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Patrick Byrne began volunteering for the Hope for Children Foundation (HCF) in 1988, after he and his wife Laura registered for adoption services with CCAS. Over the years, he has held numerous volunteer roles with the Foundation including as a member of the Board of Directors from 1992 to 1999.
Pat has contributed to the growth and success of the Foundation by creating new and innovative programs that generate funds in support of child abuse prevention programs. He initiated the Annual Corporate Golf Tournament and contributed to the Foundation scholarship program by building important partnerships with educational institutions. In the following interview, Pat talks about his volunteering experience and his steadfast commitment to CCAS children and families.
Pat, you were recently honoured at CCAS’s Annual General Meeting for 19 years of volunteer service. Congratulations! One of your major accomplishments is the Corporate Golf Tournament, through which you have raised more than $800,000. Did you ever imagine that the tournament would achieve such success when you started it all those years ago?
Pat: I didn’t set any targets for the golf tournament when I started it. Each year brings new challenges for the organizing committee but when I look back and reflect on what we have done, I am very proud of the hard work and commitment of all of our participants, volunteers and sponsors.
How has your experience in the corporate sector assisted you as a fundraiser?
Pat: I have been very fortunate over the years to work with people who hold senior level positions. Through my relationship with them, I have been able to leverage corporate support for the Hope for Children Foundation.
Could you tell us about your involvement with the Scholarship Committee?
Pat: Fifteen years ago I attended my first Foundation scholarship event. I was so impressed that even though these young people have been through so many struggles, they still appreciate that people are thinking of them and trying to help. These young adults need the support to remain in school so that they can earn a certificate or degree. I whole-heartedly believe that the Province should continue to support these youth until age 25, so that they can remain in school and have a better chance at succeeding in life.
You personally contribute to the scholarship program through the Pat Byrne Scholarship fund. Tell us how that scholarship came about.
Pat: A few years ago, my wife Laura held a surprise birthday party for me, and in lieu of gifts she asked our guests to make donations to start a scholarship fund. A few years ago when my mother passed away, I thought it would be fitting to rename the scholarship in her memory. When I was growing up, my mother always used to say to me in her Irish brogue, “Pat you must learn to give back to the community.” I guess I took that to heart. Today, I believe that we should all give back. This is what has kept me volunteering all these years.
You have given so much to the Foundation—not only financially, but also your time and resources. What has volunteering for the Foundation given you?
Pat: For me, one of the best nights of the year is going to the annual scholarship event. Being able to connect with these young adults and see the drive and determination on their faces makes it all worth it. Their unconditional gratitude for the financial assistance that we give them is the most rewarding experience.
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