Foundation Friends
The Foundation works in closely with a number of Wellington personalities, sporting teams and arts organisations. These groups have made long term commitments to support the Foundation and they often make regular visits to Wellington Children's Hospital, spending time with sick kids and their families.
They are our HOSPI HEROES as they are making a big difference to the lives of patients every day.
INDIVIDUALS:
Dean Gifford - Foundation Ambassador, Friend of Wellington Children's Hospital
Wellington based Senior Constable Dean Gifford went above and beyond the call of duty frequently. Dean was a year-round Santa Claus, delivering toys, games, All Blacks and Police Dogs to the children's hospital throughout the year. The Foundation lost a great friend when Dean passed away in August 2012. He will be greatly missed.
Melissa Moon - World Champion runner, Foundation Ambassador
Sick children are always having to dig deep to get through another day and Melissa hopes she can help and inspire them to stay strong and push the boundaries every day.
Nick Tansley - Entertainer, MC, Foundation Ambassador
Nick has been a supporter of the Foundation since Day 1. Nick has lent his voice to many of our radio commercials over the years and has been the MC at most of our events.
Piri Weepu - All Black, Vodafone Wellington Lion, Foundation Ambassador
Piri has spent plenty of time in hospital himself with injuries sustained playing rugby and also with his own children. Piri is an inspiration to many children and his visits on the wards create an electric atmosphere and can bring a smile to any child's face.
Simon Woolf - Photographer, Foundation Ambassador
World renowned photographer, Simon Woolf, is a strong advocate for the Foundation and our mascot HOSPI. Simon takes his own HOSPI toy wherever he goes and involves the children's hospital in many of his project. A true Friend of the Foundation, Simon has also donated a large collection of his photos for display in our hospitals.
TEAMS:
The following teams all spend time with sick kids and their families at Wellington Children's Hospital.
Hurricanes - Wellington's Super Rugby team, Friends of Wellington Children's Hospital
Exodus Saints - Wellington's NBL basketball team, Friends of Wellington Children's Hospital
Vodafone Wellington Lions - Wellington's NPC rugby team, Friends of Wellington Children's Hospital
ARTS ORGANISATIONS:
NZ Symphony Orchestra - Foundation Friends
Through the NZSO 'Community Programme' we have been very fortunate to arrange small performances for patients in various hospital wards.
Royal NZ Ballet - Friends of Wellington Children's Hospital
Wellington Children's Hospital turns into a magical place every time dancers from RNZB visit the ward in costume. Some hospital kids have also had the opportunity to attend the ballet's dress rehearsals thanks to ballet sponsor, Meridian Energy.
Vector Wellington Orchestra - Foundation Friends
Vector Wellington Orchestra recognises the important contribution Foundation Hospital Volunteers make to patients in hospital, so every so often the Orchestra gifts tickets to their performances to the Volunteer Service.
EVENT PARTNERS:
Foundation Volunteers can always be seen at these fantastic Wellington events, collecting donations for Wellington Children's Hospital.
Carols by Candlelight
Dragon Boat Festival
NZ Art Show
Wellington Christmas Parade