At its heart, Say It Now urges people to reach out to those who have made a profound difference in their lives, expressing gratitude and appreciation without hesitation. This simple act can change lives. But for nonprofits, gratitude is not only a personal expression—it’s also a vital tool for building stronger, more resilient communities.

Imagine a volunteer who has worked tirelessly for years, never expecting recognition. Imagine the impact of receiving a heartfelt note of thanks, acknowledging the difference they’ve made in the lives of countless individuals. Imagine a donor being told that their contribution didn’t just fund a project but changed the course of someone’s life. These moments matter, and they are what Say It Now is all about.

But the ripple effect doesn’t stop there. When someone receives a genuine expression of gratitude, they are more likely to express appreciation in return. This creates a chain reaction of acknowledgment, intention, and connection. The gratitude doesn’t just stay between two individuals—it spreads throughout communities, empowering people to build stronger, more supportive relationships.

For NGOs, Say It Now represents an opportunity to create a gratitude-driven culture. By publicly and privately recognizing staff, volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries, nonprofits can foster an environment where everyone feels valued. And when people feel appreciated, they are more engaged, more motivated, and more likely to remain committed to the cause.

Beyond the organizational impact, Say It Now is shaping the way communities interact. Whether it’s thanking a frontline worker, a teacher, or a neighbor, the movement reminds us that gratitude strengthens the social fabric that holds us together. For NGOs working in areas affected by social inequality, displacement, or conflict, gratitude can serve as a healing force—one that brings people together and reminds us of our shared humanity.

In the end, the Say It Now movement is not just about individual acts of gratitude; it’s about creating a global culture that values appreciation and connection. By embracing this philosophy, NGOs can become the driving force behind a world where gratitude leads the way.

Photo Credit

Photo is from iStock

During his TEDx speech, Green asked a question that resonated deeply with his audience: Why wait? Why do so many of us delay sharing the words that could uplift someone, offer closure, or strengthen a connection? For Green, the regret of unspoken gratitude is personal. His journey to founding Say It Now was sparked by his own reflections on missed opportunities to acknowledge the people who had made a significant impact on his life. He came to realize that the moments we often regret the most are the ones in which we failed to let someone know how much they meant to us.

“Don’t assume you have time,” Green told the audience, encouraging everyone to take immediate action. For Green, expressing gratitude isn’t just about kindness; it’s about enriching the lives of others by sharing the appreciation we often keep inside. His message is as simple as it is profound: relationships are the cornerstone of our lives, and expressing gratitude for those relationships should never be postponed.

At its core, the Say It Now movement isn’t about casual “thank yous” or fleeting acknowledgments. It’s about creating deep, meaningful connections through genuine expressions of gratitude. Green emphasizes that it’s not just about recognizing someone for a single moment—it’s about recognizing the ongoing, sometimes quiet ways in which others help shape our lives. Whether it’s a mentor who offered guidance during a difficult time or a friend who supported you through a personal challenge, Say It Now is about telling those people how much they’ve contributed to who you are today. “Relationships matter,” Green says. “Close relationships are a treasure.”

The impact of the movement extends far beyond personal relationships. Green is quick to highlight how gratitude has profound ripple effects, benefiting mental health, overall well-being, and even workplace culture. Research has shown that gratitude strengthens interpersonal relationships, improves emotional health, and fosters positive environments. In workplaces, leaders who express appreciation create teams that are more engaged, collaborative, and motivated.

Say It Now encourages us to break the cycle of postponement and to take action—whether that’s by writing a letter, making a phone call, or speaking to someone face-to-face. By doing so, we create a cycle of intention and acknowledgment. This ripple effect builds a legacy of gratitude, inspiring others to pause and reflect: Who helped me along the way? Who made a difference in my life? Expressing gratitude not only strengthens the connection between you and the recipient but also motivates others to do the same. In this way, gratitude spreads from one person to the next, creating a broader culture of appreciation.

Since Green first took the stage at TEDx, the Say It Now movement has grown into a global initiative, touching the lives of millions. Over two million expressions of gratitude have already been shared through letters, phone calls, social media, and personal interactions. But for Green, the goal is bigger than numbers. The next milestone is to reach 10 million expressions of gratitude, but the ultimate aim is to build a worldwide community where gratitude is a daily practice and human connection is prioritized.

