A NIGHT IN OLD HOLLYWOOD
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GET TICKETS HERE DELTA GRAND, OKANAGAN
NOVEMBER 4, 2023
November • 2023
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The Power of Mamas: Creating a Safe Haven for Canadian Families Living in poverty is far from easy. Poverty affects every aspect of life, and when coupled with the stress of caring for a family, it can seem insurmountable—mothers know this perhaps best of all. Millions of families in Canada grapple with poverty—Statistics Canada reported that over 10 per cent of citizens live under the poverty line. As more and more Canadian families face poverty and seeking support seems to yield no results, where can a mother go? Mamas for Mamas, a national charitable organization, recognizes this pressing issue and stands at the forefront of a critical mission: to support mothers and caregivers facing poverty-related struggles. Committed to offering more than just a temporary fix, their innovative approach aims to provide immediate relief and create lasting change in the systems that perpetuate cycles of hardship. And it’s not just for moms in the traditional sense—with an inclusive vision that extends to caregivers of all gender identities,
Mamas for Mamas envisions a future where no Mama or child is left behind. A COMMUNITY THAT CARES When struggling families enter the doors of Mamas for Mamas, they find more than just material support. In these caring community hubs, the organization fosters a warm, welcoming environment where both mothers and their children feel secure. In the Karma Market, an offering unique to the organization, kindness is the only currency required—families access clothing, shoes, seasonal wear, and crucial baby essentials. Mama for Mama's intake process also facilitates access to formula, diapers, and baby furniture. Additionally, Mamas for Mamas provides vital support in navigating resources for food security, affordable housing, education, and mental health counselling, all at no cost to those who qualify. Families receive preventative and intervention-based poverty relief through resource coordination
© COURTESY OF MAMAS FOR MAMAS
and sharing economies. When crisis strikes, Mamas for Mamas steps up. When British Columbia’s communities were distressed by wildfires, Mamas for Mamas took their work to the next level, rallying support and donations to share their support. Donations were used to aid evacuees spanning the Okanagan, Shuswap, Kamloops, Red Deer, and the Northwest Territories, covering an astounding 49,751 square kilometres. In addition to supporting frontline workers like firefighters and RCMP, Mamas for Mamas extended a helping hand to
Temporary Foreign Farm Workers, who were left vulnerable when the wildfires left them unemployed or in unsafe work environments. True to their mission, the organization was there for Canadian families—a testament to the power of Mamas. A NIGHT IN OLD HOLLYWOOD GALA: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER This November, Mamas for Mamas is proud to present the "A Night In Old Hollywood" gala on Saturday, November 4th, at the Delta Grand by Marriott, in partnership with Doak Shirreff Lawyers LLP. Hosted
by dynamic duo Jillian Harris and Casey Clarke, this event promises an unforgettable evening, complete with a delicious four-course meal, fine wine, and a night of entertainment and auctions. More than just a glamorous affair, this gala aims to raise funds, awareness, and the standard of care for those facing poverty. As the Mamas put it, this event seeks not only to raise funds but to “raise the bar on how we treat each other.” It’s hard enough being a parent without the stress of clothing or food insecurity, lack of appropriate mental health care, and everything else that can easily fall through the cracks in our busy society. In all areas of need, Mamas for Mamas provides support in a community that cares. You can play a part in creating caring communities nationwide. Together, we can build a future where no Mama or child is left behind. Learn more and donate at mamasformamas.org
Ryan Reynolds to Be Honoured with the Order of British Columbia Beloved actor and proud Vancouverite Ryan Reynolds is set to receive the esteemed Order of British Columbia alongside 13 fellow distinguished honorees, including Dr. Penny Ballem, Vancouver Coastal Health board
© REUTERS/BANG SHOWBIZ
chair. This prestigious accolade will celebrate their exceptional contributions and service. "This honour is a mark of excellence, reflected in the service and achievements of these incredible British Columbians,” Janet Austin, the lieutenant governor of British Columbia, said in a statement. “Their accomplishments have left an indelible mark on their communities, and ensuing legacies will impact our province to the benefit of future generations." Over the past 34 years, the B.C. government has actively promoted awareness of the province's highest honour to ensure that exceptional individuals from all walks of life and regions of the province have the opportunity to be recognized. To date, the province has received over 6,600 public nominations for the Order of B.C. This year, Reynolds shares the distinction with other well-
respected names, like children's entertainer Raffi Cavoukian, Sarah McLachlan and Bryan Adams. Other members include environmentalist David Suzuki, producer David Foster, politician David Lam, music talent scout Sam Feldman and conservationist George Reifel. "While they are not officially part of the Marvel Universe, these 14 remarkable individuals are superheroes. They have contributed in unique and profound ways to our province, our nation and beyond, through leadership, selflessness and generosity," Premier David Eby said in a press release. This year, 224 nominations were received for the order, bringing the cumulative count to 503 since its inception in 1989. An investiture ceremony for the recipients is scheduled to take place at Government House in Victoria. No stranger to generosity, Reynolds is often highlighted
