On October 5, 2019, we hosted our annual gala fundraising event. The theme was Leaps of Faith, which represents the belief that our supporters have in our life-changing programs, as well as the belief-fuelled actions taken by volunteers, staff, and program participants. The evening’s fundraiser was a success—raising over $16,000—and the stories shared by inmates and former inmates inspired everyone.
Marketplace and Silent Auction
Before dinner, guests enjoyed a glass of punch and perused the marketplace tables, which were covered with jewellery, dishes, toys, games, and more. Along the length of one wall, clothing racks held several closets’ worth of attire. All of it was for sale, of course, through Hidden Treasures Thrift Stores to support our prison mentorship and No One Leaves Alone (NOLA) programs.
Beyond the marketplace was a stage, which was flanked by more tables. These held silent auction items including original artwork, gift baskets, handmade quilts—even a sightseeing flight.
Gala attendees browse clothing items at the Hidden Treasures marketplace, which also included gifts, decor, jewellery, and more.
“It Might Seem Like a Little Thing”
After dinner, we heard stories from our program participants. There were several speakers; among them was M, a released inmate and dynamic member of the NOLA program.
“I don’t know if any of you know what prison’s like,” said M. “It’s horrific. And through that journey, Raymond Robyn [M2/W2’s Executive Director] was there to help me and guide me and encourage me.”
“That softened the blow,” he continued, “knowing that someone cared, and that when I came out, he would be there.”
M is part of a circle, led by NOLA Case Manager Kendrew Friesen, whose goal is to support M and help him reintegrate into the community. M’s circle includes volunteers, people who are committed to seeing released inmates like M transition back into society.
How do they support M? One way is spending time with him.
“We’ve done a bunch a things together,” M said. “Kendrew found out that I like fireworks and that I’ve never been to Vancouver. He arranged with my parole officer so I could go [to the Celebration of Light]. We had the greatest time.”
“It might seem like a little thing, but it was huge to experience that with people who care about me. I’m in a strange place because I spent a lot of time in prison. And coming back out, integrating into society again, and being in a strange place, it’s immeasurable to know that they’re there, to be supportive. It’s a huge thing on your psyche, knowing that you have people who care about you.”
Kendrew (left), M (centre), and the rest of M’s NOLA circle.
A Leap of Faith Alongside NOLA Volunteers
It’s not easy to stand in front of a crowd and share a story, and all of us at M2/W2 applaud M’s courage.
Yet M didn’t step to the mic alone. He had the support of his circle, in the crowd and onstage. Through the NOLA program, M is walking toward a new life, one that doesn’t involve criminal activity. By committing to M, the volunteers in his circle demonstrate what it means to be part of a community—and every time he meets with them, M takes another step along a new path, one that leads to restoration. Individually, the steps might seem small, but when viewed together, they are leaps.
Learn More
If you’re interested in learning more about NOLA or volunteering with one of our programs, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us through our website and sign up for NOLA volunteer training.
If you missed our Fall 2019 Gala, we hope to see you next year. In the meantime, please donate to our organization. Your financial support makes these programs possible, and helps bring healing and new hope to people in prison and in the community.