Woodwynn Therapeutic Community

Picture Slideshow from Woodwynn's OPEN HOUSE

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 11:39:00 -0700

Woodwynn's Official "Safety Guy" John, and his partner Betty, sent us the following e-mail:

"We had a great time at the Open House, as I am sure all the hundreds of other volunteers and visitors did too.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words so hopefully the photos we took and put on Youtube (with appropriate music!) as a slide show will be worth a thousand thanks of appreciation!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nE9_TmKpF9g

Please feel free to share it with those we managed to capture on film and anyone else you would like to show it to who may not have been able to attend.

All the best.

Betty and John"

Take a peak at their video slideshow HERE.

Watch our NEWEST Youtube Video - Airflight over Woodwynn

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 15:57:00 -0700

After 7 months of hard work, we finally got a chance to view our project from the air.

Check out this link and catch our adventure

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YK30FixxqZA

Thank you to Veronique da Silva (volunteer photographer), Nancy Brown (artist and project coordinator), and thanks to Patrick at Island Pacific Flight Academy

World's Largest Living Message of HOPE - Aerial Shot

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:26:00 -0700

Woodwynn OPEN HOUSE - Saturday, Aug 14th - come tour our Sunflower Project

Family Open House - August 14th, 2010

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:08:00 -0700

Come visit the "Worlds Largest Living Logo of Hope"

Family Open House - Saturday August 14th, 2010

11am - 5pm

Dance and play around our 5 acre living logo of Sunflowers!

Live, Local Music
Hay Rides and Farm Tours
Pack a Picnic Lunch
Fun for the Whole Family

Take home your own sunflower project!

Visit seeditforward.ca to send you Sunflower e-card.

Paddling for Woodwynn - Yukon River Quest

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 14:40:00 -0700

THE EVENT: The Yukon River Quest (www.yukonriverquest.com) has been touted as the longest annual canoe and kayak marathon, and one of the toughest.

Janice Mason and her nephew, Robin have decided to take on the challenge of the river and will be on the start line at noon on June 30, 2010 along with 79 other teams.

The race covers 746 km of the Yukon River, from Whitehorse to Dawson City.
Janice and Robin’s goal is to reach the city of Klondike Gold Rush fame within 60 hours of leaving Whitehorse.

WHY: The Yukon River Quest is a race and not a fundraising event, but Janice decided to use her participation as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for Woodwynn.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Please help Janice surpass her goal of raising $10 per kilometer, or $7460 for the farm, by donating either an amount for the total race or per km:
i.e. 1 cent per km = $7.46; 10 cent per km = $74.60

As Woodwynn is a charitable organization tax receipts are available for donations of $20 or more.

TO DONATE:

Checks can be made payable to Woodwynn Farms, and mailed to:

Janice Mason
Box 5534 - 1625 Fort Street
Victoria, BC V8R 6S4

Or you can donate directly through the website HERE

Thank you for your support in building healthier communities for all!

Yours in paddling,

Janice & the Woodwynn Team

Former homeless at Woodwynn eating veggies from our farm - that they helped grow - 4 year dream coming to fruition - MUCH GRATITUDE!

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 09:58:00 -0700

Our apprentices, staff and volunteers helped themselves to a beautiful and healthy veggie salad, grown right here on Woodwynn.

The dream of having former homeless people working the land, sleeping in a warm, dry and safe place, and eating foods they helped grow is coming to fruition.

We are eternally grateful to our supporters.

Harvesting Hope a Great Success!

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:44:00 -0700

The Royal Oak Rotary Club fundraising event, Harvesting Hope, was a success beyond our wildest hopes – over $20,000 raised for our irrigation system!

Joe Roberts (“From Skid Row to CEO”) spoke to the crowd about being homeless in Vancouver. His words touched the crowd, as he described his experiences with addiction and recovery, and his immense gratitude toward the army of people who are behind the man he is today. Inspirational stuff.

We would like to send out a huge thank you to the Rotary Club of Royal Oak, with special thanks going to the hard work of Donna Miller, Amy Kezes and Tony Joe.

Harvesting Hope

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:48:00 -0700

You are cordially invited to an exciting event planned by the Rotary Club of Royal Oak – “Harvesting Hope”.

Who: Dynamic speaker Joe Roberts, “from Skid Row to CEO,” will offer his compelling message of overcoming adversity and finding hope, opportunity and prosperity. Founder and Director of Woodwynn Farms Richard Leblanc will compliment this message with his vision for Woodwynn’s Therapeutic Community.

What: A delicious dinner, an inspiring speech and a silent auction.

When: Thursday, May 20th at 6 p.m.

Where: University of Victoria’s University Club.

Why: All proceeds from the silent auction will directly benefit Woodwynn and our project dedicated to creating Homefulness in Victoria. The Rotary Club’s goal is to raise $10,000 towards an irrigation system for the farm.

Bonus: Auction items include a 2-night stay at Poet’s Cove in the Executive Suite, a 4-person 18-hole round of golf at Highland Pacific, and some incredible pieces of art!

Tickets: $100 with a $60 charitable donation receipt. Tickets can be purchased by calling (250) 655-1558.

Please view Joe Roberts' invitation to Harvesting Hope below:

Bottle Drive for Woodwynn Farms

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:02:00 -0700

Bottle Drive for Woodwynn Farms - “Former Homeless Paying it Forward” -

Rebecca Bowers and a host of other Youth Employment Project (YEP) graduates are organizing another fundraiser for Woodwynn Farms, in the wake of their successful car wash, which raised over $650 (a grand total of $1300 with a matching donation!).

Please come and show your support by brining all your returnable items to the Blanshard/Finlayson corner of the Mayfair Mall Parking Lot this Saturday, May 1st.

Every dollar raised in support of Woodwynn Farms until May 9th will be matched, up to $150,000, including the proceeds of this bottle drive.

“A See and Bee Seen Event!” - Have you heard the buzz?

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 15:41:00 -0700

A beeautiful success! 'Just Bee Cause,' a fundraiser held in support of the Woodwynn Farms beekeeping program, raised over $1700 last night. A matching donation from a philanthropist brings us to a grand total of $3400! The Woodwynn team would like to express our deepest gratitude for all the hard work and energy that went into making this event a success. A BIG thanks goes to Jo-Ann Stoltz, her team of organizers, all the dedicated beekeepers that are helping bring this project to life on the farm, and to Cabin 12 for providing the venue and scrumptious chili. Thank you to all who attended for your generous donations. We look forward to bringing you more buzz-worthy beekeeping information and events in the future!

Former Homeless Carwash a great success

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:07:00 -0700

Former homeless raised $650 for Woodwynn in weekend fundraiser - matched by philanthropist for a net $1,300 - amazing show of GIVING BACK

Former Homeless Seeding it Forward - CAR WASH FUNDRAISER FOR WOODWYNN

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:23:00 -0700

CAR WASH FUNDRAISER FOR WOODWYNN FARMS

Rebecca Bowers, a graduate of Victoria’s Youth Employment Project (YEP), wants to pay it forward.

YEP, a program that ran from 1998 through 2002 and provided job and life skills training to homeless and disempowered youth, helped Rebecca get back on her feet.

YEP founder, Richard Leblanc is now at the helm of a new project aimed at Creating Homefulness through a therapeutic community at Woodwynn.

This cause hits close to home for Rebecca, who went through a difficult time before turning her life around along with 385 other high-risk youth participating in YEP.

Now a mother of two and gainfully employed, Rebecca wants to give back and has found a fitting avenue through Woodwynn Farms.

