Black Tie Event in Support of the Homeless in Victoria

Victoria, September 24, 2008 – Our Place Society will be the beneficiary of a black tie event called “A Taste of France,” to be held on December 6th at the Victoria Conference Centre and supported by Canada Life. The event is the 2nd annual gala fundraiser to help the homeless in Victoria.

Canada Life Regional Marketing Consultant Daryl Clegg says, “Homelessness is a serious problem from which many people choose to avert their eyes. Thankfully, there are organizations like Our Place that are committed to giving the homeless the support they need to turn things around and get off the street — to give them a hand up, not just a hand out. It really makes a difference not only to the homeless, but to the community as a whole.”

Clegg got involved with the Our Place Society last year, organizing “A Taste of Italy,” a gala that raised approximately $40,000. This year, he and his organizing committee are aiming even higher with a fundraising goal of $100,000 for “A Taste of France.” The event will feature a 5 course authentic French dinner catered by the Fairmont Empress. The event will also feature a live and silent auction as well as entertainment headlined by veteran Canadian rock band Chilliwack.

As was the case last year, Clegg’s volunteer efforts are supported by a financial contribution from The Key to Giving™, the national corporate citizenship program of Canada Life, Great-West Life and London Life. Through The Key to Giving, the companies contribute to non-profit, charitable and community organizations across the country to address health and wellness, education, social services, arts and culture and civic initiatives. The program also supports the volunteer involvement of staff and financial security advisors in their efforts to meet the needs of the communities in which they live and work.

Reverend Al Tysick of Our Place is pleased to have Canada Life step up to the plate with the fundraising event. “We are grateful that Canada Life has chosen to support Our Place in this way,” says Tysick. “In fact, this event is now the Society’s major fundraising event of the year. Everyone had a great time last year, and I look forward to seeing more people enjoying themselves and at the same time supporting the work we do at Our Place.”

The Our Place Society is a nonprofit organization that provides Victoria’s homeless with transitional housing, meals, support and advocacy, hygiene facilities, training and more.