On Air and On the Ground: Western Shows Up for the IWK Telethon
This past weekend Western Financial Group had another opportunity to put our commitment to giving back into action. Western and our non-profit arm, the Western Communities Foundation, proudly took part in the 42nd IWK Foundation Telethon, which aired on CTV Atlantic, bringing together communities in support of children, women, and families who rely on the IWK for care.
This year’s telethon raised more than $9 million, surpassing last year’s total and setting a new fundraising record.
The IWK Foundation is a not-for-profit that raises funds to support IWK Health, the largest pediatric hospital and trauma centre in Atlantic Canada, and one of only two health centres in Canada dedicated to caring for both women and children. Donations help fund critical needs like advanced medical equipment, research, and enhanced care spaces. It’s not just a health centre, it’s a lifeline for families when they’re facing some of the scariest moments of their lives.
As part of the telecast, Western was recognized for its previous $15,000 donation to the IWK Foundation.
Team members Darcie Macdonald and Morgan Spicer represented Western on screen, participating in a cheque presentation segment and sharing why this partnership matters to our people and our communities.
Their involvement highlighted not only Western’s commitment to giving back, but also the strong connection our Atlantic teams have to the communities they serve.
On Sunday, that commitment continued behind the scenes as Western team members Julie Power, Sue Wright and Jessie Johnson volunteered their time on the telethon phone banks, connecting directly with donors and supporting fundraising efforts in real time. Julie also had the opportunity to be interviewed on CTV Atlantic Live during the broadcast, where she shared her personal experience with the IWK.
“Sharing my personal connection to the IWK during the telethon was incredibly meaningful,” said Julie. “I’ve brought my daughter there multiple times, and I’m so grateful for the care and support our family received.”
For Sue, volunteering on the phone bank underscored the human side of every donation. “It was such a meaningful experience. Speaking with people from all over the East Coast was a reminder that donors aren’t just numbers, they’re people with stories and a real care for their communities.”
Jessie described the day as unforgettable, especially the excitement of the record-breaking finish. “It was the best experience ever, and I can’t wait to do it again next year. Seeing the kids come in to reveal the final donation total was such a powerful moment.”
Together, their participation is a meaningful reflection of Western’s approach to community investment, going beyond financial contributions to give our time, energy and voices to the causes that matter most.
The telethon also provided valuable exposure for our Atlantic branches and team members, while spotlighting the Western Communities Foundation and the role it plays in supporting initiatives like this across the country.
At Western, giving back isn’t just something we do, it’s who we are. Whether through financial support, volunteerism or community partnerships, our team members continue to show up for the places where we live, work and play.
