This year marks a major milestone: 75 years of SaskAbilities fostering inclusive communities in Saskatchewan. As we celebrate, we reflect on our journey and the vital role of programs and services supporting individuals experiencing disability. Our success is a testament to the invaluable support and trust of donors like you, whose generosity fuels positive change.
In my early days with SaskAbilities at the Regina Branch, I witnessed the remarkable generosity of donors during events like the 24-Hour Relay. Contributions, big or small, brought us closer to our goal. The dedication and unity I saw in these efforts filled me with pride and affirmed our shared commitment to supporting individuals experiencing disability in our community.
When I decided to send my daughter, Hope, who had cerebral palsy, to Camp Easter Seal for the first time, she was 11 years old. This decision coincided with my role in fundraising to send kids just like Hope to Camp Easter Seal. That first summer at Camp left me astounded by the profound impact made by our donors.
To me, Camp is like a collective love letter, written by every donor and supporter, demonstrating how much they truly care for children, youth, and adults experiencing disability. It is an incredible gift for every camper fortunate enough to attend, and that gift is made possible by the generosity of donors like you.
As I often share, Camp provided experiences for my daughter that no other place could. She was in her absolute glory at Camp. Hope continued to attend Camp until her health started to deteriorate and it became too difficult for her to go. The decision to stop sending Hope was a very difficult one. Sadly, Hope passed away in 2006 at the age of 21.
Camp significantly enhanced Hope’s quality of life and, as a parent of a child experiencing disability, that transforms you in profound ways. The impact Camp had on Hope and our family has stayed with me ever since; it is the reason I became a board member at SaskAbilities. While Hope has taught me so much about life, donors like you have shown me the true power of generosity.
I have a unique perspective as a former employee, a parent of a child experiencing disability, and now a board member. I understand the profound impact that donors make. Donors are vital to our work and the longevity of SaskAbilities and Easter Seals™ Saskatchewan programs, including Camp Easter Seal, which is why I decided to become a legacy donor.Becoming a legacy donor was an easy decision for me. I believe it is essential to leave some kind of legacy in life, and what better way to do so than through a financial gift to a charity that has profoundly impacted my life and my family? I also see this as part of Hope’s legacy, as she continues to make an impact through me.
If you would like to explore how you can leave a legacy that makes a positive impact in your community, please contact us at 306.374.4448 or donate@saskabilities.ca.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, my family, and I – thank you!
Sincerely,
Brenda Bancescu
SaskAbilities’ Board Member
Camp Easter Seal Supporter
Easter Seals™ Saskatchewan Volunteer Chair
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This year’s letter can be viewed here.
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