Happy Can-nivarsary!
Celebrating 7 Years of
Can Man Dan
He's a fan of Game of Thrones, Big Brother and pro wrestling. He loves movies, Marvel and you'll probably catch him listening to Fallout Boy or Prozaac. He is a blue collar worker, working as a superintendent in construction and works even harder to support his family. Dan Johnstone lives the life of a normal guy but he is a man that does extraordinary things.
It has been 7 years since the beginning of 'Can Man Dan' and the name has become well known and iconic to us here in Edmonton. Many people and families have benefited (greatly) from the millions, yes millions in donations that Dan has been able to gather. He is known as an anti-poverty activist, a philanthropist and social activist. Which is why he was a receiver of our recent MUSE awards!
"I just want to give back to the communities and organizations that helped me and my family when I was growing up. That is where all of this started from!"
Dan grew up in a low-income household. He and his family had to use many of the services that he gives back to today. But where the real motivation behind Can Man Dan started were with the 'unsung heroes of the neighborhood' that helped him and his family.
"Our neighbors would come give us groceries, clothes, gift certificates and more. They were so giving to us and that really helped us out when we needed it the most."
Then, 7 years ago, was when the motivation started and skyrocketed from! Dan started off by knocking on doors in his neighborhood, asking for donations. It wasn't long before a spark ignited within his community and he had gotten everyone involved.
"It was never about reputation or credit, it was all about helping the community. It's not that I am modest, I am just a realist and I want to keep that wheel turning!
... I know I won't be able to end world hunger but I can work to help as many people as I can."
And so he does! He and his volunteers work very hard every year to out-do the last. Raising more, doing more events, creating more awareness. It's all about taking action and creating the change!