The Big Give . . a National Movement of Generosity

What is it, and how did it start?
 
Christ Church Aylmer has joined the Big Give! Partnering with St. Andrew's Presbyterian, Aylmer United, the Reformed Baptists and 'RCCG Chapel of Restoration,' we believe that kindness and generosity are an integral part of our Christian faith.

The idea of “Big Give” dates back to 2009 when an Ottawa church book group read The 40 Days of Community by Rick Warren. The challenge at the end of the book study was to find a church-wide project that would reach the community in a unique way.

Their idea was to hold a garage sale where EVERYTHING WOULD BE FREE -- something easy to do that wouldn’t cost the church any money. As the idea caught on, it became evident that this was a “God idea.” The first Big Give was held that year, and has been growing steadily ever since.  As of now, some 100 churches across the nation’s capital, Quebec and Eastern Ontario have joined for a unified day of radical giving.

How can we all pitch in and be involved??

Stephen Picard, CCA's People's Warden, has taken the lead on this terrific project along with members of our Parish Council and reps from the partnering churches. Stephen can be reached at stephenmpicard@videotron.ca. 

How can we all get involved?

 We will need all the help we can get for the many events . . the giveaway tables, lemonade, coffee & tea tables, BBQ , children's games, face painting, balloons, and many more --  as well as helpers for set-up and clean-up. 

Your donations of giveaway items such as toys, books, puzzles, children's furniture, cribs, clothing, plants -- you name it! -- can be dropped off at Christ Church Hall on Friday evening or as early as 7:30 am on Saturday, and can continue arriving throughout the day. Stuff will start flying off tables early, as EVERYTHING WILL BE FREE!!

Questions?  Contact Stephen Picard, stephenmpicard@videotron.ca