“You’re a local charity, I like that. I don’t have to turn on my TV to see what my donation is going to. Living downtown, I can just walk out my door and it’s all around me.”
These words come from long-time donor Fred. Fred is a steady monthly donor and has a planned gift for Family Services of Greater Vancouver in his Will. His passion for the people we support is clear, and we sat down with him to learn more about his philosophy of giving.
“I had a great childhood,” says Fred. “I grew up in a wonderful family, and I love being able to give back to people who might not have had that.” In conversation with Fred, it’s clear that while he reflects on his own positive childhood, he’s keenly aware that’s not the case for every family. “So many people that I’ve gotten to know had a very challenging time growing up. They really survived something.” With this awareness comes a desire to make life easier for his community. “You’re helping people do that, every day.”
Supporting Families
At FSGV, we believe that our clients should have the opportunity to define family. Families are dynamic, diverse, and unique, and our staff meet each one where they’re at, instead of taking a cookie-cutter approach.
For those struggling with the high cost of living, our Financial Empowerment team offers 1-on-1 coaching and community workshops; if a soon-to-be or new parent is stressed about pregnancy and raising a child, Healthy Connections offers counselling to work through any trauma-related issues; and for parents seeking resources and a chance to discuss parenting and learn about their child’s development, our Parenting Groups are a safe and supportive place. The common thread? Everyone is trying to make a better life for their family.
“If somebody is having a rough time but doing their best, that’s who I want to support,” says Fred. “Organizations like FSGV, that are focused on helping individuals and families, are so important in catching people who could otherwise be overlooked.”
What we do at FSGV really boils down to just that: helping the people in our community who need it most.
“If someone is having a rough time but doing their best, that’s who I want to support.”
– Fred, Monthly Donor
Giving Monthly
When Fred was younger, he supported charities with his time, including serving as president of the non-profit Society of Special Needs Adoptive Parents. As he’s gotten older, his situation has changed. “Now that I’m retired, most of my support is financial,” says Fred. “I like to donate monthly so I don’t miss any donations!”
Monthly giving is an accessible way to support the causes you care about most. Whether you’re busy with family life, your career, or travelling the world in retirement, monthly giving is a way to provide FSGV with ongoing, reliable support. Monthly donations like Fred’s allow us to plan for the future and imagine ways to expand our impact on our community.
“I’m focused on helping people,” says Fred. We are too, and with the steady gifts of donors like Fred, we can make sure there’s more support for people right in our own backyard.
Inspired to become a monthly donor? GET STARTED TODAY