Until Mothers’ Day on May 9th, an anonymous supporter will be matching donations to Woodwynn up to $150,000, which has inspired Rebecca and a host of other YEP graduates to get involved and intensify fundraising efforts, beginning with a car wash this Saturday, April 17th from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. at the Petro-Canada at 944 Craigflower Rd (at Tillicum Rd), Victoria, BC

Counselor

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:20:00 -0700

* POSITION FILLED *

Counselor

Nature of Position:

Woodwynn Farms is looking for an experienced mental health and addictions counselor to take on the role of Counselor.

The ideal candidate has over 10 years experience working with the homeless population in this capacity and can provide one-on-one counseling, group counseling, case management, program development, and guidance to other staff members on how to best support our participants.

This position will be expected to assess individual and group needs of participants and implement plans to help participants transform their lives for good.

The ideal candidate will need to quickly learn and understand the values and operations of a therapeutic community and be able to incorporate mental health and addictions support throughout the daily activities of the Therapeutic Community.

A majority of the counseling support will take place informally, while working side by side with our participants in their organic farming apprenticeship program and capitalizing on teachable moments. The counselor will be expected to perform all farming/physical duties required, as outlined by the farming project coordinator.

Role modeling is a key element to the success of a therapeutic community. The counselor will be expected to demonstrate Woodwynn Farms values at all times. These values include: Accomplishment, Respect, Love, Compassion, Integrity, Loyalty, Honour, Dignity, Support, and Celebration.

Duties Include:

o Assist in addressing issues related to mental health and addictions

o Provide life skills training and coaching

o Report participants’ progress and condition, including withdrawal management and reactions to medications

o Provide informal counseling on a regular basis

o Provide one-on-one counseling as needed

o Facilitate group processes/counseling

o Case management

o Develop and implement various programs as needed (recreational, psycho-educational, smoking cessation, etc.)

o Participate in program evaluation activities

o Participate in providing accurate/updated documentation and manage confidential information in accordance with Agency and legal standards.

o All duties related to vocational training and daily living of participants

Essential Skills:

o Excellent communication – both verbal and written

o Ability to work with others and be part of a larger community while being a self starter and self disciplined

o Sound judgment and good observation skills

o Problem solving

o Decision making

o Crisis intervention/ management skills,

o Excellent interpersonal skills

o Leadership skills

o Time management

Job Requirements:

o Bachelors Degree – Psychology, Social Work, Nursing

o Maters Degree is preferred

o Recent group and individual counseling experience

o 5-10 years experience working with street involved individuals

o Knowledge of concurrent disorders and issues facing individuals who have experienced homelessness.

o Physical and emotional ability to carry out the duties of the position

o Standard First Aid and CPR

o Valid BC Drivers License

o Criminal Records Check

* Woodwynn Farms is a non-smoking environment.

This is a temporary 6 month position, with a possibility of extension depending on funding.

Salary: $27/hour

Hours of Work: 40 hours/week, typical shift will be 1 p.m. – 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9a.m.- 5 p.m. Fridays. Occasional weekend and morning shifts may be required

Application Deadline: POSITION FILLED

Organic Farming Mentor

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:19:00 -0700

Organic Farming Mentor

Nature of Position:

Woodwynn Farms is looking for a unique individual who can both teach and support our participants in implementing various organic farming activities and provide instrumental support to our counselor and participants when not working in the fields.

The ideal candidate will have organic farming/gardening knowledge and experience and experience providing instrumental support to high- needs individuals.

The candidate will need to quickly learn and understand the values and operations of a therapeutic community and be able to incorporate mentorship and support throughout the daily activities of the Therapeutic Community.

Role modeling is a key element to the success of a therapeutic community. The farmer will be expected to demonstrate Woodwynn Farms values at all times. These values include: Accomplishment, Respect, Love, Compassion, Integrity, Loyalty, Honour, Dignity, Support, and Celebration.

Duties Include:

o Provide education and support in implementing various organic farming activities

o Provide life skills training and coaching

o Report participants’ progress and condition

o Role model desired behaviors, communication and attitudes

o Support various programs as needed (recreational, psycho-educational, smoking cessation, etc.)

o Participate in program evaluation activities

Essential Skills:

o Excellent communication – both verbal and written

o Ability to work with others and be part of a larger community while being a self starter and self disciplined

o Sound judgment and good observation skills

o Problem solving

o Decision making

o Crisis intervention/ management skills

o Excellent interpersonal skills

o Leadership skills

o Time management

Job Requirements:

o Organic Farming or Master Gardner certification, or equivalent combination of education and experience

o Experience in human service field, especially homelessness or addictions, considered an asset

o 1-2 years experience

o Physical and emotional ability to carry out the duties of the position

o Standard First Aid and CPR

o Valid BC Drivers License

o Criminal Records Check

*Woodwynn Farms is a non-smoking environment.

This is a temporary 6 month position, with a possibility of extension depending on funding.

Salary: $18/hr

Hours of Work: 20 hours per week, various daytime shifts, Sundays off

Application Deadline: We will begin filling positions as soon as applications start to arrive. We will not consider applications received after April 2, 2010.

Anticipated start date: April 5th, 2010

Please submit your resume and cover letter to careers@woodwynnfarms.org in a Word 2003 doc or pdf format.

Due to the anticipated number of applicants, only those who are requested for interview will be contacted.

Overnight Support Counselor

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:18:00 -0700

* POSITION FILLED *

Overnight Support Counselor

Nature of Position:

Woodwynn Farms is looking for experienced overnight support counselors to provide ongoing support to the participants of our Therapeutic Community. The ideal candidate has over 2 years experience working with the homeless population or in other mental health and addictions areas. This position will be expected to provide support to our participants in the late evening and overnight and early morning hours.

Duties Include:

o Assist in addressing issues related to mental health and addictions

o Provide life skills training and coaching

o Report participants’ progress and condition

o Role model desired behaviors, communication and attitudes

o Implement various programs as needed (recreational, psycho-educational, smoking cessation, etc.)

o Participate in program evaluation activities

o Participate in providing accurate/updated documentation and manage confidential information in accordance with Agency and legal

standards.

Essential Skills:

o Excellent communication – both verbal and written

o Ability to work with others and be part of a larger community while being a self starter and self disciplined

o Sound judgment and good observation skills

o Problem solving

o Decision making

o Crisis intervention/ management skills,

o Excellent interpersonal skills

o Leadership skills

o Time management

Job Requirements:

o Diploma in a related human services field or equivalent combination of education and experience

o 1-2 years experience working with street involved individuals considered an asset

o Knowledge of concurrent disorders and issues facing individuals who have experienced homelessness considered an asset

o Physical and emotional ability to carry out the duties of the position

o Standard First Aid and CPR

o Valid BC Drivers License

o Criminal Records Check

Support Counselor

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:15:00 -0700

* POSITION FILLED *

Support Counselor

Nature of Position:

Woodwynn Farms is looking for experienced support counselors to provide ongoing support to the participants of our Therapeutic Community. The ideal candidate has over 2 years experience working with the homeless population or in other mental health and addictions areas.

This position will be expected to provide support while working side-by-side with our participants while they go about their daily activities.

The support worker will be expected to participate fully in these daily activities, which include organic farming, recreational activities, daily living skills, etc.