The movement has sparked conversations about the importance of expressing gratitude in all areas of life—from personal relationships to the workplace. Say It Now encourages us to go beyond the surface and reflect on the deep impact people have had on our lives. As Green has said, “It’s not about saying ‘thank you’ for something small. It’s about recognizing those who have played a significant role in shaping who you are.”

The message is clear: don’t wait. Time is fleeting, and the opportunity to express your gratitude may pass you by if you wait too long. By fostering a culture of gratitude, Say It Now is helping to build stronger relationships and create lasting legacies of appreciation. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation, a simple letter, or a phone call, the time to act is now.

As Say It Now continues to grow, the movement invites us all to stop, reflect, and express gratitude to the people who have shaped our lives. The power of gratitude is transformative—it creates connections, deepens relationships, and enriches both the giver and the recipient. In Green’s words, “Close relationships are a treasure.” Say It Now encourages us all to cherish those relationships, to nurture them, and to let the people in our lives know just how much they matter. It’s a message of hope, connection, and community—and it’s a message that resonates across generations and cultures.

Whether through letters, social media, or face-to-face conversations, Say It Now invites you to be part of a global movement that changes lives—one expression of gratitude at a time. With every word spoken and every message shared, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging those who have made a real difference. And in doing so, we enrich not only their lives but also our own.

Photo Credit

Photo is by Debby Hudson on Unsplash

Drawing on thousands of notes from team meetings at his dealerships, the book was initially a professional reflection. However, with encouragement from his wife Diana and one of his daughters, Priestner added deeply personal stories, revealing a side of himself his children barely knew. In the opening chapter, Priestner recounts a chaotic childhood marked by alcoholic parents and financial instability. Despite these challenges, he says, “If the book helps anyone, I’m thrilled.”

In an interview, Priestner shared how his personal journey mirrors the hidden struggles many others experience, particularly the challenges that often remain unspoken. “We all have a story,” he said, noting that his transparency about his past was motivated by a desire to help his children and grandchildren understand his life better.

Priestner’s entrepreneurial journey began when he dropped out of university to sell cars, determined to avoid the financial hardships his parents faced. His determination quickly paid off—he became the top Chrysler salesman in Canada within his first year. From there, his career took off, and at the age of 26, he and his twin brother Mike bought into a struggling Chrysler dealership in London, Ontario. Within a year, the dealership turned around, and new car sales tripled.

However, the pressures of success took a toll. Priestner battled alcoholism, saw his first marriage end, and experienced a rift with his brother. But over time, he sought mindfulness practices and Buddhism, finding peace and balance in both his personal and professional life. He attributes much of his growth to working through his emotions and stresses the importance of this ongoing effort: “If you’re not working on that, your life is going to be pretty tough.”

Having founded AutoCanada, Priestner left the company in 2017. His book not only recounts his business success but also serves as a testament to his personal growth and journey toward contentment. All proceeds from the book go to Well-being Canada, a mental health initiative founded by Priestner and his wife Diana, which focuses on providing youth with wellness tools.

For more information, or to purchase the book, visit www.notesforthechildren.com or find it on Amazon.

Website: Possible Dream Foundation         Follow: Facebook

LAAH: What exactly is it that you do?

Camille: I am a mother and caregiver to children with disabilities and the co-founder of the Possible Dream Foundation. For over 30 years my husband Michael and I have adopted or been the legal guardians to children with special needs, with both physical and neurological conditions – 88 in total. We would take in children who were too medically fragile for the families or hospitals to care for, often serving as their last hope, and allowing these children to live meaningful and independent lives. About 15 of the children were even left on my doorstep as infants by overwhelmed parents.

The foundation serves as support for the cost of housing, feeding, and caring for adopted Geraldi children. It also provides job training for disabled adults, connections to community resources, therapeutic rehabilitation or hospice care for people with special-needs, and education for parents in care of special-needs children, especially with early intervention, physical and speech therapy, and patterning. People would fly from all over the world to meet me for my non-conventional, hands-on training.

Young Michael and some of the children.

LAAH: When did you start and why do you do it? What is the motivation or passion that keeps you going?

Camille: I have naturally been a caregiver my entire life. I was a nurse for about 17 years taking care of sick children – and had already adopted multiple children before I left the hospital – and that is how Michael and I met, he a doctor. We fell in love, started a family of our own and then adopted the first child, Darlene, in 1986. I was so lucky to have a husband who let me follow my dreams and never said no. Within 10 years our family was already at 31 people and counting! I always wanted a large family, but had no idea the size and scope our foundation would reach when we adopted Darlene.

