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South Surrey fundraiser aims to raise awareness

'Inspiring' Peninsula athlete to join Oct. 15 fundraiser
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BC Special Olympics athlete Michaela Robinson was the inspiration for a fundraiser next weekend at the corner of 28 Avenue and 156 Street.

An event to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics and Croydon Villa – a specialized residential care facility in South Surrey – is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 15.

Organizer Fil Bettencourt, a South Surrey resident, said she was inspired to host Tools For Tomorrow by longtime friend Michaela Robinson.

Robinson, 30, is a BC Special Olympics athlete (figure skating) and staunch volunteer. She graduated from Kwantlen Polytechnic University in 2007, and was selected for a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2009, for her "significant and outstanding service to the community."

In addition to Special Olympics, organizations Robinson has dedicated her time to include the Law Enforcement Torch Run, ALS Society, Canadian Cancer Society and Semiahmoo House Society.

Next month, she will be one of two SHS members to participate in a Nov. 1 national youth forum in Ottawa, on accessibility legislation.

Bettencourt described Robinson as "an inspiration."

"I've known her since she was 10 years old, she's just amazing," she said.

The Oct. 15 event – at 2830 156 St. – is an opportunity for the public to meet Robinson, as well as support Special Olympics and Croydon Villa.

Bettencourt said funds will be raised through a garage sale; donations will also be accepted.

She described the event as more of one to raise the community's awareness of Robinson and Croydon Villa.

"Nobody even knows they exist," she said of Croydon Villa, which operates just around the corner from Bettencourt's 156 Street home.

The facility "has the most amazing staff and the residents have the great care," she said.

"I think it's really good for people to understand the different special needs in our community."

For more information, call 604-828-9026.



Tracy Holmes

About the Author: Tracy Holmes

Tracy Holmes has been a reporter with Peace Arch News since 1997.
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