Monica Alyea Receives the 2025 Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award

Tanya Moore • June 27, 2025

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation is proud to announce Monica Alyea as the 2025 recipient of the Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award (LFDSA).

 

PECMH Foundation former Board Member Leo Finnegan, and Executive Director Shannon Coull, presented this year’s award at the board’s annual meeting in Picton on June 26, 2025, honouring Monica as the fourth recipient of the Award.

 

Inspired by its first recipient Leo Finnegan, the LFDSA is presented to individuals who, through their ongoing loyalty, commitment, outstanding contribution, and service, have shown dedication to and support for the PECMH Foundation, its vision, mission, and strategic imperatives and priorities.

 

Monica’s connection with PECMH Foundation began in 2011, following her service as a municipal councillor. Over the next 13 years, she brought her energy, heart, and leadership skills to the Foundation Board of Directors, including as Chairperson from 2016–2019.

 

“Monica’s dedication, leadership, and community spirit makes her a truly deserving award recipient,” wrote Leo Finnegan. “Her wide-ranging experience—from municipal politics to the arts—and deep community connections have been instrumental to the foundation, especially during the early planning of our new hospital.”

 

Monica’s passion for the hospital and its future has also left a lasting impression amongst younger generations. From the time her grandson Haimish was a toddler, he was already raising money and awareness for PECMH—an early reflection of the values instilled by his “Eema.” Inspired by the stories he heard at home, Haimish held his very first lemonade stand with the proceeds proudly donated to PECMH Foundation.

 

Haimish’s act of generosity also inspired other children to take part in community fundraising. This ripple effect is a testament to Monica’s influence and her commitment to cultivating community support for local health care.

 

At the Milford Fair and Marysburgh Mummers performances, Monica infused each occasion in which she volunteered, with spirited appeals and 50/50 draws in support of the hospital.

 

“Monica’s ability to think outside the box has influenced and motivated many to contribute to the efforts necessary to gain approval for our new hospital,” said Nancy Parks, Chairperson of the Back the Build Campaign Cabinet.

 

When the first shovels broke ground on the new hospital site, Monica was there with enthusiasm and pride—snapping photos, offering encouragement, and sharing the joy.

 

“It is easy to say that this project is one of her greatest passions; one she remains committed to, even from a bit of a distance now,” said Monica’s daughter, Hilary Fennell. “She is proud to have been such an advocate for PECMH Foundation, and we are so very proud of her for having launched herself wholeheartedly into such an important piece of our community.” 

 

“It's quite a story what this community and its hospital have created...every couple of weeks I go and spend some time just looking at one of the most beautiful holes in the ground that I have ever seen. I am in awe every time,” said Monica. “For this heart-filling journey, for this inspiring outcome, for the now gentle relationship of trust we have with Quinte Health - I am so grateful as a volunteer."

 

“Monica’s unwavering commitment, leadership, and community spirit make her truly deserving of this award,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of PECMH Foundation. “She has helped secure our hospital’s future—one conversation, column, and baked treat at a time.”

 

Monica, who currently holds the title of Vice Chair of the Prince Edward Fitness and Aquatic Centre, continues to build bridges between health-focused organizations and championing wellness and fundraising at every opportunity.

 

Please join us in congratulating Monica Alyea, a true champion of Prince Edward County, and the 2025 recipient of the Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award.