LAAH: Do you feel that what you have done so far has made a difference? If so, can you explain how?

Camille: I know I have made a difference in these children’s lives! Many came to me with such serious disabilities they were believed to die within a few months, but with the attention, care and stability my volunteers and I provide they have survived.

I think the best example is with my most recent child, Isabella. Isabella was born addicted to cocaine because her birth mother was a severe drug addict. Most social workers in the Miami area know me so they gave me a call the day Isabella was born and I went straight to the hospital. The mother obviously could not take her daughter home, and truthfully didn’t want the child even if she could, and most people don’t want drug addicted babies because they cry around the clock and never sleep, so she went home with me. I quickly realized that Isabella wasn’t visually tracking anything, and she wasn’t responding to any voices. I remember telling Mike, “I don’t think this baby can hear or see!”

I spent so much time over the next months and years stimulating and patterning Isabella. The brain grows 600 times its birth size in the first year so constant and consistent patterning will work and improve every part of the brain, even of a drug-addicted baby. Twenty-four hours a day Isabella was stimulated by myself, volunteers and even grandparents from the foster grandparent program I started to rock boarder babies.

I remember it was summer time and we were all outside when all the sudden Isabella’s eyes moved when I walked by and I saw her smile. I never cried so much as I did that day! Isabella is now almost nine (Christmas Eve baby), lives with me and is home schooled. Isabella didn’t come to us to die; she came to us for protection and now lives a normal little-girl life.

Some of the family gathered in 2017.

LAAH: Who are your allies and supporters in this enterprise?

Camille: Over the years we’ve had various support systems from families and churches. There is one family that donates every Christmas and another woman who has donated $100 each month since she saw our story on TV about 25 years ago. She actually came to our home to meet us a few years ago and it was so beautiful to finally meet the woman who has blessed us so. We also set up a sponsorship program when I was regularly taking in babies in the ‘90s and early 2000s and at times one baby would have multiple family sponsors. However, today few people support us monetarily. All of those cute babies have now grown up and it is difficult to admit, but adult special needs individuals are truly shunned from society.

LAAH: Do you have plans to grow your involvement, to expand the scope of your project? If so, can you elaborate on these plans?

Camille: I am now 68 and Michael has preceded me in exiting this earth. After a year a fighting he passed from the cancer mesothelioma on March 8, 2016. It was devastating for us all, but he was a fighter. Mike cared for the children and even continued to practice at his doctor’s office up until a few months before he passed.

As I age, I can’t expect those around me – my two biological daughters and my volunteers and employees – to take over at the scale I did and give up as much of their time. For now we are enjoying the company of and loving the children we already have, providing the best life we can for them.

LAAH: Tell us a little more about Michael’s passing.

Camille: Michael was diagnosed 15 months before his passing and in that time he received so much love from our children. There were always at least six kids with us when he went in for chemotherapy. They would each bring something to do, like Spiderman movies on their portable DVD player or crossword puzzles, to help Michael keep his mind off his treatment. When the point came that he was unable to make it upstairs to the bedroom and he had to sleep on the couch, the children took it upon themselves to take shifts to be there with him at all times. Sometimes people ask, “what’s in it for us?” That right there! Their love! It was obvious how much Michael loved his children and they gave it right back when he needed it the most.

I never allow myself to cry in front of the children – that’s what showers are for. But the children still think of Michael and feel his presence. One time we were outside and when the wind blew Angelica, who is 23 and has Down syndrome, said, “shhh that’s daddy talking to us.”

LAAH: Like anything in life worth working for there must be difficulties and struggles too. Can you share with us what have been your greatest challenges?

Camille: Over the years was have faced more struggles than you could believe. We were vandalized by neighbors who were not supportive of our mission; our home was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 more recently our home in Hayesville, NC was struck by lightning and burned to the ground, but as a gift from God our entire family was away at camp when that happened. However, the greatest challenge we’ve faced is Michael’s passing and learning to live every day without his presence.

Geraldi children!

LAAH: How can people help you?

Camille: As a physician Michael could have lived a luxurious life of yachts and travel, but he cared so much for the kids that he gave most of his salary to the Possible Dream Foundation and was the primary supporter. Since his passing, funds have been tight. With 25 children still under our care, it is not a cheap task and we humbly and gratefully accept donations at our website at: http://possibledream.org/

LAAH: Would like to share a video with us?

