Saltspring Island, B.C. is now John’s home. So far I’ve dug up these projects that he's assisted on the island....and I have a list of others which I’ll add when I’ve talked to those who benefited.
SHINE: Support Help Inspire Nurture & Encourage
John’s financial assistance has helped low income families enroll their kids in music, drama and dance classes. So far 65 kids have worked with the Stagecoach theatre, had instruments rented for them, or attended fiddle and orchestra summer camps.
Melanie Morris 250-537-9416 melmor@telus.net
Saltspring community food bank.
John’s significant contribution helped in the construction of a brand new building for the food bank. He also donated fridges and freezers.
Melanie Morris - above
Friends of Saltspring Library.
John’s contribution to a campaign to buy land for a new library put the campaign ‘over the top’ according to David Borrowman. “It was significant and timely as it was a catalyst to bring in other contributions,” he said.
David Borrowman 250-537-5984 jdborrowman@uniserve.com
Saltspring film festival
John donated half of all proceeds that came from community partners in 2006. “His donation acted as a springboard for other donations and new equipment,’ said Dick Grier. “He asked for financials and was really interested where the money would go. Then he delivered the cheque in person. Very classy.”
Dick Grier 250-537-4406 xl@pobox.com
Smiles to Disneyland
John was raised by a single Mom, so he knows the pressures, and joys, that a single parent experiences. He called Heather McDonnell, and asked her to find five moms & kids… and take them to Disneyland. “It was incredible” said Heather. “It was four life-changing days for all of twenty of us. It was enlightening, full of laughter and sharing and fun. It was incredible for the moms and their kids… and it inspired me to want to give back.” John told Heather not to say who financed the trip, so with this story, those single moms will now know who helped them. I hope he doesn’t mind.
Heather McDonnell ymirbowl360@gmail.com 250.537.8358
Saltspring Island Conservancy
John has helped the SSIC with three projects:
The Stewards in Training programming. This program allows kids in grades 3-7 to head out for an in-depth ecological field day with a trained biologist. John’s two years of help has sent over 750 kids out to learn about their island home. It gives middle school kids an ecology credit and has really driven up interest in ecology courses in high school.
Mt. Erskine. The SSIC was able to purchase 100 acres of land which contains a rare ecosystem on the mountain. It’s a popular green-space and hiking area… and will now be permanently protected.
SSIC operations. John’s funding has allowed more capacity, hiring of a professional biologist… leading to more local awareness of land protection.
“It’s real simple” said Karen Hudson. “We couldn’t do any of this without John.” Karen Hudson ssiconservancy@saltspring.com 250-538-0318
Jazzin’ around
John funded a jazz workshop for the Gulf Island Senior Secondary High School… which included renting the Hammond B3 organ and paying the expenses of legendary Vancouver keyboard artist, Bob Murphy. “It was the most inspirational and successful workshop we’ve ever done,” said Monik Nordine saxgirl@gmail.com 250-537-7535
Murakami Gardens
John’s resources ensured this project to build 27 affordable rental units for people of low income got off to a healthy start. “John’s contribution was a total bonus. He helped us save time and money,” said Rob Grant, Exec. Director, Saltspring & Southern Gulf Islands Community Services Society. “There’s a huge demand for this project,” says Janis Gauthier, Project Manager. “John wasn’t worried about his investment… he is unique because he has faith in the community.”
Rob Grant 250-537-9971
Janis Gauthier 250-653-0041