Meet Grandview Kids Volunteer, Terry J.!
Terry J. has played a pivotal role in the history of fundraising at Grandview Kids by serving as a past Grandview Kids Foundation Board Member and Chair, emceeing Golf Fore Grandview Kids, and continuing to give back to the children and youth we serve through his time and efforts.
How were you introduced to Grandview Kids in 1999?
I was introduced to Grandview Kids while emceeing a variety of Charity Golf Tournaments. One day, I asked two gentlemen about what Grandview Kids is, as I had seen it on the cheques many times before, and they expressed that I had to come check it out for myself. Shortly thereafter, I toured through Grandview Kids on 600 Townline. After about a year, in 1999, the Grandview Kids Foundation reached out to me to join their Board of Directors for a three-year term. Each year, until 2006, my term was extended. In 2006-2007, I was asked to be the Board Chair. For approximately 11 years, I served on the Grandview Kids Foundation Board of Directors.
What would you say to someone who is considering getting involved with Grandview Kids, whether by giving their time, resources or support?
Anything to do with children, whether you are donating your time, support or money, it is for the children and youth. Once you walk through the halls, see the children, their families and the equipment, you see the WHY. Throughout my time with Grandview Kids, I observed various needs emerging for different types of machinery and accessible toys. Developing a Case for Support helped us make proper progress to support the kids in getting what they need. It all comes back to them.
What has been the most rewarding part of your involvement with Grandview Kids?
The most rewarding part of my involvement with Grandview Kids is seeing the tangible difference my involvement has made over the past 26 years. Seeing the same people at Golf Fore Grandview Kids and continuing to stay involved each year. Like everything else, seeing the fruits of your labour, big and small, is incredibly rewarding.
Who or what inspires you to give back and support the Grandview Kids community?
The inspiration never changes; it’ll always be the same. Helping families, children and youth by using the resources I have to make a difference will continue. Using your means to make a difference continues to inspire me and others. The delicious food, like pizza and sandwiches, at Board meetings was always a bonus!
Thank you, Terry!
Check out more Grandview Kids articles
- October: Dates of Significance
- Acknowledging holidays and celebrations in October
- Mya’s voice shines through in every smile, laugh and glance: Rett Syndrome Awareness Month
- Volunteer Spotlight – Terry J.
- Charlie’s AAC journey