Camille: We haven’t been featured in a video in years, but this is one of our favorites from 60 Minutes.

LAAH: Is there anything you would like to point out for our readers?

Camille: Here are a few resources that I’d love to point people toward.

You can read about the children I specifically mentioned, as well as the others on the Meet their family page.

You can learn more about mesothelioma, the cancer that took Michael away from us here.

A great, thoughtful TEDx Talk about people with disabilities and how they are viewed by society.

~~~

The Life As A Human team thanks Camille, Michael and the Possible Dream Foundation for the amazing (understatement) work they have done and are doing to help those with special needs, and for giving us this interview. If you know Camille or anyone at the Possible Dream Foundation, please leave them a comment. We know they would love to hear from you. If you are in a position to help with support, please do so.

Photo Credits

All Photos Are © Possible Dream Foundation

With each fair trade certified stitch in our partner’s factory, Joggo is giving back in order to educate refugee kids in different parts of the world.

Website: Joggo

Follow: Facebook | Twitter

LAAH: What exactly is it that you do?

Mohamed: Joggo, which stands for Journey to Greater Good, is a brand of messenger bags manufactured in Nepal by women entrepreneurs under fair trade terms. With the sale of each Joggo bag, we help to support refugee education through our partnership with CARE Canada. The social aspect is just one part of the appeal—these bags are also amazingly convenient and super functional, with multiple pockets inside and out, ensuring that everything you need is literally by your side.

LAAH: When did you start?

Mohamed: Joggo came together like pieces of a puzzle that fitted together perfectly to give birth to this brand. Each piece has had a significant impact upon me and has become a fundamental component of the brand. One of the pieces is the cause we support: Refugee Education. This was inspired by Melissa Flemming (head of communications for the UN’s High Commissioner of Refugees) who, during her TED Talk in October 2014, encourages us to think of refugee camps as “centers of excellence where refugees can triumph over their trauma and train for the day they can go home as agents of positive change and social transformation…Refugees need to thrive, not just survive.” I encourage everyone to watch her TED Talk.

LAAH: Why do you do it and what is the motivation or passion that keeps you going?

Mohamed: I have wanted to get involved in international development for quite some time. Inspired by the various purpose-driven brands that have come out of the United States, I decided to combine my marketing skills with my passion for development to launch a purpose-driven brand. The plight of the refugees is a cause I am passionately drawn to—there are 59 million forcibly displaced people as a result of conflict and war, and access to education gives them hope for a better future.

LAAH: Do you feel that what you have done so far has made a difference? If so, could you explain how?

Mohamed: This is just the beginning of our journey. We truly believe that Joggo, with critical mass, can offer sustainable, scalable solutions to the challenges facing effective humanitarian assistance. Right from the start, we have adopted a business model that is sustainable and inclusive and is fully aligned to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The foundation of the Joggo brand is built on our continued commitment to driving goal 4 of SDG: “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”, represented by our support for refugee education, and goal 8: “Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”, represented by our ethical sourcing of Joggo products.

LAAH: Who are your allies and supporters in this enterprise?

Mohamed: CARE Canada is our key partner, and their work is incredible. They provide effective and useful education and training for refugees all over the world. Last year, CARE supported actions in 21 countries, to increase access to education and training for more than 161,000 people who are vulnerable to or were/are affected by conflict and disasters.

We also work very closely with our producers; they fully understand our business model and are truly committed to helping us achieve our goals.

LAAH: Do you have plans to grow your involvement, to expand the scope of your project? If so, can you elaborate upon these plans?

Mohamed: There are many plans and ideas. However, we know that before we take another big leap, we need to establish Joggo as a brand, to gain people’s trust in our quality and our cause, and only then will they join us as we continue our journey.

