Chad Polito
Special Collaboration
A former Montrealer, Kathy Mooney, worked at BGC Dawson (Dawson Community Centre) from 1991 to 1995 as the first Stay in School Initiatives Program Coordinator, followed by her first professional fundraising position.
Almost 30 years later she fondly remembers and often reminiscences about the youth who taught her so many things about life, love and resiliency; and the amazing team of people she was blessed to have worked and become good friends with.
“Dawson was the best place I have ever worked and was the best job I ever had; I was part of this community!” Kathleen attributes Dawson to making a lasting impression in her life, both personally and professionally.
After completing her degree in Public Relations Management from McGill University she was ready to implement her learnings by taking on fundraising responsibilities at Dawson. She fondly remembers the annual Turkey Lunch Fundraiser and Street Festival, all which helped raise funds to power programs.
Kathy’s father taught her about the important life lessons of caring and sharing at an early age. Her motherwas employed by the Salvation Army and worked as a cashier. Both of her parents lived through the depression years and later became a working-class family with modest means. Kathy remembers how they always found a way to give to the War Amps and to St. Gabriel’s Church in Point St. Charles, “I believe this is where the ‘fundraising’ seed in me was planted”, explains Kathy.
This past year, Kathy launched Pounce Support Services, a consulting firm that helps nonprofits like BGC Dawson with fundraising and communications. BGC Dawson was happy to learn that Kathy and her husband Stan have chosen to leave a legacy gift with the organization.
“So many years later I still think of the place that gave me the chance to make a difference and therefore Stan and I made Dawson a beneficiary in our will more than 10 years ago. It is important to give back where one has received so much. We believe it is important to inform the administration of our giving intentions now so it can be recorded and to ensure Dawson continues to serve and support the community so many years after we are gone.”
For over 60 years, BGC Dawson has made a significant difference to members of the Verdun community. Life-changing experiences and memorable moments for so many were created here. Thanks to donors like Kathy and Stan, we can ensure this legacy continues for generations to come!
