Thank You For Making An Impact!

Congratulations to our 2018 Martin F. Birmingham Leader in Philanthropy recipients, Walter and Barbara Parkes!

From Left to Right: Ron Salluzzo (Chair, St. Ann’s Foundation) Walter and Barbara Parkes, Martin Birmingham (Son of Martin. F Birmingham)

As so often happens, Walter Parkes’ relationship with St. Ann’s Community began when his late wife’s father moved to St. Ann’s Home in 2000. He immediately recognized the important role quality senior care played in a life filled with changing priorities and demands. It was then he made his first charitable donation.

In 2012 Walter and Barbara made a leadership gift to the Campaign for the Most Important People On Earth recognized with the Ontario Household in the Wegman Care Center. A few years later, another leadership gift was made to support the creation of the Life & Learning Center located in St. Ann’s Home. Today they remain generous donors through personal giving and the United Way Donor Designation program.

Nearly two decades following the first gift, their generous and loyal support has qualified Walter and Barbara Parkes as members of the Second Century club. We are honored by their generosity and extremely grateful to recognize them with the Martin F. Birmingham Leader in Philanthropy Award.

Rola O’Meally, 2018 Partner in Philanthropy

Rola gives generously of her time and extraordinary talent to St. Ann’s mission of caring for the most important people on earth… and, is among a loyal group of employee donors who have given their financial support for 12-consecutive years. A fierce advocate for Adult Day participants, Rola was instrumental in preparing a recent application that resulted in a grant of $493,000 from the Greater Rochester Health Foundation to support the expansion of the program at the new Durand Community Center.

In addition to her many responsibilities at St. Ann’s, she led our participation in the local Alzheimer’s Association annual walk. Under her leadership we have seen a dramatic increase in dollars raised and staff participation, and in 2017 we were awarded first place in both areas.

As an organization, we are so fortunate to have Rola’s commitment and compassion as we continue to build a culture of philanthropy. Her ability to connect mission to purpose allows her to engage all levels of the organization, community and family members to work toward a high purpose.

Congratulations, Rola!