OUR MISSION,
HISTORY AND WORK
MISSION & HISTORY.
We are on a mission to provide vital ostomy supplies to those in need throughout developing and war-torn countries, restoring the dignity of ostomates and improving their quality of life.
We aspire to create a more inclusive and empowered world for ostomates by bridging healthcare gaps and fostering resilience.
A LONG HISTORY OF IMPACT.
Friends of Ostomates Worldwide (Canada) (FOWC) was founded in 1986 out of the desire to address the healthcare disparities faced by ostomates in developing and war-torn countries.
For nearly 40 years we have worked tirelessly to bridge the gap in access to ostomy supplies by partnering with ostomy associations, healthcare providers, and in unique cases, ostomates directly, in over 50 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central/South America to help improve the lives of ostomates.
MEET OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
FOWC is an entirely volunteer-run organization, led by our dedicated and expert Board of Directors – each member bringing unique perspective and experience to our work.
Together, the board remains committed to ensuring our mission remains focused and that we can ship as many quality supplies as possible each year to those who need them most.
Joel Goldenberg
President
Quebec
President - Premier Ostomy Centre, Montreal (QC)
Lorne Aronson
Director
Ontario
Former President - United Ostomy Association of Canada (now Ostomy Canada) & FOWC
Steve Smith
Director
​Ontario
Niagara Ostomy Association
John Molnar
Vice President
Ontario
Niagara Ostomy Association
Richard Olley
Director
Ontario
President - Ostomy Canada Society - Halton/Peel (ON) Peer Support Group. P. Eng. (retired)
Jaimie Walker
Director
Ontario
​Secretary
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Tanya Schmitt
Treasurer
Ontario
Entrepreneur; Former Finance Executive; Social Impact Champion
Pat Cimmeck
Director
Alberta
President - Calgary Ostomy Society; Former President UOAC and IOA - NACOA region
Earl Lesk
Director
British Columbia
Vancouver Ostomy​
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OUR MEMBERS, VOLUNTEERS & SUPPORTERS.
While our board plays an instrumental role in our work, our success comes in large part from our members and volunteers. Individuals who donate more than $30 per year can become active voting members of the organization. Your membership isn’t just a commitment; it’s a declaration of solidarity with ostomates worldwide. If you would like to become a member, email info@fowc.ca
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We are grateful for the dozens of dedicated volunteers from coast to coast to coast who continue to source supplies, pack up shipments, and raise awareness about FOWC’s important work.