Photos from left to right: Jacquie Eales and her husband Brent Webster; the birthday gal and her 60th birthday balloons; Jacquie and her son Brad
This year Jacquie Eales celebrated a milestone—her 60th birthday—but it was not your typical affair focused on all things cake, candles and cocktails (though there was still plenty of that on hand!) For the birthday gal, what was most important to her was gathering with her nearest and dearest on a special night that focused on GIVING back.
“Turning 60 gave me time to reflect on my past, be grateful for the present, and plan my future with more intention. I realized I don’t need more stuff. But I know there are many others that do.”
As a former member and chair of the GEF Seniors Housing Board of Directors, Jacquie has spent years advocating for and supporting vulnerable seniors. On her 60th birthday, Jacquie took her commitment to the next level by fundraising for GEF’s Quality of Life Fund, which helps seniors facing financial hardship to thrive by ensuring they have access to basic needs and resources.
A Party with a Purpose
Rather than receiving traditional birthday gifts, Jacquie invited her 40 guests to donate to GEF Seniors Housing. Jacquie’s guests were not surprised by this unique party idea – in fact they were supportive.
“It’s easy to do an Honorary Gifting event like this because you’re getting people together anyway, so use it to plant the seed and create awareness. Every donation big or small can make a difference. Even if someone gives $20 – if everyone in the room does the same, it grows.”
– Jacquie Eales, Philanthropist
Jacquie’s purposeful party raised nearly $3,800 that goes towards providing necessary items like mattresses, home furnishings, and kitchen wares to seniors most in need when moving into GEF communities.
Understanding Seniors’ Needs
In 2014, while working with GEF on a University of Alberta research project, Jacquie interviewed dozens of low-income residents to learn firsthand what contributes to their quality of life. This work was foundational to the development of GEF’s Quality of Life Philosophy, which is based on choice, dignity, well-being, accountability, and kindness.
“GEF has been a hidden gem in our community for 65 years providing homes to seniors with limited incomes. I wanted to create awareness about this organization.”
It was during her time as a board member from 2016 to 2022 that she saw firsthand the significant changes in need and the increasing complexity in circumstances of GEF’s clients. GEF’s Outreach Team identifies these clients and works with organizations like FIND to provide basic items such as beds, new mattresses, chairs, side tables, lamps, dishes, and cookware.
“Donations like these help GEF to support seniors—many of whom are coming from precarious situations—continue to maintain their dignity notwithstanding the journeys that have brought them to our doors.”
– Shanika Donalds, Director of Housing and Client Services, GEF Seniors Housing
A Legacy of Compassion
Jacquie’s long-standing passion for caring for older adults started with her grandparents and continued with her mother who was the Assistant Director at a long-term care centre. On days off from school, Jacquie and her brother volunteered at the centre and enjoyed portering, doing residents’ hair, and playing cards with them.
“We had early exposure to older adults and all their wonderful wisdom. My mother and her career in long-term care was also a tremendous example for us.”
Jacquie’s mom, Joan, donates her large book collection to GEF’s library project.
As a former Speech Language Pathologist, Jacquie says her work in geriatric rehabilitation to help seniors regain communication skills after suffering strokes and other neurological impairments was very rewarding. Now happily retired, when she’s not busy on the playground with her two grandchildren, Jacquie continues to support GEF in new ways.
“The best way to start is to simply ask, ‘How can I help?’ Volunteering time, donating goods, or even just spreading the word about GEF are all ways people can help.”
Ways to Get Involved
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday or simply want to give back, there are many ways to help.
- DONATE – Choose the Fund for Seniors Most in Need.
- FUNDRAISE for GEF: Honorary Gifting, Charity of Choice, and DIY Fundraiser.
- VOLUNTEER with us.
Generosity is a gift that never expires and sometimes the greatest gifts are the ones that lift others up.
Well done!
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