Leah Eustace remembers that hergrandmother would respondto every appeal from a charity

she received in the mail by making adonation. While this might have beencommon practice 30 or 40 years ago,giving habits have changed. Canadiandonors and volunteers are very gener-ous – they contribute about $10-billionand two billion volunteer hours a year– but these days, they are carefullychoosing the organizations they be-come involved with, says Ms. Eustace,chair-elect of the AFP Foundation forPhilanthropy – Canada.

And millennials, those born between1980 and the early 2000s, are shap-ing up to be the “most socially activegeneration we’ve seen in decades,”she adds.

According to a 2014 survey, sevenin 10 Canadians typically do researchon a charity before they donate, Ms.Eustace explains. “They no longer seetheir contribution as a transaction.Increasingly, they view giving theirtime and money as investments –that’s a huge change from even fiveyears ago.”

Donors and volunteers are hap-piest when they are involved withorganizations whose goals are aligned

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with their passions, says Ms. Eustace.“There are around 80,000 or 90,000registered charities in Canada. Withso much to choose from, people arenaturally going to be a little particular.But if a charity matches your passionand treats you well, you are going tobe in it for the long haul,” she adds.

An organization that has seen asteady growth in support over the last35 years is the Terry Fox Foundation,says Fred Fox, manager of supporterrelations and Terry Fox’s older brother.“We are seeing more and more familiesparticipating in Terry Fox Runs acrossCanada – these are the people whohave been exposed to our work sincethey’ve been in kindergarten and arenow bringing their own families,” heexplains, adding that the number ofschool events is also growing.

It was his brother’s goal to raisemoney for cancer research until a curecould be found, says Mr. Fox, whobelieves that the fundraising by theTerry Fox Foundation and other orga-nizations has already had an impact.And every dollar and participant makesa difference. “We often meet peoplewho have survived their battle withcancer because of the advances thathave been made,” he adds. “That’s

part of the legacy of Terry’s sacrificeand the miles he ran for 143 days.”

The majority of Canadians want toknow a charity is fulfilling its purposebefore they donate, says Ms. Eustace.And 77 per cent of the respondents ofthe AFP survey say it’s important toknow that their donation has madean impact.

Azin Soltani, a Toronto-based commu-nications and marketing professional,was able to see the international devel-opment work of Aga Khan FoundationCanada (AKFC) in action when shetravelled to Mozambique and Tanzanialast year.

“I was able to witness AKFC’s multi-pronged and long-term approach– these are not Band-Aid solutions,”she says. “This reaffirmed that this issomething I want to dedicate my timeand resources to.”

After starting her involvement withthe Toronto volunteer team of the AKFCWorld Partnership Walk four years agoat age 27, Ms. Soltani has now taken ona national role. She says being drawn tointernational development is somethingshe shares with the many peers whosee themselves as global citizens.

“While we give our time, moneyand knowledge, ultimately we benefit

tremendously through the lessons welearn, the skills we develop, the innova-tive and creative people we meet, andthe deeper appreciation we cultivatefor our common humanity,” she says.“There is so much to give, and evenmore to gain.”

When young people get involvedwith charities, “they typically want tojump in with both feet,” explains Ms.Eustace. “And any kind of giving thatinvolves social interaction and network-ing is big for them,” according to thefindings of an AFP initiative focusedon next-generation giving in Ontario.

While their giving is different –millennials favour approaches likecrowd-funding, mobile giving andmicro-finance – the impact is big. “InOntario, 60 per cent of people between18 and 34 are making donations, and15 per cent of all donations come fromthat age group,” says Ms. Eustace. “Iwouldn’t be surprised if this is repre-sentative of next-generation givingacross Canada.”

This content was produced by RandallAnthony Communications, in partnership

with The Globe and Mail’s advertisingdepartment. The Globe’s editorial depart-

ment was not involved in its creation.

PHILANTHROPYDONORS AND VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF

THE GLOBE AND MAIL F R I DAY , J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 SECTION AFP

SPONSOR CONTENT

Engaged leadership transforms board members into campaign champions

He’s not a doctor or researchscientist. Yet Ivan Fecan, execu-tive chair of Thunderbird Films

in Vancouver and chair of Sea to SkyStudios in Toronto, can talk with easeabout the latest developments inorgan transplants at Toronto GeneralHospital and Toronto Western Hospital.

Mr. Fecan is on a first-name basiswith the surgeon who developeda technology to keep donor lungsalive outside the body so they can beassessed and repaired before trans-plant surgery. He’s also familiar with

ongoing research efforts to minimizeorgan rejection.

“I’m a transplant champion,” saysMr. Fecan, a director with the advisoryboard at the Toronto General andWestern Hospital Foundation (TGWHF),which raises funds for research, edu-cation and enhancement of patientcare at Toronto General Hospital andToronto Western Hospital, part of theUniversity Health Network. “I’m inter-ested in advancing the cause and inraising money for research into multi-organ transplants,” he says.

Mr. Fecan is not the only boardmember whose involvement with thefoundation goes way beyond attend-ing meetings and reading reports. AtTGWHF, each director is engaged ina particular campaign focused on adisease or research area.

At present, the foundation has eightcampaigns based on disease andtreatment areas ranging from arthritisto organ transplants, as well as sixcampaigns focusing on health-careinnovation in fields that include nurs-ing, surgical technology, regenerative

medicine and telesimulation.“It basically breaks our initiatives

down into small, bite-size pieces,”explains Jim Leech, chair of theTGWHF’s board of directors and aboard member since 1996. “Whendirectors come on board, we ask themwhere their interests lie and what cam-paign they’d like to champion.”

