[Viva] Marlene Dutton and Hummingbird Kids Society

[Denise Becker]

Many of you will know of the Hummingbird Kids Society and Marlene Dutton.
I am very sad to inform you that Marlene has died of cancer.

Marlene joined the Society as a Director very shortly after the first days
and was the reason we got our first donations.  We tried to get the Society
started using my story and her society connections.

She approached me and told me of an article she had read about in the
newspaper where the Provincial Government would be donating funds from the
Elton John CD, which was released to remember Princess Diana after her
death.  Even though we had not received our charitable number yet (it was
in progress), we applied for the funds and were one of the charities
chosen.  Tim Stevenson MLA presented me with the cheque.

After that, Marlene approached an  advertising agency where she knew the
directors and got the brochures for the society and the design donated.
This was a very large donation.

Bill Helin, from the Tsimshian Nation, donated the beautiful image of the
hummingbird that he had created.

Marlene then went in person to Holt Renfrew and Disney to obtain donations
of money and fun items for the children.

Marlene interviewed families and personally made sure that many families
received what they needed.

Marlene was extremely worried that the name Hummingbird Kids would be
connected with HIV and so we agreed that I would not continue to associate
my story with the Society.  Therefore, I joined the Directors of BCPWA.

The Hummingbird Kids operated totally without PAID employees.. something
that hardly anyone is aware of and something we were very proud of.  All
the money went to try and ensure that the kids came first. Hardly anyone
ever claimed expenses either.

Marlene was a nominee for an Accolaid by Positive Living but was not a
winner, however she was a winner in all of our hearts.  Her tireless
dedication to the society and to the children are a huge legacy.

Marlene's famous phrase that I still remember today is "yes.. but what
about the children?"

Goodbye, Marlene, you will be fondly remembered.

Denise

The memorial service is the same day as the Positive Living Election and
here is a link to the funeral home.

http://www.burquitlamfunerals.com/book-of-memories/1640704/Dutton-Marlene/service-details.php





-- 
www.denise-becker.com
Queen's Gold Jubilee Medal
Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal
cell: 250-870-1714
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