LAAH: Like anything in life worth working for there must be difficulties and struggles, too. Can you share with us what have been your greatest challenges?

Mohamed: As with any unfunded start up, the biggest challenge is spreading the word. We rely heavily on media to help us build awareness of Joggo.

LAAH: How can people help you?

Mohamed: The best thing you can do for us is to spread the word and as we are approaching the holiday season, you can support us by considering Joggo bags as a holiday gift for your loved ones. It perfectly fits the holiday spirit.

The Life As A Human team thanks Mohamed Al Lawati and Joggo for the great work that they are doing to educate refugee children in different parts of the world and for giving us this interview. If you know Mohamed or anyone at Joggo, please leave them a comment. We know they would love to hear from you. And be sure to check out their very cool bags!

Photo Credits

All Photos Are © Joggo

Despite the presence of a highly-regarded University and India’s top medical institute, many people in the city of Vellore still struggle on a daily basis. Ramesh and a group of equally-concerned individuals decided to do something about it. Enter Karunya Charitable Trust.

Mr. Sampath (a supporter of Karunya Charitable Trust) and Ramesh with their families in Vellore City.

Karunya Charitable Trust was formed in 2011 with just one goal – to improve the lives of orphans, people with disabilities, seniors, and widows who lacked the skills to support themselves. The Trust was key, giving them the ability to reach a much wider audience than would have been possible on their own. People who wanted to help now had a place to go for information about the Trust and to find out what specific types of donations were needed.

Ramesh working with the children of Saduvalai, about 14 kms from Vellore City.

We asked Ramesh if he felt that what he and the other members of the Trust have done so far has made a difference. “Yes, absolutely. Many people have been educated through our project. They’ve gotten jobs and have established wonderful lives for themselves.”

Although the Trust has helped many people since its formation, there is still a great need for donations, as their vision is very clear. “Our hope is to be able to build homes, schools, counselling centres etc. to reduce homelessness, provide education and re-education and to create an opportunity for people’s hopes and dreams to be shared – perhaps even realized.”

Miss Suganthi distributing treats to the children.

The work of the Karunya Charitable Trust is not without its challenges, but for the people involved, witnessing change and helping people lead better lives far outweighs the difficulty. Their passion is evident. “The people of Vellore City need our help. They have a desire to be respected members of society. Poverty needs to become a thing of the past so that people can enjoy a rich and rewarding life.”

The Life As A Human team would like to thank Ramesh and the other members of the Trust for the fantastic work they are doing in India. We are grateful to have been contacted by Ramesh and to have been made aware of the Karunya Charitable Trust so that we may share its vision with our readers.

For more information about Karunya Charitable Trust, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

Photo Credits

Photos by Ramesh Rhada – all rights reserved
Photo of Vellore City – Wikimedia Commons

Anney’s Closet is a “free store” that takes household items donated by downsizing seniors, friends of Soroptimists, and other donors and provides women and girls in transition with furnishings for their new homes.

Girls and women who are referred to Anney’s Closet from advocates at over 20 partner social service agencies have the opportunity to select items from Anney’s Closet that will transform their new apartments into functional and comfortable homes.

Website: Anney’s Closet           Follow: Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

LAAH: What exactly is it that you do?

Anney: We connect people in our community who have too much household stuff with women and girls who are starting out on their own.

Using household items donated by downsizing seniors, friends of Soroptimists, and other community and corporate donors, we’ve created a “free store” in storage lockers kindly donated by West Shore U-Lock. Girls and women who are referred to us from advocates at our partner social service agencies have the opportunity to select items from Anney’s Closet that will transform their new apartments into functional and comfortable homes.

Beth and Patty – Volunteers make Anney’s Closet possible

LAAH: When did you start?

Anney: June 2012

LAAH: Why do you do it and what is the motivation or passion that keeps you going?

