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Nearly 30-years ago, Richard Thomas, a determined BC Transit operator, set out with his dream of making a difference in the lives of terminally-ill children in our communities. Out of that dream was born the Help Fill A Dream Foundation, which is one of the two beneficiaries of BC Transit’s annual fundraising campaign, and this year, BC Transit is asking you to be a part.
BC Transit and its affiliated unions are holding their annual employee charity fundraising campaign from October 14 through November 4 to help benefit charities that continue to offer hope and support to some of the most vulnerable in our local communities . . . and we are inviting others to join the fundraising effort.
This year also marks a significant milestone for BC Transit and the Help Fill A Dream Foundation. The BC Transit fundraising campaign kicks off the 30-year anniversary celebration of the Help Fill A Dream Foundation. In that time, over 2,100 children from Vancouver Island have had their dreams fulfilled. From meeting rock stars to traveling to Disneyland, or even things as seemingly simple as an IPad to stay in touch with family and friends or a bedroom makeover to create a personal sanctuary, each child’s unique dreams being fulfilled is celebrated as the huge success it is.
“Being able to trace the roots of the Help Fill a Dream Foundation back to one of our dedicated operators nearly 30-years ago is a source of pride for BC Transit,” said Manuel Achadinha, President and CEO of BC Transit. “With support from our employees, we hope this year’s campaign will be the most successful and continue to show our commitment to the United Way and the Help Fill a Dream Foundation.”
“We are very proud of our members at Unifor local 333 for their continued commitment to BC Transit’s fundraising campaign,” said Ben Williams president of the union representing Victoria transit operators and mechanics, and the union representative on the BC Transit fundraising committee. “Members of our communities both near and far have benefited from the generosity of the Help Fill a Dream Foundation and the United Way.”
Just like how Richard Thomas inspired his colleagues, organization and community 30 years ago, his legacy continues to inspire now. Help Fill a Dream provides hope, help and happiness for children with life threatening conditions by fulfilling their dreams. Help Fill a Dream also improves the quality of life for children through special projects and assists families with care and financial support.
“Dreams have a ripple effect – touching not only the child, but all those surrounding them: parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents and other family members; health care and support workers; friends and neighbours; the entire community. Everyone is united in making a child’s Dream come true,” said Craig Smith, Executive Director of the Help Fill a Dream Foundation. “Never underestimate the power of a Dream. It is transformative. The power of hope and happiness are important elements in helping a child get better.”
Visit the Help Fill a Dream Foundation website to donate and be a Dream Maker. You can also Make Your Mark and donate to the United Way of Greater Victoria on their website.
As always, funds raised during the annual employee charity fundraising campaign are divided between the Foundation and the United Way of Greater Victoria.
Thank you for helping shape our communities!
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Media Contact
Mike Russell
Media and Public Relations Advisor, BC Transit
media@bctransit.com
250-995-5720
