Three generations give their time and money to offer hope for young people
The O’Brien family knows it is more blessed to give than to receive. Three generations of O’Briens have dedicated their passion, time, and money to impact the lives of vulnerable children and young adults by supporting the Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CCAS) and the Catholic Children’s Aid Foundation (CCAF).
It all started with Mary Catherine O’Brien, the late matriarch of the family and a former CCAS social worker, who had witnessed the challenges faced by youth coming from extended care. Statistics reveal higher risks of unemployment and homelessness for youth leaving care, who are 20 times less likely to enroll in post-secondary school.
Turning tragedy into scholastic opportunity
When Mary Catherine’s son died in a tragic accident, the family channeled their grief into establishing the Matthew O’Brien Memorial Scholarship. Each year, a first-year student in CCAS care receives full tuition and residence coverage for four years at the University of Toronto’s St. Michael’s College. The Matthew O’Brien Education Fund was later created for college students.
“My mom lived her life with kindness and generosity—she was just an angel,” says Erin O’Brien, one of Mary Catherine’s daughters and a former CCAS Board Member and CCAF Board President. “The scholarship recipients are also inspiring. It’s tough enough growing up on a shaky foundation, but to graduate high school and move on to further studies is just magnificent.”
Erin, along with her brother Michael and sister Kathleen, continued Mary Catherine’s example. Michael and a friend cycled over 5,700 kilometres to raise funds for the scholarship, Kathleen recently joined the CCAF Board, and Erin served over a decade on the CCAS Board before becoming the first CCAF Board Chair.
Faith-driven philanthropy
The Catholic faith underpinning CCAS and CCAF has also driven their philanthropy, says Erin. “The moral guidance offered makes CCAS service delivery deeper and more meaningful.”
“The family cares for others and has always been generous with their time, energy and financial resources,” adds Jim Gilligan, Executive Director of the CCAF.
Mary Catherine’s grandchildren also contribute, donating gifts for kids in CCAS care. As Erin says, “It’s important to have that legacy passed down from generation to generation.”
Easy ways to support young people
Erin encourages support for the cause, emphasizing that giving time or money makes a difference. “Don’t assume that you don’t have skills that can help. CCAF can make a big difference in kids’ lives.”
Gilligan agrees. “It’s very easy to get involved. You don’t have to be a saint. You can volunteer for even one hour a week.”
Looking ahead, Erin echoes Mary Catherine’s hope for future CCAF scholarship recipients: “My hope is that they will achieve their goals, be proud of their accomplishments and have a promising future.”
Read more stories about impactful CCAF programs.
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