This concept of “engaged leader-ship,” which was introduced eightyears ago at TGWHF, has helped direc-tors, fundraisers and donors establisha personal connection with the money

they’re raising and the causes thefunds are supporting, says Mr. Leech.

“They feel a sense of ownership andentrepreneurship,” says Mr. Leech.“Instead of just working with a bigfoundation, they are working directlyon initiatives to support research intospecific areas, such as brain tumours orAlzheimer’s disease or heart disease,or whatever campaign they happen tohave chosen.”

Engaged leadership at TGWHFextends to doctors and researchers atHospital, Page AFP 4

Online? Visit globeandmail.com/adv/heartofphilanthropy

Canadians pride themselves on being compassionate and caring. Helpingthe less fortunate at home and abroad by donating to worthy causes andvolunteering time to support the efforts of charities is considered by manyto be as much a privilege as a duty.

In celebration of AFP GreaterToronto Chapter’s 20thanniversary and philanthropy,the Images of Impact showcasehas been designed to createa visual representation of theaccomplishment and differencethat philanthropy and fundraisingmake in and beyond Toronto.

“In Ontario, 60 per cent ofpeople between 18 and 34are making donations, and15 per cent of all donationscome from that age group.”

Leah Eustaceis chair-elect of the AFP Foundation forPhilanthropy – CanadaPHOTO: MICHELLE VALBERG

TORONTO HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

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500,000 THANK YOUSThe Canadian Mental Health Association provides programs andservices to more than 500,000 Canadians each year through our105+ locations across the country.

Thanks to your generous contributions, CMHA helps support theirmental health and access to mental illness and addiction services,while working towards eliminating the discrimination they experience.

HOME TRUST

The real impact of the charitable sector

By Andrea McManus, CFREPresident, The DevelopmentGroup and chair of the AFPCanada Government RelationsCommittee

Imagine our country without thecharitable sector. Think about thecountless services that would dis-

appear – education, housing, jobtraining, hunger relief, the arts andthe environment, to name just a few.Who would provide these programswithout charities, especially as thegovernment cuts back on its funding?Who would take care of the people in

the greatest need?It’s not a stretch to say that every

single Canadian has been affected insome way by the work of the chari-table sector. But even that statementdoesn’t truly demonstrate the impactof the sector.

For example, the charitable sec-tor contributes a significant amountto Canada’s economy. Accordingto Statistics Canada, it accounts for2.4 per cent of our country’s GrossDomestic Product (GDP). If you addin universities and hospitals, as wellas all non-profit organizations, andthat figure jumps to more than 8 percent of total GDP. That’s a huge chunkof our economy, and charities oftenoperate programs that are much moreeffective and efficient than the govern-ment can provide.

But the impact of the sector is biggerthan even just the economy. Thinkabout all of the major social initiativesthat have occurred for the past 50years – campaigns about drunk driv-ing, domestic abuse, smoking, HIV/

AIDS and others. For the most part,who has led those? Charities.

More and more, charities are lead-ing society. Developing new ideas,utilizing social media and introduc-ing innovative ways to think aboutthings whether it be the environment,diversity and inclusion or social justiceissues. People are viewing the worldthrough the prism of philanthropy andcharity: how they meet people; howthey spend their time; and how theydetermine what’s important to them.

Here’s another way to look at ourrole and place in society. Consider whatit takes for someone to be charitable.Giving and volunteering requires acountry where wealth creation is en-couraged and widespread. It requiresa government that allows the creationof non-government organizations andcitizens to give their money away asthey like and investing it in a betterworld. A strong charitable sector is asign of a free and open society, andwe are fortunate to have a govern-ment that recognizes the unique and

important value of philanthropy.Our giving, our volunteering – our

engagement – doesn’t just help people;it helps our entire country. It defineswho we are through what we support.It strengthens the ideas of justice andethics. These aren’t just flowery words– giving and volunteering are real,concrete ways we support a free andengaged society. When we engage, wethink about our place in our world, ourplace in it, and how to make it better.

And THAT’S the true impact of chari-ties. Some of the impact we can mea-sure, such as giving levels and GDP.Other types of impact are admittedlyharder to gauge, but play an equallyimportant role.

But that impact is so much morethan just programs and services, asimportant as those. When you giveand volunteer, you’re supporting thevalues and principles of our countryand our society. So join the millions ofother Canadians who already give andvolunteer and support our Canadianway of life.

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DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF PHILANTHROPY

Empowerment offers new hope toCanadians living in poverty

New program taps into young volunteers’ interests

Good health depends ongood mental health

As a registered nutritionist, Joan-nah Lawson knows very wellthat a poor diet often leads to

poor health; obesity, diabetes, heartdisease and even some cancers can betied directly to what we eat or don’teat. She also knows that people whocan’t afford healthy food are oftenthe most affected by chronic healthconditions.

But she also knows that simplytelling people to eat healthy food andavoid those that can cause health prob-lems is not the best way to address acomplex and challenging social issue.That’s why she and her husband Brian,through their family foundation, areactive supporters of Community FoodCentres Canada (CFCC).

Volunteer hours were not a pre-requisite to graduation whenJohn McAlister was in high

school. But he signed up for volunteerwork anyway, making him one of thefew students in his class who donatedtheir time to help a cause or charity.

Today, as national director of mar-keting and communications for TheSalvation Army, Mr. McAlister contin-ues to believe in the importance ofstarting philanthropic work at a youngage. He and his team at The SalvationArmy are developing a resource that

As a physician, Dr. Badri Rickhiacknowledges the value ofmedication in treating illness,

but his specialty training in psychiatryhas taught him that medication aloneis not always the best treatment forall ailments.

