An Announcement from our Board President on the Passing of Mr. Remillard

It is with a heavy heart that I share with you the sad news of the passing of my patron saint, Mr. Arthur J. Remillard, Jr. Mr. Remillard was many things to many people, but at his core he was a man with a passion for helping others.

Although his acts of philanthropy far preceded his involvement with Boca Helping Hands, his initial connection to BHH began a friendship between us that would stretch over 16 years. After relocating to South Florida, Mr. Remillard set out to find an agency he could support. He was introduced to BHH during its very humble beginnings, but even then, he saw the potential to help create an organization that could greatly impact our community.

Together he and I envisioned a future for Boca Helping Hands that required a home that far exceeded the small church in which we used to reside. As we looked at building after building, the search became a lengthy process with no end in sight. That is until Arthur muttered the words that would become a long-running joke, "You need to hurry up, I don't have a lot of time."

Mr. Remillard's unwavering persistence that helped make our shared vision of BHH into reality. A bronze plaque with his portrait is on the wall in our Resource Center, his name is prominently displayed when you enter our front doors, but most importantly, his giving spirit is felt within every inch of the building that is now BHH's home.

Today we meet the critical needs of our community in a way that we couldn't have done without Mr. Remillard's vision. The generosity of this great man to the BHH organization is unparalleled and the impacts of his contribution are beyond measure. Even at such a time of sorrow we can take solace in knowing that his memory will always be interwoven within the lives of the thousands of individuals and families we serve. His legacy of giving and caring will live on in our community.

I have truly been blessed to have had my dear friend Arthur Remillard in my corner these past 16 years. He has always stood by my side from the very beginning, always encouraging and adding the occasional "you need to hurry up, I don't have a lot of time" when necessary.

On behalf of the Board and Staff, we extend our deepest condolences to the Remillard Family. We are immensely grateful to have had Mr. Remillard as a part of our BHH family. He will be missed beyond words.

With deepest condolences and gratitude,

Gary Peters

President of the Board