An Abbotsford business owner has donated $10,000 to the Salvation Army.
Dao Tran, owner of Abby Bike Shop and a member of Living Hope Christian Reformed Church, has volunteered ringing bells at Salvation Army kettles.
He has also volunteered at an all-weather shelter at his church, John Maclure Elementary and a number of local organizations and events, including Ride to Work Week, Canada Day, Remembrance Day, concerts in the park at Mill Lake, Earth Day and Agrifair.
“Giving back to my community is a blessing,” Tran says. “The Salvation Army does such important work. It is my honour to support them.”
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Friend Kelly Chahal said she wasn’t surprised when Tran shared his thoughts about wanting to present a donation to a local charity during the pandemic. She has watched him step forward many times in Abbotsford.
“It takes courage to put yourself out there and Dao does that because he is a genuine individual who wants to participate in making his community successful,” Chahal said.
Another friend, Ross Siemens, said that Tran epitomizes what Abbotsford is all about – “entrepreneurial, hardworking, loyal, grateful and generous.”
Rob Studiman, community ministries director for the Salvation Army in Abbotsford, said the agency is grateful for the donation from Tran.
“Even during tough times, Mr. Tran and his family found it in their hearts to reach out to the Salvation Army, showing that everyone can truly make a difference in our community,” Studiman said.
Tran lives in Abbotsford with his wife and 15-year-old son. He has been in Canada for 35 years since coming here at the age of 21. He had been living in a Hong Kong refugee camp after escaping communist Vietnam.
Tran spent 32 years working for The Bike Shop on Ware Street before owner Ralph Bergen retired. Tran then opened his own business on Gladwin Road.
The donation will go towards the many programs and services offered at The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope on Gladys Avenue.