“One of the key principles in healthcare is that good mental health is aprerequisite for good overall health,”he says. “The mind is a driving forcebehind health, so we need to investmore in making sure that people whoneed mental health care can access it.”

As research chair and founding mem-ber of Calgary-based CINIM, Dr. Rickhiwas instrumental in developing Breath-ingRoom, a 20-hour, eight-moduleprogram that offers practical strategiesto better manage life’s challenges.

The online program is designed foryouth and young adults who want tolearn new ways to manage symptomsof stress, depression and anxiety orwho want to strengthen their existingcoping strategies, he explains.

Previously known as the LEAP Proj-ect, BreathingRoom was developedby CINIM in collaboration with MountRoyal University, the University ofCalgary and Alberta Health Servicesand with input from over 100 youngpeople.

Dr. Rickhi says development was ledby two psychiatrists who ensured thatthe program was evidence-based andtailored to the mental wellness needsof Canadians.

“The program’s foundational prin-ciples are supported by an extensivebody of literature, and the core prin-ciples and activities have been found topromote well-being in both adult andyouth populations,” he adds.

“CFCC is not just about telling peoplewhat to eat and giving them a helpinghand,” says Ms. Lawson. “It’s a triedand true method that’s been hugelysuccessful and achieved measureablepositive results.”

CFCC helps establish CommunityFood Centres (CFCs), which presidentand CEO Nick Saul describes as welcom-ing spaces where people come togetherto grow, cook, share and advocate forgood food.

“CFCs provide people with accessto high-quality food in a dignified andrespectful setting,” he adds. “People canlearn food skills that support healthyfood choices, make new friends, ac-cess supports and become involved inpushing for changes that can positively

will make it easier for today’s youngpeople to volunteer.

Set to launch in late summer, theresource – to be called the DignityProject, a name that The SalvationArmy had used in a recent campaign– will be available online and also inprinted packages for use by schools,community groups and individuals.

“Most high school students todayneed to volunteer to graduate, sowe’re creating a package that givesyoung people information on how tovolunteer, why they should volunteer,

The effectiveness of the programwas rigorously tested in randomizedcontrolled trials with adult and youthpopulations, and results of the trialshave been accepted for peer reviewfor publication in BioMedCentral (BMC),says Dr. Rickhi.

“The same principles that informedBreathingRoom are now being incor-porated in the design of new programsaddressing other issues that causemental distress,” he adds.

For more information, visitwww.cinim.org

impact their health and well-being.”By offering multifaceted, integrated

and responsive programming in a sharedspace, CFCs provide a platform for foodto build health, hope, skills and commu-nity. “Many low-income communities arefacing a real health crisis. The societalcosts of not investing in upstream ap-proaches and better public policy are toobig to ignore,” says Mr. Saul.

“In its strategic approach, CFCC isdealing with issues of poverty and poorhealth outcomes due to poor nutrition,and I believe that can help preventchronic disease and decrease its sever-ity in people who are already afflicted,”says Ms. Lawson.

She points to CFCC’s FoodFit programas a good example of the successthat’s being achieved. Launched asa pilot program in January 2014 withinput from medical professionals andcommunity members, FoodFit is a 12-week program that combines cookingsessions, clear nutrition information,easy-to-do exercise, goal-setting andprogress measurement.

“The goal is to empower people livingon low incomes to make measurablechanges to their health, while respect-ing the limits of their circumstances,”she says.

Ms. Lawson’s vision for CFCC is tosee CFCs established where there isneed across Canada. She believes thiswill help break the cycle of poverty andcontribute to better health outcomes inpoorer communities that often tend tohave less access than their more afflu-ent neighbours to both healthy foodand information about good nutrition.

For more information, visitwww.cfccanada.ca

and what they can do to help out atThe Salvation Army and its variousprograms, such as food banks,”explains Mr. McAlister. “On top ofthat, there’s information to give kidsa greater awareness of social justiceissues.”

About 165,000 volunteers helpout at The Salvation Army each year.While that includes many youngpeople, Mr. McAlister would like tosee more of them involved. Theorganization offers a wide variety ofvolunteer work, ranging from sorting

donations at food banks to helping atcommunity programs.

“If you have an interest in tech-nology, perhaps you can help uswith computer programs,” says Mr.McAlister. “If you like working withyounger children, you can participatein youth activities once you’ve gonethrough the necessary screening.”

While the new resource will un-doubtedly be a great help for highschool students looking to volun-teer, it will also yield a longer-term,big-picture benefit for The Salvation

Army and the communities it helps,says Mr. McAlister.

“Today’s youth volunteers may betomorrow’s donors,” he says. “Byproviding this resource, we have anopportunity to get students exposedto what we do at The Salvation Armyand to help them build an emotionalconnection to our organization. So inthe future, we have a greater chanceof turning them into supporters.

For more information, visitwww.salvationarmy.ca/dignity

OPINION

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Through their family foundation, Brian and Joannah Lawson are providingfinancial support to help lift many Canadians out of poverty. SUPPLIED

Dr. Badri Rickhi believes CINIM’sBreathingRoom program helpsyoung people better manage life’schallenges. SUPPLIED

COMMUNITY FOOD CENTRES CANADA CINIM

SALVATION ARMY

Giving and volunteeringrequires a countrywhere wealth creationis encouraged andwidespread. It requiresa government thatallows the creationof non-governmentorganizations and citizensto give their money awayas they like and investingit in a better world.

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DONORS(Is it any wonder why somany world firsts happen at UHN?)

Thank you to our donors whomake it possible.

