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Published on: 12/17/2004
Last Visited: 12/17/2004
Susanne and Adrian Vogt admit they're a little uncomfortable in the spotlight but say if their charitable actions inspire others to do the same, then they can live with it.
For the third year in a row, Adrian's Trident Catering will provide a hearty Christmas meal for 200 Salvation Army clients this Monday evening at St. Paul's United Church.
As good as this makes the couple feel, they hope to motivate additional residents to support the charity of their choice with, not just money or goods, but precious time.As a result, the dinner has become an essential part of the Vogt family holidays.
"It's a real part of our Christmas, instead of doing the mall thing," said Adrian.
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"All my staff is getting involved," said Adrian.
This dinner is for ticket-holders only, so to obtain them call Diane at 905-827-6523.
Adrian - a chef who hails from Switzerland and came to Canada 13 years ago - explained that he had been looking for a way to give back to his adopted community and the people who helped him get his new life and business on their feet.
The idea for the dinner originated in 2002 when Adrian and his then-fiancée Susanne read to their children an Oakville Beaver story about the controversy surrounding the Salvation Army's homeless shelter.
Already appalled by the reaction of some opponents, the couple was spurred to action by their eldest, Wesley, who cut to the issue's core as often only a child can by saying "That's so dumb."
Also urged by young Sydney and Sullivan to do something to help the less fortunate, Adrian and Susanne decided the best way would be to do what comes naturally, namely catering.
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"We realized how important this is," said Adrian.
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"If every business gave a small percentage that would make the community a better place," said Adrian, adding that doing something good for the soul sure beats getting stressed out in malls buying stuff many people don't need anyway.
Not only will you feel better and likely get hooked on doing something for other people, they say, but the ripple effect will also expand.Adrian's suppliers, for instance, are now on board with food for the Salvation Army dinner and, closer to home, the Vogts hope their example is rubbing off on their children.
"It's just a matter of stopping for a moment and thinking," said Adrian.
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