Fran & Andy Porter – Outstanding Philanthropic Family

Congratulations to Fran and Andy Porter on being named the Outstanding Philanthropic Family, as awarded by the Association of Fundraising Professionals during the Philanthropy Day Luncheon on November 15, 2017. The annual Generosity of Spirit Awards celebrates individuals, families, youth, groups and businesses who “demonstrate the spirit of philanthropy through outstanding contributions of time, talent, leadership and financial support.”

When their daughter, Colleen, died in 2010 after years of struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Fran and Andy, grateful for the support their family had received from McMan Youth, Family and Community Services when Colleen was a youth, decided to honour her life by helping other young people struggling with their mental health. Fran’s book, When the Ship has no Stabilizers, began as a letter to Colleen’s young daughter. For Fran, this honest account of their family’s journey coping with mental health challenges is an opportunity to bring attention to BPD and the new treatments that were not available to Colleen. The Porters are donating all proceeds from the book to fund Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills programs for vulnerable youth who would otherwise face long wait times or not be able to afford treatment. Fran and Andy also continue to work tirelessly to raise awareness of mental health issues, speaking to many groups and organizations about their experience. As passionate advocates in the community, it has become their mission, to be the voice for those, like their daughter, who cannot speak for themselves.

AFP captured the Porters’ incredible contributions to the community in a video, which was shared at the luncheon. Please click here to watch the Porters’ story.