Volunteer Success Stories

Volunteer Success Stories

Donor, Volunteer and Friend: Jeanne Krabbendam

When Jeanne moved to BC in 1999, she was immediately shocked by the individuals she saw on the streets in downtown Vancouver. In 2004, she attended the annual Celebration of Hope Breakfast. She was moved instantly. Jeanne became a donor and donated her skills to develop and run a weekly art program at the Resource Centre.

Jeanne works to champion an impressive collection of visual images produced by artists who are part of Vancouver’s mental health community. With a key team of artists, she has successfully coordinated four outstanding art shows at the Resource Centre. Each show provides a medium to challenge barriers, stereotypes and preconceived ideas about mental health and has helped artists grow and learn from each other. Jeanne encourages everyone to strive to achieve their personal best.

“I have seen incredible changes first hand. When an artist joins the class they instantly have a sense of community and belonging.”

Jeanne’s contributions highlight the importance of art as a tool to communicate, inspire creativity and open hearts. Her work demonstrates how individuals who are facing extraordinary challenges and adversity come together to release their talents, inspire others and create works that bring out each individuals’ personal expression through art.

She sees first hand the difference art can make in someone’s life. “I believe that participants receive satisfaction from creating something from nothing. Everyone learns from each other.”

Jeanne describes Coast as her “charity of choice. I see first hand the difference that Coast is making in the lives of others. The increased housing options and the rising number of units give hope for a solution to homelessness.”

We would like to congratulate Jeanne in her continuous commitment to making a difference in the lives of people with mental illness.