Karen Richardson was one of those unsung people who quietly and profoundly make Victoria a better place. She set an example of philanthropy, devoting not only money, but time and effort to her community.
Richardson, who was only 57 when she died last month, came to Victoria from Winnipeg in 1995, but quickly became important in the life of the city. Never seeking the limelight, she worked behind the scenes supporting causes as varied as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the Royal sa国际传媒 Museum, the David Foster Foundation, the Belfry Theatre, Ballet Victoria and her family鈥檚 own charitable organization.
Her work in Victoria followed the tradition of her family, who are well-known for financial services, grain-trading, real estate and other businesses. Their philanthropy, like Karen鈥檚, is quiet but extensive. The Richardson Foundation supports environmental issues, education, youth programs and the arts.
It is easy to dismiss community causes as the purview of the wealthy, but improving the lives of Victorians takes as much work as money. Many other people, toiling just as quietly behind the scenes, come from all walks of life to meet the needs of their neighbours.
Those needs, the newly released Vital Signs report suggests, are serious for people struggling with the high cost of living and those with mental-health issues. As with most things that make a difference in the lives of people around us, government alone cannot supply the solutions. People of good will must contribute their time and talents.
Karen Richardson鈥檚 example invites us to ask what we have done lately for our community.