Duties Include:

o Assist in addressing issues related to mental health and addictions

o Provide life skills training and coaching

o Report participants’ progress and condition

o Role model desired behaviors, communication and attitudes

o Implement various programs as needed (recreational, psycho-educational, smoking cessation, etc.)

o Participate in program evaluation activities

o Participate in providing accurate/updated documentation and manage confidential information in accordance with Agency and legal

standards.

o All duties related to vocational training and daily living of participants

Essential Skills:

o Excellent communication – both verbal and written

o Ability to work with others and be part of a larger community while being a self starter and self disciplined

o Sound judgment and good observation skills

o Problem solving

o Decision making

o Crisis intervention/ management skills,

o Excellent interpersonal skills

o Leadership skills

o Time management

Job Requirements:

o Degree or diploma in a related human services field or equivalent combination of education and experience

o Bachelors Degree preferred

o Group and individual counseling experience is an asset

o 2-3 years experience working with street involved individuals is an asset

o Knowledge of concurrent disorders and issues facing individuals who have experienced homelessness is an asset

o Physical and emotional ability to carry out the duties of the position

o Standard First Aid and CPR

o Valid BC Drivers License

o Criminal Records Check

Cook

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:11:00 -0700

* POSITION FILLED *

Cook

Nature of Position:

Woodwynn Farms Therapeutic Community is looking for someone who has a passion for home-style cooking to take on the responsibility of providing economical and nutritious meals for our participants and staff.

The ideal candidate will be an integral part of our therapeutic community and must exemplify the values of our organization:

Accomplishment, Respect, Love, Compassion, Integrity, Loyalty, Honour, Dignity, Support, and Celebration.

Duties Include:

o Follow outlined meal plans and associated recipes

o Prepare and cook full course meals

o Ensure quality of food

o Work with minimal supervision

o Maintain inventory and records of food, supplies and equipment

o Operate, clean and maintain food services equipment and areas

o Manage food safety and practice workplace health and safety procedures

o Model organizational values at all times

Essential skills:

o Excellent communication – both verbal and written

o Ability to work with others and be part of a larger community while being a self starter and self disciplined

o Able to work independently

o Problem solving

o Decision making

o Job task planning

o Time management

Job Requirements:

o Food Safe

o Red Seal Journeyman considered an asset

o Standard First Aid and CPR

o Valid BC Drivers License

o Criminal Records Check

Woodwynn Safety Courses continue

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:21:00 -0800

FARSHA (Farm and Ranch Safety and Health Association) continues to bring great courses to Woodwynn. Thank you to Ken Lacroix for helping make Woodwynn a safe place to volunteer and work. Thank you to our volunteers for your dedication to Woodwynn. Sincerely, Richard Leblanc

Homeless to begin farming at Woodwynn within 8 weeks

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:06:00 -0800

By Judith Lavoie, Times Colonist February 9, 2010

The first group of formerly homeless people will be working the soil at Woodwynn Farm in Central Saanich within eight weeks, Richard Leblanc, Creating Homefulness executive director, said yesterday.

A philanthropist who wants to remain anonymous has committed to match every dollar donated between now and May 9, up to $150,000.

Provided enough donors come forward, that money will allow programs to start this spring, even though the 78-hectare farm and 16 buildings still need about $1 million worth of capital work, Leblanc said.

"We will start with four people and build up to 12," he said.

Most of the farm will remain in hay for now, but a six-acre area has been cleared and participants will grow organic vegetables.

"It will be an outdoor classroom for farm apprentices," Leblanc said.

Click to read the full article on Times Colonist

$150,000 Woodwynn KickStart!!

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 09:27:00 -0800

To further spur on the Community Support of our transformative project, a generous donor has committed to match every dollar donated between now and May 9 (Mother's Day), up to $150,000.

Thru this generous contribution and other recent donations, we will be able to welcome our 1st round of participants in the next 6-8 weeks & start them on their journey toward Healing, Health and Self-Reliance...off the streets for good!

Further recent donations include:

- $10,000 Tools & Equipment (anonymous)

- $10,000 Irrigation System (Royal Oak Rotary Club fundraiser)

- $15,000 Farm Planning (Coast Capital Savings)

Your donations ...even just a few dollars...may be made directly here online

or mailed to us at: PO Box 622 Saanichton, BC V8M 2C5

Woodwynn Announcement on CBC Radio

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:18:00 -0800

Tune in to CBC Radio Victoria (90.5FM)

Monday Feb8th @ 7:05am for an exciting announcement.

or on the web http://www.cbc.ca/ontheisland/

Work Party Saturday, Jan 16, '01

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:34:00 -0800

Woodwynn getting to work in the New Year!

As we look back at 2009, we are very grateful for an amazing seven months at Woodwynn Farms!

Our next Work Party -- Saturday, January 16, 2010 -- 09:30-3:00

We're at 7789 W. Saanich Rd, Saanichton, BC

Please come dressed for outdoors work. (proper footwear and workgloves)

This will be a great workout for all you office workers!

We will have lunch for everyone at the white house. (help with food prep and cleanup will be appreciated).

Please email lisag@woodwynnfarms.org if you will be joining, so we can plan lunches for you.

Sincerely,

Richard Leblanc

Founder & Executive Director

Olympic Spirit Comes to Woodwynn

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 13:52:00 -0800

Four time Olympic rower, child advocate, and community champion, Silken Laumann has joined the Woodwynn Farms Board of Directors.

Silken brings to Woodwynn a wealth of board experience including chairing the International Board of Right to Play for six years, serving on the Nike Corporate Board, chairing the Lou Marsh Award and currently sitting on the board of Goodlife for Kids Foundation. Silken was involved with the Courage to Comeback awards both in Toronto and Vancouver for a total of seventeen years. For several years, Silken ran a not-for-profit called Silken's Active Kids Movement which aimed to increase opportunities for kids to be active in the communities. Through her work at Silken's Active Kids Movement, Silken became increasingly passionate about community connection.

"Our communities need to continually look at ways of increasing connection,” explained Silken Laumann. “Much of my work at Silken's Active Kids Movement was aimed at building connection between neighbours and school communities. On a broader scale, our communities need to find ways to reintegrate the mentally ill, the disenfranchised - the homeless. Woodwynn Farms aims to create a Therapeutic Community that helps homeless people build the skills and self esteem needed to realize meaningful and productive lives. I have been to the farm and believe in the vision of this project. In order to be fully realized, Woodwynn needs the support of the Victoria region. I believe Woodwynn will be a lasting legacy of hopefulness and change that our community can be proud of – one that will be modelled in other communities in Canada.”

“Silken’s passion for community and her values as a person are such an excellent fit for our organization” said Richard Leblanc, Executive Director of the Creating Homefulness Society.

Amazing Volunteers at Woodwynn

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:30:00 -0800

An amazing Saturday at Woodwynn!!!!

On a cold, wintery Dec 5^th, 73 volunteers braved the wind and cold and smiled all day long.

There was ice throughout ponds and puddles in the morning, yet the sun decided to reward folks by warming right up mid-day.

Volunteers demonstrating support for this project for the homeless thru your actions...this is so inspiring.

THIS is Creating Homefulness...Creating a Community...a Home ... for the homeless.

A group of students from Esquimalt High brought great energy to the day...they smiled all day and really busted their tails getting work done.

A big Thank You for all the work accomplished to:

Adaline; Aislin; Alan; Andrew; Anna; Arielle; Barrett; Bennett; Betty; Brin; Bruce; Cam; Chris; Dan; Dan; David; Davis; Debi; Devin; Eric; Gordon; Greg; Jalquin; Jeanne; Jennifer; Jo-Anne; Jocelyne; Joyce; Karen; Kate; Katie; Kira; Laura; Lauree; Leanne; Les; Levi; Liam; Lindy; Lisa; Liu; Miranda; Monique; Nancy; Nannette; Nick; Paul; Peter; Peter; Pieta; Richelle; Robin; Sef; Sylvan; Tanya; Tim Bullard; Tim Doyle; Vladimere; plus 16 students from Esquimalt High School!

