Christmas Hamper Fund
To the new comers of our club, this tradition has been carried on for the last 30 years. It all began with Vancouver East Rotarian Gordon McBurney. About 30 years ago, our club had a frequent visiting Rotarian from Vancouver East. His name was Gordon McBurney, the son of a Richmond pioneer.
Following graduation from Richmond High School, Gordon went to work at Grauer's Store, the only grocery store in Richmond. Later, he became a sales representative for a large wholesale food supplier in the east end of Vancouver. While employed there, he joined the Vancouver East Rotary Club.
Gordon, in the spirit of Service above Self, saw the need for helping people and although his club was in Vancouver East rather than Richmond, he became a committed advocate for the Richmond Christmas Hamper Fund. Gordon came to our club, reminded us of the need of many Richmond residents for a helping hand, a need still evident today, and challenged us to match his donation of $100.00. Our president asked for our commitment and almost immediately, we raised $3,000.00, which we gave to Gordon for the fund so dear to his heart. Year after year, Gordon came to our club in early December, spoke of the need in Richmond, donated his $100.00, and challenged us to match it--and more!
And so, after 30 years, we carry on the tradition instigated by Rotarian Gordon McBurney, one which exemplifies the true spirit of community.
-PP Tony Yurkovich