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March 2025 Newsletter
- will3727
- Mar 31
- 14 min read
We’re excited to share our latest newsletter with you! Below, you’ll find updates on what’s ahead this spring at Huron Shores Hospice and how you can get involved.
If you’d like to stay connected and receive updates like this directly in your inbox, we invite you to subscribe to our mailing list. We’d love to keep you in the loop!
While the calendar says spring has arrived, it seems winter isn’t quite ready to leave us just yet. We’ve had a taste of warmer days, but the snow and chilly air are still hanging around. Even so, we’re hopeful that the sunshine and warmer weather are coming soon!
As we wait for spring to settle in, we’re focused on caring for the guests in our hospice and getting ready for community programs that offer support—whether it's helping people with grief, planning for end-of-life, or simply breaking down the fear and taboo around talking about death.
In just six weeks, Hike for Hospice will bring our community together to walk, remember, and raise funds for hospice care. We are excited about this special event where we can honour those we've lost and support those who need our help.
We also have some great community fundraisers coming up, giving even more ways to help our cause. Plus, we’re welcoming new board members to help shape the future of hospice care in our region.
So grab a warm drink, get comfortable, and read on for all the details. We’d love for you to be part of what’s coming up!
Sincerely,
The Staff and Board of Huron Shores Hospice
Making Moments Matter:
Winter's Worst Brings Out the Best in Our Volunteers
Living near Lake Huron, we’re no strangers to tough winters. We know what it’s like to dig out cars, bundle up against the wind, and wait out the storms. But this year, the weather tested us all. Snow came thick and fast, roads disappeared under drifts, and travel advisories became a regular part of the forecast.
For most, that meant staying home. But at our hospice, the work doesn’t stop—and much of it is powered by volunteers. Our care is built on kindness, with a deep dedication from those who give their time, especially our Comfort Care Volunteers. They bring warmth, companionship, and small acts of kindness that make our hospice feel like home. While braving winter storms to get to your job is one thing, doing it as a volunteer is an entirely different kind of motivation.
Through snow and ice, many of our volunteers couldn’t make it in. But those who lived nearby or found safe routes stepped up, filling shifts and ensuring our hospice remained the warm, welcoming place it’s meant to be. They arrived in snow boots and winter coats, ready to offer a friendly conversation, a quiet hand to hold, or simply a comforting presence. Their dedication made sure the coffee stayed warm, the atmosphere stayed light, and the hospice stayed as welcoming as ever. No matter how harsh the world outside, inside, there was warmth, care, and support.
While they prefer to stay out of the spotlight, they know who they are—and we couldn’t be more grateful. We hope they know just how much they mean to us.
If their dedication inspires you, we’d love for you to join our volunteer team. Whether it’s sharing a conversation, offering a helping hand, or simply being there, every act of kindness makes a difference.
Upcoming Fundraisers:
Register Now for the 9th Annual Hike for Hospice
We’re excited to invite you to the 9th Annual Hike for Hospice on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Davidson Centre! Our goal this year is to raise $70,000, and we’re off to a great start with $1,622.30 already raised through online donations (at the time of this writing).
The Hike for Hospice is a non-competitive walk through the scenic Kincardine trails. More than just a walk, it’s an opportunity to come together as a community, connect with our staff, volunteers, families we’ve served, and others who care about end-of-life care. It’s a day to embrace compassion, camaraderie, and community spirit—all in support of a meaningful cause.
After the hike, join us for a BBQ by donation at the Davidson Centre. Enjoy great food, conversation with friends, and celebrate the compassion that drives our work.
Every dollar you raise will help provide hospice care and support families in our community. We look forward to achieving this goal together!
A special thank you to our Title Sponsor, NPX, for their ongoing support of Huron Shores Hospice.
This year, NPX is once providing free t-shirts to the first hikers who register. T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to sign up early!
Thank you, NPX, for your continued commitment to our mission and community.
Gather your friends, family, or coworkers and join the Team Challenge, proudly sponsored by Bruce Power! The top fundraisers will earn exciting prizes—and, of course, the ultimate bragging rights for the year.
It’s not just about raising money for a great cause (though that’s amazing too) — it’s about having fun while making a difference.
We’ll be tracking the competition throughout the campaign, and you can follow the leaderboard updates on our Facebook and Instagram
pages. Weekly updates will keep you posted on how your team is doing. Can your team rise to the top and beat the competition? There’s only one way to find out!
Sign up today, start collecting pledges, and let’s make this year’s Hike for Hospice one to remember! Together, we can reach our $70,000 goal and make a meaningful impact on families in our community.
