The loss of his brother P.J. six years ago to a drug overdose, while he was living on the streets, gave Comox Valley Dodge Managing Partner/Dealer Principal Carson Grant the idea to do a charity event to honour him and raise awareness for the homeless and less fortunate people.
The second annual Night On The Street took place earlier this month in the Comox Valley Regional District, which is on the east coast of Vancouver Island and has a population of 70,000. The 12-hour event raised $8,530 in donations, half of which the dealership contributed to match the public support. In addition to the money raised, the event gathered donations of food and clothing. This year’s event included counsellors and drug-harm educators, who gave out safety packages for the homeless.
“I know that my brother was a good human being, and the majority of the street community are good human beings,” said Grant. “We just wanted to make that difference and honour P.J. as well. I would have loved to do more for him. It humbles me, it humbles my team, and makes them realize, especially the younger guys, our problems are not (significant) problems compared to these individuals. It gives back to our community in a great way.”
The event received a blessing from the local First Nations community.
“We knew we could make a big splash in the community again,” said Grant. “I also wanted to hit a few more charities. I really wanted to focus our energy on trying to help out as many people here in the Valley. I feel being in a small community that we are, this is very, very important. People understand we’re here to enrich people’s lives in a positive way. I’m greatly appreciative and fortunate to be in the position that I’m in and I want to utilize my platform to do the best that I can to help out as many people as I can. That’s not only people on the streets but our seniors.”
