It’s called a “Therapeutic Community” and it works. Inspired and modelled on the San Patrignano community in Italy, the Baldy Hughes centre is a highly-effective, year-long addiction treatment facility located outside Prince George. It was brought to life by former West Vancouver businessman and founding member Kevin England and a team of philanthropic citizens who are part of the BC New Hope Recovery Society. Their mandate, treat addiction while emphasizing a return to positive citizenship. “Being part of something greater than themselves and being held accountable – often for the first time in their lives – is a transformational experience for these men, many who were thought to be beyond hope” says England. Last month, a Gratitude Celebration Gala was held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver featuring Juno-award winning singer Chantal Kreviazuk. With passion and grace, Kreviazuk helped the society raise money for the ongoing support of this facility which is offered free of charge to qualifying men in need of support. For more information please visit www.baldyhughes.ca
01 – Kevin England and his children welcome singer Chatal Kreviazuk to their table prior to her performance. From left: Tiffany England, dad Kevin England, Chatal Kreviazuk, Chantelle England and Lucas England.
02 – Enjoying the show are Elpie Jackson, left, RBC manager Hanif Mamdami and Christine Quigg.
03 – Baldy Hughes gala organizers Maria Zumpano, left, Samantha Sayer and Shelby Lloyd-Smith deserve a big round of applause for all their hard work.
04 – Real Housewives of Vancouver star Mary Zilba and son Cole are among the VIPs in attendance at Baldy Hughes.
05 – West Vancouver lawyer Nicole Garton-Jones shares a table with Park Royal Wear Else clothing store owner Zahra Mamdami.
06 – Making the trip from the North Shore are Dante Godinho, left, lawyer Rory Godinho and Cameron Langlois.
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By Catherine Barr – July 2012
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Aug 1, 2012
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Time is something we all take for granted – but for a sick child, time is the most precious gift of all. The Canucks Place Children’s Hospice – Gift of Time Gala celebrated their fourth annual event last week at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver. Always special, the beautiful ballroom was decorated to the nines and included special table centrepieces hand made by the children under the direction of artist Jolinda Linden, sister-in-law to Canucks superstar Trevor Linden. Business leaders, VIPs and supporters all gave generously to attend the star-studded evening that also included a special performance by surprise celebrity musical guest Chantal Kreviazuk.