The Douglas Mental Health University Institute Foundation officially opened the Stearns pavilion gazebo for the children and adolescent treated at the Douglas. This project was made possible through the generous donation of the Gustav Levinschi Foundation.

Between their treatment and school programs, these young patients need space and privacy to allow their self-confidence to develop. Because the Stearns Pavilion has no air conditioning, our young patients suggested we build an outdoor area where they would be able to recharge their batteries. However, some of them take medication that requires them to stay out of direct sunlight. Thanks to the Gustav Levinschi Foundation the construction of the gazebo will enable young patients to be able to enjoy the outdoors.

In addition to offering them an intimate space where they can welcome visiting family and friends, the gazebo offers a peaceful haven where they can relax, listen to music, socialize, dance or even play board games. The gazebo will also be used to hold individual or group therapy sessions, teaching activities or meetings with family members, further contributing to the therapeutic process.

“It will be a refuge that will allow these young patients to leave the patient care unit and forget for a moment that they are in a hospital”, says Yvonne Hindle, Douglas Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Program Chief. “It will play an important role in their recovery process as well as reintegration in their family, school, and in the community.”

The Gustav Levinschi Foundation

The Douglas Institute Foundation is deeply grateful to the Gustav Levinschi Foundation for their 33 years of loyal support. Mr. Gustav Levinschi, a former Douglas Hospital Governor, died in 1985 at the age of 89. Since 1976, the Gustav Levinschi Foundation has funded more than $1.2 million in projects at the Douglas.

These funds have helped improve patient environments, modernize facilities, purchase therapeutic equipment, support research and the Douglas’ Brain Bank, and fund new patient programs. The Gustav Levinschi Foundation has once again demonstrated extraordinary philanthropy towards the Douglas Institute’s patients and their families.