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Estevan couple recognized for their legacy of giving

Tom and Irma Trofimenkoff were generous with numerous causes

REGINA - An Estevan couple has been recognized for their commitment to giving by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) South Saskatchewan Chapter.

The late Irma and Tom Trofimenkoff are among the honourees in the Outstanding Legacy Philanthropist category at the 20th annual National Philanthropy Day (NPD) Awards Celebration, presented by DCG Philanthropic Services.

The Trofimenkoffs were married 47 years and called Estevan home. Tom Trofimenkoff died in April 2020 and Irma passed away four months later.

“They travelled to more than 50 countries throughout their lifetime, but the couple never lost their love for this province and the people who live here,” the AFP South Saskatchewan chapter said in a Facebook post.

They were described as humble, generous and caring souls, who dedicated their estate to supporting various charities.

Late last year, it was announced that the Trofimenkoffs had made a significant donation to the new Estevan Regional Nursing Home committee through their estate. The nursing home committee called the couple their “Christmas angels.”

They have also supported the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation, which was directed to several different aspects of the hospital; the St. Joseph’s Health Care Auxiliary, which was used for a head start on its latest fundraising project, which is the refurbishment of an x-ray suite; and the Hospitals of Regina Foundation (HRF).

“Through their lifelong support and generous legacy gifts, they continue to make a difference for the community,” AFP South Sask. said.

The Outstanding Legacy Philanthropist award category is presented by the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.

Each year, the AFP’s Saskatchewan Chapter uses National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15 as an opportunity to recognize the many meaningful contributions to philanthropy in the community. This year, the winners were awarded on Oct. 15, and the AFP will be celebrating these winners virtually from Nov. 15-19 with photos, videos and stories online.

“Every year in our community, hundreds of people work to make a difference in the lives of others. No matter the cause they support, or whether they volunteer, make a financial, or in-kind donation, these admirable deeds are worthy of recognition,” says Chelsey Lemke, president of the AFP South Saskatchewan Chapter.

“We are so excited to be sharing the stories of these exceptional honourees for all to see with the virtual presentations.”

This year, 20 recipients in seven categories were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their communities.