Mechaly walks the talk for his community
Ariel Mechaly is a master fundraiser. Each year, he contacts everyone in his network – and speaks to all who will listen – about the annual Walk4Friendship in support of special needs programming at the Friendship Circle (FC). Over the past three years, he has raised over $76,000.
He was nominated as one of this edition’s Difference Makers by his mother, Rissa Mechaly, in recognition of his efforts, which she reinforced are all self-led. In spite of navigating several challenges due to having Down syndrome, Ariel, 43, demonstrates there are no limits to caring.
Walk4Friendship, which took place November 10 at the FC building on Bourret Ave., is the highlight of Ariel’s year. Currently one of the organization’s top 10 fundraisers, his highest tally was a whopping $30,000 in 2021. “He’s relentless,” said Rissa. “People in the community know him because he’s not shy.”
Ariel added, “My secret to fundraising is this: I go out and tell people about why the Walk is important. I’m there to support Friendship Circle and the amazing work they do.” People are immediately drawn to his friendly nature and passion for the cause. “They are my family and always have been.”
Difference Maker sponsor Simon Chang met the Mechalys at his Chabanel studio on September 18, where Ariel was presented with a glass art piece by Big Blue Hug. “Congratulations to Ariel for raising so much money for the Friendship Circle – one phone call and one email at a time,” shared Chang. “His determination and big heart make him a very successful fundraiser. It is my privilege to honour Ariel Mechaly as a Difference Maker.”
The Mechalys are a family of fighters. Rissa was part of the WestEnd Parent Group, which campaigned for the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream schools in the 80’s. Led by teacher Linda Mahler and inclusion advocate Evelyn Lusthaus, Ariel participated in a pilot project at Elizabeth Ballantyne Elementary School and then Westmount High School, at the time both under the Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal and now with the English Montreal School Board.
When he received the award in September, Ariel’s tally was $7,000. By October, it was over $12,000. “He still has some weeks to gently persuade people to give money from their pockets,” commented Rissa. On his fundraising page, Ariel wrote: “Together, we are creating an inclusive community that values each individual’s uniqueness and contributions.”
For more information about the Walk4Friendship or to support Ariel’s fundraising efforts, visit www.walk4friendship.ca.
Nominate your Difference Maker at info@inspirationsnews.com.
