25 years of PALS: Reflecting on a year of celebration
A regular Monday morning at J.D. Irving, Limited’s Saint John headquarters was turned cheerier by some young visitors this month.
Laden with tasty treats and handmade cards to hand out to employees, students from Prince Charles School, located just across the street, dropped by to recognize a partnership now over 25 years strong. The visit was the perfect way to cap off a year of celebrating the silver anniversary of PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools).
PALS began in 2000 as a partnership between one school (Prince Charles School) and one organization (J.D. Irving, Limited). It has since grown into a network of over 30 schools and more than 150 community partners that work together to address barriers to education, foster inclusivity and build a stronger community.
The program has supported thousands of students across New Brunswick, and now includes a school in Halifax, N.S. None of it would be possible without the local businesses, community groups, educators and volunteers who have contributed their time, energy and resources.
Over the past 25 years, PALS has become much more than a program. It is a network of support, providing mentorship, resources and care to students and schools. Volunteer initiatives such as school supply drives, PALS Hampers, PALS En Route to Success, school mentors, the Kids on the Go bus and the many more contributions of PALS partners have created opportunities for every child to reach their full potential.
PALS holds a special place in the history of J.D. Irving, Limited. It was founded through the vision and commitment of the late Chairman James K. Irving and the Anglophone South School District. Supporting young people was a personal passion for Mr. Irving and he was always quick to share credit with his collaborators, including his wife, Mrs. Jean E. Irving, and Mr. Bill Gale, whose encouragement and support were fundamental in his efforts.
“My father always recognized the need to do more to support young people in our community. It was a deep personal interest that grew over the years,” says Jim Irving, co-CEO of J.D. Irving, Limited. “We are proud of PALS and all that it continues to achieve to create meaningful change. This milestone is a testament to the power of partnerships and the shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed."
About PALS
Partners Assisting Local Schools is a community-based initiative co-founded by James K. Irving and the Anglophone South School District to support students and schools in New Brunswick. By fostering partnerships between businesses, educators and volunteers, PALS creates programs that address educational challenges and promote student success.
