DECEMBER 2014

CONSIDER THIS 12/27/2014

Here's a podcast of the in-depth interview that journalist, Robert Washburn, conducted with Green Wood's community outreach guy, David Sheffield. David shares insights on social justice, poverty and his own life during their conversation. Robert is a journalism professor at Loyalist College in Belleville, and the host of Consider This: Politics, Life and Journalism in Northumberland County. Link: https://consider-this.ca/david-sheffield-talks-about-green-wood-coalition-and-other-works/

LIVE LOCAL, GIVE LOCAL 12/19/2014

In the life of Green Wood Coalition, this has been a very good year. By offering a place of belonging, we have become a radically inclusive community that honours the worth and the well-being of each person.

The presentation of aYMCA Peace Medal was a highlight of the year for us. This award is presented to individuals or groups who demonstrate a commitment to the values of PEACE (participation, empathy, advocacy, community and empowerment) in the community.

It’s become clear that Green Wood plays a valuable role in giving a voice to those in our community who are most likely to be overlooked or ignored.

We are recognized as a street-level, charitable organization that uses a community model of caring to walk alongside people living with poverty, mental illness, addiction and disability, in Port Hope, Ontario.

Through our efforts and collaboration with like-minded community partners, the daily struggle of people in our core community has become front-page news and a topic of public discussion during all-candidates meetings.

Green Wood can only do this work with the help of people like you, who believe in the work that we do. Without annualized government funding, we are dependent upon the generous support of individuals and businesses to fund our programs, spaces and staff.

One of our enthusiastic supporters, Joyce Lichtenberger, has issued a Christmas Challenge to the community, promising to choose simpler gifts for her family and friends, thereby freeing up some dollars to help Green Wood Coalition make a difference in the lives of neighbours living in poverty.

Please visit our giving page to see how your donation at this time of year can change lives (greenwoodcoalition.com).

Thank you for being an important part of the Green Wood story as we work together to find solutions to daily challenges, and provide hope in our community.

With much appreciation,

David Sheffield, on behalf of the entire Green Wood community

TAKING ART TO SCHOOL 12/13/2014 For the third year in a row, members of our Creative Arts Group were offered the good fortune of spending 3 days in the state-of-the-art facilities of Trinity College School during their Week Without Walls service event. Under the direction of teacher, Harry Stooshinoff, and with the support of students, some wonderful art was made by our group.

REMEMBERING GLEN 12/3/2014

This has been an incredibly sad week for the Green Wood community. Our dear friend and constant companion, Glen Byers left this life on Monday evening, December 1 at the age of 63.

Glen is remembered by his friends as one of the most generous, courageous, funny, and loving humans they have ever known. He was a farmer, mechanic, artist and musician who found a place to call home among our community.

There were tears and stories aplenty at our community dinner on Wednesday. There was an obvious empty seat at our table, and the piano was left unplayed. Glen's spirit will continue to permeate all that we do together.

A funeral service will be held for Glen at Ross Funeral Chapel in Port Hope at 2 pm, Friday, December 5. Visitation 1-2 pm.