for his contributions to causes that inspire positive change, particularly close to home. Last summer, he and his wife, Blake Lively, donated to Canadian charity Water First Education & Training Inc. to support locally based, hands-on skills training and education programs. The pair’s $500,000 contribution will provide resources for more young Indigenous adults to become water treatment plant operators and environmental water science technicians and engage Indigenous school-aged students in water science. “Access to clean drinking water is a basic human right. Canada is home to over 20 per cent of the planet’s freshwater—an abundance that’s envied around the world,” the Deadpool actor said of the donation. “There’s absolutely no reason Indigenous communities should not have access to safe, clean water.” Reynolds was also recognized
by Bring Change to Mind, a charity co-founded by actress Glenn Close to end the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health. In October, Reynolds received the Robin Williams Legacy of Laughter Award, which is awarded annually by the late actor's children Zak, Zelda and Cody. Of the award, Reynolds said "I'm incredibly honoured and touched to be here and also just to spend time with Mr. Williams' family... This is incredible." Others recognized with the Order of British Columbia this year include Dr. Jane Buxton, the medical lead for harm reduction at the B.C. Centre for Disease Control, street nurses Evana Brennan and Susan Giles, who have dedicated years to serving Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, and Dr. Penny J. Ballem, who spearheaded the province's COVID-19 vaccination response. Source: Reuters ADVERTORIAL
Holding a Feather: Remembering The Legacy of Iain Speirs It is said new beginnings are of- elders and the film cast allowed ten disguised as painful endings. audiences to better understand the As Iain transitioned into the impacts of generational trauma. spirit world so unexpectedly to us, friends across Turtle Island “His love for Bones of Crows spoke of a fallen feather. was genuinely astronomical With boundless energy, Iain and we will miss his passion promoted allyship and healing and dedication. Iain’s tireless for youth and their communi- work to support ILFP has proties. He sought daily to push the vided opportunity for healing boundaries of advocacy through across countless lives. Iain’s the nonprofit he cofounded, I work as our National Tour Love First Peoples (ILFP). Un- Director in Western Canada doubtedly, his proudest achieve- during our community screenment will have been his last, ings not only gave Indigenous the highly successful tour of 25 communities the chance to see communities and cities in B.C. the film, but also provided of the acclaimed Bones of Crows comfort and assistance in their film prior to its cinematic release journey towards healing.” in June, and presently a five-part —Trish Dolman, President, miniseries on CBC and APTN. Screen Siren Pictures Inc. Bones of Crows and other films like Indian Horse that Iain also “It’s unique to meet someone like toured to remote communities Iain who led with his heart to nationally were essential to create change through action. advancing reconciliation, as Very grateful for his commitment Canadians need to understand to Bones of Crows and for the the harsh realities that residential kindness and love he gave to our school survivors have faced—the performers and communities as weight of which they and their they brought our film to audiences communities continue to bear across Canada.” today. Within the communities, —Marie Clements, the film and conversations with Bones of Crows writer/director
“Our beloved Iain brought so many nations and people from all walks together in hopes of restoring spirit and love within our beings. He was a part of us, and we have been truly blessed.” —Gaypaygw’m Ganauu (Pansy Wright-Simms), Gitxsan Nation For Iain, touring brought the added joy of meeting a kindred spirit—then 11-year-old actor Summer Testawich, who plays the leading role of Aline as a young girl. Together with Summer’s mother, she and Iain travelled to many nations. Iain marvelled at the light Summer carried; recognizing in her a part of himself, they developed a unique bond of friendship. Today, as we set our sights on new beginnings, we are grateful to welcome Summer as ILFP National Youth Ambassador. Summer is a brilliant actor and a multitalented, inspirational leader with wisdom beyond her years. As an avid sewer, she is poised to inspire the thousands of youths enrolled in our sewing skills labs across 20 community schools.
IAIN SPEIRS AND SUMMER TESTAWICH © COURTESY OF I LOVE FIRST PEOPLES
“Working with ILFP allows my ancestors guide me, Iain will me to motivate youth across always walk beside us.” Canada, help them believe in themselves, find their passion —Forever in our hearts, and live with purpose,” said Josée Lusignan, life partner Summer. While a feather has and ILFP president fallen, we know it is held in Massey Whiteknife, friend good hands for future generaand ILFP executive co-lead tions. “Iain will always hold a With Summer, our board and special place in my heart and as program coordinators
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