For Neil Betteridge, Donating to Anishnawbe Health is an Investment in Community
When Neil Betteridge semi-retired from working in the tech industry last year, he knew that he wanted to use his time and resources to support his growing and thriving community in the West Don Lands area.
A resident of the Distillery District, he is active with many community groups including serving as the Vice-President of the Gooderham & Worts Neighbourhood Association.
“I want to contribute to a vibrant community in my city. Whether it is learning about new projects in my neighbourhood or helping new local political candidates to get their message out, I want to engage with efforts that are having an impact at the grassroots level,” says Neil.
Contributing as a donor is one of the ways that Neil has chosen to support community – including an investment in Anishnawbe Health. On Giving Tuesday, Neil matched the donations of new monthly donors for a year, up to $10,000, and for the Winter Solstice this year, Neil is matching year-end donations, dollar for dollar, up to $30,000.
“I look out my window and I can see the new home for Anishnawbe Health Toronto growing and developing each day. As a donor to the project over the last couple of years, I’ve come to learn more about AHT’s great work in helping clients to find a healthy path and I’m excited to have this organization join our neighbourhood. My commitment to match donations this fall is my way of investing in community and encouraging others to learn more about this organization,” says Neil.
Anishnawbe Health’s focus on preserving and reclaiming traditional Indigenous healing practices also resonates with Neil. A former partner of Neil’s is a member of the Chukchansi Native American community in California and Neil learned about spiritual practices and the importance of connecting to land and nature from him.
“As a son of immigrants, I think we can all learn from the Indigenous community about the need for respectful relationships with our natural environment and our impact as settlers. Sharing the resources that I’ve benefitted from living on this land, and encouraging others to do the same, is my way of contributing to a better path forward for all of us,” adds Neil.
To donate and have your year-end gift matched by Neil Betteridge, please visit this page.