Thursday June 19 2008 - 10:10am Eastern
I’m about to head down to the ACC for the latest pre-draft workout - featuring the likes of Hibbert, Batum, and Green - but before I leave, I wanted to quickly post this release that was just sent to me by the Raptors media relations staff. It’s a feel good story that has nothing to do with basketball, but it’s certainly worth noting nonetheless …
Sam Mitchell has made a $50,000 donation to the Toronto Parks and Trees Foundation. Mitchell’s donation is the single largest donation made by an individual in the Foundation’s history. The donation, which supports creating healthy, vibrant communities, will fund the planting and care of hundreds of large trees, which will be planted throughout Toronto . The contribution will make a positive difference to supporting Toronto ’s Climate Change, Clean Air and sustainable Energy Action Plan.
“I wanted to make a difference in a way that not only benefits the people of Toronto , a city that has become my second home, but also benefits the environment,” said Mitchell. “Torontonians have welcomed me since I arrived in this city, and this is my way of thanking them and the city for their support.”
Mitchell further signified his commitment to the environment recently by purchasing one of Tridel’s Built Green condominiums in Toronto . Tridel’s environmentally-friendly suites are designed with sustainable living attributes.
“Coach Mitchell’s donation for tree planting in Toronto is incredibly generous and most welcome,” said Mayor David Miller. “Caring for our natural environment is a big job and an important job that takes the combined efforts of government, citizens and business. Donations like this one make Toronto a cleaner and greener place, and ultimately a more liveable city.”
Toronto’s 8,000 hectres of public parkland and more than 1,500 named parks provide essential public space for play, sports, culture and quiet places to experience nature in the city. The Toronto Parks and Trees Foundation is committed to supporting and enhancing these resources. The Toronto Parks and Trees Foundation is guided by a Board of Directors and coordinates with City of Toronto Parks, Forestry & Recreation to identify areas of need. Working in partnership with corporations, foundation, private donors, and community groups the Foundation provides a range of enhancements to Toronto ’s parks that could not otherwise be achieved.
E. Smith
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