An Empathy Impacting Generations | Linda's Story

How do life experiences develop hearts of deep compassion? For Linda, it was first modelled by her father’s incredible empathy. Now, she’s put his legacy into action with 20 years of UGM involvement.

“My dad was someone who would give with dignity,” Linda remembers. “Though there were times where he was unemployed and struggling with alcoholism, he was a person who would share whatever little we had. This taught me we have a responsibility to share our blessings. It doesn’t matter what someone is going through—there’s a real person at the centre, and they’re to be cherished.”

After hearing about UGM, Linda felt a strong connection between our values and faith, and her own experiences and care toward others.

“With the way I grew up, then being a single mom, it hit home how easy it is to become vulnerable,” she shares. “It’s by God’s grace that I didn’t, but I’ve experienced fear, not belonging, and having nowhere to go. I don’t want other people feeling that way—so I began donating to UGM.”

One of the things Linda appreciates most about being part of the UGM family are the opportunities to participate. “I love how UGM invites you to help,” she explains. Over the years, Linda has volunteered at UGM, and been entrusted to uplift prayer requests from our community. “I love doing all that. It makes me feel like I’m part of the solution.” She has also heard from inspiring alumni at our annual Legacy Luncheon—an event for donors who have or are considering creating a Legacy gift.

Linda’s involvement naturally led her to think about her impact on the future. “When I first started donating, UGM was smaller. Now, there are programs in the Fraser Valley and a new Women & Families Centre opening,” she says. “That’s happened because the need is there, and the programs are designed to make a lasting impact that will go down the generations.”

Linda’s heart to continue partnering with UGM shines through in the deeply impactful decision to create a Legacy gift in her Will. “Leaving UGM a gift in my Will is a validation of how important the work is. Even after I’m gone, it will still matter,” she shares. “And because UGM puts God at the centre of everything, I have trust in knowing my gift will be used well.”