Posted on Nov 29, 2020
Our club carried the tradition for over 37 years to donate to Richmond Christmas Fund.
 
Richmond Christmas Hamper Fund now Richmond Christmas Fund is run by Richmond Cares, Richmond Gives, they distribute toys, grocery vouchers, and gift cards to hundreds of families who would otherwise be unable to afford a holiday celebration.
 
Members and Friends, we are again collecting for the Christmas Fund, Please email Jacqueline Ho, treasurer@richmondrotary.com your donation amount and method by Friday December 11. Thank you for your support.  
 
 
 
“To the new comers of our club, this tradition has been carried on over 37 years. It all began with Vancouver East Rotarian Gordon McBurney. About 37 years ago, our club had a frequent visiting Rotarian from Vancouver East. His name was Gordon McBurney, the son of a Richmond pioneer.
 
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. Our president asked for our commitment and almost immediately, we raised $3,000, 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, and challenged us to match it--and more!
And so, after 40 years, we carry on the tradition instigated by Rotarian Gordon McBurney, one which exemplifies the true spirit of community.”
 
-Tony Yurkovich, Club President  1969-1970 &1993-1994, Honorary Member