"I encourage anyone to become a monthly donor - It is such an easy way to give and I know that even giving a small bit every month adds up to a much bigger gift at the end of the year," says Joan Wilkinson, who has been a monthly donor since _.  "The Dime Plan", or monthly giving, is an effective way to provide stable and ongoing support for the work of March of Dimes by pre-authorizing a regular monthly deduction from your bank account or credit card.

Joan and her daughter Barb, who has cerebral palsy, have been using March of Dimes’ services for years, in particular, the Recreation and Integration Services program.  Barb is devoted to the summer holiday program at Geneva Park, and both mother and daughter sailed theCaribbean as part of the accessible travel program.  Barb has also been helped with a purchase of an electric wheelchair by the Assistive Devices Program.

"I feel like March of Dimes has always been part of my life," explains Joan.  "My Auntie Iris is a polio survivor, so we always knew about March of Dimes, and then of course, Barb has been using their services for so many years too."

Barb has been attending the  Geneva Park summer holiday program for as long as I can remember, and her mother says it is by far her favourite week of the year.  "Barb just comes home flying after she has been at Geneva Park," says Joan.  “She loves water sports, loves meeting new people, and she really loves the wonderful staff, she always has the most marvelous time there," she continues.

Joan recommends monthly giving as a great alternative for people who find it challenging to make a lump sum donation once or twice a year.

"I am so thankful to everyone at March of Dimes - they have helped us in so many ways," says Joan.  "I want to be able to support such a wonderful organization, in whatever small way I can, so monthly donation is perfect for me.  It is not an intimidating amount to give each month, and you know that in the end, you are making a significant contribution to a great charity," she continues.

To learn more about becoming a monthly donor, or to increase your gift, please click here, call 1-800-263-3463 ext. 7382 or e-mail donorservices@marchofdimes.ca.