Special thanks to:

- Les, who played saxophone on the white house patio at lunchtime

- Lise and Mike for making that wonderful veggie soup and bringing all those buns…no tour, no introduction just straight to the kitchen and not only did they provide all that food for us they stayed to serve and clean up as well!! We had nothing but wonderful comments on the soup and we fed 57 people lunch! Monique, Arielle and Lise made 50 sandwiches. Lisa made fudge and cracker toffee

- Our supervisors for the day…you ARE the backbone of our Saturday work parties: Barrett, Bennett, Bruce, Gordon, Jeanne, Monique, Nancy, and Tim D.

- LISA G…our Volunteer Coordinator…you totally rock.

Yoga at Woodwynn

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 09:17:00 -0700

Woodwynn Farm has happily announced Yoga on the Farm, its first public event that will help raise the funds needed to start operating the program that will transform homeless individuals into self-sufficient people.

On August 22nd beginning at 10 am, Woodwynn Farm will host a 90 minute open yoga session in one of its stunning hay fields. Guided by four professional instructors from Yoga Shala – one of the top yoga studios in Victoria - participants will practice this thousand-year-old disciple while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Mount Newton Valley.

Everybody is invited. “Yoga on the Farm will be a gentle and energetic flow session, accessible to participants from all ages and levels of experience”, commented Braden Abrams Reid, volunteer and coordinator of the event. “All you need to bring is a yoga mat and a water bottle”, she added.

Participation is by donation ($20 dollars per person is suggested). The access to the event will be through the Mount Newton Cross Road gate. There will be parking available, but reducing your carbon foot print by carpooling or cycling is encouraged. Woodwynn Farm is just 60 minutes biking from downtown along the Lochside Trail.

Practice Yoga on the Farm and help create a homefulness society.

Questions and comments at: woodwynnyoga@gmail.com

Woodwynn Farms Work Party Update July 31st

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 07:48:00 -0700

** NO Work Party Saturday, August 1st **

(taking a needed break!)

Next Work Party - Saturday, August 8th

~~~~~~~~

Last Saturday... without advertising...we got 22 volunteers focused on tying up loose ends on a few projects.

The day was capped by lunchtime entertainment, when Les MacNeil played mellow saxophone music for our heat-ravaged crew.

The music resonated beautifully thru the Mt Newton valley.

Yet, by 3:00pm the heat got the best of us, and there was only Jalquin, Nancy and I -- (and I was barely standing)

~~~~~~~~

THANK YOU...THANK YOU... THANK YOU!!!

I want the following people to know how much you are appreciated.

Lisa G - it is unanimous! Everyone agrees we've scored the best person possible as our Volunteer Coordinator. your positive energy, organizational skills and infectious humour make our work together priceless every time.

Nancy B - the crews would be lost without you. You are bringing out the best in people, the land and this project. lots to juggle. you are wonderful

Barrett B - thank you for being relentlessly, patiently, persistently supportive. In your trademark quiet manner, you help everyone get their jobs done better and enjoy the process

Les and Marcia - I always find you "in the thick of things" ... literally (as in clearing blackberry bushes). you have permanent smiles and endless encouragement. and you always find new ways to add to our Woodwynn Experience. you guys are great!

Jocelyne D - the most amazing god-send! thank you for 'taking care of the details' and thinking 10 steps ahead of us.

Monique O - you bring constant positive energy to every situation... every meeting... and you are such a critical back up for Lisa and I. Thank you!

Tanya K - you are our enviro-conscience with garbage, recycling, compost, dirty dishes, banning paper plates etc... thank you for patiently, and persisently getting us to 'clean up our colletive acts'. All the while quietly bringing beauty to the landscaping around the white house!... we all appreciate that.

Tina and Les - you are by far the most consistent at making progress around Woodwynn. you make daily headway that is adding up to an awesome home for our Woodwynn horses. your depth of knowledge about farming and horses is respected by everyone.

Sophia S - thank you for patiently allowing us to change colors... over and over and over again...without complaining....then even backing us up with lunch and computer work.

Kim K - our coordinator extraordinaire...bringing order to discorder... bringing humor ... and being an example of how people from far and wide need to know about our project.

Jane D - every day you show everyone how to have fun at work. A big smile, warm hug and relentless support are your trademarks.

Bennett G - you quietly role-model excellence every moment you are on the farm. all of our work is so much better for your friendly diligence...thank you!

On behalf of all the people we will be helping thru this project...THANK YOU!

Richard

Woodwynn Farms

Richard and Oscar on the Times Colonist

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 20:22:00 -0700

Last Sunday, Richard Leblanc (Founder & CEO of Woodwynn Farm) and Oscar Bravo (MBA Candidate) appeared in Section 1 of Times Colonist. The ad, sponsored by the Business Co-operative Education Department of the University of Victoria, shows Richard and Oscar at Woodwynn on a tractor with a beautiful view of the valley in the background.

Titled as “Our Students. Your Community. Better Together.”, the insert explains briefly the objective of the farm and how Oscar’s marketing expertise is being leveraged on the project. During the photo shooting session Richard commented. “We are happy to be one of the employers for the Co-ops at UVic. We value student’s contribution and passion for the project”.

The ad aims to show how UVic Co-op students are working with local organizations to foster growth and community in Greater Victoria and inspire other to do the same. “It is a great experience to contribute on a social project of this magnitude, working shoulder-to-shoulder with its founder and different community leaders”, Oscar said while touring the UVic team through the historic buildings of the farm.

Woodwynn Farms Update - Work Party July 18th

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:16:00 -0700

Work Party Saturday, July 18th
09:30 - 4:00

Bring a water bottle, gloves and gardening tools if you have them. Lunch will be provided. Please email lisagrant@telus.net if you can make it so we have an idea of numbers for lunch. k you all who attended last weekend's work party, Cheers, Thank you all who attended last weekend's work party, we accomplished so much! Our new office building looks better than ever, even from way down West Saanich Road.

Richard Woodwynn Farms

Woodwynn Farms Update - Work Party

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:50:00 -0700

Work Party

Saturday, July 11th

09:30 - 4:30

You are invited to join us as we continue to work towards clearing blackberries from our buildings, painting and general cleanup. The Beacon Bus through Salvation Army will be providing lunch. Bring a water bottle, gloves and gardening tools if you have them. Please email lisagrant@telus.net if you can make it so we have an idea of numbers for lunch. Cheers, Richard Woodwynn Farms

Thank you to those who visited us at the Organic Islands Festival this past weekend. We had 46 new volunteers sign up and had some very kind donations. A successful first festival for Woodwynn Farms, leaving us excited about next year. Sincerely, Lisa Grant, Volunteer Coordinator

Great response from the green community

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:33:00 -0700

VICTORIA - Last weekend Woodwynn Farms had a great response from the community during its participation at one of the largest and greenest outdoor festivals in Canada, the Organic Festival.

Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Glendale Gardens and great live music, people expressed their interest in learning more about the project, shared valuable ideas and offered help. Over 50 people signed up as new volunteers, all excited to participate in building this project.

“I was amazed and grateful for all the people that visited our stand and showed their support”, said Richard Leblanc, Founder and Executive Director of the Creating Homefulness Society. “It is wonderful that our community shares our vision and is keen to transform homeless people’s lives” he added.

On its fifth edition, the festival had more than 150 booths and thousands of visitors. During the two days, local, organic and environmental friendly businesses and projects created what Deb Morse (creator and director of the festival) described as a “very fun and transformative experience”.

Richard said that Woodwynn Farms will participate next year in the festival. “We will be back to keep engaging with our society and sharing our results with them after one year of being working together” he commented.

