For almost three decades, Kathy Fortunat has dedicated her professional life to serving the many seniors at Sherwood Care, and strengthening continuing care in Alberta. Currently serving as the CEO of Sherwood Care, our very own Seventh-day Adventist continuing care facility in Sherwood Park, she has led in shaping an organization known for compassionate, person-centered care while championing the dignity and worth of every resident entrusted to its care.
Today, that commitment continues through the most significant redevelopment project in Sherwood Care’s history. Under Kathy’s leadership, a new facility is currently being built that will double continuing care capacity and introduce 13 dedicated hospice palliative care beds, the first ever dedicated hospice palliative care space in Strathcona County. When completed, the project will help meet the growing need for senior care throughout the region for generations to come.
In recognition of her years of leadership, influence, and service, Kathy was recently presented with the Strathcona Award of Excellence for Service to Seniors.
During the award presentation, Mayor Rod Frank highlighted Kathy’s role in leading the redevelopment project and her broader contributions to seniors’ care across the province. He described her as a respected mentor, community ambassador, advocate, and leader whose influence extends far beyond the walls of Sherwood Care.
Mayor Frank noted that Kathy’s vision and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on seniors, families, and the broader community. He also recognized the thousands of hours she has devoted to improving seniors’ care and community well-being throughout her career.
Yet those in attendance quickly saw that Kathy viewed the recognition differently.
In accepting the award, she redirected the attention to the people she serves alongside each day. She spoke warmly of Sherwood Care’s staff, volunteers, board members, residents, families, and community partners, emphasizing that the work of caring for seniors is always a shared effort.
“I have the privilege of working with incredible people who come every day with whole hearts, compassion, and an understanding of the need of the people that we serve,” she said. “This honor really belongs to all of you because this is a collective effort. It is not one person that can make something like this happen.”
Perhaps the most memorable moment came near the conclusion of her remarks when she dedicated the award to the seniors themselves.
“This award really belongs to the seniors that we serve,” she said. “The ones who built this community, the founders of Strathcona County, the people who worked hard on those farms, the people who came here with a vision and a dream. We have the privilege to live on because of the work they’ve done.”
Her words reflected the spirit that has guided her leadership throughout the years, a deep appreciation for people, a commitment to service, and a recognition that meaningful accomplishments are always built on the contributions of others.
While the award was presented to Kathy Fortunat, it also serves as a tribute to the dedicated staff, volunteers, board members, and supporters who help carry out Sherwood Care’s mission every day. Together, they continue to reflect Christ’s ministry of compassion and care to seniors and families throughout the community.
As Sherwood Care looks toward the future and the opportunities that the new building will bring, there are many ways for individuals to become part of this important ministry. Whether through prayer, volunteering, or financial support, members of our church family can help ensure that compassionate, Christ-centred care continues to touch the lives of seniors in Strathcona County and beyond. We invite you to join us as we work toward a future of expanded care, renewed hope, and greater opportunities to serve those who have contributed so much to our communities. For more on the redevelopment project or to make a donation, please visit us at www.sherwoodcare.com.
By Pastor David Benjamin