416 -340 -3935 www.tgwhf.ca

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DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF PHILANTHROPY

1. High school graduation is the springboard to a better, brighter future. PATHWAYS TO EDUCATION; 2. Through our generous supporters, Trent University ranks #1 for scholarships and bursaries inCanada. TRENT UNIVERSITY; 3. Thanks to donors, the Fisher Library is the primary research centre for General James Wolfe. UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO ADVANCEMENT

The Joseph & Rosalie Segal Family Health Centre will improve care forpeople with mental illness. SUPPLIED

Toronto General and Toronto Western.Mr. Leech says the foundation worksclosely with the hospitals’ medical andresearch staff to identify the promisingresearch opportunities and build cam-paigns around these areas.

As a result, many directors, medicalstaff and researchers have bondedas a team. Mr. Fecan, for example,has become well acquainted with thedoctors and scientists working withpatients and in the labs to advanceorgan transplants. While his role isstrictly advisory, he has lent his exper-tise in media and communicationsto help shape the messaging aroundorgan transplant research at TorontoGeneral and Toronto Western.

“We have a transplant unit that isthe best in Canada and is among theleading centres in the world,” says Mr.

Fecan. “Yet not very many peopleknow about the great work we do, orthe importance of organ transplants. Ithink most people feel it’s not some-thing that’s ever going to affect theirlives, so I’m happy to help in any way Ican to enhance the messaging aroundtransplants.”

Mr. Leech says engaged leadershipat TGWHF has helped build an excep-tionally healthy board.

“Our attendance at board meet-ings is probably the highest in anyorganization I’ve been involved with,”he says. “People are there, they’reon time, they contribute and they’reexcited. And when they meet thegoals they’ve set for themselves,they’re pretty satisfied – they’ve gotbig smiles and, I think, a huge senseof accomplishment.”

Hospital: Goal setting is keyFROM PAGE AFP 1

Campaign changes the future of care for mental illness in B.C.

With government fundingof $57-million, a pledge of$12-million from philanthropist

Joe Segal and generous gifts from otherdonors, the new, 90,000-square-footJoseph & Rosalie Segal Family HealthCentre is now under construction. Thissuccessful completion of an $82-mil-lion VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation

campaign promises to dramaticallyimprove care for British Columbianswith mental illness.

“It will be truly transformative interms of the patient experience andthe experience of their families,” saysBarbara Grantham, the foundation’spresident and CEO. “Mental illness isvery much a family illness – the rough

rule of thumb is that for every personwith a mental illness, seven people intheir life are impacted. And one in fiveCanadians will experience mental illnessin their lifetime.”

The centre replaces a 70-year-oldbuilding that currently houses 60 pa-tients without a single private visitingroom. When the new centre opens,each patient will have a private roomand bathroom, and the entire rooftopof the building will be dedicated to asafe outdoor garden with an exercisespace and quiet area.

The centre’s founders visited lead-ing mental health facilities around theworld, and consulted with health-careprofessionals as well as patients andfamilies, in order to incorporate themost effective design concepts, saysMs. Grantham.

Former Finning CEO Doug Whiteheadand his wife Wanda Costuros alsodonated a total of $2.5-million to thecampaign. Vancouver’s DowntownEastside was initially the focus of thecouple’s family foundation, but “youdon’t have to scratch the surface veryfar to realize that the issues on theDowntown Eastside are mental healthissues, if not totally then largely,” saysMr. Whitehead.

A member of the VGH & UBC HospitalFoundation’s board of directors at thetime, Mr. Whitehead and his familyvisited the existing mental health facilityat VGH. “We saw how bad the condi-

tions were, which also drove us in thisdirection.”

Despite the obvious need, he says,“We could see this was going to be atough sell – it’s still a disease that hasa lot of stigma. Almost every family isor will be affected by mental illness,but it isn’t going to get the resourcesit needs until people start talking aboutit without that stigma,” he stresses.

Once you or a loved one has been af-flicted by mental illness, “you can’t helpbut have a new sense of compassionand empathy,” says Ms. Grantham. “Joe

Segal puts it so articulately: ‘When youhave cancer or another health conditionthat’s more readily understood, thereare usually lots of other people thereto support you. When you walk withmental illness, you often walk alone.’

“Each of us can do something to helpreach out to somebody who’s walkingthat road.”

Tohelp equip the new Joseph&RosalieSegal Family Health Centre or help fundprograms and services, please visitvghfoundation.ca to donate.

VGH & UBC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

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To do so, she’ll have to increase

production and meet international

quality standards. With help from

CESO Volunteer Advisors, she’ll get there.

Senegalese entrepreneur,Aminata Sow, wants togrow her business andexport internationally.

CESO gratefully acknowledges financial support from

Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada

To find out how your skills and donation

can make a difference, visit

ceso-saco.com

Volunteer Advisors support Aminata as she

develops and grows her business. CESO works with

entrepreneurs around the world, sharing knowledge

and expertise, building the skills and capacity of

clients in Canada and around the world.

Scan code to watch Aminata’s story

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While the prevalence of autismspectrum disorder has increased,awareness and financial supporthave lagged behind. SUPPLIED

1. Providing education, opportunity and justice to children and families in war-torn countries since 1999. WAR CHILD (JEFF HOLT PHOTOGRAPHY); 2. Sharing stories of service so future generations willremember. HISTORICA CANADA; 3. Education can turn this Indigenous child’s dream into his dream job. INDSPIRE

Reveal gala supports, celebrates families living with autism

Since its inception, the CanucksAutismNetwork (CAN)hasworkedquietly and persistently to provide

vital support to B.C. families living withautism. And on September 12, the Revealgala – the first event of its kind to beheld at Rogers Arena in Vancouver –will help raise funds to continue theselife-changing achievements.

