Cranes of Hope surpasses $10,000; thanks to Sarah

Submitted by EKFH on 01-11-2010

Cranbrook, BC…  At the recent Symphony of the Kootenays Gala, music lovers were treated to an amazing evening of Beethoven selections by the Symphony accompanied by an incredible piano solo by visiting artist and former Cranbrook resident Sarah Aleem. 

Making the night even more special is what Ms. Aleem did next by donating her performance proceeds of $2,000 to the Cranes of Hope a Legacy of Rod Osiowy project in honour of her former Mount Baker Senior Secondary drama teacher.   

Sarah’s extreme generosity and gift has now moved the Cranes of Hope project to donations totalling $10,662 with 106 cranes symbolically purchased in honour of Rod.

“The Cranes of Hope is more than just about raising funds for oncology,” shares Donna Grainger, Executive Director of East Kootenay Foundation for Health. 

“What I am learning and seeing is the heart of a community touched by one man’s gift of making a difference; particularly, with the youth of our City.  Individuals such as Sarah Aleem, Kyla Surtees, Candice Fiorentino and others are showing their appreciation by coming forth with amazing gifts that raise the awareness of the Cranes of Hope but more meaningful is by showing all of us that the next generation is ready and more than willing to give back.  It is truly inspirational and an incredible thing to witness,” says Grainger.  

Sarah Aleem… grateful student, talented musician, gracious woman and now a philanthropist to health care. 

East Kootenay Foundation for Health sincerely wishes to thank Sarah for her incredible generosity, the Symphony of the Kootenays for allowing the Cranes of Hope to benefit from the evening and to the many that came out to celebrate the Gala and to hear beautiful music.     To the Osiowy family, what a wonderful legacy indeed.