By Curt Hanselmann
As you may know, I am once again riding in a 200km fundraising bike [yeah, as in bicycle!!] tour in support of Magdalene House Society *, a NOW OPEN AND OPERATING** home for the recovery of victims of human trafficking.
So, I’d like to once again humbly ask for your support, in whatever way you see fit. On July 25 and 26 I’ll attempt to make the ride from Sylvan Lake to Caroline and back again, just under 200km, to help Magdalene House raise funds to rescue and rehabilitate victims of human trafficking. You may recall last year I rode with a stenosis in my neck. Thanks to aggressive physio by Bayo at Monarch Sports Physio in Canyon Meadows and massage therapy at the magic hands of Rachel at Parkview Massage in Claresholm, and lots of traction exercise, I’ve beat that little challenge for the 2nd time. Now, it’s just being 53 and 250 lbs getting in the way…or at least trying! My goal this year, as in past years, is to personally raise over $1000.
So, if you’d like to support my effort, for as much or little as you like I’d be most grateful. Magdalene House Society is a registered charity, and tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20.00 and over. (Note from the financial planner – for most of us, charitable donations generate a tax saving of approximately 50%, meaning a $20 donation actually costs us only $10. Prayers and wishes for success, good weather, tail winds and a comfortable seat are also gratefully accepted!!)
*Magdalene House Society is a charitable organization collaborating with other agencies to provide a long-term, safe residence for people who are exploited through human trafficking.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal activity next to the drug trade in our world and unfortunately, it is alive and well in Canada. Young Canadian teenagers are being groomed, coerced and forced into sex trafficking, and many women and men are brought into Canada and are being exploited for their labour. Canada is both a source and a destination country for this criminal activity. Currently, there is only one facility in all of Canada that assists female victims of human trafficking, so Magdalene House hopes to be the first to establish a safe house for both male and female victims.
For more information on Magdalene House, please visit www.magdalenehouse.ca
**Thanks to the generousity of supporters like you, the home opened with clients in early March 2015!!