FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Waterloo Region: November 11, 2022: The Drayton Entertainment’s Hamilton Family Theatre in Cambridge was bustling with excitement on Tuesday as over 300 people gathered to honour the legacy of the Hallman Family. The event was celebrated with the launch of a new book authored by John G. Fast – The Hallman Legacy.
Jim Hallman, author John G. Fast and an all-star cast of storytellers David Johnston, John English, Kenneth McLaughlin, Elizabeth Witmer and Karen Redman came together to celebrate the 100-year legacy of Lyle S. Hallman and 75 years of Hallman Construction Ltd.
“We are privileged to have the opportunity to work closely with the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation. It’s an honour to be a part of this celebration and book launch. The Foundation has played a key role in building a supportive community in the Waterloo Region over the past 100 years, and it’s important to learn about its impact,” said Cathy Brothers, CEO, Capacity Canada. “The Foundation’s work has left a lasting imprint on this community. It is indeed a legacy.”
The book started off with a simple thought. Jim Hallman wanted to celebrate and honour his father on what would have been his 100th birthday. “My original goal for this book was to commemorate the 100-plus years of our Hallman family in business. But as you’ll see, it doesn’t chronicle one singular journey — our legacy is the result of an amazing collaborative effort,” said Jim Hallman. “This book details a very personal family history. My family has always believed in working hard and giving back to the community. And that’s what we have been trying to do all this time,” he said.
Applauding The Hallman Foundation for its support and philanthropic endeavours in the Region, Regional Chair Karen Redman said she could not put the book down once she started reading it. “Once I picked up the book, it was hard to put it down. And I finished reading it the very next day.” A sentiment echoed by all present at the event!
“I read the book all night. It’s an amazing, personal story. What Hallman has done for this community and the waterloo region is incredible,” said Ken McLaughlin, History professor and celebrated author. “This book catches the inside story of Waterloo County, the Waterloo Region, the people who call this place their home, different traditions and values. I would urge you to read the book and relate to it.”
Elizabeth Witmer, former Deputy Premier of Ontario, who also sits on the board of The Hallman Foundation, shared her disbelief about the struggles of getting the foundation up and running. “It’s an extraordinary story, a personal history of the lives of the Hallman family. It speaks of tragedy and achievement! I did not realize how big of a struggle it was to get the foundation started. And since then, the Hallman Family has helped numerous vulnerable people in this community. The foundation has ensured people in this community benefit from the philanthropy it has provided.”
Since 2004, the Hallman foundation has disbursed around $90 million. It now gives $15 million a year in grants supporting more than 100 local charities, organizations and grassroots efforts strengthening communities.
In Cambridge itself, the recent Hallman Foundation grants include:
- $2.4 million for the K-W Urban Wigwam housing project on Cambridge Street
- $400,000 per year for two years for YWCA of Cambridge
- $100,000 per year for two years for the Cambridge Self-Help Food Bank
The event, also a fundraiser, ended on a high note with a mesmerizing performance by the cast of Good Ol’ Country Gospel. All proceeds from the event went to support Drayton Entertainment, Conestoga College’s Culinary program, and Capacity Canada.
For more information, please contact:
Cathy Brothers, CEO
Office: 866-317-1992 x1
[email protected]
Nasreen, Director of Communications
Office: 866-317-1992 x7
[email protected]