Visit our website to register for the hike or download a paper pledge form if you'd prefer to collect donations in person. Whether you walk solo, with a team, or join the challenge, every dollar you raise helps provide essential hospice care and support to families in our community.
Have questions? Reach out to our Community Engagement Coordinator, Will LeGrand, at will@huronshoreshospice.ca for more information.
Register today and help make the 9th Annual Hike for Hospice a huge success!
If you're looking for a simple, impactful way to give back, becoming a Compassion Champion might be the perfect fit.
A small monthly donation provides steady, reliable support for the care and comfort we offer families facing end-of-life challenges.
Every gift makes a difference, whether it’s monthly, annually, or whenever you're able to give.
Monthly giving is just one way to stay connected to the care you help provide:
It’s a way to know that, month after month, you’re part of something meaningful.
It’s a reminder that your kindness is at work—creating peace, dignity, and support for those who need it most.
It’s a chance to build a legacy of compassion, one month at a time.
Your monthly gift as a Compassion Champion is more than a donation—it’s a commitment to ongoing care and lasting impact.
Join us today and become the steady support that brings comfort and dignity to those who need it most:
Other Ways to Give Back:
Upcoming Fundraisers in the Community
We are incredibly grateful to the community members and local businesses who go the extra mile to support Huron Shores Hospice. Every fundraiser organized on our behalf not only raises essential funds but also spreads awareness of our mission, ensuring that compassionate end-of-life care remains available in our community. We deeply appreciate those who take the initiative to host events, rally their networks, and find creative ways to give back.
One inspiring example is Her Strength Studio, a local business using their time, energy, and connections to make a difference. Based in Point Clark, Her Strength Studio helps women over 30 improve their strength, mobility, and overall well-being through personalized training programs.
But their impact goes beyond fitness. Her Strength Studio has been a dedicated champion for Huron Shores Hospice, turning workouts into opportunities to give back. Last year, they were a top fundraising team at Hike for Hospice, led the pre-hike stretches, and even sponsored Handbags for Hospice.
This year, they’re stepping up once again, hosting special events to raise funds for Hike for Hospice—all while continuing to uplift their community through movement and connection.
Join Her Strength Studio on Friday, April 11th at 8:30 AM for a special PiYo class at the Point Clark Community Centre (Lower Level, 344 Lake Range Dr, Point Clark). This high-energy class blends strength, flexibility, mindfulness, and rhythm, offering a total-body workout suitable for all fitness levels.
A $30 donation to Huron Shores Hospice is required to participate. Space is limited, so be sure to book your spot in advance at herstrengthstudio.com.
This Pop-Up PiYo class is a great way to get moving and support a special cause!
Get creative and support hospice care by attending Her Strength Studio’s Bracelet Making Workshop on Thursday, April 17th from 7 PM to 9 PM at 9 Pine St, Lurgan Beach. Participants will make their own custom bracelets with guidance from the talented KittyRDesigns. The cost for the workshop is $30, and all proceeds go directly to supporting Huron Shores Hospice.
Mark your calendars for Friday, May 30, 2025, for the 4th Annual Golf for a Cause event hosted by the Ripley and District Lions Club at Ainsdale Golf Course. This exciting event will benefit Huron Shores Hospice and the Kincardine Hospital Foundation.
The tournament will feature 18 holes, a cart, dinner, and prizes, with a shotgun start at 1:30 pm. Whether you're an experienced golfer or just looking to have some fun, this event promises to be a great time while supporting a meaningful cause.
Registration fees are $135 per person or $540 per team. To register, please complete the registration form and send it to John Kelly at 119 Hemlock St., Kincardine, ON N2Z 2X3, or register by e-transfer to ripleylionsgolf@gmail.com.
For any questions, contact Lion John Kelly at 519-955-9884 or email ripleylionsgolf@gmail.com.
Don't miss out on this chance to have fun on the course and make a difference in your community!
At Huron Shores Hospice, we understand that dying and death can bring difficult emotions and challenges. That’s why we offer a variety of programs to support individuals and families at each stage of this journey. We aim to provide guidance, create a safe space for open conversations, and help people find comfort as they navigate these experiences.
All of our programs are offered at no cost, and they are available in Huron-Kinloss, Kincardine, and Saugeen Shores. Whether you're making end-of-life plans, coping with grief, or looking for a place to openly discuss death, these groups are designed to provide information, connection, and compassionate support.
Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, and many people try to avoid it. But death is a natural part of life, and talking about it can actually bring us peace—both for ourselves and our loved ones.
That’s why we're hosting three Death Cafés this spring—a friendly space where you can talk about dying and death in a relaxed and safe way. Imagine sitting down with a cup of tea, enjoying a slice of cake, and chatting with others who want to talk openly. It’s not a support group or counseling; it’s simply a chance to have an honest conversation without any pressure.
There is no agenda, no course of action, no set conclusions, and absolutely no judgment. Our trained facilitators will guide the conversation and make sure everyone feels comfortable. You can share as much or as little as you want. You don’t need to be going through grief to join.
Talking about death now can help you share your wishes with your family, so they’re not left guessing when the time comes. It’s not just about the end—it’s about living with more peace, knowing that you’ve talked about what matters to you.
We’re excited to partner with some amazing local businesses and organizations to host these Death Café gatherings. Their support makes it possible for us to offer this important opportunity to our community.
Join us at one of our Death Café gatherings near you:
Ripley
📅 Monday, April 7th
🕐 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
📍 Ripley Physical Therapy & Wellness, Ripley
19 Huron St, Ripley, ON N0G 2R0
Port Elgin
📅 Thursday, April 10th
🕖 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
📍 S'more Books
650 Goderich St, Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C0
Kincardine
📅 Wednesday, April 23rd
🕖 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
📍 Walker House Museum
235 Harbour St, Kincardine, ON N2Z 2X9
These gatherings are free and open to everyone. Come and join us for a cup of tea, some cake, and a chance to talk about something important. It’s a chance to feel heard and at ease, knowing you’re starting a conversation that can bring comfort and peace.
If you’d like to learn more and register, you can also contact our Support and Education Coordinator:
📧 Email: barbara@huronshoreshospice.ca
📞 Phone: 519-368-8812
If you reach voicemail, please leave your name, contact information, and a brief message about what program you’re interested in.
We look forward to welcoming you to the conversation!
Making decisions about end-of-life can feel overwhelming. You may not know where to start or feel nervous discussing it—but rest assured, you're not alone.
We believe that planning for the end of life is about more than just preparing for death. It's about living with intention, ensuring your wishes are honoured, and easing the burden on your loved ones. Our free End-of-Life Planning Workshops, presented in partnership with Ontario Power Generation, are designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to plan confidently.
Why is End-of-Life Planning Important?
Taking the time to plan your end-of-life wishes helps you live more fully. It gives you control over the decisions that matter most and ensures that your loved ones aren’t left guessing.
These workshops will help you:
Understand your care options and make medical decisions in advance
Communicate your wishes to your family
Take steps to create a legacy that reflects your values
Workshop Dates and Locations:
Lucknow
📅 April 14th
🕐 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
📍Lucknow Legion
477 Inglis St, Lucknow, ON N0G 2H0
Kincardine
📅 April 16th
🕐 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
📍 Davidson Centre
601 Durham St, Kincardine, ON N2Z 1L7
Port Elgin
📅 April 24th
🕐 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
📍 Powerlink
1020 Goderich St, Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C3
As a bonus, all workshop participants will receive a complimentary copy of our End-of-Life Planning Workbook—a helpful tool to guide you through the process and record your wishes.
This is your chance to ask questions, explore your options, and take the first step toward peace of mind. We encourage you to join us and start planning today.
If you’d like to learn more and register, please contact:
📧 Email: barbara@huronshoreshospice.ca
📞 Phone: 519-368-8812
If you reach voicemail, please leave your name, contact information, and a brief message about what program you’re interested in.
We’re here to provide the tools and support you need for peace of mind.
If you’re looking for support as you deal with the pain of loss, the Grief Recovery Method® might be the next step for you. This 8-week educational program is designed to help you process the emotions that come with grief. It provides you with tools to cope with strong feelings and helps you find a way to move forward in a healthy and meaningful way.
The Grief Recovery Method® is a proven, step-by-step program that guides you through your grief. Each session builds on the previous one, so attendance through the entire program is essential. You will work with a trained specialist to address emotions like regret, guilt, or unfinished business. This program is not about waiting for time to pass; it’s about taking action and making meaningful progress.
What to Expect:
8 Weeks of Structured Support: Each week builds on the previous session to help you understand your emotions and move through your grief in a thoughtful, structured way.
Action Steps to Process Your Emotions: You will complete simple, practical exercises (homework) each week to help you make sense of your feelings and find peace within yourself.
Personalized Guidance: A certified specialist will support you throughout the program, giving you the tools and understanding needed to process your grief.
