Salem Foundation’s Faspa, Fellowship & Song Fundraiser to bring community together
Josh Okello, Vice-Chair of the Salem Foundation board, shared insights on this year’s Faspa, Fellowship & Song fundraiser, an event set to bring the community together in support of Salem Home’s meaningful initiatives. The event promises “a beautiful chemistry” of fellowship, music, and giving back to a cause that directly impacts the lives of Salem residents.
Community-driven support for Salem Home
As Okello explained, the Salem Foundation’s mission is to fund projects that improve residents’ lives but are outside government funding. “We live in a very generous community, and a community that can share a meal together can also develop together,” he noted, emphasizing the value of community support. “Each family around here has been touched positively by the Salem Foundation.” Okello’s reflections capture the foundation’s deep-rooted connection to the community, where shared values foster a sense of purpose and responsibility.
Related stories:
- Salem Foundation presents Faspa, Fellowship and Song featuring D'Friesens (2023)
- Coffee, cookies, and conversation at the Salem Home Public Forum
A vision for Salem Park
This year, funds from the event will go toward developing Salem Park, a new outdoor space designed to enhance the quality of life for Salem Home residents. “People think it’s going to be fancy, but it’s really all about providing a path, beautiful flowers, and nature,” said Okello. The park will feature accessible walkways for residents with mobility aids, giving families a serene space to spend time with loved ones. “We want them to enjoy the beauty of nature in a place created just for them.”
Honoring tradition with faspa
When asked about the cultural aspect of the event, Okello shared his first experience with Faspa, a traditional Mennonite meal, in 2016. “I’m married to a German woman, so when I first heard of faspa, I thought, ‘I need to try this.’” he laughed. “It’s buns, cheese, chocolate—and sometimes even some meats,” he added with a grin. Faspa serves as more than a meal; it’s a way to bring people together in fellowship, something Okello values deeply.
Supporting Today, Investing in Tomorrow
Okello reflected on the lasting importance of supporting Salem Foundation, saying, “By supporting Salem, you’re helping people in their most vulnerable times.” He shared poignant stories of residents who, while facing life’s toughest challenges, strive to live each day to the fullest at Salem. “Nobody wants to be in that situation, but you try to make the best of it,” he said. For Okello, supporting Salem Foundation means not only aiding current residents but investing in a future where all may one day benefit.
Salem Foundation's Faspa, Fellowship & Song fundraiser takes place Sunday, October 27th, at 3 pm, at the Bergthaler Church in Winkler, 252 6th Street. The afternoon will feature a musical performance by the Baker Hutterite Choir. A free will offering will be collected.
**With files from Ty Hildebrand