Pakistan, Hero Work, Yard Sales, and You
I’ve heard it in the news. No doubt you’ve heard it, too. There has been precious little fundraising for the Pakistan flood victims. Twenty million displaced. Eight million relying on aid for survival. These numbers are enormous. I figured I could do a small bit.
On Sept 11th I’m holding a yard sale. With your help I hope to make it a BIG one.
Half the money raised will go to the Hero Work Society (our coffers need a little boost to get us through our current rebuilding phase) and the other half will go to the Red Cross, earmarked for Pakistan. Then, the government will chip in another half for the flood victims. Triple shot!
It’s not a big flashy extreme makeover, but it will help–and that’s what counts. Besides, what better way to mark the 9/11 anniversary than by holding a simple grassroots event that supports a local cause and an international need.
So, clean out your closet, basement, or attic, and make a difference. (You’ll feel good…and lighter.)
Tell a friend and spread the word.
I’ve made it flexible and easy to contribute in Victoria. Check out the next post for details.
PS Don’t have goods to contribute? Consider donating funds or a service. (Again, check the next post.)
PPS This is a rain or shine event since the government deadline for matching funds is Sept 12th
About Paul
Paul Latour is the founder of Hero Work, a program that inspires all sectors of community to come together and complete extreme renovations for non-profits who've been making a difference for years.Never in his wildest dreams had he thought he'd be organizing extreme home makeovers. "The first one was done almost on a whim," he says. "I did it to help a friend in need." Then the power of friendship and community took hold. When the one-day event was over, a $25,000 reno was done.
It was as if his life had been orchestrated for the event. His skills as a waiter, writer, artist, editor, and speaker all coalesced into the ability to create a movement of inspired people and companies.
Ignited by making a radical difference, he did another makeover--this one five times bigger. A nongovernment funded charity--the Casa Maria Emergency Housing Society, who shelters refugee families--received a weekend extreme renovation worth upwards of a $100K.
A few of Hero Work's one hundred-plus business partners include: Castle Building Supply, Rona Home and Garden, Thrifty Foods, Six Mile Furniture, Garden City Landscaping, Maclean Lighting, and the Kitchen Technician. The program has been seen on Chek TV, A-Channel, the Times Colonist, Black Press, and Global TV.
"To make a radical difference doesn't take loads of money," Paul says. "It takes a good plan, inspired action, people-to-people connections, and a solid story."


















