Helping Vancouver's 'Helping Spirit Lodge'
Vancouver's Helping Spirit Lodge is a 33-bed transition house that opened its doors for abused and battered women and children 20 years ago. Since that time, it has assisted more than 5,000 women in stopping the cycle of violence - providing a safe home environment, friendship, and support. It was on a beautiful day in June when 35 Graham employees volunteered, helping to make healing all the more palatable.
"It's a tremendous feeling to be in a position to give a little back to people who truly need it," says Heather Wideski, Branch Office Manager, who along with Michelle Moore, Administrative Assistant, led Graham's team with interior and exterior renovations.
Throughout the day, half the group painted the entire office and training centre at the lodge. The group also built a sound-proof room for private counseling. The area is crucial – used to teach women culinary and computer skills to help them make the transition back into society. Residents are also provided education awareness in regards to family violence prevention and referrals to legal council, specialized counselors, and treatment.
"I think I speak on behalf of all of us who volunteered, I feel immense pride that I work for Graham, a company that is dedicated to bringing positive change," says Moore.
The other half of employee volunteers transformed an old playground into a backyard oasis, complete with planted flowers, trimmed trees and a newly refurbished yard. The area is particularly important to children staying at the lodge, providing a safe environment to be supported and respected.
