Robert Bateman Supports Bragg Creek Seniors

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By Todd Curran

It's exciting times for the Bragg Creek Seniors Housing Society (BCSHS) as legendary artist Robert Bateman came by for a fireside dinner after the Society received a recent land donation that will provide affordable housing options for seniors in the area.
The BCSHS and some 80 supporters attended the Sunday, October 31st event with the famed Canadian artist and environmentalist. Raising nearly $3,000 for the Society, the octogenarian and grand-father of ten was awarded the Order of Canada in 1984. In June 2010 he received an honourary Doctor of Laws at the convocation of Royal Roads University, Victoria, BC and in September 2010 the inaugural lifetime achievement award given by the Society of Animal Artists at its annual convention in San Diego.
With a unique combination of social, educational and humanitarian outcomes, BCSHS launched the first in its series of Seniors of Distinction celebration evenings with all proceeds in support of the Society's age in community initiative and the establishment of affordable and accessible housing options to the senior members of the greater Bragg Creek community.
“People don't have the disposable income they once had, or the time,” says Carol Scarratt, Director of BCSHS. “When they have the opportunity, they want to fulfill a number of needs. To get together with friends and family, learn something new and support the causes they believe in. Like everything else, the face of fund-raising is changing and the need for support is greater than ever. Working smarter not harder is what it's about if you don't want to burn out your supporters and appreciation is key to retaining your volunteers, advocates and cheerleaders”.
The Bragg Creek Seniors Housing Society is also shooting a Youtube film this week as part of their ongoing public education program and a chance for a $25,000 donation from the Joey's only brand. Check out:
www.joeys.ca/contest/about.html for more information.
For more information about the BCSHS please contact Chairperson Sharon Bayer at 403-554-8978.