Click here to visit organicislands.ca

Richard Leblanc shares his passion at Queenswood

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:50:00 -0700

posted on June 26, 2009 by Kate Fagan Taylor, Executive Director

Last night Richard LeBlanc was our featured guest at Passionate Lives and shared about the exciting next steps for the Woodwyn Farm Project. More than 100 guests joined in the dinner and dialogue to learn more about the development of this therapeutic community, which will help to provide a real solution - "a hand up, not a handout" for hundreds of homeless people in Victoria. Queenswood is proud to be a supporter of this project because it addresses several of the most pressing social issues we face today-- the ecology, homelessness, and belief in citizen-led change. We're happy to be donating the net proceeds of the evening to Woodwyn Farm.

Richard shared the long-term plan for the Woodwyn Farm property in Saanich, which is now legally in the care of the Homelfullness Society. It includes many exciting therapeutic elements including a market garden, orchards, beekeeping, berry fields, horse training, the restoration of the creeks on the property, and the cultivation of traditional native camas. Caring for the land will be the focus for the community of formerly homeless men and women. Eating food that they themselves grow will be part of the physical, emotional and spiritual healing process for participants. (For more details on the proven value of this therapeutic model click here to check out an article from Monday magazine last year.) Richard reported that work and repairs on the property are moving ahead with the enthusiastic help of more than 60 volunteers at the last workparty. The final elements of the program now are being determined, including an off-site residence for the first group to live in community while working on the farm. Congratulations to Richard, the Homefulness Society Board, and all the many volunteers and supporters who are making this dream a reality by daring to, as the project's slogan says, "believe in people!"

Click here to read the article on Queenswood site.

Queenswood Passionate Lives Dinner Series

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:19:00 -0700

Thursday, June 25

Queenswood Passionate Lives Dinner Series
6:00pm dinner, 7:00 presentation

There was an error with the email address for Queenswood in our previous email. We apologize for any inconvenience, following is the correct information:

Queenswood, 2494 Arbutus Road, Victoria
www.QueenswoodVictoria.ca/evening_series

At this dinner and dialogue, Richard will share his story of his personal passion for bringing homeless people "from nowhere to go... to somewhere to grow." The gathering will discuss the current state of homelessness in Victoria, how we got here, and what needs to happen to alleviate our region's homeless blight. Richard will update the community on the present progress and next steps for the therapeutic community, Woodwyn Farm, and present examples from around the world that have inspired the Homefulness Society's efforts to bring powerful solutions to our community.

Ticket for dinner and presentation: $25 Ticket for presentation only: $15
Student price: $15 dinner and presentation / $5 presentation only
Reserve your dinner seat: 250.477.3822, by email at marina@queenswoodvictoria.ca or at www.QueenswoodVictoria.ca/evening_series

Queenswood will offer the net proceeds from this Passionate Lives presentation to Woodwyn Farm. Queenswood is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to spiritual revitalization, with a special commitment to supporting caregivers, educators, nonprofits,and service organizations.

Sincerely,

Lisa Grant
Volunteer Coordinator
Woodwynn Farms

To volunteer for Woodwynn Farms, please access our website at www.woodwynnfarms.org

PO Box 622
Saanichton, BC V8M 2C5
Woodwynn Farms/Creating Homefulness Society

Woodwynn Farms Update

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:17:00 -0700

Dear Friends,

Following is an update on our progress.....from the farm!!

We are pleased to announce we now have Charity Status! Donations in the amount of $20 or more are eligible for tax receipts Click here to Donate
this past week Woodwynn saw the harvest of it's best quality hay ever, we are working hard to sell 10,765 bales!
Volunteer opportunities will be posted on our website and/or via email. If you would like to help with cleaning, painting or more, contact our volunteer coordinator at lisagrant@telus.net

Thank you for your continued support of our project and we look forward to working together.

Cheers,

Richard Leblanc
Director
Woodwynn Farms

"There is a wonderful mythical law of nature that the three things we crave most in life happiness, freedom and peace of mind - are always attained by giving them to someone else."

Peyton Conway March

To volunteer for Woodwynn Farms, please access our website at www.woodwynnfarms.org

PO Box 622
Saanichton, BC V8M 2C5
Woodwynn Farms/Creating Homefulness Society

Woodynn Farm on A Channel News

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 12:27:00 -0700

This article is from the A Channel News website

Woodwynn Farm Sold to Homeless Advocates

CENTRAL SAANICH -- Woodwynn Farm in Central Saanich will soon become a therapeutic farm where homeless people will learn life and farming skills that will help them turn their lives around.

The Creating Homefulness Society narrowly beat the Farmlands Trust in the race to raise enough money to buy the historic 192 acre property.

Richard Leblanc, executive Director of The Creating Homefulness society, says the group takes possession June 1st, but it will be another six months or so before any clients work on the farm.

The Woodwynn Therapeutic farm will begin with a dozen clients who are struggling with homelessness and addictions. Part of their rehabilitation will be working on the farm growing organic produce.

Woodwynn Farm was listed for sale for $6.9 million, but A-News has learned that the owners did not receive their full asking price, in part because of the drop in the real estate market. The final purchase price has not yet been made public.

The Land Conservancy hopes to have a say in the way the farm is developed and maintained by placing a covenant on the property. Bill Turner of TLC says discussion continue with Leblanc to ensure the property remains a farming operation in perpetuity.

Click here to visit this article on A Channel's site.

A staggering list of 155 celebrities who were once homeless

Sat, 18 Apr 2009 10:22:00 -0700

This website gives a staggering list of celebrities who were once homeless. A great testimonial to how far we can come if we are given a hand up.

http://www.angelfire.com/stars4/lists/homeless.html

Woodwynn in Times-Colonist March 20, 2009

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 17:09:00 -0700

Woodwynn win shows the way

Times ColonistMarch 20, 2009

Bravo to the Creating Homefulness Society and generous donors for a successful effort to acquire Woodwynn Farm for a restorative community for once homeless people working to change their lives.

Richard Leblanc's vision for the project in Central Saanich has had a bumpy ride. Neighbours, citing worries that farmland would be lost, led an unsuccessful effort to buy the farm. Central Saanich council has been unreceptive, especially to any change that would allow therapeutic community members to live on the property.

These fears have been misplaced. The project will work with a small number of participants at any one time. They will already have successfully completed addiction treatment, if that is required. No drug or alcohol use will be tolerated. Leblanc has a successful track record in working with disadvantaged communities, and has a strong board at his side.

The aim is to create a safe, welcoming place. Participants will operate the farm, under knowledgeable direction, and learn life and work skills, a model that has been successful in other locations. The agricultural production will help fund the operation, although more funding is needed.

Any well-planned effort to address the human and social costs of homelessness and addiction is welcome. The costs will be significant, but over time the project should make a significant contribution to helping people, and the community. The numbers of people involved might seem small, but these are problems that must be solved one life -- or family -- at a time.

It's now time to put aside past divisions and work to make the project go forward. That will include, we hope, a willingness on the part of Central Saanich and the society to work closely on addressing concerns. That should also include a willingness to consider residences on the property, especially once the project's details are confirmed.

Neighbourhood concerns, whether over Woodwynn Farm or recovery houses proposed for Oak Bay Avenue and Rockland, need to be considered and addressed.

But Housing Minister Rich Coleman has pointed to long, slow, obstruction-filled municipal government processes as a major barrier to action on critical housing issues. The paralysis contributes to blighted lives, damaged downtowns and huge costs for policing, health care and short-term patches that don't address the real problems.

Councils need to listen to the comments of neighbours. Plans for projects should include measures to ensure others are not negatively affected.

But they cannot allow delay or rejection to block progress on a terrible problem for our communities. We have a crisis of homelessness and social decay. Local governments have a duty to move quickly and efficiently to clear the way for projects that will help deal with that crisis.

View this article on the Times-Colonist's website here.

Woodwynn Purchase An Inspiration - Times-Colonist March 20, 2009

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 09:58:00 -0700

Woodwynn purchase an inspiration

Times ColonistMarch 20, 2009

What a delight to pick up the newspaper this morning and to read that against great odds, Richard Leblanc and all have succeeded in buying Woodynn Farm. Excellent. I love the term Creating Homefulness Society, which is so positive and respectful.

I have loved Woodwyn Farm for years -- it is a gem piece of real estate. And now, for once, those in need have been given something beautiful to work with and take pride in. I think that that alone, plus knowing they have the support of the community will be therapeutic in itself.

One great act inspires others, as witnessed by Chief Wayne Morris's comment: "We probably could explore working together."

Jane Cameron

Victoria

See this article on the Times-Colonist's site here.

Celebrating great shelters and Woodwynn - Times-Colonist March 20, 2009

Sat, 21 Mar 2009 09:44:00 -0700

Celebrating great shelters and Woodwynn

By Jody Paterson, Special to Times ColonistMarch 20, 2009

Hey, could this be hope I'm feeling? It's such a hard thing to hold onto amid the gloom and doom of the day, but this past week I started to notice a distinct cheery bonhomie creeping over me. I'd almost forgotten how good it feels.

It started last Wednesday, after I toured Vancouver's terrific new emergency housing for people living hard on the street -- the so-called "hardest to house. "

It's a label that calls up scary images of people beyond help, but the Vancouver experience -- set in motion by a committed city council focused on homelessness -- is rapidly disproving the myths of that (more on that in a future column).

And then this week, it was over the moon for me when I got the news that Richard Leblanc and his team were successful in their bid to buy Woodwynn Farm.

Chalk one up to instant karma, which LeBlanc has surely earned after a particularly hard year of trying to acquire Woodwynn in the face of a fierce NIMBY campaign fought by neighbouring landowners.

His work heading up the highly successful Youth Employment Society a few years back stands as proof of his passion and competence, so it's a major win for him and our community that he has been successful.

LeBlanc's plan for Woodwynn is to have it up and running by this fall as a therapeutic community for people looking for a new lease on life and a way out of pain, addiction and homelessness.

The original plan was that people would live on the farm, but that got nixed last year when Central Saanich council ruled it out before LeBlanc could even ask them about it.

So now, people will work at Woodwynn but live elsewhere (location still to be worked out). There will be 24 people to start, and as many as 96 as the program builds over the next three years. They'll be doing what you'd expect people on a working farm to be doing: Tending the land and the animals; growing food; learning new skills; launching into the world to start their own businesses.

Along the way, they'll rebuild their lives.

It stuns me that anyone can find that controversial.

The group that opposed LeBlanc -- Farmlands Trust -- positioned itself as a preservationist group that simply wanted to ensure Woodwynn remain a farm in perpetuity. That's the reason on the record for why the trust tried to buy the 68-hectare property out from under LeBlanc's group last spring, and has fought him like the encroaching enemy ever since.

I guess we all tell ourselves stories to help us to sleep at night. No doubt some members of the trust do want to preserve farmland, but the group did not even try to keep a lid on the members whose main agenda was to shut out LeBlanc and his "homeless farm." Their true colours leaked out often enough that I came to form a somewhat different picture of the trust's efforts.

Seeing as LeBlanc only wanted the same thing that Farmlands Trust ostensibly wanted -- to maintain Woodwynn as a working farm -- surely at least a few members of the trust are celebrating with him this week in the achievement of their common goal.

Hopefully the trust will reflect on what it means to have found common purpose with those whose uninformed, ugly opinions surfaced over the past year with each flurry of media interest in LeBlanc's project. How did a farmland-preservation group end up so far from home?

Hopefully the members of the trust are gracious in defeat, and just get out of the way so LeBlanc can try to do a good thing. I think the disbelievers will be pleasantly surprised at how much a person in tough circumstance looks just like anybody else once they've got a place to go, a community to help them get there, and a fresh set of clothes.

LeBlanc and his organization, the Creating Homefulness Society, have a tough road to travel still, of course. The purchase of Woodwynn happened because a few generous people in our region anted up for his cause. They'll want to be paid back sometime in the next five years.

Then there's all the work that will have to be done to raise money for operations. That's never easy.

For better or worse, the society can also expect to be thrust into the ongoing debate around homelessness -- and on occasion, find itself the lightning rod for our fears and misconceptions.

But that's for later. For now, let's just celebrate that the good guys won.

View this article on the Times-Colonist's site here.

Woodwynn on Times-Colonist front Page March 19, 2009

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:35:00 -0700

Advocates for the homeless raise funds to purchase Woodwynn Farm in Central Saanich

By Judith Lavoie, Times Colonist

March 19, 2009

The Creating Homefulness Society has beaten the Farmlands Trust in the race to raise enough money to buy historic Woodwynn Farm in Central Saanich.

In a surprise announcement Wednesday, Richard Leblanc, Creating Homefulness Society executive director, said the organization had come up with the funds to purchase the 78-hectare property.

The Farmlands Trust, headed by neighbours of the picturesque farm in the Mount Newton Valley, had submitted a new offer to buy the farm this week, which was lower than the $5.9 million initially offered last year, because of the drop in the market.

Although the Creating Homefulness Society was behind in the fundraising stakes, it is believed two major philanthropists came through at the last moment, allowing the group to trump the Farmlands Trust.

The Creating Homefulness Society wants to use the rolling property at the corner of West Saanich Road and Mount Newton Cross Road as a therapeutic farm where homeless people will work on life skills and grow organic produce.

The Farmlands Trust wanted to run an agricultural school and community programs.

The Woodwynn Farm Community will begin with a dozen clients who will work on the farm for a rehabilitation period of up to five years and the maximum will be 96 clients, meaning more than 500 people can be helped over 10 years, Leblanc said in a news release.

“Clients will come daily to the farm on a volunteer basis and must commit to a total abstinence program — no drugs, no alcohol, no exceptions,” he said.

Initially, Leblanc wanted clients to live at the farm, but, early in the process, Central Saanich council said zoning would not permit a residential program.

The Farmlands Trust was working with The Land Conservancy and was planning to have a covenant on the property, protecting it as farmland.

Bill Turner of TLC said Wednesday he has been talking to Leblanc throughout the process and he is optimistic that a covenant will still be put on the property.

jlavoie@tc.canwest.com

View this article on the Times-Colonist's website here.

Woodwynn Farms in the Peninsula News Review March 18, 2009

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:32:00 -0700

Woodwynn Farm sold for homeless solution

By Christine van Reeuwyk - Peninsula News Review

Published: March 18, 2009 6:32 PM

A cyclical battle of who will farm Woodwynn appears to have come to an end with a ceremonial signing Wednesday. Richard LeBlanc of the Creating Homefulness Society announced the purchase of the historic 192-acre farm in Central Saanich on March 18. They’ve been specifically asked not to discuss purchase price, LeBlanc said.

“It feels all of a sudden on one hand, but I’ve been at this two years,” LeBlanc said.

It’s just over a year since the first public meeting where LeBlanc presented the project to create a therapeutic community in the picturesque Mount Newton Valley; two years since he began working on the plan.

“The society and Richard [LeBlanc] have been working on this a long time, it’s great to see us moving forward with this great plan,” said Rob Reid, who recently took the helm of the Creating Homefulness Society board. The society plans to create a therapeutic community on the farm to help homeless people become productive members of the community.

“It’s an extraordinary day for those of us who have been working to create a therapeutic community in this region,” LeBlanc said, explaining that a group of philanthropists came together to make the purchase happen. “A small group came together and said it’s time to make this project happen,” LeBlanc said.

“We were fortunate that we had some people come to the society and come to Richard [LeBlanc] having worked with him before,” Reid said, adding that June 1 would be the possession date.

“We’ll sort of be in action in June with regards to doing the infrastructure work that needs to be done on the property,” Reid said.

The Woodwynn Farm Community would start with a dozen clients working toward 96 clients who would voluntarily go to the farm daily. They would be asked to commit to a total abstinence program — no drugs, no alcohol — no exceptions.

The other bidder in the battle over Central Saanich’s first farm is the Farmlands Trust, a group that wanted to protect the land for farming in perpetuity, educate a new generation of farmers, provide land tenure so farmers could make a living and provide the public opportunities to tour and be involved in a working farm including community events and a trail system.

“The Farmlands Trust, their mandate was farming and building up the ALR [Agricultural Land Reserve] as far as offering organic farming on the Peninsula,” Reid said. “We’re 100 per cent behind their mandate too.”

He said the society looks forward to collaborating with The Farmlands Trust in that respect.

Farmlands Trust also held a memorandum of agreement with The Land Conservancy to keep Woodwynn Farm as one piece of land, similar to a covenant held by the Creating Homefulness Society when their option to purchase was on the table.

“This is literally hours old news,” LeBlanc said, referring to any new document with TLC. “We look forward to meeting with them soon, and discussing a new covenant.”

Barbara Souther, chair of The Farmlands Trust, was unavailable for comment before the Peninsula News Review’s deadline.

The plan for the therapeutic community is to have clients work the land gaining a sense of purpose, while learning skills like horticulture and attending classes in life-skills.

“Work is integral to the recovery process and our clients will learn new behaviours, attitudes and values as a result of their relationship to the land and the harvest,” LeBlanc said.

“Woodwynn Farm will provide structure and support to marginalized people who need a hand up and who are willing recipients of help,” Reid added. “We have thoroughly researched this model, and we know it works.”

Rob van Wielingen, a co-op student at the University of Victoria, was hired to draw up the business plan for the project. It involves a number of ventures off of the property as well as an organic agriculture plan and others they plan to put into place immediately.

“As soon as we can get on the property and begin fundraising, which is pretty much now,” van Wielingen said.

“As soon as we have access to the property and have the funds to do it we’re going to start with the farming.”

Next they’ll need to address housing needs away from the farm. Central Saanich council, prior to the Nov. 2008 election, was clear it would not consider changing the zoning to institutional to allow for housing.

“Now that we have the property it’s obviously easier to look at realistic options,” van Wielingen said.

There will be no onsite housing, and there are no plans to approach council for any variances.

“We have no need to, we intend to operate within current zoning,” said LeBlanc.

The Creating Homefulness Society is planning to hold an open house, but hasn’t yet set a date. Visit www.creatinghomefulness.org or call 250-589-5805 for more information.

Visit this article on the Peninsula Review's website here.

CFAX article Mar 18, 2009

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 09:18:00 -0700

“HOMEFULLNESS SOCIETY” TO PURCHASE WOODWYN FARM

Mar 18, 2009

THE CREATING HOMEFULLNESS SOCIETY SAYS IT HAS AGREED ON A DEAL THAT WILL SEE THE PURCHASE OF THE 192 ACRE WOODWYN FARM IN CENTRAL SAANICH.

RICHARD LEBLANC SAYS THE AIM OF THE GROUP IS TO CREATE A THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITY TO HELP THOSE WHO ARE HOMELESS OR HAVE ADDICTIONS BECOME PRODUCTIVE MEMBERS OF SOCIETY.

THE COST OF THE PROPERTY IS THOUGHT TO BE IN THE MILLIONS OF DOLLARS, BUT LEBLANC SAYS HE CANNOT YET CONFIRM AN EXACT FIGURE.

“WE ARE NOT AT LIBERTY TO SHARE THE NUMBER AT THE MOMENT BUT I CAN SAY IT DOES REFLECT AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE FAIR MARKET VALUE.”

LEBLANC SAYS WORKING THE LAND AND HAVING A SENSE OF PLACE AND PURPOSE WILL BE INTEGRAL TO EACH OF THE WORKER'S RECOVERY PROCESS.

LEBLANC SAYS THE PLAN IS TO HAVE CLIENTS COME DAILY TO THE FARM ON A VOLUNTEER BASIS.

HE SAYS THEY MUST COMMIT TO A TOTAL ABSTINENCE PROGRAM -- NO DRUGS, NO BOOZE, NO EXCEPTIONS.

- ADAM STIRLING

Rob Reid our new Chair of the Board...and more exciting members!

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 13:49:00 -0800

Rob Reid our new Chair of the Board...and more exciting members!

Rob Reid, Founder of Frontrunners and recent Mayor candidate for Victoria recently accepted the position of Chair for our Board of Directors. Rob’s an amazing team builder and has a long history of community building successes. Also joining us is world-class rower and Physician, Dr. Janice Mason. Dr. Mason is also a consultant to WorkSafeBC. We look forward to Janice guiding all medical aspects of the Woodwynn project. We are also thrilled to have Louise Carlow join our board in the role of Secretary. Louise brings expertise in Board Governance and has a long history of volunteering on boards of directors for non-profit societies.

Richard Leblanc

Video about Woodwynn Farm

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:31:00 -0800

Chief Sealth's letter to President Franklin Pierce

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:23:00 -0800

How Can You Buy The Earth?

The following beautiful and prophetic statement in behalf of the environment has been attributed to Chief Sealth and has caused him to become the folkloric hero of the environmental movement, speaking both the mind and the conscience of all concerned about the earth.

It was said to have been Chief Sealth's reply to president Franklin Pierce in December of 1854, upon the U.S governments offer to buy two million acres of Native American land in the Pacific North West.

The great chief in Washington sends word that he wishes to buy our land.

The great chief also sends us words of friendship and good will.

This is kind of him, since we know he has little need of our friendship in return.

But we will consider your offer.

How can you buy or sell the sky, the warmth of the land?

The idea is strange to us.

If we do not own the freshness of the air and the sparkle of the water, how can you buy them?

Every part of this earth is sacred to my people.

Every shining pine needle, every sandy shore, every mist in the dark woods, every clearing, and every humming insect is holy in the memory and experience of my people.

The sap which courses through the trees carries the memories of the red man.

So, when the great chief in Washington sends word that he wishes to buy our land, he asks much of us.

This we know: All things are connected.

Whatever befalls the earth, befalls the son of the earth.

Man did not weave the web of life; he is a strand in it.

Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.

But we will consider your offer to go to the reservation you have for my people.

We will live apart and in peace.

One thing we know, which the white man may one day discover - our God is the same God.

You may think now that you own Him as you wish to own our land, but you cannot.

He is the God of man; and his compassion is equal for the red man and the white.

This earth is precious to Him and to harm the earth is to heap contempt on its creator.

The whites too shall pass; perhaps sooner than all other tribes.

Continue to contaminate your bed, and you will one night suffocate in your own waste.

But in your perishing you will shine brightly, fired by the strength of the God who brought you to this land and for some special purpose gave you dominion over this land and over the red man.

That destiny is a mystery to us, for we do not understand when the buffalo are all slaughtered, the wild horses are tamed, and the view of the ripe hills blotted with talking wires.

Where is the thicket? Gone.

Where is the eagle? Gone.

And what is to say goodbye to the swift pony and the hunt?

The end of living and the beginning of survival.

So we will consider your offer to buy the land.

If we agree, it will be to secure the reservation you have promised.

There, perhaps, we may live out our brief days as we wish.

