Thank you to Nicole MacDonald, Development Officer, Corporate Giving at Union Gospel Mission – one of the sweetest people you will ever meet – for organizing and giving MacLean Law staff the opportunity to volunteer with UGM on February 22, 2015.
The volunteers summed up the day with the following:
“Volunteering in the kitchen and serving meals to Downtown Eastside’s homeless and hungry was an important reminder of the basic struggles faced by so many people in our community. I was surprised to learn that the Union Gospel Mission serves approximately 1,000 meals per day, and yet the cost for doing so is less than $4 per meal. The experience left me with the very clear impression that it really is possible to make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need our help, and it is incumbent upon all of us to do our part.”
“It felt great to be part of a company that wants to give back, it was a humbling experience. I was happy to see how organized the staff at UGM were, it made volunteering very approachable. I would encourage anyone to volunteer at the UGM.” Spencer MacLean, Lawyer.
“The experience was humbling and inspiring. It was educational to see that there is no such thing as too little support. Anything done toward the greater good has some phenomenal rewards. Regardless of where a person is in life, they deserve to have a choice, hope, and dignity. I really appreciate this volunteering experience! Thank you everyone.”
“Giving back helps others but giving back profoundly helps yourself feel joy and contentment. I felt this all-encompassing joy while volunteering at UGM. Humility is the true key to success. Successful people lose their way at times. They often embrace and overindulge from the fruits of success. Humility halts this arrogance and self-indulging trap. Humble people share the credit and wealth, remaining focused and hungry to continue the journey of success.” Lorne MacLean, Q.C.
UGM Facts
UGM is so much more than a soup kitchen. Their mission is to transform communities by overcoming poverty, addiction and homelessness. They offer:
• Meals, shelter, outreach and chaplaincy services that relieve suffering and renew hope
• Life recovery programs that offer freedom from addictive lifestyles
• Education and job preparation that equip for successful living
• Affordable housing that fosters community and personal contribution
• Preventative programs that build healthy families
There are so many ways to give back to the community. MacLean Law was thrilled to sponsor the lunch service at UGM. If you or your organization would like to help out the Union Gospel Mission please contact:
Nicole MacDonald, Development Officer, Corporate Giving
601 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC, V6A 1J7
Coast Salish Territories
t: 604.215.5440 ext 384
f: 604.253.3496
UGM.ca
