The purpose behind the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation
- rdrhfoundation
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
(As Previously Published by The Red Deer Advocate.)
Every community needs a place to turn when health concerns arise, a place where hope, healing and expertise come together. At the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, we believe that place is the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. And we believe in doing everything we can to make sure it has what it needs to serve our community with excellence.
You might wonder what role a health foundation plays in all this. After all, isn’t healthcare publicly funded in Canada? The answer is yes, but to a point.
Government funding covers essential services and day-to-day operations, but when it comes to innovation, advanced technology and expanding what’s possible in local care, that’s where we step in. We are not a replacement for government support. Think of us as the extra “push” that helps turn good care into great care. Whether it’s upgrading equipment, bringing in specialized tools or enhancing patient spaces, we make it possible through community donations. Those gifts don’t just buy machines, they buy time, comfort and peace of mind for patients and families here at home.
Even though we work closely with the hospital, we are a completely separate organization. That independence matters because it means we can be fully focused on listening to our donors, understanding what the community cares about and advocating for improvements that truly reflect local priorities. So why do we exist? We’re here to be a bridge. A bridge between the needs inside the hospital walls and the generous hearts outside them. A bridge between what is and what could be. Because when Central Albertans come together for health care, incredible things happen. We have seen local businesses leave a legacy that transforms operating rooms. We have seen grateful families fund life-saving equipment. We have even seen school-age kids raise money for equipment future siblings and other babies might need.
It’s inspiring. And it’s what keeps us going.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps bring the best possible care to over 500,000 people across Central Alberta. And it all starts with people like you. So if you have ever asked yourself how you can help improve health care in your community, we invite you to start here. Come talk to us. Send us a message. Give us a call. Volunteer with us. Be a part of what makes Red Deer’s hospital stronger.
We are the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, and we exist for you.
Manon Therriault
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