A Welland-based insurance brokerage has donated $25,000 to Hospice Niagara, funds raised through its fourth annual Patty Valleriani Memorial Charity Golf Tournament at Lookout Point Country Club.
Youngs Insurance Brokers announced the donation in a press release on October 2, 2025. The money will support Hospice Niagara's Close to Home Campaign, which aims to expand access to hospice palliative care across the region, including plans to build two new hospice residences in Welland and Fort Erie.
The tournament honours the memory of Patty Valleriani, the late wife of Sandy Valleriani, president of Youngs Insurance Brokers. The release described her as known for her compassion, generosity and commitment to helping others, and said her legacy lives on through the annual event and the company's #GiveBackOntario initiative.
"This tournament was created not just to remember my mom, but to carry forward the values she lived by — compassion, community, and care," said Jason Valleriani, vice president of Youngs Insurance Brokers, in the press release. "Hospice Niagara embodies those same values. They walk alongside families during life's most difficult moments, and we're honoured to support their mission. We've been part of the Niagara Region for over 115 years, and we know these aren't just communities — they're our neighbours, our friends, our families. This year's donation reflects what happens when people come together to make a meaningful difference — and I know my mom would be incredibly proud."
Growing hospice care across Niagara
According to the release, Hospice Niagara has served the region for more than 30 years. It opened The Stabler Centre in St. Catharines in 2007, followed by Walker House in Welland this past August. A new residence in Fort Erie is expected to open by 2027, bringing the total number of hospice suites in the region to 30.
Along with its residences, Hospice Niagara provides outreach services and bereavement support. All of its programs and services are offered free of charge, funded through donations and fundraisers such as the tournament.
"This generous gift from Youngs Insurance Brokers will help bring compassionate end-of-life care closer to home for more people across our region," said Alicia Merry, director of marketing, communications and fund development at Hospice Niagara, in the release. "We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Youngs Insurance Brokers and all who took part in this special event. Patty's legacy continues to inspire kindness and generosity — and this gift will make a real and lasting impact."
A century-old Niagara business
Youngs Insurance Brokers was established in 1910 and describes itself as one of the largest independent brokerages in Ontario, offering a full range of personal and commercial insurance.
The company credited the tournament's success to its sponsors, donors, volunteers and participants, and said planning is underway for a fifth annual tournament in 2026.
