Lawyers from the MLT Aikins law firm will convene in Edmonton for their annual retreat from Sept. 8 to 10, 2023, but this year’s gathering comes with a philanthropic twist.
On Sept. 8, the firm’s lawyers and staff members are dedicating their time to volunteer at Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation and other charitable organizations in an effort to give back to the community.
The Stollery Children’s Hospital, a renowned facility offering pediatric care to families across Western Canada, holds particular significance for Megan Kheong, a partner at MLT Aikins’ Edmonton office. Kheong, born with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis, underwent life-saving open-heart surgery in Edmonton in 1988.
“It was before the Stollery existed, but it was the only place in Western Canada where we could go at that time, as I understand it from my mom,” Kheong stated.
Reflecting on her experience, she emphasized the importance of supporting healthcare, especially in a pandemic-stricken world: “I can’t think of a better organization to assist than a world-class facility in our own backyard that promotes the health and wellbeing of children.”
As part of their involvement, the firm has made a financial donation to the Foundation and coordinated with the Child Life department to distribute gifts to children staying at the hospital. From 1-4 p.m. on the first day of the retreat, MLT Aikins volunteers will be stationed at tables throughout the Stollery to assist kids in choosing their gifts and engage with families.
Frontline workers at the Stollery will also receive a variety of treats and refreshments, served by MLT Aikins volunteers. Concurrently, the firm will extend its community outreach to Edmonton’s Food Bank and the Mustard Seed, a non-profit aimed at supporting those experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Aaron Runge, MLT Aikins managing partner, said the initiative aligns with the firm’s core values. “The communities we serve are important to us, and this is one tangible way we can live out that core value. We’re very much looking forward to seeing the outcome and how it plays into our retreat.”
About the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation
The Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation funds advanced children’s healthcare services, including specialized care, cutting-edge research, and training for medical professionals. The Foundation serves not only the Stollery Children’s Hospital but also communities across northern Alberta.
About MLT Aikins
MLT Aikins is a full-service law firm consisting of over 300 lawyers with offices in six key centers across Western Canada, including Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. The firm has a long-standing commitment to serving Western Canada’s unique legal and business landscape.
