Home Uncategorized New executive director leading Hospice Georgina into the future

New executive director leading Hospice Georgina into the future

July 21, 2026

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By Angie Sullivan

Hospice Georgina welcomed a new executive director in June, and Susanne Urzendowsky wants to change how our community thinks about hospice.

“The biggest challenge is changing the perception that hospice is about dying,” Urzendowsky said. “It’s about living well.”

The organization offers a full roster of programming at the Link in Sutton, including visits from baby goats and therapy dogs, along with line dancing and chair yoga to name a few.

Chair of Georgina Hospice Mary Margaret Thorburn shared an anecdote about a visitor who thought she had arrived at the wrong place after hearing laughter coming from one of the classes.

Thorburn said, “For a good time, come to Hospice Georgina!”

One of the hospice’s most popular offerings is Ageless Grace. The class runs on Mondays and combines music and movement to improve neuroplasticity and brain health. It regularly attracts between 25 and 30 participants.

There is also a Legacy Program in the works, which will give participants the opportunity to share their life experiences and preserve their stories in writing for future generations.

That philosophy is guiding the organization’s next chapter as it works to expand community programming, strengthen partnerships, secure new funding and lay the groundwork for a future residential hospice.

Urzendowsky brings an extensive background in hospice care and fundraising to the role. “I was drawn to apply for the job here because of the organization’s vision for growth, including plans to eventually build a residential hospice with beds.”

“There is a real need in Georgina for hospice beds, and Newmarket is too far for most. We have an aging community with over 38 per cent of our population above 55,” said Urzendowsky.

Developing and operating a residential hospice will require substantially more funding.

Thorburn said, “We have to prove that we can sustain the operating costs for 3 to 5 beds, and at best we can get 50 per cent from government agencies.”

Securing grants, donations and community partnerships will be a major focus for the organization. Urzendowsky said that their current operating costs are just over $400,000. To expand to a residential facility with beds will require at least half a million more.

Volunteer engagement is another priority.

Hospice Georgina currently has five employees and a roster of 92 volunteers, although not all are active at any given time. Urzendowsky hopes to reconnect with many of those volunteers while also encouraging new members of the community to become involved.

“Our volunteers are essential,” she said. “As we grow, we want more people to experience the difference they can make.”

For Urzendowsky, the organization’s future isn’t defined by illness. It’s defined by connection, compassion and helping people live as fully as possible.