Victoria business owner pledges $25K to shelter that once took him in as a youth

Things are coming full circle for the owner of a local business who has pledged $25,000 to the Victoria Youth Empowerment Society (VYES)—an organization that took him in as a young boy when he had nowhere else to go.

Mike De Palma pledged the money at the campaign kick-off of Souper Bowls of Hope, VYES’ largest annual fundraiser, where they hope to raise a total of $65,000 for youth and families in Greater Victoria.

The fundraiser will officially take place on Thursday, October 29th at the Union Club of British Columbia.

The kick-off event was held at Flintstones Pro on September 12th, where De Palma is the owner. He is now challenging other businesses to pledge to the cause at whatever level they are able to.

“VYES gave me a safe place when I had nowhere to go,” said De Palma. “I believe they saved me.”

“Giving back is personal for me. I’m asking Victoria businesses to pledge what they can, because every dollar helps a young person in our community.”

With the $25,000 pledge from De Palma, only $40,000 remains for the organization to reach their goal.

Attendees at Souper Bowls of Hope will be able to enjoy homemade soup, hear from youth supported by VYES and take home a handcrafted bowl made by local potters.

Proceeds from the event will support VYES programs for youth at risk in the community.

“Mike’s story shows what’s possible when a young person has a safe place and people who believe in them,” said Julie-Ann Hunter, Executive Director at VYES.

“His pledge and his challenge will help us reach more youth when they need us most.”

VYES says they support more than 1,000 youth and families in Greater Victoria and the Southern Gulf Islands each year.

The organization assists individuals meeting basic needs, including meals, clothing and emergency shelter through Kiwanis Emergency Youth Shelter.

They also provide youth counselling, life skills, mental health and substance use support as well as outreach and assistance with supported independent living.

For more information on the Souper Bowls of Hope, click here.