The Fred Victor Center

by: Beth Parker

Late in 1999, two important events happened in my life; I set up my own business and I was asked to join the Board of Directors at the Fred Victor Centre.

For the past 6 years (two terms), I served with about a dozen other Toronto business persons. I would struggle downtown to the Centre to get to the meetings by 8.00 AM, but every time I left, I had a renewed sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Fred Victor Centre is Toronto's oldest "city mission". It began as a shelter for men during the depression but today serves both men and women, living in poverty. Its innovative programs include such activities as banking for the homeless. Part of its facility is the Adelaide Women's Resource Centre, which offers a safe haven and outreach programs for women trying to escape abuse.

The most fun I had with FVC was chairing the Gala Committee. FVC always holds an annual dinner event to raise funds for the Women's Centre. A few of us had a bigger "idea" for the event. By last year, the Gala had raised over $100,000 for the Centre and become a "must - attend" Toronto event.

I can't begin to list why my involvement has been so important to me. I get far more out of it than I give. The work is so "hands on," I feel that everything I do makes a difference. When we needed corporate sponsors for our Gala, I was thrilled to find that two of my clients gladly came forth with major sponsorship gifts – just because I asked! I will always remember the residents at FVC, especially Gerry, with his toothless smile and sardonic Irish humour and the incredibly talented Ron who painted a picture that now hangs in my house.

Although my board responsibilities have ended, FVC can ask me anytime, anywhere for anything - and I will help them out. I'm hooked!

Beth Parker, a communications consultant, writer, and general "Word Wizard," is a trained communications specialist who consults with business owners and senior managers in all aspects of communications management, specifically the positioning and writing of key business and marketing documents. She writes proposals, business and marketing plans, marketing/promotion copy and communication strategies. Through "Grammar Girls" she teaches one-on-one writing skills, and coaches writers and authors. Beth is a published author and contributor to various business publications. She can be reached at 416-480-1225 or by email at bethparker@sympatico.ca.