When Shine recipients feel the power of having their experience brought to life before them, they continue to hold the happiness of Shine in their hearts. These unforgettable experiences which have brought them independence and confidence, have ignited in them a newfound sense of empowerment to pursue new goals. Many of them become inspired to pass this feeling on to others, coming back to Shine to ask how they can help more kids receive the gift of a Shine Experience.
Nathan Manners from Brantford, Ontario is a recipient turned champion for Shine. More than anything, Nathan dreamed of being able to take a break outside of his wheelchair to explore his neighbourhood on his own bike. As a teenager living with cerebral palsy, he experiences mobility limitations which make the average bicycle impossible to ride. To make his experience come true, Nathan needed an adaptive tandem bicycle – an expensive dream that was overshadowed by the medical expenses that take priority for his family. When Shine delivered his bike, Nathan was beyond overjoyed – a happiness that he continues to hold close to this day. “When riding my bike I feel just like other teenagers – brave, confident and adventurous.”
Nathan’s newfound freedom, independence, and hope, inspired him to pay it forward for other young people across Canada living with severe physical disabilities. Together, Nathan and his Mom Lynn decided that the best kind of fundraiser that Nathan could actively participate in would be a garage sale with all the proceeds going to Shine. Nathan put his heart and soul into it - sending out emails to let everyone know about the big day. All of their friends and family pitched in and they even had a French fry truck to serve fries and refreshments. Nathan had hoped to raise $500 at his sale but the community really rallied and they ended up making $1,300 with a matching gift bringing the total to $2,600! His smile that day brought tears to his Mom’s eyes as he beamed with pride for what he had accomplished.
Inspired by Nathan’s spirit and determination, Shine extended Nathan’s fundraising idea, turning it into a national initiative officially called Nathan’s Garage Sale. 2016 was the first year of the initiative for Shine, inviting friends, families, and supporters from across Canada to host their own “Nathan’s Garage Sale” to help Nathan ‘pay-it-forward’.
“Nathan’s Garage Sale is a fun way to raise money for our favourite foundation,” says Lynn. “We are so proud of his big heart and the true generosity of hosts and supporters across the country.” Nathan and Lynn are hosting their 3rd annual "Nathan's Garage Sale" on June 3rd at their home in Brantford.
This summer, Nathan and Shine invite you to pay it forward by hosting your very own Nathan’s Garage Sale in support of the Shine Foundation. People of all abilities are able to host or participate in garage sales in their community, helping to inspire independence, confidence, and dreams come true.
Email us to host your own event: events@shinefoundation.ca
