WATCH ABOVE: This weekend, Global is sending its best team to compete in the 4th annual President’s Cup Charity Wheelchair Basketball Tournament. All proceeds go to the Action Centre, which has worked to support some of Montreal’s most vulnerable citizens. Rachel Lau reports.
MONTREAL – On Saturday, Global Montreal is sending its best team to compete in the 4th Annual President’s Cup Wheelchair Basketball Challenge and the team to beat are the undefeated champs: Mega Brands.
The event is taking place at Lower Canada College. It’s organized by the Action Centre to raise awareness about the lives of the physically and mentally handicapped.
“It’s a friendly challenge among friends of the Action Centre,” said Andrew Lindsay, Executive Director of the Centre.
“Global has been a big supporter over the years. So it’s just an opportunity for people to get together, to have some fun, some spirited competition among colleagues and competitors and friends.”
Since 1998, the Action Centre has worked to support some of Montreal’s most vulnerable citizens and the Centre boasts almost 200 members, most of whom need assisted living.
To make a donation to support Team Global and the Action Centre, click here.
“It’s an opportunity or a place for people to come and get away from, or get out of their house,” said Lindsay.
“As well as give the people who take care of them during the day a break while they’re here.”
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Paul Donovan, a self-taught computer whiz has become so proficient with computers since he joined the Centre 13 years ago that he’s now the IT technician.
“It gave me a sense to get out of the house and to not stay home and keep myself occupied and maybe socialize as well,” he said.
Like any charitable organization, the Action Centre relies largely on donations and volunteers.
The annual wheelchair basketball tournament is just one way the Action Centre raises funds for future projects – and it’s a little bit of entertainment for the members, too.
“I like it,” said Paul Fagan, a member of the Action Centre.
“I wish I could play it but I’m afraid I’m going to get the ball on my head!”
Peter Cohn, chairman of the board of directors, noted that it is very important to realize that handicap does not necessarily mean unintelligent.
“I had a great life and I still do,” he said. “But now that I’m retired because of my stroke, I thought it was time to help other people.”
“That’s why I’m glad I’m Chairman, because I really want to see this place develop and grow.”
Through daily group activities that teach respect, support and hope, the Action Centre reminds its members every day that a life without limits is very possible.
Watch: Andrew Lindsay speaks to Jessica Laventure about the Chair Aware Challenge and Centre Action
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