The owner of My Place Pub in Vanderhoof, Dave Miles, hosted an event on Nov. 23 to raise funds for a new foundation aimed at supporting youth affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS).
FAS is the most severe type of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) – a condition that can occur when a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy.
The fundraiser, which featured a silent auction, was held in honour of Miles' late fiancée, Sarah June Tom, who was from Burns Lake passed away two years ago. Tom suffered from FAS.
The fundraiser raised approximately $1,800, with a goal of reaching $2,500, to help launch the Sarah June Tom Dreams to Destiny Foundation.
The foundation is dedicated to providing children affected by FAS in communities like Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, and Prince George with the opportunity to experience "trips of a lifetime" — special outings that offer enriching experiences outside of their everyday lives.
Miles shared that the idea for the foundation stemmed from his fiancée own experience with FAS. Despite facing many challenges throughout her life, Sarah cherished a special memory from her childhood: a trip she took to Los Angeles and Disneyland, which was part of a program called Dreams to Destiny organized by Lake Babine Nation in her children.
Miles said Tom spoke about the trip often, and it became one of her most cherished memories. In her memory, Miles vowed to make a difference for others living with FASD. "I want to help kids who are in a similar situation as Tom was, and give them something to look forward to," Miles said.
The foundation’s mission is not only to provide life-changing experiences but also to raise awareness about FAS and its impact on individuals and families. Miles hopes to send at least one child from each of the three communities—Burns Lake, Vanderhoof, and Prince George—on a trip of their own.
He also plans to continue fundraising and organizing events to support children with FAS, including local field trips, educational outings, and other experiences that can help improve their lives.
The fundraiser event also featured a performance by Joel West, Tom’s cousin, who has pledged to support future foundation events. Miles emphasized that the community's support has been overwhelming, with individuals and businesses, including Molson, already offering their backing.
"The community, the province, and the country need to know about FAS. This foundation is all about raising awareness and making life better for those living with the condition," Miles said.
Through ongoing fundraising efforts, Miles hopes to honour Tom’s memory and help give other children the chance to experience the joy and opportunity that she did.
