Giving A Little Back To the Community

I grew up learning the importance of trying to assist those who were experiencing challenges in life, regardless of the root cause. Getting them back on their feet, so that they could be making their contribution to the community, was the most important goal, regardless of politics or religious issues.

A couple of years ago I came across a group that was doing just that. 

"New Circles Community Services is a not-for -profit, grass roots agency that builds strong and caring communities by providing basic necessities to those living in poverty. They provide much needed clothing, social programs and skill building opportunities to individuals living on a low income, many of whom are newcomers to Canada."

"Their core mission is to ensure that local families struggling with poverty can meet their basic need for adequate clothing."

But "clothing is just the beginning". They know how to build strong and caring communities that provide programs to help them integrate socially and economically into the community.

My wife Mary and I have assisted in the sorting room, attended graduations of some of their trainees (very moving because you can see the sense of accomplishment as these young people re-enter the world with newly attained skills) and have been able to witness first hand the wonderful work done by founder Cindy Blakely and her staff including Executive Director Alykhan Suleman, Diana Gibbs, Virginia Trotter and Andrea McGavin. 

On Monday, May 29th, High Rock Capital sponsored a hole and entered a foursome in the 5th annual New Circles' Golf Classic where they were able to raise a record high $70,000. I was proud to have in our group, Olympian Maxine Armstrong, Mary Tomenson and hockey legend Jim Lye (we played together on the same championship team in 1981, but I had not seen him since then!).  Jim won the men's longest drive competition, although Maxine's drive on the same hole was longer! Jim's daughter Joey plays softball for Team Canada.

We had a lovely and enjoyable day, but more importantly we were able to help New Circles raise money so that they could continue to do their great work in our community!