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Blogs by Patrick Joesph Schnerch
Book Series Designed for Charity 12/16/2008 4:49:33 PM
'The City of Gardens Collection'from its very conception was to be used as a fundraiser tool for a local charity. All 1st year profits from each book in the series will be donated to the Victoria Human Exchange Society to aid them in their fight against homelessness. I had my share of grief in my life, but have overcome many hurdles due to support of the community to see me through. I was so humbled by this, that upon my survival I decided to give back to the community that saved my life.
My whole goal in life is to become an active member of society and become a servant for those in need. I am in hope that I can return the favour and make a difference in someone's life.
The thought came to me to do what I am best at. Writing and advocacy has dominated my entire being. I combined my interests to publish a five book series on mental illness, addiction and homelessness in Victoria, B.C., Canada.
Unlike all the other publications on the city, I am not promoting tourism or writing a vacation guide. The books are unique for they focus on issues that are not commonly expressed or communicated.
There is a sense of shame about our social situation and is often put on the back burner. Even though no one wants to talk about it, it is very visible when you visit the downtown core.
For those who are residents of the city, they are aware that we are in serious trouble. People who have visited this city are sometimes amazed and shocked of what they witness. There are others who have changed their minds on visiting our city because they were forewarned by others that it is not the tourist destination it once was.
Businesses, tourism and public safety has been greatly jeopardized by these social concerns. Unlike other publications, this one does focus on these issues and does not sugar coat the situation to make it easier to swallow.
The charity that I have chosen to donate the profits to, provide temporary and affordable housing to those who would most likely end up on the streets. With support, they are able to move on to independent living.
Half of the retail price of these books will go towards fighting homelessness. With full support and endorsement from VHES, we will initiate an aggressive five year campaign starting March 1st, 2009.
The series is designed to bring these issues to the surface and provoke discussions as well as become part of the solution. This is our sole motivation of this series. It is not for personal gain or recognition, the only purpose is to end homelessness in Victoria.
