I met my friend Angel Freedman decades ago through volunteer initiatives she had undertaken to make her community a better place for all residents, regardless of social status, gender and race.
She sees a need, rolls up her sleeves, and works to make a difference — and inspires others to join her impactful causes while she’s at it.
Like when a neighbour lost everything in a fire, Angel was compelled to start gathering clothing and small household goods to help.
And in typical Angel fashion, that simple act of compassion and kindness quickly snowballed until her entire garage was filled to capacity with donations that she distributed across the region to people in need, particularly survivors of intimate partner violence trying to begin a new chapter in their lives.
From Angel’s Garage came the Fill a Purse for a Sister Campaign, which she launched in 2015 and has given countless volunteer hours to shepherd it into communities across the country.
It’s a perfect iteration of her drive to bring hope to others, and inspire others with her passion to do what’s needed to make our communities stronger and more connected.
As an accomplished counsellor for individual and couples, she’s adept at listening, communicating, speaking out when needed, and facilitating compromise – essential skills and experience for a municipal councillor.
In a time when too many people just want to complain – social media has only exacerbated that – Angel’s optimism, willingness to listen, and drive to find solutions stand out.
She has shown time and time again that she is willing to put the work in, and I know she’ll do that for her fellow residents and the Stouffville that she so deeply cares about.
It’s time to give Angel Freedman a seat at the council table for Whitchurch Stouffville.
Debora Kelly
Editor | AuroraToday | NewmarketToday | Village Media