Tuesday, June 13th I gave my last presentation on my book The Russian Refugees to the Vancouver Probus Group. This is a group of business and professional people. I explained that my story was highly relatable for immigrants many of whom I suspected were members of this group, but thought not to ask directly.
I used Power Point slides and stories from the book. My presentation was well received, and they generously presented me with an honorarium which I dedicated to the Homeglen Legacy Fund with Mosaic BC. I also gratuitously offered half a dozen signed copies of the book encouraging recipients to make donations to the Fund rather than paying for each copy.
It was during the question-and-answer period that I confirmed my earlier suspicion. One gentleman said he strongly identified with my story, and he wonder about others in the audience. He suggested a show of hands to show how many immigrants were in the group. Over half of the audience raised their hands. This was a group of highly successful people who have made their contribution to society.
Canada has always been and will always be, a safe haven for the world’s immigrants and refugees. Supporting the Homeglen Legacy Fund gives one more refugee family the possibility of a bright and better future – maybe even as future Probus members.