Inspiration served up at the Hope in the City Leadership Breakfast
Paralympian and sailing world champion, Paul Tingley, took the stage at the sixth annual Hope in the City Leadership Breakfast. The event brought together over 300 of Halifax’s community and business leaders to the Westin Nova Scotian in support of the programs and services offered by The Salvation Army.
Sailing since he was ten years old, Paul was born to be in the water. After a skilling accident at age 24 left him paralyzed from the waist down, Paul made the decision to channel his energies back into his passion-sailing. Despite the rigorous training, his work ethic, competitive spirit, and passion for the sport never wavered. A year later, Paul would return to the water and begin racing competitively.
Paul’s message of strength, hope and perseverance speaks to the work and mission of The Salvation Army. He said, “We’re all faced with trials, but we can choose to embrace and overcome them. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of many by sharing our stories to help encourage others to follow their dreams despite any obstacles they may face.”
Following Paul’s keynote address, Phil McRae, a graduate of The Salvation Army Anchorage Addictions Program shared his journey from addiction and incarceration to recovery. Phil’s addiction quickly consumed every aspect of his life, from his relationships to his thriving career. “Addiction doesn’t discriminate,” he said.
When addressing the crowd, Phil shared his nervousness, recalling fondly the words of encouragement from Addictions Program Supervisor, Paul Surette, “That what you put out there has no power over you.” Phil said “Addictions are chronic, progressive, and fatal; The Salvation Army offered me hope and help.”
CTV Atlantic news anchor Steve Murphy led the event as emcee, and was joined by Member of Parliament, Andy Fillmore, who provided greeting on behalf of the Government of Canada, and Deputy Mayor, Steve Craig, was on hand to give greetings from the Halifax Regional Municipality. Halifax Regional Police Chief Jean-Michel Blais, who also serves as Chair of The Salvation Army Halifax Advisory Board, took a moment to talk about the work of the Army.
“Celebrating our Hope in the City Leadership Breakfast with many supporters and hearing the inspiring testimonies of Paul Tingley and Phil McRae remind us that anything is possible,” said Major Wade Budgell, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army. “With ongoing support from our communities and events like this, The Salvation Army is able to offer vital programs and services across the Maritimes.”
The Hope in the City Leadership Breakfast was made possible by the support of presenting sponsor, Nova Scotia Power; gold sponsor, Quantum Communications; silvers sponsors, Investors Group and McInnes Cooper; and media sponsors Metro News and C100.