Anney: As a professional downsizer for seniors, I help elderly people to sort out their possessions and dispose of extra household items. When I told my Soroptimist club that I send truckloads of beautiful things to charity every month when downsizing my clients, they suggested I ask my clients if they’d like to redirect some of the very nicest things to help girls in our community who are starting out on their own.

The idea of Anney’s Closet was born. Through discussion with our contacts at Boys and Girls Club, social workers and youth advocates, we confirmed that there are many girls in our community who start out with nothing other than their clothes when they age out of the foster care system at age 18, or when they sign youth agreements between the ages of 16-18. Some of them are pregnant or parenting at the same time. The social workers thought our “free store” shopping sprees would be an incredible opportunity for these girls.

When we asked U-Lock West Shore if they would donate a locker on an ongoing basis for us to house Anney’s Closet, they offered their largest locker and their staff even contributed donated items to the locker.

As we spread our network further into the community, we saw the need to expand our mandate to help women of all ages. Now we have four storage lockers, countless donors, a dedicated team of volunteers and corporate support that allows us to help an average of two girls per week.

Donated utensils at Anney’s Closet

LAAH: Do you feel that what you have done so far has made a difference? If so, can you explain how?

Anney: Anney’s Closet has made a difference in so many ways, here’s a few:

1. We have helped over 60 girls and women in our community so far who would otherwise have very little to stock their cupboards and decorate their homes. As we now average two visits per week, we expect to double the amount of women and girls we help next year.
2. We have forged connections with 20 social service agencies (see the full list on our website) that now count Anney’s Closet as part of their support delivery toolbox.
3. We have inspired another “Closet” on the mainland, Bea’s Kloset, run by Soroptimist International TriCities in Coquitlam and modelled on Anney’s Closet.
4. We have been recognized internationally: We recently won an award within the global community of Soroptimist as Best Program in over 1300 clubs in 20 countries.

Anney Ardiel shows off Anney’s Closet.
This is one of four storage lockers full of donated items given free to women in need.

LAAH: Who are your allies and supporters in this enterprise?

Anney: We are members of Soroptimist International, a worldwide organization of women working to improve the lives of girls and women in local communities and around the world.

• Our allies consist of the social service agencies who connect us with the women and girls who visit Anney’s Closet. You can see the complete list of agencies on our website.
• Anney’s Closet is hosted by West Shore U-Lock Self Storage, a local and family-run company that provides us with four storage lockers at no charge. Their ongoing support is one of the main reasons why Anney’s Closet has succeeded.
• Our other key sponsor is Foster’s Moving. Andrew Foster donates their trucks and crew every time we need donations to be picked up or delivered.
• You can see a complete list of our sponsors on our website.

LAAH: Do you have plans to grow your involvement, to expand the scope of your project? If so, can you elaborate on these plans?

Anney: We’d love to support new Closets in any community that has a Soroptimist club, as we did with Bea’s Kloset in Coquitlam. Meanwhile in Victoria we are growing every day through the efforts of our volunteers and partners by reaching new donors, adding to our list of partner social service agencies and helping more women and girls.

LAAH: Like anything in life worth working for there must be difficulties and struggles too. Can you share with us what have been your greatest challenges?

Anney: At first, we had too much stuff in Anney’s Closet but we didn’t have partnerships with social service agencies to connect with girls who needed help. Now, we have lots of requests for clients to visit Anney’s Closet and our volunteers are challenged by this rising demand to keep our shelves stocked.

LAAH: How can people help you?

Anney: Donations of very gently used, clean, practical household items are a huge help to us. You can see a current Needs List on our website. Small amounts of donations can be dropped off at West Shore U-Lock on Saturday mornings, or contact us to arrange for delivery of larger items.

The Life As A Human team thanks Anney Ardiel and Anney’s Closet for the great work they are doing to help women and girls in transition and for giving us this interview. If you know Anney or anyone at Anney’s Closet, please leave them a comment. We know they would love to hear from you!

Photo Credits

All Photos courtesy Anney Ardiel – All Rights Reserved

