Last summer, colleagues in Kamloops and our National Management Committee members hosted a celebration with some special guests: United Way and People In Motion, two local organizations receiving Greater Purpose donations. People In Motion works to “create a better tomorrow” for people living with disabilities in Kamloops, providing fitness, recreational, educational, and social programs and services. Their work gives their members an opportunity to connect with others in the community and create more accessibility—a place “where everyone can go everywhere.” 

One of People In Motion’s programs, Memories in Motion, addresses a significant barrier for those living with physical disabilities: transportation. By providing reliable access to wheelchair-accessible vehicles, members are able to attend programs, appointments, community events, and more with dignity and comfort. Significant life moments like weddings and family gatherings would otherwise be missed without appropriate transportation.

In 2023, their van was sadly vandalized and set on fire, putting it out of commission and greatly reducing the non-profit's ability to offer accessible transportation services. At the Greater Purpose Committee’s event, Executive Director Debora DeLyzer was chatting with someone from Doane Grant Thornton and shared this news in a casual conversation—little did she know, she was speaking with our CEO Kevin Ladner and when he stepped on stage, he committed to funding a new van! The Greater Purpose Committee immediately sprang into action and with the support of the Foundation, our commitment to supporting the purchase and retrofitting of a new van was announced. 

Moments like these showcase the power of connecting with others and simply asking, “what help do you need?” We can have an immense impact on our local communities by taking the time to build relationships and see where there are opportunities to provide support.

We are profoundly grateful for the generous donation of our new modified van which has transformed our ability to serve community members with physical and cognitive disabilities. This remarkable gift has not only expanded our reach but has strengthened the bonds within our community, creating pathways to inclusion that would otherwise be impossible. The impact of this donation extends far beyond transportation—it represents freedom, independence, and opportunity for those we serve.
Debora DeLyzer Executive Director, People In Motion

Learn more about the impact of our Foundation in the 2024 impact stories below.

Providing vital support amid rising food insecurity
Impact story

Providing vital support amid rising food insecurity

Mississauga colleagues connect with a local food bank

Serving meals, music, and more to a community in need
Impact story

Serving meals, music, and more to a community in need

Helping our neighbours in downtown Toronto

Making an impact in the fight against cancer
Impact story

Making an impact in the fight against cancer

A purple wave at the BMO Ride for Cancer