Program Details:
📅 Starts Wednesday, May 8th
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Port Elgin Library (708 Goderich St, Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C3)
If you’d like to learn more and register, please contact:
📧 Email: grief@huronshoreshospice.ca
📞 Phone: 519-368-8812
If you reach voicemail, please leave your name, contact information, and a brief message about which program you're interested in.
If this session time doesn’t work for you, please fill out the form on our website to be notified about future sessions in your area or virtual options.
Grief touches everyone — but no one has to go through it alone. Our Let’s Talk About Grief drop-in support groups offer a safe, caring space where you can share your story, connect with others, and begin to heal. Whether you're grieving a loved one or facing a life change, we're here to listen and support you.
Each session focuses on a different theme, but the conversation will follow whatever feels right for the group. Trained facilitators will gently guide the discussion, making sure everyone feels heard in this open, judgement-free space. Whether you'd like to speak or simply listen, your presence is valued.
No registration is required, but letting us know you're coming is always appreciated. Grief looks different for everyone — whether you're looking for comfort, understanding, or just a place to be with others, you'll find a supportive community ready to welcome you.
Upcoming Sessions:
💬 Grief is Personal
📅 Saturday, April 12th
⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Huron Shores Hospice
24 King St. N., Box 250, Tiverton, ON (Tiverton Park Manor)
💬 Anticipatory Grief
📅 Saturday, April 12th
⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Huron Shores Hospice
24 King St. N., Box 250, Tiverton, ON (Tiverton Park Manor)
If you’d like to learn more and register, please contact:
📧 Email: barbara@huronshoreshospice.ca
📞 Phone: 519-368-8812
If you reach voicemail, please leave your name, contact information, and a brief message about what program you’re interested in.
We're here to offer connection, compassion, and understanding.
Catch the Ace Update:
Celebrating Our Jackpot Winner and Community Impact!
Usually, this is where we remind you to buy your Catch the Ace tickets, but today we’re celebrating something special! After 31 exciting weeks, the Ace was caught last week!
This week, we presented the lucky winner of the Kincardine Community Catch the Ace jackpot with her prize of $120,047!
While one person won an amazing prize, the whole community wins too. The money raised through Catch the Ace helps support end-of-life care, veterans, and important community projects.
We are very thankful to our partners, the Kincardine Legion and Tiverton & District Lions Club, for their ongoing support. It’s an honour to work with such hard-working and caring groups who are dedicated to helping others.
A big thank you also goes to all our local retailers—Kincardine Legion Bar, Kwik Way in Tiverton, Sleepers Bed Gallery, Jean’s Family Restaurant, and Instyle Hair Studio—for helping make this possible. And thank you to everyone who played. Your support makes a big difference in the lives of people in need.
We’re already looking forward to the next round of Catch the Ace, so stay tuned for more ways to help!
Join Our Team:
Huron Shores Hospice is Now Seeking Board Members
If you believe in the importance of compassionate care and want to make a lasting impact in our community, we invite you to apply for a position on our Board of Directors. As a board member, you’ll play a key role in helping us fulfill our mission to create a world where end-of-life care receives the same beauty, care, and respect as the beginning.
We’re looking for individuals with experience in:
Legal
Healthcare
Governance
Human Resources
However, we also welcome individuals with other relevant skills and experiences. We value diversity of perspectives and encourage those with different backgrounds to apply.
As a board member, you’ll have the opportunity to:
Provide strategic leadership and guide our mission through key decisions.
Attend monthly board meetings and contribute to committees.
Support fundraising efforts and help strengthen community connections
What’s Involved:
Approximately six hours per month for board meetings.
An additional three hours per month for committee work.
A two-year term, renewable after the first term.
Visit our website at www.huronshoreshospice.ca to learn more.
Please provide a cover letter and your resume, in confidence, outlining your interest in the position directly to cathy@huronshoreshospice.ca by April 30, 2025.
We truly appreciate your interest and support
Thank You for Reading Our Newsletter
Your time spent with us is truly appreciated. If you feel a connection to our mission and want to be part of it, there are meaningful ways you can make a difference:
Volunteer: Join our compassionate team and offer comfort to those in need. Dive into the variety of roles available and discover how your unique skills can create positive impacts.
Donate: Regardless of size, your contributions are pivotal in sustaining our mission. Each donation contributes to creating a significant impact on the lives of our guests and their families.
Seek Support: If you or someone you know is navigating grief, facing a life-limiting illness, or curious about the end-of-life care we provide in our hospice, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to offer understanding, guidance, and support tailored to your unique needs.
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