Why is Ben Smiling?

The following article appeared in a special “Leave A Legacy” insert in the Chronicle Herald on May 31, 2016.

Ben has been participating in the Day Program at Bonny Lea Farm for a few years. He feels a great sense of pride in the work he does and enjoys the new friendships that he has made. Since beginning the day program, Ben has grown in so many ways. His confidence has grown and he values the encouragement and support he has been offered. He has a wonderful relationship with the entire staff, who continue to bring out the best in him.

His mom Barbie shared his story with us. “Everyone is so kind and caring. They always go out of their way to make each and every one of the participants feel special in their own way.

With Ben’s younger brother and sister learning to drive and moving away, Ben is now very content knowing that he too has found meaningful work in the Day Program at Bonny Lea Farm.

When I drop Ben off in the morning, the huge waves and enthusiastic shouts of “Hi Ben”, “Great to see you Ben” from the participants and staff is not only a big lift for Ben’s spirit, but as a parent it is tremendously comforting to know that Ben has found his niche and is surrounded by friends.”

The Day Program and other services provided by Bonny Lea Farm are made possible through the generous support of many people. Some support our annual fund drive. Others attend our events throughout the year or purchase the products made by one of our onsite social enterprises. But some of the truly transformative gifts have been by people who made a commitment through their will to leave a legacy gift – bequests, life insurance policies, retirement plans or other financial planning tools.

Leaving behind a philanthropic legacy can make a lasting impact promoting the ideals and values that are important to you. It ensures that those ideals will continue to improve the quality of life for others.

For most people, remembering family and friends in our will is an important part of our legacy. As we look to make an impact in our communities, we are increasingly thinking about organizations whose values matter to us and that are making a difference.

Bonny Lea Farm is a charitable organization founded in 1973, located on 80 acres in Chester, Nova Scotia. We provide residential and specialized programs and services for adults living with disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, acquired brain injury, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, visual and hearing impairments and other neurological and genetic disorders. Each person who comes to Bonny Lea Farm has the chance to learn, grow and succeed. Our more than 45 participants come from across Nova Scotia and beyond. We are funded through government grants, private foundations and continuous fundraising.

We see the results of our work reflected in the faces of our participants every day. We want every day at Bonny Lea Farm to be the best day it can be.

Discover the joy of making a positive impact on the lives of others. Make a legacy gift today.

To find out more about how you can help create the future at Bonny Lea Farm visit https://bonnyleafarm.ca/get-involved/ or contact Liz Finney at efinney@bonnyleafarm.ca or 902.275.5622 ext.241.

Every gift helps.