Building Resilience and Community

by Jane Short, Development Manager

PADS Partners with Brooks Secondary School’s CALM Program

At the heart of the PADS qathet Community Fundraiser is a unique collaboration with the CALM program at Brooks Secondary School in Powell River. Under the guidance of dedicated teacher James Mack, approximately 18 students aged 15-16 are working with PADS to gain meaningful work experience and support a cause that makes a tangible difference. The theme guiding this partnership is “Resilience” — a quality reflected in every aspect of the student’s involvement.

What began as a quick conversation during Blackberry Festival has blossomed into a dynamic partnership that officially launched this fall and will run through to mid/late June 2025. Mr. Mack’s enthusiasm and support have been instrumental in making this initiative a success, and we are incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a passionate teacher and community ambassador!

Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue building on this partnership. In January 2025, the CALM students will participate in a poster/art event where they’ll design “superhero” themed posters using templates provided by PADS. These artistic creations will be unveiled during a late-February celebration featuring live music, cheese and wine, door prizes, and a silent auction. Guests and the community will have the chance to vote on their favorite posters, either in person or online, using QR codes linking to the qathet Community Fundraiser page. Voting donations will go toward supporting PADS and raising awareness for assistance dogs!

Together with Brooks Secondary’s CALM program, we are creating not only meaningful experiences but also a resilient community dedicated to supporting assistance dogs and the people who need them. Thank you to Mr. Mack and the students for making this partnership truly inspiring!

SUPPORT PADS WITH THE PURCHASE OF THESE HOLIDAYS CARDS

Make a difference this holiday season. Send your friends, family, customers and colleagues Pacific Assistance Dogs (PADS) holiday cards. Net proceeds go towards the care and training of PADS puppies-in-training. Each package contains 10 cards & 11 envelopes.

Santa Snuggles