Paolo and Clara Aquilini, CAN’s found-ers, learned firsthand about the emo-tional and financial struggles faced bythe families of children with autism aftertheir son Christian was diagnosed in1996. “As we saw all these pain points,we felt we needed to help,” says Mr.

Aquilini. “For us, it was always aboutthe whole family: siblings, parents andextended family – that was the core ofwhat we wanted to do.”

With the players and staff of the Van-couver Canucks, whose help Mr. Aquilinidescribes as “vital to our success,” CANset out to give families access to sports,recreation, social and arts programswhile building autism awareness andproviding training through communitynetworks.

Parenting a child with autism can beextraordinarily challenging, especiallyin the early years after diagnosis, andsupport from CAN’s trained staff and

dedicated volunteers as well as otherfamilies can ease that journey, says Mr.Aquilini. “We feel that our job as parentsis to recognize each child’s unique po-tential and help them get to that point.By doing that – rather than focusingon where we thought they should beand beating ourselves up – we can findpeace and comfort.”

The prevalence of autism spectrumdisorder has increased dramatically, toone in 68 children in North America,but awareness and financial supporthave yet to catch up, says Mr. Aquilini.“We hope increased awareness willbring more empathy as people come

to understand what autism is, so whenthey see a child with autism they don’treact in ways that bring more pain tothe child’s family.”

In addition to being a fundraiser forimportant programs and autism aware-ness, Reveal is also a celebration, saysMr. Aquilini. “We wouldn’t be half thefamily we are if it wasn’t for our sonChristian. People with disabilities have away of causing us to reflect, to see what’sreally important. We want to celebratethem and what they mean to us.”

Formore information or to donate, visitwww.canucksautism.ca

CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK

Education is key to understanding mental health

Canadians put in almost 37 hoursin the workplace each week andspend a big chunk of this time

working closely with fellow employees.But even in such a familiar environment,mental health issues are unfamiliar tomost working Canadians.

That makes it difficult for employersto identify workers who need support,and for employees to ask for the helpthey need.

“Whether it’s mental health or anyother condition, when people don’t

have a good understanding of an ill-ness, that can lead to misunderstandingand discrimination, which in turn canlead to stigma and shame,” says PeterColeridge, national CEO of the CanadianMental Health Association (CMHA).

For decades CMHA has been educat-ing the public about mental health andmental illness through its annual MentalHealth Week – held the first week in May– and other initiatives. Two years ago,CMHA increased its efforts to improvemental health literacy in the workplace.

While CMHA provides workplace mentalhealth training and consultation services,including manager training and humanresource policy development, its newerinitiative focuses on helping employersimprove psychological health and safetyin the workplace.

In reaching out to Canadian work-places, CMHA has also forged mutuallybeneficial relationships. Many of CMHA’scorporate partners organize fundraisersto benefit CMHA’s mental health literacyefforts. Overall, the number of CMHA

national corporate sponsorships hasincreased by more than 80 per cent overthe last two years, says Mr. Coleridge.Total funds from third-party events havealso grown by over 40 per cent, anddonations from the private sector, ingeneral, have increased by 50 per centin the last few years.

While it’s difficult to measure, themost important indicator of CMHA’sworkplace program’s success will ulti-mately be the number of people it helps,says Mr. Coleridge.

“One company told us they wantedto be involved again this year becausemore of their employees are comingforward to talk about mental healthand in some cases get help,” saysMr. Coleridge. “For us, that’s success.But the urgency for increased mentalhealth programs and services hasnever been greater, which means westill have so much to do.”

For more information, visitwww.cmha.ca

CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

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It all started when I sat down at a table

with people from my neighbourhood and

was served a healthy meal. After that:

new friends, new job, a new hope.

Food is never just food.�

�to me, good food

is dignity.

GOOD FOODCHANGESLIVES.

FIND OUT MORE AND DONATE AT

WWW.CFCCANADA.CA

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DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS: THE HEART OF PHILANTHROPY

1. Patient-focused care is the best kind of care. MACKENZIE HEALTH FOUNDATION ORGANIZATION; 2. A Nigerian boy after cataract surgery – already learning to reach for what he sees. ORBIS CANADA;3. From one Jewish gift come many. THE HOUSE; 4. This year, Plan built/repaired 2,741 schools, improving education for children around the world. PLAN CANADA; 5. Can you hear the ocean?6.6 million Canadians cannot. THE HEARING FOUNDATION OF CANADA

‘When someone is hurting, I am hurting’

To make a difference with philan-thropy, “you must be inspired forthe work,” says John Volken, an

entrepreneur whose story is a perfectrags-to-riches example. He arrived inCanada with only $20 to his name, butwas able to build a multimillion-dollarbusiness. Once he’d made it big, hegave it all away.

“It was fun making money, but thisis very rewarding,” says Mr. Volken,who sold his 150-store United FurnitureWarehouse chain that had annual salesof more than $200-million, as well ashis West Vancouver house. Now, the73-year-old spends most of his time atthe nine-acre John Volken Academy,Western Canada’s largest therapeuticcommunity, where he and his wife livein an apartment close to the students.

When Mr. Volken started his phil-anthropic work, he first thought he’dfeed the poor. But spending a numberof nights in downtown Vancouver, herealized that many issues he saw on

the streets couldn’t be solved by givingout sandwiches.

