I'm Here With Magazine Issue 1 | Page 35

I'm Here With Magazine

Most of us know W. Brett Wilson as one of the stars of Dragon’s Den, but he is more than a successful investment banker; he is also a highly regarded Philanthropist. He

mainly invests in the energy, agriculture and real estate sectors, primarily through his holding company, Prairie Merchant Corporation. But he’s seen in the media for

supporting many different causes and charities through the year. Brett hosts his own,

dear to his heart, almost famous Annual Garden Party attended by more than 500 of his family, friends, staff, clients and partners in late June in Calgary. His outside catered

charity event is legendary for having the finest people attend with live rocking entertainment that has everyone dancing. There is an overwhelming amount of people each year that try to attend and support. Brett being just who he is, has many fans and supporters who believe in his event, which helps raise hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. Is there anything W. Brett can’t do?!

Last year his Garden Party rose over $400K for Adolescent Mental Health. Funds raised

were divided between the Canadian Mental Health Association (Calgary), Juno

Foundation (Eating Disorders), Calgary Counseling Centre (Adolescent Mental Health)

and Wood’s Homes (Eagle Moon Lodge for Aboriginal Youth). In 2014, he helped raise $350K in support of three groups addressing mental health.

This year Brett focused directly on mental health (or mental wellness as he calls it sometimes) in all its forms. He has chosen a total of eight causes with more info and

links below – all of which are changing the lives of people who suffer with mental illness. The programs being supported: The Canadian Mental Health Association – Calgary

(CMHA), Juno Foundation (Eating Disorders), Calgary Counseling Centre

(Adolescent Mental Health), Wood’s Homes (Eagle Moon Lodge for Aboriginal Youth ),

Silver Linings Foundation Calgary (Eating Disorders), Dare to Care (Adolescent Mental Health), EDSNA (Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta) and The Children’s Hospital Foundation (Mental Health Literacy).

This year’s entertainment lineup was amazing to dance to. Brett Kissel was back headlining! More amazing talent includes, John & Jacob, Sara Staples, Christian Hudson, Sam Lundell, Jaxon Smith, Sykamore Jordan, and Oscar Lopez also performed!

Wilson and his guests helped raise $500,000 in June. Photos from the event are in the next issue!

The Power that is

W. Brett

Wilson

W. Brett

Wilson