RE/MAX GOLF CLASSIC PECMH FOUNDATION
By Tanya Moore June 25, 2025
A decade of commitment to advancing local healthcare was celebrated in full swing on June 10, as the 10th Annual Teeing Up Fore Health Care Golf Classic raised a record-breaking $68,600 in support of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation. The sold-out tournament welcomed 24 teams and 96 golfers to the Picton Golf and Country Club. This year’s proceeds will support the purchase of a new digital mammography machine, a vital diagnostic tool for early breast cancer detection at the new County hospital. The current mammography unit, in use for over 12 years, is nearing end-of-life, and the cost of replacement is estimated at just under $1 million . "Marking 10 years of community support with a record-setting total is an extraordinary milestone," said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMHF. "This event continues to demonstrate how deeply committed this community is to ensuring exceptional healthcare remains close to home." The winning foursome was Wilkinson & Company LLP Chartered Accountants , with Jeff Snider, Richard Dainard, Craig Closson, and Terry Greer , finishing 10 under par. “This tournament is more than a day of golf,” said Sean McKinney, Broker of Record at RE/MAX Quinte Ltd. “It’s a chance for the business community to step up and give themselves an opportunity to make a lasting impact on local healthcare.” Special thanks are extended to Wilkinson & Company Chartered Accountants and Tax Specialists who came in again as the title sponsor for the tournament for the 10th consecutive year in a row. This day would not be possible without the incredible support from our corporate sponsors: Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co., DLC National - The Gulliver Team (Terri Gulliver), Euro Tile & Stone, HDR Architecture Associates, Herb & Kathy Pliwischkies, Kingsford Management, M. Sullivan & Son Limited, Market High Advertising, Monument Geomatics and Estimating, Parkside Landscaping and Contracting, Port Picton Homes, Scotiabank, Taste of Country, Wellings of Picton, and Boats and Holes. "Seeing this community come together to raise a record-breaking total on the tournament’s 10th anniversary is both humbling and inspiring,” said Nancy Parks, Back the Build Campaign Cabinet Chairperson. “Each dollar raised is a step closer to bringing the best diagnostic tools to our new hospital, and I couldn’t be prouder of the generosity and spirit that define Prince Edward County." Additional thanks go to all who donated prizes, sponsored holes, provided swag, volunteered, golfed, or participated in the silent and live auctions. Every contribution directly supports better equipment and care at PECMH. One auction item at this year’s tournament exemplified the extraordinary generosity of our community. A stunning BBQ package, donated by Picton Home Hardware and Steve VanDusen, valued initially at $2,200, became a powerful fundraising moment when multiple bidders donated their winning bids and returned the BBQ to be re-auctioned. The prize pack also included a deluxe grill set, a 12-pack of craft beer from Prince Eddy’s, and a bottle of Argentinian Malbec, courtesy of Herb and Kathy Pliwischkies, and $150 worth of premium steaks from Ralph’s Meat Market — donated by the Pliwischkies sisters: Kristen, Lauren, and Kara. Thanks to this incredible spirit of giving, the item raised over $19,000 of the $68,600. Sincere thanks to all our donors, bidders, and partners who made this possible, including Josh Doxtator, Hotch Earl, Herb and Kathy Pliwischkies, Nancy Cleave, and Steve VanDusen. Their generosity continues to fuel our mission. PECMH Foundation’s Back the Build campaign is raising $30M to help build and equip a new hospital to serve residents and visitors in Prince Edward County. For more information about upcoming events or to lend your support, please contact Cait Lavoie at 70clavoie@quintehealth.ca or visit our website at www.pecmhf.ca .
By Tanya Moore June 9, 2025
The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation is thrilled to announce a remarkable $50,000 sponsorship commitment from Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co. , naming them as the Presenting Sponsor for the upcoming series of 40th Anniversary fundraising events in 2025. This generous contribution underscores Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co.’s deep-rooted commitment to enhancing healthcare in our community and supports a critical priority — the purchase of a new state-of-the-art mammography machine for the new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital. This investment will ensure faster, more accurate diagnostic care and timely breast screening for residents across the County. "As we mark 40 years of impact, we’re not only reflecting on how far we’ve come, but also envisioning a healthier future for everyone in Prince Edward County," said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. "Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co.’s ongoing leadership and generosity are helping make that vision a reality.” Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co.’s $50,000 sponsorship includes support for four cornerstone events in PECMH Foundation’s celebratory calendar: RE/MAX Teeing-Up Fore Health Care Golf Classic (June 10, 2025 – Picton Golf and Country Club) An Evening with David Frum and Karen Valihora (July 24, 2025 – The Regent Theatre) Fall Golf Tournament at Wellington on the Lake (Date TBC) 40th Anniversary Celebration Their sponsorship builds on a powerful legacy of giving, including their transformational $1.5 million gift to Back the Build , which will name the Diagnostic Imaging Department in the new hospital. This latest commitment continues their leadership role in shaping the future of local health care. “Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co.’s leadership as Presenting Sponsor of our 40th Anniversary events not only honours our past, but boldly invests in our future,” said Nancy Parks, Back the Build Campaign Cabinet chairperson. “Their ongoing support is a powerful reminder that when we come together with purpose, we can build something truly transformative — a hospital that will serve generations of residents and families in Prince Edward County." “We believe in giving back to the communities we serve, and supporting healthcare is one of the most meaningful ways we can do that,” said Jeff Howell, president of Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co. “The new Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital will be a cornerstone of this community for generations to come. We are proud to stand behind this exciting milestone and to help equip the future hospital with the technology and tools our neighbours deserve.” At PECMH Foundation, we are proud to be a strong voice and champion for exceptional healthcare for the patients of our hospital and the people of Prince Edward County and beyond. Giving to our Foundation is an investment in the health of our community. With the support of dedicated partners like Bay of Quinte Mutual Insurance Co., we can ensure the hospital has the tools, technology, and resources to provide the care our residents and patients deserve — now and into the future. PECMH Foundation’s Back the Build campaign is raising $30M to help build and equip a new hospital to serve residents and visitors in Prince Edward County. For more information about upcoming events or to lend your support, please contact Cait Lavoie at 70clavoie@quintehealth.ca or visit our website at www.pecmhf.ca .
Paul B. Helliwell Foundation Prince Edward County
By bboyce May 29, 2025
The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF) is proud to announce the successful completion of its CT Scanner Campaign, thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the community and a transformational matching gift from the Paul B. Helliwell Foundation.
Rotary Club of Picton
May 6, 2025
The Rotary Club of Picton has once again demonstrated its continued commitment to local healthcare with a $5,000 donation to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation.
R. John Garside  Volunteering
April 28, 2025
It’s National Volunteer Week, and this week we are celebrating our behind-the-scenes Champions at the PECMH Foundation!
Third Annual Curl-A-Thon
By bboyce March 27, 2025
Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation were rocked this week, when the Prince Edward Curling Club members presented $45,363.00
The County Guys pose with Cody-Rae Fowler, this year's bursary recipient.
March 7, 2025
In a special presentation, The County Guys Real Estate Group and Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation presented a $2,500 bursary to Cody-Rae Fowler, a Cherry Valley resident who works as a Registered Practical Nurse in the Inpatient Unit as well as the Emergency and Endoscopy Departments at PECMH. Fowler is set to begin her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) at Loyalist College while continuing her work at our County hospital.
Contractors stand on the site of the new PECMH
By bboyce February 26, 2025
M. Sullivan & Son Ltd. was awarded the contract for the new hospital construction in 2024 and will oversee the project until completion. They have hired many local subcontractors, including Drew Harrison Haulage, Otter Energy, Picton Home Hardware, Southside Sanitary Solutions and Wentworth Landscapes, to contribute to the redevelopment.
Cheque presentation photo with reps from Picton Metro.
By bboyce January 31, 2025
Metro Inc. has proudly announced a donation of $8,656.79 from the cash register round-up promotion held between August 22, 2024, and September 4, 2024. This gift brings the five-year total raised to $74,182.63.
Cheque presentation photo outside of PECMH.
By bboyce January 29, 2025
On behalf of IG Wealth Management, Barbara Shuster and Scott Lavender are Backing the Build for the fourth consecutive year and were pleased to donate $2,370 to the new hospital campaign. This brings the four-year total given by IG Wealth Management to $10,870.
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