2020 Lifetime Achievement
Roger E. Keeley, C.M.E., is Director of Corporate Affairs for Atlantic Packaging Products Ltd. in Scarborough, Ontario, where he has been employed for over forty-five years, past board member for the Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation, and highly engaged current Chair for the committee raising funds to support the operation of the Markham Stouffville Hospital Ronald McDonald Room.
Some of his other associations include being a member of the International Marketing Fraternity – Phi Sigma Epsilon and the Masonic Order of the Rose Croix, and formerly the Business Advisory Council for Seneca College in Toronto.
Roger’s personal philosophy is that we are put on this earth to do the right thing always, believing that as we enjoy the many benefits and successes along our own path it is important to give back to those less fortunate.
He also concurs that life is indeed a journey, and there are highs and lows, rainy days and sunny days. Everyone encounters challenges along the way, some much bigger than others. His own family included losing his wife, as well as a daughter to cancer. These circumstances undoubtedly stir some serious thinking about life. Yet still, positivity drives Roger; he feels tremendously blessed to have his four other children, and to live in Canada and the wonderful community of Markham within York Region.
Roger enthusiastically believes that everyone would benefit by doing some charity work. Providing financial support is certainly needed and appreciated. However, he also shares that if you can get involved in a big or small leadership role, the satisfaction of seeing the results of your efforts in this way is truly enriching.
No one volunteers with any expectation of reward or benefit, yet once involved, he says you quickly experience the precious intangible gifts of gratitude from those you serve, lifelong friendships, thoughtful event invitations, and kind recognition like that of Portraits of Giving.
Roger fondly remembers one very moving experience when he and his colleagues first went to serve a meal to the 150 children and parents at the wonderful eighty-two-room Ronald McDonald House on McCaul Street in downtown Toronto. It was so special it became an annual endeavour for their fundraising team called The Fabulous Fifteen. When you see the children in residence going for treatment at Sick Kids Hospital, they’re so upbeat and thankful for the best medical facilities and accommodations available; it really tugs at your heart and you realize how fortunate you are to help.
Roger imparts this inspiring quote he credits to basketball player, Seth Curry. He thinks it says it all, “Take this day to talk about how we can be louder than all the silence in the world and quieter than all the noise in the world.”