National Philanthropy Month: How the Associates of Caritas are Turning Everyday Moments into Extraordinary Impact

As we celebrate National Philanthropy Month, Covenant Foundation is proud to recognize the Associates of Caritas (AOC), a group whose compassion and dedication have quietly transformed countless lives across Covenant’s Edmonton hospitals. 

For decades, these tireless volunteers have run hospital gift shops where every small purchase helps fund compassionate care and enhance comfort for patients, residents and families. Their story is proof that when generosity is rooted in community, even the simplest gestures can spark extraordinary change. 

Inspired by Compassion 

The Associates of Caritas are driven by a shared belief: that everyone deserves care filled with dignity, comfort and joy. 

“We’re inspired by the stories of those we serve and the impact our donations have on their lives,” a member shared. “Every hour we volunteer and every dollar raised contributes directly to patient care and comfort.” 

That compassion is what fuels their volunteer-driven gift shops, where proceeds go to fund hospital enhancements not covered by operational budgets. From specialized mattresses to welcoming spaces, their efforts help elevate the patients’ experience in our Covenant facilities in Edmonton. 

Giving through Covenant Foundation 

For the Associates of Caritas, giving through Covenant Foundation ensures their hard work funds the programs and benefits those who need it most. 

“We have faith that the funds will be dedicated and dispersed with stewardship,” they explained. “Through the Foundation, we can support patients and families facing some of life’s most challenging times, knowing every gift is used to enhance their comfort and wellbeing.” 

Since 2016, the group’s volunteerism and fundraising have generated more than $11.3 million in donations — a remarkable testament to what collective giving can achieve. 

Comfort, Dignity and Joy Beyond the Storefront 

The Associates’ impact is felt far beyond the walls of their shops. Their generosity has helped fund everything from wheelchairs for residents awaiting mobility aids to renovations that have transformed hospital lobbies into warm, home-like spaces where families gather, play games and enjoy pop-up concerts. 

They’ve also supported wayfinding signage projects that make navigation easier for patients and visitors, and provided mattresses that improve residents’ sleep, energy and overall well-being. 

One particularly moving moment was when the Associates helped fulfill a patient’s final wish to marry her long-time partner, donating the blouse she wore on her wedding day — just three days before she passed. 

“We were all choked up,” recalled one member. “It was happy, joyous and sad all at once. We were saying hello to this new couple, even as we knew we’d soon have to say goodbye.” 

The Power of Small Acts and Collective Giving 

Behind every purchase at an AOC gift shop lies a ripple of generosity. 

“SMALL ACTS make BIG IMPACT,” they said. “Every purchase, no matter how small adds up to something that truly enhances compassionate care.” 

Their message this National Philanthropy Month is clear: when communities come together in creativity and kindness, the results are incredible. 

If you felt inspired by this article, please consider making a gift to Covenant Foundation this National Philanthropy Month