MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) celebrated three outstanding contributors to local health care at its recent Healthcare Celebration Luncheon, presenting the 2025 Healthcare Philanthropy Awards to Simpson Seeds, the Moose Jaw Police Service, and Dr. Volker Rininsland.
These awards recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that have significantly advanced health care in the community.
“The Healthcare Philanthropy Awards are part of the health care celebration, and the awards were created to recognize those individuals, businesses, and organizations… that help advance health care in our community,” said Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF.
Simpson Seeds
Simpson Seeds, a family-run agricultural business, has been a steadfast supporter of the MJHF for years. Their contributions span various events and campaigns, including the annual Festival of Trees and the Family First Radiothon.
“Simpson Seeds has always been a staunch supporter of health care in our community… and they’ve always been a part of the MJHF,” McElree explained. “We thought it was very appropriate that they were recognized with an award.”
Elyce Simpson Fraser, president and CEO of Simpson Seeds in Moose Jaw, said she wasn’t expecting any recognition for the ongoing support.
“We weren’t really expecting it, but Kelly (McElree) had given us notification… that the foundation had selected us as one of the recognized groups…,” she said. “We’ve just been a fairly consistent supporter and we continue to invest in our hospital to ensure we have wonderful health care for our community… and the surrounding communities that rely on Moose Jaw as their main centre for health care needs.”
Moose Jaw Police Service
The Moose Jaw Police Service was also honoured for its unwavering support of the MJHF’s initiatives. This involvement includes participation in the yearly radiothon as well as contributions to events such as the Festival of Trees and the Little Princess Ball.
“The Moose Jaw Police Service has participated in every Family First Radiothon and they’ve helped during the Festival of Trees over a number of years. In addition to that, they’ve provided items for a goodie bag for the Little Princess Ball,” McElree said.
Dr. Volker Rininsland
Dr. Rininsland, affectionately known as “The Singing Doctor,” was recognized for his 40-year commitment to health care in Moose Jaw. His contributions include mentoring medical students, hosting the Festival of Trees multiple times, and composing songs for the annual Family First Radiothon.
“Dr. Rininsland has been a champion of health care in the community,” McElree said. “He’s helped the MJHF host the Festival of Trees many times, and he also always comes out every single year and creates a song for the Family First Radiothon. This year will be no different.
“He has been a teacher and a mentor to countless medical students in our community, and we’re thankful for his support over the years and for what he’s given to his patients over the years.”
Through its Healthcare Philanthropy Awards, the MJHF shines a spotlight on the power of community generosity, with each recipient reflecting a spirit of compassion and commitment. The foundation continues to champion these efforts, raising funds for cutting-edge equipment and technology to support the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital.
For more information about the MJHF or to donate to the ongoing Vision of Tomorrow campaign, visit MJHF.org or call 306-694-0373.