“I learned that many people go throughdetox and then they’re told, ‘now you’reclean, get a life.’ But they don’t knowhow to get a life, so [going through detox]is a bit of a revolving door,” he recalls.After researching different recoverymodels, Mr. Volken decided that the kindof program he wanted to offer would gobeyond addressing the symptoms – itwould teach life skills, develop characterand deliver career training.

“We need to give [recovering addicts]the tools to stay sober, and that takestime – a minimum of two years,” hesays. The academy’s capacity, when it’sfully operational, will be 150 studentsaged 19 to 32. And after a $5,000 intakefee, all costs relating to the two-yearstay, such as housing, food, treatmentand education, are taken care of by theJohn Volken Foundation.

“It’s sometimes emotionally drain-ing, but we see differences from week

to week. And when our studentsgraduate and I meet their parentswho are grateful to have their sonsand daughters back, it’s simply amaz-ing,” he says.

And Mr. Volken hasn’t given up onfeeding the poor. “We also supportabout 80 orphanages in Africa, andmost of the money goes to feedingthe children, while the ultimate goalis to educate them so they becomeself-sufficient” he says, adding thathe had long dreamt of supporting anorphanage. Mr. Volken grew up in EastGermany, and when his father diednear the end of the Second World War,his mother had to give her three sons,including three-year-old John, into thecare of an orphanage for a year.

Travelling to Africa, Mr. Volkenwitnessed the plight of orphans andfelt compelled to help. He foundedLift the Children, an organization thataims to enable orphanages – and theircharges – to become independent,

very much like the graduates of theJohn Volken Academy.

“We have different programs wherethey learn to be self-sustaining,” saysMr. Volken, explaining that the differ-ence in approach resembles handingsomeone a fish to eat or, alternatively,teaching her or him to fish.

Mr. Volken says he’s busier thanever, spending up to 16 hours a dayat work. “I’ve always been very handson, even when I was in business,” hesays. “And we are really saving lives.I’m very grateful to be doing this.”

Mr. Volken is a religious man. As aMormon, he takes the scriptures seri-ously, including the directive to “helpthose who can’t help themselves.”Yet while his beliefs inspire him, heremembers being drawn to do chari-table work even before he joined thechurch. “Throughout my life, I’vealways taken the side of the underdog.When someone is hurting, in a way Iam hurting,” he says.

JOHN VOLKEN ACADEMY

“It’s sometimes emotion-ally draining, but we seedifferences from weekto week. And when ourstudents graduate and Imeet their parents whoare grateful to have theirsons and daughters back,it’s simply amazing.”John Volkenis an entrepreneur and philanthropist

Funding expansion delivers mentorship to catalyze economic development

When he was in his 20s, formerNational Chief of the Assem-bly of First Nations Shawn

Atleo had a Canadian Executive ServiceOrganization (CESO) mentor. “He wasan entrepreneur and had these greatdreams, but he didn’t know exactlywhat steps to take to get him to hisgoals,” says Wendy Harris, CESO’spresident and CEO. “It was wonderfulfor us to see him go so far, and one ofthe things he’s said about CESO is thatour volunteer advisers are similar toelders in First Nations culture.”

The organization has helped delivermentorship and advice to Canadiancommunities and to countries aroundthe world for 45 years, and on May 20th,

announced a significant program expan-sion. A 66 per cent increase in fundingfrom the Department of Foreign Affairs,Trade and Development VolunteerCooperation Program has made it pos-sible for CESO to facilitate 1,750 expertvolunteer assignments in 16 countriesacross Africa, Latin and South America,the Caribbean and Asia through its five-year “Strengthening Capacity throughInnovation and Volunteer Expertise”(STRIVE) program.

The funding expansion “allows usto expand our reach, building on ourwork with trade associations, chambersof commerce and governments, andtheir stakeholders, to work at a regionallevel,” says Ms. Harris.

As Canada’s baby boom generationmoves toward retirement, an increasingnumber of highly skilled experts areavailable to share their expertise ona global level. “Our pool of potentialvolunteers is just going to get bigger,and we find our volunteers approachtheir work with CESO with the samework ethic, commitment and clientfocus they applied in their careers,”says Ms. Harris.

Through consultation, advice andmentorship, CESO volunteers help theorganization’s clients achieve their eco-nomic development goals, sustainablyreducing poverty. “Basically, they act asa catalyst, speeding up the process,”says Ms. Harris. “One of our clients

said that it would take him six monthsto implement all of the adviser’s sug-gestions for his business – and that itsaved him five years of work.”

The organization’s water manage-ment projects in the Philippines haveenabled municipalities to improvewater service delivery dramatically. “It’schanged a situation in which water wasavailable for an hour a day, and wasn’tnecessarily potable, to one where po-table water is now available 24 hours.

“Projects like these are life chang-ing and the impacts far reaching,” shereports.

To learnmoreor donate to CESO, pleasevisit www.ceso-saco.com

CANADIAN EXECUTIVE SERVICE ORGANIZATION

Susan Wetmore has been onassignments around the world sincestarting as a CESO volunteer adviserin 2003. SUPPLIED

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T H E G LO B E A N D M A I L • F R I DAY , J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 5 SPONSOR CONTENT • AFP 7

Visit globeandmail.com/adv/heartofphilanthropy

1. Applauding the outstanding achievements of vulnerable kids who have overcome adversity to attain academic success. CHILDREN’S AID FOUNDATION; 2. Ten years ago, HIV was a death sentence. Today,with treatment, Alice is healthy and strong. DIGNITAS INTERNATIONAL; 3. Uniting to end violence against women. It’s time for change. FAMILY TRANSITION PLACE; 4. Donors help build world-class facilities andcollections. UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO LIBRARIES (GORDON BELRAY PHOTOGRAPHY); 5. Dog Guides help Canadians with disabilities lead more independent lives. LIONS FOUNDATION OF CANADA DOG GUIDES

Relay For Life unites Canadians toward a worldwhere no one fears cancer

By Pamela Fralick, President andCEO, Canadian Cancer Society

Everybody knows cancer. It’simpossible to escape the stories,experiences and memories of

those touched by a disease that isexpected to develop in two out of fiveCanadians. It affects every aspect ofour lives, touching us in ways we can’t

imagine until the time comes to join theestimated 196,900 other Canadians eachyear who will be diagnosed with cancer.

