Thanks to a team effort between multiple Concert employees and the Easter Seals British Columbia/Yukon, we were proud to celebrate the completion of a revamped outdoor space at the Easter Seals House this past Thursday.
Over the course of several months, Concert employees rolled up their sleeves, dug in and volunteered their time on evenings and weekends to help Easter Seals House staff realize their vision for the garden and see the space come to life. Employees also raised funds and donated construction materials to build the whimsical playhouse and garden glass covered cedar pergola in the BBQ area.
The project, initiated by the Garden Club of Vancouver, offers a children’s play space, garden paths, a gathering place for groups sheltered from the midday sun, barbecue, fire pit and picnic areas, and quiet spots for relaxation and reflection among the trees all accented by seasonal plants, shrubs and flowers.
Every year, Easter Seals House provides a lifeline for thousands of families across BC and Yukon that require access to Vancouver hospitals by offering affordable and comfortable short-term accommodation, a home away from home and a vital support network for guests who travel from their communities to stay at the facility.
With the official opening of this new garden and play area, visitors at the Oak Street facility will now enjoy a new outdoor space in which to rest and recharge.
“This garden will help us continue to plant the seeds of restoration, recreation and rejuvenation for all those who stay at and visit Easter Seals House,” said Lisa Beck, President and CEO of Easter Seals British Columbia/Yukon. “We can’t thank Concert enough for being such good partners and community citizens and helping us achieve our dream of seeing this garden come to fruition.”
The new garden has myriad uses — beyond its role as a reflective retreat, hub for social gatherings and natural space filled with fun activities for children and their families, it will offer a place for youth and young adults with disabilities who take part in Easter Seals’ City Adventure Day Camp and new Life-Skills Development Programs. It will also serve as a vital space where Easter Seals can engage volunteers, connect with existing donors and introduce potential new donors to their ongoing mission of hope.
“This project not only underscores our goal of building people-first communities but provides Easter Seals House with another amenity where visiting families can take a moment to breathe and relax and children can forget about medical treatments and just be themselves,” says Brian McCauley, Concert President and CEO. “It’s a true testament to the healing and restorative power of nature and what can be achieved by giving a little back to the community at large,” added McCauley.
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