Osprey Community Foundation

Heroes among us, A legacy of giving

For every decade in Nelson’s history, there are stories that inspire community giving and tell of hometown heroes—ordinary people doing extraordinary things, united by the same generous spirit. Nearly a century ago, one such individual by the name of Slim Porter, gave generously of his time and money to help kids participate in sports.

Slim was an inspiring coach of Nelson’s Fairview Athletic Club and dedicated his life to the furthering of minor sports; organizing and running minor baseball, hockey and lacrosse for over 43 years. His legacy continues to this day through the Slim Porter Memorial Fund, whereby donations generate earnings annually and are distributed by Kids Sport Nelson to help financially-challenged local youth stay active.

Osprey’s Slim Porter Memorial Fund was initially established by the grown up ‘kids’ that benefitted from Slim’s generosity in their youth. Donations towards this fund continue to be received by Osprey to this day, many from surviving members of the Fairview Athletic Club, now elderly themselves, and demonstrates the longstanding impact that one person’s kindness can have. Donor Dave Grundy shares, “As a past recipient of Slim’s time, financial support and effort some seventy odd years ago, it is great to know his tireless work will carry on helping kids in need.”

This impact reminds us that strong communities are built when individuals step up to support one another, invest their time and resources, and give back to causes that uplift those in need. Through generosity and service, these efforts create lasting change, strengthening the bonds that connect neighbors and ensure that help reaches people when it matters most.

Slim’s generous spirit nearly a century ago continues to help kids in need and Osprey welcomes further donations to carry on Slim’s legacy.