A favourite community tradition is returning this summer, inviting residents to gather, rock, and raise funds in support of local healthcare.
Rockathon 2026 brings the community together once again to “rock for a reason” and share in a fun, feel-good day in support of local healthcare. Above: The Rockathon Committee with residents at the Valley Manor. Pictured, left to right: Resident Sandra Dombroskie with Interim Administrator CEO Chantel Brown, Resident Rose Marie Trader with Activities Director Lisa Yantha, Residents Donnie Palubeskie, Calvin Kinder, Pat Noyes, Mike Gutowski and Gloria Marrujo. Front, kneeling: St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (SFVHF) Administrative Assistant Paige Mask, Rockathon Committee Member Susan Bernad. Back row, standing: Committee Member Gwen Coulas, SFVHF Communications and Fundraising Officer Christine Hudder and Committee Member Sharon Florent.
Taking place on Friday, June 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the scenic Valley Manor Courtyard, this year marks the fifth annual Rockathon. Teams and individuals will gather pledges and take turns rocking their way through the day in support of local healthcare.
Funds raised will support priority needs at Valley Manor and local healthcare services, including therapeutic bathtubs, Christmas and birthday gifts for residents, and meaningful outings that enhance quality of life.
“Rockathon is such a special event because it brings the community right into the heart of Valley Manor – sharing music, laughter, and time with our residents in a really meaningful way. At the same time, it raises much-needed funds that directly support their care, comfort, and quality of life,” says Christine Hudder, Communications and Fundraising Officer with the Foundation.
Participants can look forward to a lively atmosphere featuring local live music, light refreshments, great prizes, and, most importantly, the shared joy of giving back. Whether you sign up solo or form a team of up to five, everyone can take part. Each team member only needs to rock for an hour to make a big impact.
Fundraising is simple with the Foundation’s online crowdfunding platform, making it easy to collect support from friends and family near and far, alongside traditional pledge sheets.
Ready to join in? Register with the Foundation by calling 613-756-3045 ext. 217, emailing office@sfvhfoundation.com, or visiting 7 St. Francis Memorial Drive (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Pledge forms are due by Friday, June 12, 2026 – so start rocking your fundraising today!
St.Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation(2026,May1) Annual Rockathon returns this June in Barry’s Bay [media release]
All photos submitted.