Who Is Aunt Leah?

I was the first grandchild born on a hundred-acre farm in southern Ontario. With that position came the good fortune of being the special grandchild to Leah, my paternal grandmother.From a very early age I developed a keen sense of love, loyalty and passion for this special person. In 1988, when we began discussing and writing the vision and mandate for our new organization, I came quickly to her name. It represented what we would attempt to be for children and youth that needed an alternate caregiver. As the organization grows, so has my respect and understanding for the role that Leah played in my life. Leah became Aunt Leah, and the organization has become a tribute to the memories I have of her.

In return, Leah, in some strange and magical way has imparted to the organization a warm, vital and creative energy that allows us to support the many children and youth who come in need of our programs. Many of these young people have suffered the loss of family and community. We attempt to become that strong alternate caregiver that Leah was for me.

In the spirit of Leah,

Gale Stewart
Executive Director