
“This family owned and operated business has consistently demonstrated deep commitment to investing in our local communities through charitable support and improving the lives of those they serve. Their contributions, whether through local initiatives, charitable giving, our community support, have helped shape and strengthen the very foundation of our community,” said Skarsen.
Town of Bonnyville Coun. David Sharun, on behalf of B&R Eckles, presented the 2025 Bonville Health Foundation Milestone Award for Community Spirit to the Ringuette family, for their unwavering commitment to the community.
Sharun extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Ringuette family and their “unforgettable legacy.”
“The [Ringuette family] has exemplified selfless acts of kindness, generosity, and service in their community for over 25 years. The award is not just about financial support, but it's about uplifting others, fostering positive change and creating a lasting impact on the community,” said Sharun.
Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau described the 25th anniversary as a testament to the strength, unity, and compassion of Bonnyville’s healthcare teams and the supporting community.
“Over the past 25 years, we've faced our share of challenges . . . yet through it all, we stood by each other, committed to the wellbeing of our local healthcare. Our hospital has been a lifeline for so many, and none of this would have been possible without the support of our residents and the surrounding communities,” said Brosseau.
A total amount raised was not available as of Lakeland This Week’s press deadline.