Working with Canadians from coastto coast, the Canadian Cancer Societyshares the emotions and experiencesof lives impacted by cancer. In fact, it isthese emotions, paired with a desirefor positive action, healing and com-munity, that formed the foundationfor a movement that would ultimatelychange the Canadian charitable land-scape – Relay For Life.

Since its beginnings in Canada in1999, Relay For Life has been fuelledby the simple idea that no one needfight cancer alone. The event involvesteams and individuals purposefully andreflectively walking around a track,participating in or watching meaning-ful ceremonies scheduled through

the event. It is aimed at bridging thebond shared by people with cancer,caregivers, families, survivors, friends,volunteers and businesses. Theycelebrate those who survive cancerwhile also remembering those lost tothe disease. For many, it is their firstexperience with the Canadian CancerSociety, helping to cement the uniquerole of the organization within com-munities from coast to coast.

It is truly a movement, representingthousands of Canadians, all touchedin one way or another by cancer. Likecancer, it knows no boundaries. RelayFor Life unites communities, bringingus together with each lap completedand each baton passed. Collectively itbrings us one step closer to creatinga world where no one fears cancer.

Since 1999, Relay For Life has raisedmore than $500-million, across nearly4,000 Relay events, involving almost2 million participants and 350,000volunteers. In the last year alone,more than $42-million was raised bynearly 14,000 teams in 500+ Relaysinvolving almost 130,000 Canadians.

With that success, it’s not surprisingthat Relay For Life faces a unique chal-lenge: the persistent perception thatgiven all of the activity and moneyraised, a cure should be just aroundthe corner. Certainly progress hasbeen made – today over 60 per centof Canadians diagnosed with cancerwill survive, compared to about 25per cent in the 1940s. And the cancerdeath rate is steadily going down. Butaccording to the most recent statisticsreleased last month, cancer isn’t go-ing away any time soon. In fact, thenumber of new cases is expected torise by 40 per cent in the next 15 yearsbecause of Canada’s rapidly aging andgrowing population.

It may be considered cliché to say,“the need has never been greater,”but that is the reality we face. Moneyraised through Relay For Life directlyfuels the fight against cancer byfunding Canada’s best and brightestresearchers who are working tirelesslytoward the next breakthrough. Moneyraised also helps to ease the burden ofcancer by providing vital informationservices and compassionate supportprograms for people with cancer andtheir families.

In a world in which everyone seemsto have a cancer story, Relay for Lifeoffers a way for those touched bythe disease to share their desire forpositive impact with a like-minded

community; essentially to make eachand every step they take a differencemaker. That is the legacy of Relay forLife and the reason for its enduringappeal.

OPINION

The Relay For Life is fuelled by the idea that no one need fight canceralone. SUPPLIED

Life-changing support forToronto mother and son

Andrea Chedas remembers veryclearly what life was like beforeshe was introduced to CNIB five

years ago. Her son, Tiago Martin, nownine years old, was born with cone-roddystrophy, an eye disorder that limitshis vision to no more than a few feetin front of him.

“It was a tough time,” says Ms.Chedas. “Tiago’s doctors did a great jobas doctors, but we needed something

more. There was no emotional or com-munity support.”

It wasn’t until Tiago was five thatMs. Chedas was referred by a friendto Dr. Catherine Chiarelli at the VisionInstitute of Canada, who connectedMs. Chedas and Tiago to CNIB, an or-ganization that helps Canadians whoare blind or partially sighted have theconfidence, skills and opportunities tofully participate in life.

“It changed our lives and openedup a whole world of resources,” addsMs. Chedas. “Once Tiago’s diagnosiswas confirmed, CNIB was there for us.”

Through CNIB, Tiago now has arehabilitation specialist who visits himat home.

“She helps him understand his world;and helps me to understand it as well,”says Ms. Chedas. “CNIB has also givenus access to a wide range of other sup-port staff and programs that have reallyhelped Tiago grow. He has been ableto see how other people with visionloss cope with the same challengesthat he faces, and he has made friendswith other children who have similarconditions. That’s been a big help.”

She says Tiago went from beingan insecure and introverted child to aself-confident and determined youngperson who has come to terms withhis situation.

“He has developed into what Iwould call a spirited child; very brightand very social. CNIB has gone a longway towards normalizing a situationthat had been devastating for us,” saysMs. Chedas.

But most important of all, she adds,is that CNIB has allowed Tiago to findhis voice.

“He can now stand up for himself,and that’s changed his life and mine,”she says.

For more information, visitwww.cnib.ca

CNIB

WEST PARK HEALTHCARE CENTRE FOUNDATION

A proud history of caring

Building on a legacy of community support and the generosity of individualsthat goes back more than 100 years, West Park Healthcare Centre Founda-tion is the official fundraising vehicle of West Park, a public hospital locatedin West Toronto that helps individuals manage difficult health challengeslike lung disease, diabetes, stroke, amputation and musculoskeletal issues.

