(Abbotsford, B.C.) – The Rotary Club of Abbotsford presented the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship Awards to four individuals in recognition of their exceptional service to our community.

This recognition, named for Paul Harris the founder of Rotary International, is bestowed to both members of the local club and community individuals who have given outstanding service to their organization and community. “The following individuals exemplify by their actions and deeds the Rotary motto of Service above Self and we wish to honor and thank these Starfish Pack Champions,” says Club President Leslie McConnell.
 
Chase was honored with a Paul Harris award, for raising $8,206 to fund 15 back packs as his birthday wish for the Starfish Pack Program in Abbotsford. Chase, along with the support of his mom, raised money for children who are going hungry in our community and wanted to help other kids less fortunate.
 
Rebecca Thuro works for the Abbotsford Food Bank and has been instrumental in creating and maintaining the starfishpack.com website. She also provides support to eight other Rotary Clubs who have launched this same program in their communities to feed hungry children.
 
Brad Friesen, Plant Manager Hershey Canada, Brookside Plant sponsored 12 Starfish Back Packs for two years and donated Valentine’s Day candy in 2016 for nearly 500 kids being supported through Starfish Back Pack program. Brookside Farms began in 1954 in BC’s beautiful Fraser Valley. Over the years, they developed patented technology to create soft, sweetened fruit flavored centers from classic favorites and unique taste sensations. All to create the ultimate chocolate experience.
 
Nick Taylor, Canadian Professional Golfer, raised in Abbotsford who through RBC Golf4Kids choose the Starfish Pack program as his charity of choice and raised $15,000 that allowed the program to add two new schools to Starfish. More kids are being helped as a result of his talent and commitment.
 
For more information about the Starfish Pack Program, please visit www.starfishpack.com
 
Photo of Paul Harris Recipients L-R:
 
Brad Friesen, Rebecca Thuro, Chase, and President Leslie McConnell   
 
Missing: Nick Taylor