Thanks to our community’s generosity, we offer a space where participants turn their experiences into tangible works, honouring their stories in ways that are both creative and personal.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our community support programs, we welcome new participants and encourage you to connect with us to learn more.

We are incredibly grateful to our community supporters who went above and beyond to show our team how much they are appreciated. Thanks to their generosity, we were able to celebrate our staff and volunteers in meaningful ways throughout the week.

The celebrations began with a pizza party generously provided by Mount Royal Pizza, followed by a delicious lunch from Arbor Memorial Funeral Homes. We then enjoyed another lunch courtesy of Rendezvous Subs, and wrapped up with a special ice cream party from Crème de la Crème Creamery.

These thoughtful gestures made the week truly special. Without the support of our community partners, these celebrations would not have been possible. Thank you for helping us recognize and uplift our incredible team!

Our hard-working kitchen staff and volunteers put together a delicious spread of sandwiches, teas, and treats for our residents and families.

These shared moments are at the heart of hospice care, where compassion and connection always remain present.

In the lead-up, we’ve been sharing powerful reflections through our “What Is Your Legacy?” video series on social media, highlighting the impact of hospice care through the voices of those who have experienced it firsthand.

The series was beautifully kicked off by Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, whose introduction set the tone for the meaningful conversations to come. “As we look ahead to this year’s hike for Carpenter Hospice, I’ve been reflecting on a simple yet powerful question: ‘What is Carpenter Hospice’s Legacy?’ And it is so vast. Here in Burlington, Carpenter Hospice has been part of our community for 25 years, a place of dignity, comfort and compassion for individuals and their families.”

Since then, we’ve heard touching reflections from Siobhan about her sister Shanna and from Giselle’s family as they honoured her father, Vincent.

“When people ask, ‘What is your legacy?’, for us, the answer is Shanna. To the world, legacy is often what you leave behind, but for our family, it is how we carry her forward.” –Siobhan

“My father Vincent spent the last two weeks of his life here at Carpenter Hospice. The level of care and dignity he was provided was beyond what words could describe. He was truly at peace when he completed his life journey,” – Giselle

These stories remind us that legacy is created through care and community—by lifting others up and honouring their journeys. This year’s Hike for Carpenter Hospice invites you to share in that legacy and support our mission so that all who need us receive dignity and comfort.

See their stories below.

Giselle: Instagram

Siobhan: Instagram

Mayor Marianne Meed Ward: Instagram

When the Lau family came to our hospice, they brought with them a remarkable sense of closeness and connection. Their time with us reflected what hospice care is intended to provide: space to focus on time together.

Throughout their stay, the family actively participated in supportive programs designed to enhance connection and meaning. Music therapy became an important part of their experience. Classical music, long appreciated by George, created moments of comfort and reflection. They also embraced legacy projects to preserve tangible memories for the future.

One particularly meaningful project was hand photography. The images captured the family’s hands together – husband and wife, parents and children. For the Lau family, this project was not simply a keepsake; it was a reflection of nearly five decades of marriage and a lifetime of shared commitment.

What left a lasting impression on our staff and volunteers was the family’s consistent warmth and appreciation. They embraced our team and expressed sincere gratitude for even the smallest acts of support. By consistently showing kindness and respect, they left a profound mark on all who cared for them.

Following George’s passing in April 2025, his family has continued to honour both his legacy and the care he received. They have remained generous supporters of Carpenter Hospice, ensuring that other families have access to the same compassionate support they experienced.

The Lau family’s story is a powerful reminder that hospice is not solely about end-of-life care. It is about dignity, comfort, and finding meaning in every moment.

]]> https://thecarpenterhospice.com/why-we-give-angelo-and-darlene-paletta/ Wed, 27 May 2026 16:40:33 +0000 https://carpenterhospice.sendittoweb.com/?p=3268 A seasoned entrepreneur and business owner, Angelo Paletta is recognized as one of Carpenter Hospice’s most dedicated advocates. Beyond his exceptional generosity as a donor, he stands out as an active and influential Board Member, Chair, Past Board Chair, and three-time Gala Chair (2016, 2017 & 2025), always pursuing ways to strengthen and advance the organization.

In 2007, Angelo was invited to join the Carpenter Hospice board. Despite having no prior connection to hospice care, his curiosity and desire to make a difference inspired him to accept. As he learned about the Hospice’s impact, Angelo recognized its vital role and committed himself to its success.

“I just think Burlington needs this place,” Angelo says. “Once you get involved with the Hospice, you never really leave-it keeps drawing you back in.”

From the start, Angelo held a clear philosophy: his involvement must be meaningful. “Carpenter Hospice is a non-profit, but it also has to be not-for-loss,” he says.

This approach guided Angelo’s ongoing work with Carpenter Hospice. He applied his expertise to launch and grow the Hospice’s Reserve Fund and Capital Reserve Fund, bolstering financial stability and sustainability.

After stepping down from day-to-day board activities, Angelo and his wife, Darlene, donated $750,000 to support Carpenter Hospice’s capital campaign to expand services, which launched several years after he first joined the board in 2007.

Their contribution enabled the creation of the Angelo and Darlene Paletta Care Wing, elevating patient care, transforming operations, and expanding the Hospice’s reach to individuals and families across the region.

Following his service as Board Chair and involvement in major campaigns, Angelo introduced the Past Chair’s Committee (PAC). He now chairs the PAC, keeping all past chairs connected to Carpenter Hospice, supporting fundraising, recommending new board members, and serving as a resource.

Through his company, TNG Exotics and Limited Edition (The Next Generation), he is widely recognized for his automotive passion. The company has assembled approximately 40 vehicles. Angelo often describes himself as “multi-car-tural and motor-vated,” a phrase capturing his diverse business experience and dedication to cars. Over the years, he has engaged in numerous local and international ventures, including motorsports, film, and sports franchises. Angelo has also directed this enthusiasm toward giving back, organizing multiple car events.