The OPO’s Christmas fundraiser is a truly unique initiative. Team members donate money to the Children’s Aid Society, and in return, they get to live what many pet owners only dream of: Bringing their pet to work for a day! There’s also a bake sale, a 50/50 draw, and an auction of artwork done by the OPO’s own Audra Horne.
The OPO’s Christmas fundraiser is a truly unique initiative. Team members donate money to the Children’s Aid Society, and in return, they get to live what many pet owners only dream of: Bringing their pet to work for a day! There’s also a bake sale, a 50/50 draw, and an auction of artwork done by the OPO’s own Audra Horne.
OPO area director Richard Marceau spearheaded the event last year (in collaboration with the Elizabeth Fry Society of Ottawa, House of Hope, Maison Decision House and the John Howard Society), raising $1,200 for two families from the Children’s Aid Society. The funds go to fulfilling the selected families’ Christmas wish lists, and help spread holiday cheer along the way.
Last year’s event was a smash and this year’s haul is even better, raising $2,000 for two families in need, including a single donation of $450 from a former offender who wants to give back after turning their life around. This same generous donor is also donating a year’s worth of hygienic products to the selected families. Keeping with the nature of their work, the OPO has elected to donate the funds to families with mental health needs, past criminal behavior and/or substance abuse issues.
With so many pets wandering around the office it’s easy to be distracted, but Richard’s passion for the initiative is just as notable as all the four-legged visitors: “What stands out the most is the generosity of all staff towards this event. We have fun with our pets for one day and we fill a gap for those families in need. Giving back is the best feeling for all of us.”
It’s a heartfelt, generous initiative, and Richard’s sincerity is infectious. As Richard notes, “Above all else, you will come away with a scientifically proven increase in happiness for performing an act of kindness by donating to those in need!”
Congratulations to Richard and all the members of the Ottawa Parole Office for pulling off another successful event, and we look forward to next year’s!
If you want to contribute to the Children’s Aid Foundation, you can find more information here: