Another instance of Debbie’s generosity involves remodelling her tenant’s apartment due to deteriorating conditions, and arranging their hotel stay in the meantime. Once complete, she was overjoyed to walk this family through their new home. In addition, Debbie is helping to supplement one of her tenant’s wages in order for this individual to maintain their employment and explore postsecondary education opportunities. This altruistic leader focuses on the root cause, meeting people with compassion and kindness: “I hate to see someone struggling. I have a passion for helping, and for seeing change.” While collaborating with the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, Debbie is an active member in several of the organization’s campaigns and projects. Debbie has been with Co-operators Insurance Company for 25 years, highlighting their donation of $15,000.00 in addition to her personal contribution of $35,000.00 toward Project Tiny Hope: “I am very lucky to work for a company that believes in their community, and shares a value system of giving back.” Delightedly, Debbie is supporting a debut project at the YWCA: a drop-in Coffee Group for their clients and residents, as well as for those with referrals -- which attendees of their Getting Ahead and Youth Independence programs may enjoy. “This is a setting to meet with other people and socialize out of the house, featuring motivational guest speakers and resumé-writing workshops. This Coffee Group will be piloted from October to January. We are currently seeking sponsors for this event, in helping eradicate poverty within our community -- ensuring that support is accessible and no one in our community feels that they are alone.” Though a closed group pilot project, the hope is to secure funding to expand in
2025 and offer Coffee Group to locals who perhaps have not yet explored the abundant opportunities presented at YWCA. Asked what fulfills Debbie in her role, she earnestly replies, “Witnessing the change in the lives of those impacted along the way, and celebrating their move forward in their lives. I do this because it fills my heart to make someone happy.” Debbie has been quietly giving back to her community for years -- whether through gifting a used car, or a pair of ice skates. Debbie’s sister thoughtfully adds to the conversation: “Debbie genuinely cares about the health and well-being of others, to the point that she will put herself last to ensure others have what they need to feel safe and well. She is a true humanitarian.” Debbie concludes by encouraging the ways in which families can receive support, even through modest measures. Working together with care, offering discounts and introducing re- sources are significant contributions toward cultivating a healthy and thriving community.
Hometown St. Thomas • October 2024 • Page 7
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