An evening of generosity and laughter, highlighted by the appearance of a popular Canadian humourist, was held June 22 to benefit families in Abbotsford whose children live with special needs.
Thanks to the financial generosity of more than 600 guests who attended Rant and Raise with Rick Mercer at Tradex, those families will continue to access the help they receive from the Fraser Valley Child Development Centre and Matthew’s House.
Mercer kept the audience in stitches with 90 minutes of anecdotes and commentary, interspersed with media clips, focused on his love for Canada.
“What does it mean to be Canadian?” asked Mercer, as he told non-stop stories ranging from childhood anecdotes to his career in journalism and variety of extreme adventures as host of CBC’s The Rick Mercer Report.
Those attending were also treated to a reception that included wines provided by Mt. Lehman Winery and appetizers from local restaurants and farms on the Abbotsford Farm Circle Tour.
Watching artist Linda Klippenstein create an abstract piece for the silent auction was a popular attraction as the guests mingled.
Bid winner Mike Lobe was thrilled to take home the colourful resin painting that Klippenstein said she designed to pay “homage to the vibrant voice of Mercer’s rants” and could “also be a piece that can be incorporated into any contemporary environment.”
Five lucky guests also won raffle prize packages with travel themes.
Matthew’s House, located on Marshall Road and operated by Communitas Supportive Care Society, supports families by providing individualized, quality care in a homelike environment for children who live with complex care needs.
The Fraser Valley Child Development Centre (FVCDC) provides opportunities and services which enhance the quality of life for children with developmental needs.
Both organizations are funded through a blended partnership with government and private donors and rely on fundraising events like Rant and Raise to further support the services they offer.
FVCDC executive director Karen McLean and Karyn Santiago, chief executive officer for Communitas Supportive Care Society, praised the support of the community for this fundraiser.
“This is a community that cares about children and families and that was clearly evidenced by the commitment of sponsors, event guests, volunteers and organizers alike,” the said.
Visit mattshouse.ca or fvcdc.org for more information.