100 Fine Gentlemen of Oceanside made their biggest contribution to date, a $17,000 donation to the Guys Groups at both Ballenas and Kwalikum Secondary schools. (submitted photo)

By Alex Rawnsley

fine gentlemen

‘We see a huge change:’ $17,000 donation from Oceanside group makes huge impact in local schools

Nov 18, 2024 | 5:53 AM

PARKSVILLE — A local group working with area students to help them navigate the social challenges of high school just got a huge boost.

The ‘Guys Groups’ at both Ballenas and Kwalikum Secondary schools were recipients in early November of a $17,000 donation from the 100 Fine Gentlemen of Oceanside, a group where members donate $100 each to a local community organization.

Guys Group mentor at Ballenas Brent Kellas said the money will make a massive difference to their lunch programs and off-site activities.

“A group of 100 men in our area wanting to make a difference, helping a group of young boys learning how to become men and learning how to survive teenagehood these days, this is a natural fit.”

Having grown considerably over recent years, the groups are both in-school and after-school gatherings of kids struggling with the challenges of high school.

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Kellas said some are on the autism spectrum and find meaningful social connections challenging, others just haven’t been able to find their own space away from home.

He told NanaimoNewsNOW they gather at times through the week to talk, provide support and forge great friendships.

“We see a huge change in the boys as far as their self confidence, their ability to express their thoughts and emotions which is often quite lacking for boys at this age, they don’t like to share, talk or ask for help…we’re making a big difference in these boys lives.”

Three to five teachers attend each gathering and money from the Fine Gentlemen will support their lunch and snack programs for years to come.

Money will also allow for more off-site field trips via bus transportation and paying for staff coverage at the school.

Kellas, who is also the music director at Ballenas, said it’s so rewarding to see students who come to the group getting excited about staying after school and expanding their social network.

“My students in choir, jazz band, concert band…they have a place to kind of belong and feel like they’re home in school, but some of the boys in our groups, they don’t have a space that’s their own, that they can go and see their friends and familiar faces everyday.”

John O’Brien, a member of the organizing committee for 100 Fine Gentlemen of Oceanside, said it’s immensely rewarding to see their efforts grow.

Every quarter, the group collects $100 from each of its members and pools it together to have a massive impact for a local group.

“It’s remarkable really when you think about it. Through our group, we’re able to extend our reach to a group that’s maybe not even on anyone’s radar. I’m really impressed with the calibre of presentations which have come forward.”

He said the relatively small gesture, equal to a cup of coffee per day, goes a long way for local non-profits and community groups.

“When you think about how hard it is for a charity to raise money, the work they’ve got to do to try and find a couple of thousand dollars to get them by another few months. This really sets them up in a wonderful position going forward, it’s amazing.”

Past recipients have included Inclusion Parksville, the SD69 Backpack Program, Society of Organized Services, Cops for Cancer, Island Crisis Care Society and the VI Prostate Centre.

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