Investing In Hope: A Wiarton Business Owner’s Commitment to Community

For more than 30 years, Josie Myles has been a familiar face on Wiarton’s main street. As the owner of Josie’s Fashions, josiesonline.ca and Symon Says, a local Canadian-made gift shop, Myles has spent decades investing in the community she proudly calls home.

A fourth-generation business owner in Wiarton, Ontario, Myles believes strong communities are built when people support one another. That belief is one of the reasons she continues to support The Salvation Army’s work in the area.

“I’m always blown away at how much our little town’s Salvation Army does.”

“The amount of good they accomplish with relatively limited resources is incredible.” says Myles.

Myles’ connection to the organization deepened after attending a recent donor appreciation event, where staff shared stories about local programs and the lives that have been transformed through support, encouragement, and hope.

One program that particularly resonated with her was Trade Start, a unique initiative that helps at-risk youth and young adults gain skills, confidence, and employment opportunities.

“I remember hearing from one participant years ago who said the program gave them hope,” Myles recalls. “That has always stayed with me.”

To see people move forward, find employment, continue their education, and become productive members of society is remarkable.”

For Myles, programs like Trade Start demonstrate how a relatively simple concept can have a profound impact. “Really, that one-on-one support can change someone’s whole future,” she says.

“You’re helping people become productive members of society instead of falling through the cracks.”

What impresses Josie most is the dedication of the people behind these life-changing programs. “As a person looking from the outside, it could look simple” she says. “But I know it’s not. It’s tons of man-hours and people who are so passionate about what they do.”

That commitment is one of the reasons she continues to support The Salvation Army. “The one thing about your Salvation Army is it directly supports your clients,” says Myles.

“You can see the impact it has on people and families in our community.”

The stories shared at the event reinforced what Josie already believed—that The Salvation Army’s impact extends far beyond what many people realize.

“People might know about the food bank or Christmas assistance, but there’s so much more happening,” she says. “Whether it’s helping families, supporting children, providing pathways out of addiction, or programs like Trade Start, they’re changing lives every day.”

As someone who has spent her life in Wiarton, Myles is passionate about supporting organizations that strengthen the community she loves. “I’m a huge community person,” she explains.

“I love seeing people succeed, and I love seeing organizations that genuinely care about helping others.”

What stands out most to her is the dignity and respect The Salvation Army offers to every person who walks through its doors. “They make people feel valued,” she says.

“They help restore hope and remind people that they matter. That’s incredibly important.”

Through personal donations, support of local fundraising events, and community initiatives, Myles continues to champion The Salvation Army’s mission and encourage others to learn more about the work being done locally.

For her, giving is about making a difference close to home. “If I can help in even the tiniest way, I’m happy to be part of it,” she says. “When you see the impact these programs have on people’s lives, you know your support is making a difference.”

One moment from the donor appreciation event has stayed with her ever since. She remembers hearing a former program participant say, “I didn’t have hope. It gave me hope.”

“I’ll never forget that,” says Myles.

For her, that simple statement captures the importance of The Salvation Army’s work. Behind every program, every donation, and every volunteer hour is an opportunity to help someone find hope, rebuild their confidence, and create a better future.

By sharing her story, Myles hopes more people will learn about the programs and services available and recognize the important role they play in helping individuals and families build brighter futures.

It is that hope—and the life-changing impact it has on individuals, families, and the entire community—that continues to inspire Myles’ support.

By Claudia Nosseir
Photo Credit: Tanya Early - Tobermory Press