In 1904, Sir William Gage, a teacher, businessman and philanthropist,purchased the Buttonwood Farm to offer as a planned gift. With supportfrom the National Sanitarium Association, West Park hospital opened andbegan offering care that has made life-changing differences to thousandsof patients and their families.

For more information, visit www.westpark.org/foundation.aspx

The lives of Tiago Martin and hismother Andrea Chedas were turnedaround due to CNIB’s support.SUPPLIED

BY THENUMBERS

77%of Canadiandonors agreethat charitiesplay animportant rolein society toaddress needsnot being metby governmentor the privatesector

7 in 10Canadianssay they havemade a financialdonation tocharity or anon-profitorganizationin the past 12months

Source: The AFPFoundation forPhilanthropy –Canada

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Health is only possible with mental healthKnowing this, CINIM develops practical, drug-free mentalhealth programs that help people of all ages improve allaspects of their health—in all stages of life.

One example is BreathingRoom™, our simple, effective onlinemental health program for youth. In 2014, it earned theprestigious True Imagination Award from the Alberta LieutenantGovernor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction.

cinim.orginfo@cinim.orgYour support makes health possible.

Donate today to West Park Foundation416-243-3698 | westpark.org

This year, West Park Healthcare Centre patient JamoiAnderson - along with three other West Park patients -will be representing Canada on the National SittingVolleyball Team in the Parapan Am Games. Help morepeople like Jamoi reach their goals.

Gilles Arsenault

President,Prince Edward IslandTeachers’ Federation

Kevin Casey

Managing Partner,The IDEA Factory

Pamela C. Fralick

President & CEO,Canadian Cancer Society

Minerva McCourt

Mayor,Town of Cornwall

Ronald Profit

QC,Cox & Palmer

Rowan Caseley

Mayor,Town of Kensington

Jeff Forbes

Managing Partner,KnightsbridgeRobertson Surrette

Shirley McAlary

City Councillor,Saint John

Sue Palmer

General Manager,Chateau Saint John

Darren Zwicker

Vice President ofFacilities, Terrapure

Jason Carlston

Vice President,Land for DreamDevelopment

Linda Eaton

Business Owner

Brent Marshall

Owner,RE/MAX Centre CityRealtor

Phil Otto

CEO,Revolve

Judy Wilson-Shee

Mayor,New Maryland

Keiver Calp

Director of Sales,Fundy Honda

Jeremy DeMerchant

Founder & CEO,Permission to SellConsulting Group Ltd.

Shantel Lipp

President,Saskatchewan HeavyConstruction Association

Jim Organ

Executive Director,Heavy Civil Associationof Nfld. & Labrador

Bill Whelan

Professor & Chair,Department of Physics,

Keith Bradbury

Broker and Co-owner,RE/MAX

Paddy Daly

Radio Host,VOCM Openline

Dr Mark Langer

Optometrist

Bert Munro

Vice President &General Manager,Associated Engineering

Chris WeirAssociate Director,Business Development

Michelle Boudreau

General Manager,Hotel Shediac

Darlene Compton

MLA,Belfast-Murray River

Chris Keevill

CEO,Colour(Communications Agency)

Rodney Mercer

Councillor,Town ofGrand Falls-Windsor

Paul Smith

Chief,Charlottetown

MeaghanBlanchard

Singer & Songwriter

Darren Colbourne

Former Pro HockeyPlayer

Kiki Kachafanas

CA,Breton CharteredAccountants

Eric Megarity

Deputy Mayor,City of Fredericton

John Sheehan

Stand-up Comedian

Steve Barber

Director, Shareholder,Red Island HospitalityGroup Inc.

Miles Clyne

Director, TycudaGroup at MacDougallInvestment Counsel Inc.

Davy Joly

Consultant,Investors Group

Su McVey

Senior Vice Presidentof Marketing,Mackenzie Investments

Jason Sharpe

Principal,Steers Insurance Ltd.

Scott Balfour

CFO and COO,Northeast United States& Caribbean, Emera Inc.

John Chamberlaine

President & CEO,Action Trucks

Paul Janes

Partner,Deloitte Canada

Dan McKeen

Vice Chair/Senior VPof Residential Services,Bell Aliant

Melissa Rizzi

VP of Operations,Mortgage Alliance

Bonnie Bagnall

Franchisee withSwiss ChaletRotisserie & Grill

Wes Cates

Former Running Back,SaskatchewanRoughriders

Barbara Jabbour

Owner/Operator ofPapa Joe’s Restaurant

Alan McIssac

Minister of Agricultureand Fisheries

Jane Riddell

COO,GoodLife Fitness

The Canadian Cancer Society celebrates and thanks the leadersof its first national Relay For Life Dream Team. Each member haspledged to raise $10,000 to help fuel the Society’s importantwork for all Canadians.

Thanks to the Dream Team, and all donors, participants andvolunteers across the country, Relay For Life is one of Canada’slargest and most important cancer fundraisers.

All funds raised support the best cancer research in Canada andenable our ability to influence the creation of healthy publicpolicies for all Canadians. Furthermore, Canadians living withcancer have access to the most reliable information and thesupport services they need for themselves and their families.

Together, we are fighting all cancers, for all Canadians inall communities. Give to the Dream Team and make yourdonation go all the way.

2015 Dream Team members

Cox & Palmer Facilities, TerrapureEnvironmental

New MarylandDepartment of Physics,University of PEI

Executive, Ernst &Young LLP

CharlottetownPolice Services

Steers Insurance Ltd.Mortgage AllianceCompany of Canada

GoodLife Fitness

Accept the baton. Pass it on.

relayforlife.ca/dreamteam

Canadian Cancer SocietyRelay For Life Dream Team