LETTER FROM MATTHEW TEITELBAUM

"Art matters because it inspires people with love." For well over a year, the Art Gallery of Ontario has been asking people to tell us why art is important to them. This message, from a young visitor to the Gallery, reflects a common theme - art is a catalyst for connections between people, an emotional bond that transcends our cultures, our languages, our differences.

And so it is for Casey House, an organization that reaches out and connects with its community. In creating its caring and support environment, Casey House is an inspiration to us all.

More than 2,500 men, women and children with HIV/AIDS from all walks of life have been cared for by Casey House. As a health care facility giving people with HIV/AIDS compassionate support and palliative care, its focus is client-centered and its approach is holistic. Established in 1988 through the commitment and energy of volunteers, today's Casey House has more than 150 active volunteers involved in virtually all aspects of the program.

The story of Casey House is the very stuff of inspiration and it can't help but incite others to make their own contributions to the community's well being. I'm deeply honoured and gratified that the Art Gallery of Ontario's relationship with Casey House endures. I am proud that extraordinary art works by established and emerging artists play such an important role in supporting the wonderful work of Casey House.

Matthew Teitelbaum
Michael and Sonya Koerner Director, and CEO,
Art Gallery of Ontario