November 20, 2018
In our final week leading up to Giving Tuesday Canada, hear from very own leader and Executive Director, Kevin Yang. Kevin strives each day to help fulfill our vision of empowering children to reach their full potential. With 2 young kids of his own, he understands the importance of inspiring and providing youth with opportunities to grow and become leaders. In his early days with Canada SCORES, Kevin volunteered as a coach and was inspired by the positive change he saw in his students while in the program. The connections he made with his students drive his passion today. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his kids, shooting hoops or throwing around a softball. #VanGives #GivingTuesdayCA #BurnabyGives
November 13, 2018
Today we share the story of Carl Valentine, a long-standing supporter of Canada SCORES. Carl is a Vancouver Whitecaps FC legend and club ambassador who has volunteered his time and supported our kids through events and programming visits over the last 5 years. His commitment to bettering the communities around him and passion for supporting youth is commendable. We thank him and all our Canada SCORES ambassadors who make a difference and positively impact our poet-athletes experiences while in our programs.
#GivingTuesdayCA #VanGives #VWFC
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November 6, 2018
Recognizing a True Champion and Leader in the Community
Deborah Butowski moved to British Columbia in 1996 and found her passion and dedicated her career working with children and families of Edmonds Community School in Burnaby, British Columbia. Her dedication, commitment and love for the community is evident. Deborah admits, however, that although she finds her work fun and rewarding and the families are usually gracious, there are challenges.
Deborah recognized the need for a Canada SCORES program at Edmonds Community School in Burnaby. “The Canada SCORES program give all kids the opportunity to achieve success, gain self-esteem, feel happiness and make friends,” says Deborah. She challenged herself and began coaching five years ago. Today, many kids relate to her and some even confide in her.
Each and every day, Deborah is excited to see them grow. Some Poet-Athletes have kept in touch with Deborah. These students acknowledge how invaluable of a person Coach Deborah has been helping them on their journey.
One memorable moment for Deborah is traveling with the kids to see the Vancouver Whitecaps play live. It was a dream that she and the students were able to experience together.
To better relate to the kids, Deborah says that you have to keep it real. Nowadays you need to talk smart, use their language and match their level. She also knows that it is also important to praise kids and show them encouragement.
Lastly, Deborah always reminds the kids, 'Carpe Diem!' - Seize the day!