'Walking' for Sarah
"For our first community event, we wanted to align with an organization that was near and dear to our hearts."
For Kelowna branch employees, participating in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Walk to Cure Diabetes wasn't just a team-building event, it was an opportunity to get together for a cause that directly affected 'one of their own.'
Three years ago, Therese Stewart's, daughter, Sarah, now 11, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly. Until a cure is found, those with the disease have to test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times or use a pump - each day,every day of their lives. As Operational Accountant and Office Manager for 17 years, Therese is an integral part of the Kelowna branch family.
"For our first community event, we wanted to align with an organization that was near and dear to our hearts," says Dave Corcoran, Director, Construction, Commercial Construction. "Sarah is this year's Youth Ambassador for Kelowna's JDRF Walk, and Therese's daughter. This cause is very close to home and something we all wanted to be a part of."
And so, 34 employees and family members took part in the June nation-wide fundraising event, just exceeding their goal of raising CDN$5,000 for Juvenile Diabetes research.
Graham matched employee donations and also sponsored a giant bouncy castle, for children to play on at the park where the event took place. After the Walk, Corcoran and his wife hosted a BBQ at their home for all employees and their families to celebrate their successful venture.
"Participating in the JDRF Walk personally opened my eyes to the group that I spend my weekdays with," says Jennifer Jakubuv, Operational Accountant, who helped to spearhead Graham's efforts. "My fellow coworkers are generous, genuine and devoted members of an extended family – the Graham family."
