03/27/2026
A Morning of Gratitude — a moving beginning to our 30th Anniversary Year
On March 25 (Благовіщення), the Annunciation of the Lord, we returned to where our story began — with those who stood with us when the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre was still only a dream.
With Fr. John and Fr. Terry, the Knights of Columbus Sheptytsky Council, the St. Demetrius Ukrainian Women’s League, and devoted community members and parishioners, we gathered to honour the faith, leadership, and shared effort that made this Home possible.
Guests were welcomed by the Knights of Columbus in their Honour Guard — a dignified, ceremonial greeting that set a deeply meaningful tone.
As guests entered our Boardroom, they welcomed into a space where every detail reflected care, tradition, and the spirit of our cultural heritage and community. The décor, food, and display — thoughtfully led by Iryna Vorotylko, Director of Operations, were uniquely beautiful, exquisite and artistic, setting the tone for heartfelt sharing.
Through shared memories and reflections, we were reminded:
a Home with a Heart can only be created and sustained by a community with a heart — from the community, for the community.
Fr. John reflected on the early vision — on the faith, conviction, and leadership it took to lobby and advocate for a place where our seniors could be cared for within their own community, with dignity and belonging.
Fr. Terry spoke about the importance of nurturing community — in those early days, for today, and for future generations. He reminded us that we must keep the spark alive and come together to carry it forward.
Paula Lytwyn, volunteer and daughter of Paul and Elsie Yarmol — active parishioners who were closely involved in the early days — spoke about the passing of values from one generation to the next.
Staff who have been with the Care Centre since the very beginning, for over 30 years were also part of the event and were invited to share what this place has meant to them.
Lyda Myshkevich , Senior Clinical Team leader, reflected on how humbling it is today to serve those whose example first inspired her in those early days.
Nika Goutor, President of St. Demetrius Ukrainian Catholic Women's League, (UCWLC)" and Recreation Assistant at the Care Centre reflected on how the UCWLC volunteers she met at the Care Centre inspired her to begin volunteering and join the league.
And resident Rose Martyniw touched every heart with her words:
“You turned that dream into reality. And this is my reality today… and it feels like living a dream. This place is a blessing in the life of a senior like me."
We closed with “Боже Великий” (Great God) — singing together, reaffirming our shared community values and unity.
"We remain committed to carrying forward the community spirit, values, and legacy of our founders, ensuring that what they began is honoured, safeguarded and continued for generations to come," said Irena Dounets, CEO in her closing remarks.
