In Support of Youth
The George Mussallem Funds
For George Mussallem’s daughter, establishing The George Mussallem Fund for Maple Ridge Youth and The George Mussallem Vocational Education Fund was a deeply personal way to honour a lifetime devoted to community service.
Growing up, she witnessed her father’s unwavering commitment to Maple Ridge. Whether serving as an Air Raid Precaution (ARP) Warden during the Second World War, raising funds through Victory Bond campaigns, volunteering with organizations such as the Lions Club and Scouting, or serving as MLA for Maple Ridge for 14 years, George Mussallem always put his community first.
But it was young people who were closest to his heart.
For 23 years, George served as Superintendent of the United Church Sunday School, mentoring generations of local children. He later reintroduced the Boy Scout movement to Maple Ridge, eventually becoming Provincial President of Scouting in British Columbia and receiving the Silver Acorn—Scouting’s second-highest honour—for his exceptional service. He also championed youth through initiatives like the Maple Ridge High School Driver Training Program, providing students with free professional driving instruction as they prepared to earn their licences.
Education was another lifelong passion. Although George was unable to pursue a university education himself, he believed deeply in ensuring others had opportunities he never did.
He encouraged his own siblings to continue their education, advocated for vocational training throughout his years in public office, and later served on the founding Board of Simon Fraser University.
“My father believed that the influences young people experience during their formative years shape the citizens they become,” his daughter says. “He felt strongly that supporting youth and education was one of the greatest investments a community could make.”
Inspired by those values, she established two Donor Advised Funds with the Maple Ridge Community Foundation. The George Mussallem Fund for Maple Ridge Youth supports programs and organizations that help young people thrive, while the George Mussallem Vocational Education Fund assists students pursuing vocational and trades education, helping remove financial barriers to meaningful careers.
She hopes the funds will continue to encourage the work of volunteers, educators, and community organizations that positively influence today’s youth.
“I hope that even a small contribution can help shape the citizens of tomorrow,” she says.
Being involved in the Donor Advised Fund process also makes the experience especially meaningful. Reviewing applications and making recommendations allows her to stay connected to the purpose behind the funds while ensuring her father’s values continue to guide their impact.
“It gives me a sincere sense of satisfaction,” she reflects. “I know I am continuing to support my father’s wishes and his belief that positive influences on a young person’s life are the foundation for a happy and successful future.”
Through these funds, George Mussallem’s legacy lives on—not only in the history of Maple Ridge, but in every student, volunteer, and young person whose future is strengthened through the opportunities they create.