"United We Can"

I believe to recover the addict has an individual responsibility but also needs a supportive cultural / social / spiritual community to replace the drug culture. I believe the church can be the ideal haven for recovery. I want to introduce you to Ken Lyotier, a new friend and fellow board member of the Dugout Drop-in Centre. Ken's story represents how it is possible to help the homeless help themselves.

Starting  with a $1500. loan from the minister at First United in 1990, Ken founded the non profit corporation known as United We Can. The recycling center now provides employment for 30 regular employees, and 100 part timers from DTES. Ken's contribution to the life of DTES was honored by the mayor of Vancouver who appointed him to light the cauldron  for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Now retired, Ken was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of British Columbia.

Please click on Ken's Story to hear him personally. The second video demonstrates his heart and humility.