Monica Alyea presented distinguished service award

At the presentation, from left, are: PECMH Foundation board chairperson Peggy Payne, Haimish (grandson) with award winner Monica Alyea, former hospital foundation board member Leo Finnegan, President and Chairman Board of Directors Prince Edward Fitness and Aquatic Centre Art Knight, (Alyea’s daughter) Hilary Fennell, PECMH Foundation Executive Director Shannon Coull and Back the Build Campaign Cabinet Chairperson Nancy Parks.

The County’s Monica Alyea was named recipient of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Leo Finnegan Distinguished Service Award (LFDSA).

Finnegan, PECMH Foundation former board member Leo Finnegan, and Shannon Coull, executive director, made the presentation honouring Alyea as the the award’s fourth recipient. Inspired by Finnegan, the award’s first recipient, the LFDSA is presented to individuals who, through their ongoing loyalty, commitment, outstanding contribution, and service, have shown dedication to, and support for, the PECMH Foundation, its vision, mission, and strategic imperatives and priorities.

Alyea’s connection with foundation began in 2011, following her service as a municipal councillor. Over the next 13 years, she brought energy, heart, and leadership skills to the foundation board of directors, including as chairperson from 2016–2019.

Monica Alyea

“Monica’s dedication, leadership, and community spirit makes her a truly deserving award recipient,” said Finnegan. “Her wide-ranging experience—from municipal politics to the arts — and deep community connections have been instrumental to the foundation, especially during the early planning of our new hospital.”

Her passion for the hospital and its future has also left a lasting impression among younger generations. From the time her grandson Haimish was a toddler, he was already raising money and awareness for PECMH — an early reflection of the values instilled by his “Eema.” Inspired by the stories he heard at home, Haimish hosted his first lemonade stand with the proceeds proudly donated to PECMH Foundation.

Haimish’s act of generosity also inspired other children to take part in community fundraising. The ripple effect is a testament to Alyea’s influence and her commitment to cultivating community support for local health care.

At the Milford Fair and Marysburgh Mummers performances, she infused each occasion in which she volunteered, with spirited appeals and 50/50 draws in support of the hospital.

“Monica’s ability to think outside the box has influenced and motivated many to contribute to the efforts necessary to gain approval for our new hospital,” said Nancy Parks, Chairperson of the Back the Build Campaign Cabinet, adding when the first shovels broke ground on the new hospital site, Alyea was there with enthusiasm and pride — snapping photos, offering encouragement, and sharing the joy.

“It is easy to say that this project is one of her greatest passions; one she remains committed to, even from a bit of a distance now,” said her daughter, Hilary Fennell. “She is proud to have been such an advocate for PECMH Foundation, and we are so very proud of her for having launched herself wholeheartedly into such an important piece of our community.”

“It’s quite a story what this community and its hospital have created…every couple of weeks I go and spend some time just looking at one of the most beautiful holes in the ground that I have ever seen. I am in awe every time,” said Alyea. “For this heart-filling journey, for this inspiring outcome, for the now gentle relationship of trust we have with Quinte Health – I am so grateful as a volunteer.”

“Monica’s unwavering commitment, leadership, and community spirit make her truly deserving of this award,” added Coull. “She has helped secure our hospital’s future—one conversation, column and baked treat at a time.”

Alyea is now vice chair of the Prince Edward Fitness and Aquatic Centre and continues to build bridges between health-focused organizations and champions wellness and fundraising.