In these uncertain times everyone needs a little piece of good news to hold on to. So, please permit me a bit of gloating time. My husband and I are over the moon to announce the upcoming nuptials of two of our sons. We are pleased that they are so happy. Our daughters-in-law are both lovely, caring human beings and we are thrilled that our family is expanding. We look forward to celebrating their big days with them.
In Jewish tradition, part of the wedding ceremony includes breaking a glass. This act is to remind us that, while we are experiencing great joy, there are others facing great hardships. These are tough times for young people to be starting their lives together. They are growing up in an uncertain world full of environmental and political turmoil. Covid-19 has further hampered their ability to make their way in life with financial security.
The Bright Beginnings Foundation Directors are especially concerned about our students. They were unable to find summer jobs this year due to the virus. Unlike the typical young adult who looks at summer employment as extra pocket money, the BBF Bursary students all rely on employment during the summer months to help support themselves as well as their families with basics such as rent, food and utilities.
They also face challenges in their studies. Think back to the time that you were going to school. Now imagine having all of your classes on-line. There is little chance to make connections and speak to or ask questions of classmates or professors. Many students also struggle with bad internet connections, outdated or non-existent technology and obsolete software.
As well, Covid-19 has hampered BBF’s ability to carry on with making plans and meeting our students. In the past, we have always tried to make meaningful, face-to-face connections with our students. Meeting for coffee and a chat has become impossible. While it has been difficult, the Directors have continued to meet on a regular basis (outside, distanced and masked of course). Lately, with the inclement weather, we have searched out other safe venues for our meetings. The pandemic is also making it extremely difficult to plan a large event such as our annual banquet. We have been very fortunate each year to be able to award another BBF Bursary on the basis of your generosity at our annual banquet.
It pains us to say that this year, because we are unable to put together a big event, we have decided we will not be able to accept BBF Bursary applications from the 2020 Surrey graduates. We will, however, resume our practice of awarding newly-graduated students small grants to aid them in their pursuit of a post-secondary education.
We have decided to try something new and different to raise revenue this year. The pandemic has required us to be creative and we have settled on at least three events that will involve something for everyone, young and not-so-young. If all goes as planned, you can look forward to a Shred-a-thon, a Mushroom Fertilizer Sale, Raffle Prizes and, of course, our annual Sylvia’s Plant Sale. We are working on the details so stay-tuned.
I deliberately left the best news for last. Bright Beginnings Foundation has received a large and generous donation from an anonymous benefactor. Along with the gift, a challenge was issued to all BBF supporters. Our donor is challenging others to meet or beat the donation of $10,000. This can be accomplished through family, friends, work, shared-interest groups or individual donations.
To donate to BBF please follow this link.
I promise that our next posting will be in a lighter vein with upbeat news and information about upcoming events.