~~~

Mark Ashkinadze

Mark Ashkinadze is 50 years old, and lives in Vancouver, BC. He suffered a brain injury in 2001. He heard about VASS through the Connectra Society, and has been with VASS for the past 5 years.

When mark is not at VASS, he spends his time playing and teaching music, doing physical therapy, working out at the gym, swimming at the pool, and attending yoga classes.

Skiing is important to Mark for a number of reasons. He appreciates both the physical challenge, and emotional pleasure that he gets from his time with VASS.

“For my body, it’s balance, flexibility, muscular fitness, (especially for my legs) and a great cardiovascular workout. But I think the most important reason is how skiing makes me feel. When I’m up on the hill, looking down at an awesome view of Vancouver, and I’m skiing all on my own, the feeling is priceless. I no longer feel trapped in my body. When I’m skiing, I feel free! I feel alive!”

Mark states that perhaps the biggest impact VASS has had on him is that skiing has helped him improve his balance after his injury and has been an important component of his rehabilitation process.

When asked about his most memorable experience with VASS, Mark responded with the following statement:

“Every year has been a wonderful experience for me. VASS has knowledgeable staff and caring volunteers. They are the ones that made the big difference for me. I think the most memorable experience with VASS for me, would be my very first time I went up to Grouse Mountain. It had been 10 years since the last time I went skiing. After my injury I thought I could never ski again. Even my doctors told me that I may never walk or talk again, but I had a dream of being able to ski again. So the first time I went down the bunny hill, I was strapped into a harness, and two people had to hold me up. I had very poor balance and kept falling over, but I didn’t care. I felt so proud of myself just for being up there that night. The next day I was sore and covered in bruises, but I was very happy. I accomplished something that seemed impossible, and I wore my bruises with pride, like patches of honor. I showed them of to all my friends. The fact, that I can ski again, is nothing short of a miracle. Thanks to VASS my dream has come true”

Stephen Chobaniuk

Stephen Chobaniuk is from North Vancouver and has been with VASS for 21 years! He is now 35 and in 21 years has only missed a few seasons due to injury and weather!

Stephen has spina bifida, which affects his ability to walk well among other things. When not at VASS, Stephen hangs out at his day program, plays the drums, listens to music, writes songs and watches movies.

Ask him about any song and the chances are he will know the lyrics!

Skiing is important to Stephen because it is a healthy activity that helps him with his balance, and provides a good workout and fresh air. In his words, “It’s awesome!” In addition, he gets to meet new people, make new friends and eat delicious snacks afterwards. Speed is Stephen’s favorite aspect of skiing. With his outrigger poles to keep him stable, Stephen can seriously shred!

By providing an opportunity to ski for 21 years, VASS has made a huge difference in Stephen’s life. He has always had a great time in the program, skiing and hanging out with his instructor buddies. Stephen hopes to ski with VASS for a long time to come.

Nico Boffa

Nico Boffa is a 6 old boy with Autism Spectrum disorder and is currently living in Vanouver. He heard about VASS through a volunteer and signed up for the ski program. Extra-curricular sports and hobbies are extremely important to Nico and his family as a great way to get moving outdoors and enhance their well-being. Additionally they find skiing a great social activity, one that they can do with their peers. Nico’s mother described the VASS program as a Godsend to their family, although initially hesitant to enroll Nico believing that he would have difficulty engaging in instruction as well as his gross motor skills not being at the same level as his peers. Those feelings quickly changed when she saw the first photo of her son on skis. Nico’s mother commends VASS volunteers as exceptional, having the patience and skill set to create a positive learning experience for a child with Special Needs.

Since Nico’s time with VASS, some of the greatest memories Nico’s mom can recall is seeing her son’s smiling faces as he finished his lessons. He would always tell how kind the instructors were to him and express with a giggle how much fun he had when he was skiing with the “tickle flowers” tied to his arm.

Apart from VASS and attending Emily Carr Elementary School, Nico also participates in various Canucks Autism Network sport programs including ‘I CAN swim’ and ‘I CAN play soccer’. He will soon be starting piano lessons at Douglas Park Community Centre.

Erez Avramov

Erez Avramov is a 41-year-old businessman who currently lives in West Vancouver. Despite his elective lower leg amputation three and a half years ago, he still enjoys doing many outdoor adventures such as dirt biking, climbing and hiking. After hearing about VASS through his physiotherapist, Erez joined the program in January 2014. Skiing with VASS has given him another opportunity to pursue his passion for the outdoors.

Uniquely, it has again allowed him the “feeling of flow, which I only experience skiing”.

After his amputation, his two daughters began ski lessons on Grouse Mountain. As a lifelong dream to ski with his kids and unable to see their progress in lessons, his most memorable moment at VASS was skiing with his entire family in his last lesson. Erez described the experience as “We all skied together as a family for 2 hours with the utmost delight and happiness one can muster – and all of this because VASS were there to support me on this journey and show me what is possible.”

“VASS is an incredible organization – the program showed me that I can still do the things I love and although my situation has changed, with the help of VASS I was able to regain my confidence and adjust to my new condition.”

Erez speaks about skiing for the first time skiing with his prosthesis.

Erez training to become the first amputee in the history of the worlds
toughest and longest off road race – the Dakar Rally on a motorcycle.

Photo Credits

All photos courtesy of VASS

Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports (VASS) runs skiing and snowboarding programs for persons with a disability at Grouse, Seymour and Cypress Mountains, making the mountain experience accessible to all. We have been offering programs at Grouse Mountain since 1974 and our president , Anne Bethune , embodies the magic that we call VASS. We welcome students of all ages and disabilities and utilize adaptive equipment and/or specialized teaching techniques with specially trained instructors to maximize a person’s independence on the snow. VASS offers programs from beginner to advanced, which include snowboarding, sit-ski, stand-up skiing and advanced adaptive ski racing. We are always looking for volunteers, on and off snow, it is a great way to contribute to your community and help others, while having fun. VASS is a registered non-profit society, operated by a dedicated group of volunteers, which includes an active Board of Directors, program coordinators, instructors and administrators.

Website: www.vass.ca                   Follow: Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

LAAH: What exactly is it that you do?

AB: I am volunteer President of the amazing organization Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports. We provide skiing and snowboarding for people with disabilities on Vancouver’s North Shore Mountains.

I am passionate about what we do because we truly make a difference in peoples’ lives – the lives of both our students and volunteers on and off the mountain. My personal involvement ranges from teaching on the mountain, mentoring of our instructors, maintaining community partnerships and leading our Board of Directors. I’ve been doing this for 28 years.

Anne Bethune with her amazing team

LAAH: Why do you do it and what is the motivation or passion that keeps you going?

AB: VASS is the perfect blend of my love for skiing, teaching and my work as an Occupational Therapist. I am passionate about helping people of all abilities achieve their best in life and VASS combines these two areas of strength, skill and passion for me. I love the ‘VASS Magic’ that happens up on the mountain. People get to experience the skills and thrills of skiing/boarding who wouldn’t otherwise get to do so! What excites me most is the shifts that happen in peoples’ lives off the mountain as a result of their experience with VASS. I could write a book about the many many stories I have been part of. That is what drives me – these amazing and real life stories that have been impacted by our efforts. My motivation and passion is rooted in the extraordinary people I meet through VASS, the real life stories, the bonds that are formed from this shared experience and the lasting beautiful friendships.

A VASS racer at a Tyee race

LAAH: Do you feel that what you have done so far has made a difference? If so, can you explain how?

AB: I know that the work VASS does as an organization makes a difference to our community. Skiing/boarding is simply our vehicle – it is the magic that spins out into peoples lives that results in increased self confidence, quality family time, skill development, friendships, fulfillment of dreams, fun and freedom in life and more. We also increase awareness and education to our local community about disability.

My personal sharing of my knowledge and skills has been such a true joy to give where others truly benefit. It has been rewarding seeing instructors grow their own confidence, leadership and skills as a result of our close mentorship. Off the hill, some of my greatest learning and satisfaction has come from growing into my own learning and leadership of how to run a non-profit organization. It has been hugely satisfying to grow a successful organization by pulling together a strong collaboration of outstanding people (who are 99% volunteers) contributing their time and skills.

VASS sit skiers

LAAH: Who are your allies and supporters in this enterprise?

AB: Our VASS Community – students, families, volunteers, community partners – our local mountains – Grouse Mountain in particular has been truly an outstanding partner, service groups like Rotary, ski shops, local businesses, media personalities, our sponsors (TELUS Community Fund, YVR, Battery World) and more.

Anne with some happy children.

LAAH: Do you have plans to grow your involvement, to expand the scope of your project? If so, can you elaborate on these plans?

AB: We are continually growing our strategic plan to better serve the needs of our community. We have recently created a new staff position – Community Relations Manager. We are also focused on many initiatives behind the scenes to increase the number of lessons we can deliver, our volunteer recruitment/retention, instructor training/mentoring and more.

A VASS sit skier

LAAH: Like anything in life worth working for there must be difficulties and struggles too. Can you share with us what have been your greatest challenges?

AB: Our greatest challenge as an organization is having enough volunteer instructors to meet the demand for what we do and letting our community know about what we do.

A three tracker at the VASS Cup

LAAH: How can people help you?

AB: People can help us by:

• Come volunteer with us!
• Donate to our organization at www.vass.ca
• Participate in one or more of our major events each year – VASS Cup Mar 5th at Grouse Mountain, Just Singing Around Fundraiser December 2 at the Vancouver Rowing Club, VASS Movie Night – Oct 22 at Capilano U
• Share their skills with us in whatever capacity on or off the hill – fundraising, website, communications, event management etc
• Share this interview with your friends!

Listen to Anne speak about how VASS
is making a difference and getting people out to play!

Learn about the VASS Cup

The Life As A Human team thanks Anne Bethune and VASS for the amazing work they are doing and for giving us this interview. If you know Anne or anyone at VASS, please leave them a comment. We know they would love to hear from you!

Photo Credits

All Photos Are © Corinne Risler

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