When the last red man had vanished from the earth, and his memory is only the shadow of a cloud moving across the prairie, these shores and forests will still hold the spirits of my people.

For they love this earth as a newborn loves it's mother's heartbeat.

So, if we sell our land, love it as we've loved it.

Care for it as we've cared for it.

Hold in your mind the memory of the land as it is when you take it.

And preserve it all.

One thing we know - our God is the same God.

This earth is precious to Him.

Even the white man cannot be exempt from the common destiny.

We may be brothers after all.

We shall see....

The Journey Home - poem by volunteer Rob Mason

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 11:29:00 -0800

The Journey Home

As one who lived so long conflicted
Outward success often depicted
To numb the pain became addicted
Self – destruction those nearby predicted

Knowing & doing were contradicted
So deeply I became afflicted
Human connection – became restricted
To get too close meant – suffering inflicted

Outward behaviour - “fear” projected
Within myself - hatred directed
Seek help said some - but I objected
“Denial”, ego-self - protected

Through various mishaps, I had collected
That I need help - became suspected
For far too long - myself neglected
To walk a different path elected

From one who knew the walk-selected
The question, can you be - directed?
The aim that I should- become connected
Struck terror – what if I‘m rejected?

Most of my life – my part deflected
Now honestly – must be inspected
Sometimes felt I was - being dissected
Once started - so much was recollected!

Simple the process - can still be expected
At times to feel - completely dejected
When I feel lost and misdirected
Of Spirit ask - course is corrected

Walls round my heart - which were erected
Fear of more pain - what they reflected
Through caring souls - I was subjected
To healing “tough love” - which I respected

Continual peace - not yet perfected
Though passion for life’s - been resurrected
At a place where head and heart - intersected
I discovered all life - is interconnected

Rob Mason (volunteer)

Video Testimonials

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 09:58:00 -0800

Our Collaboration with First Nations

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 09:38:00 -0800

Our Collaboration with First Nations

Richard continues to enjoy meeting with local First Nations, giving him the honour to get to know the people and the many issues facing their community.

He came to Woodwynn with a genuine interest and commitment to work in partnership with the Tsartlip First Nation and all of the Saanich People.

He feels stronger than ever that it is important to seek ways to move forward toward healing for all of us in a spirit of respect, cooperation, peace, transparency and integrity.

Homelessness and First Nations

Richard has worked with many of the First Nations people of the Saanich Peninsula who experienced drug and alcohol addictions and various types of mental illness leading to homelessness or a life of crime.

From this he has learned some of the issues facing First Nations people. It is important to remember that while First Nations people make up 2.8% of the province, approximately 26% of the homeless in our area are Aboriginal.

This is 10 times too many.

We feel very positive that we can find ways to partner with the Band to help end this unacceptable situation.

Healing at Woodwynn

It is Richard’s belief that the underlying reasons people spiral into addictions and mental illness is that they disconnect – from Mother Earth, from family and from their inner selves.

Our Therapeutic Community, ideally in collaboration with the Tsartlip First Nation, will offer an ideal setting for people to reconnect as a family, with the earth and the inner self.

Working the farm as an organic food source for our greater communities, is the ideal vehicle for teaching important values and providing a practical support for transformation.

The Creating Homefulness Society project at Woodwynn Farm will form a healing centre for a variety of vital issues and is already a magnet for wonderful, gifted and knowledgeable people dedicated to making a major difference within the Saanich Peninsula, in partnership with the Tsartlip First Nation.

Currently, we see Woodwynn as a place where the interconnected issues of homelessness, First Nations issues, local food security and community teamwork can all be addressed together, while many layers of healing occur.

We have a very special opportunity to make this place a showcase partnership with the First Nations.

Together we can find creative ways to do this.

The wisdom and knowledge of the First Nation are vital and would be an essential part of our success; which can create a historic shift in so many of the heartbreaking human patterns we are all struggling with.

Ultimately, our intention is to allow Woodwynn to flourish as the nurturing and healing place that it is meant to be.

Hych’ka,

Poem by Mother Teresa

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:26:00 -0700

For her children in Calcutta.

Richard LeBlanc's experience - About YEP

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:58:00 -0700

About YEP

Youth Employment Project

Here in Victoria, our CEO and Founder, Richard Leblanc operated the Youth Employment Project (YEP) from 1998 through 2002 as the CEO. YEP focused on providing job and life skills training, mirrored many of the principles and methodologies of Therapeutic Community models, and therefore produced similar results. During its span, YEP helped approximately 400 high-risk youth gain meaningful employment, enjoyed a 76% success rate and produced lasting change in each person’s life, including financial self-reliance. All of us who were involved in YEP are proud of the results achieved.

The Society is proud of the results achieved. For example:

Total # accepted into the program: 485

Successful completions: 92%

Employed within 10 days of graduation: 87%

Maintaining employment (from 4-year population): 76%

Employment was chosen as the measure of success based on the belief that gaining and maintaining employment can only be achieved if therapeutic and vocational aspects of the program have come together effectively. Just as companies measure success in the form of burgers sold, locations (Starbucks) etc…, YEP’s success was measured by the number of employed graduates.

Long-term results – lasting change

Most significantly, we are now witnesses to the long-term positive impacts of YEP’s work. The CEO of the Homefulness Society has recently had the good fortune to reconnect with many graduates from 5-9 years ago. Once considered “high-risk”, their current stories include:

•“I bought a commercial janitorial franchise and sold it 3 years later for a nice profit”

•“I’m a retail manager at the Bay Center now, I have a 4 year old and my wife is pregnant with our second”

•“I’m managing a small Bed and Breakfast in Tofino”

•“I saved my money from doing janitorial work and bought a used limousine. I’m now running a small limousine service in Victoria”

•“I work the graveyard shift at a call center out on Keating … making $12.50/hr”

•“I’m still a janitor at the Legislature…life’s pretty good”

•“I just graduated from UVIC with a degree in English Literature”

•“I’m a bouncer and janitor at a local dance club”

•“I’m a janitorial supervisor making $45,000/yr”

Many are commercial cleaners at Royal Roads University, the Legislature, UVIC, Bear Mountain, etc, earning $10-$18/hr. A few now have several years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces and plan to remain in the forces. Others are stay-at-home moms and several are construction helpers making $15-$17/hr and loving it! They are doing well. They have apartments, homes, jobs, spouses and children. They have smiling faces. They are fully integrated into society and their communities and they have lives. They are proud of their success, of their employment, and of their children. They express genuine gratitude for the ‘hand-up’ they got years ago.

They are doing well. They have smiling faces, apartments, jobs, spouses and children. They really do have lives. They express genuine gratitude for the ‘hand-up’ they got years ago. Since so many YEP graduates (and graduates of similar programs throughout the world) have been busy earning honest livings and building their families and lives, it is therefore important to note the impact on our communities:

¬A lot of drugs didn’t get dealt and/or ingested

¬A lot of assaults, thefts, and prostitution didn’t occur

¬A lot of street corners and business fronts had fewer panhandlers and dealers loitering

¬A lot of medical services were available for other people

¬A lot of police services and court time weren’t wasted

¬A lot of shelter beds and food banks were available for others

¬A lot of family stress, hardship and grief were averted

Instead, graduates of the YEP TWC program are paying taxes and creating new lives for themselves. Their stories are inspiring, and it’s affirming to know this work has had such far-reaching positive impacts on so many people’s lives.

Article in Focus Magazine Feb 2008

Sat, 02 Feb 2008 12:06:00 -0800

Read about Richard's story and efforts in the Feb 2008 issue of Focus.

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About YEP

Youth Employment Project

Long-term results – lasting change

Article in Focus Magazine Feb 2008

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