TECASY RANCH - Key Persons
Frances' community involvement began over 25 years ago at a grass root level - from supporting her children's various extra-curricular activities to participating on parent council. Following the death of their son Alex in 2009, Frances and her husband Len, her children Maddie and Ben along with a group of community-minded people came together collectively as AMPed for Life. To date, this passionate group has raised over $3 million for charities and continues to contribute their time, talent, and treasures all in support of organizations whose same goal is bettering the lives of children and families in need. As Director of Fundholder and Community Engagement at the Oakville Community Foundation, Frances' job is to keep an eye on the community's needs and recommending where to put resources.
Graham has been a life-long cycling enthusiast - road, mountain, and fat-biking. Combined with his love of the outdoors, Tecasy Ranch has become a passion. In addition to being a Board member, Graham is Trail Master and responsible for designing the mountain bike single track trails. "Being in the trees is a gift. Whether it's clearing trails, riding them, or snowshoeing through the wet areas not accessible in the summer, it's a magical place to be". Being in nature is fundamental to being healthy, both mentally and physically, and Tecasy Ranch is a tremendous place to experience the beauty of Ontario's nature.
Job Titles:
- Event Coordinator
- Member of the Board
Karie's involvement in the community began in 1994 when her husband and three children had the opportunity to move outside of Canada for work. With no working visa, Karie started to volunteer as a way to meet people. Twenty-five years later, her desire to step into her community and help where needed still remains a top priority. Her favourite spot to be is deep in the woods of Tecasy Ranch as there is nothing better than a walk in the woods to help clear your head and renew your soul. Karie looks forward to sharing Tecasy Ranch with others for the betterment of self and of community for years to come.
Len is a partner to Frances for over 35 years and a father to Maddie, Alex and Ben. Len has spent over 20 years in the commercial real estate business, investing in and developing property. Coming from a large family, he grew up a listener who sought to understand others. As a young husband and father, Len participated in many charitable events but was not connected to them.
When Alex was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2007, the family learned to accept the help of others and Team Axle was born. When Alex died in 2009, the family was challenged to its limit but again others supported us and helped us from the darkness. Len has taken inspiration from Alex's wisdom and goodness to help others; to make good out of tragedy. With Frances and the other board members of Tecasy Ranch, Team Axle has raised over $3 million for childhood cancer and other charities.
As Len did growing up, Alex loved the woods and the cottage, with the serenity and the connectedness that it brings to those who are lucky to experience them. This is the power of Tecasy and something that we hope to bring to others in need.