The Story Of Andrea & Michael VanDerHerberg

As the old saying goes, "You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give." For Peterborough's Andrea and Michael VanDerHerberg, truer words have never been spoken.

Dynamic duo: Michael & Andrea

You may know Andrea from the Silver Bean Café—“Your waterfront cottage in the city”—a business she’s run with husband Michael since 2004. From the poetic and thoughtful daily quotes to kudos for local patrons to regular partnerships in support of amazing local projects, the café is a community hub of buzz and ideas with an infectiously positive spirit.

We love Silver Bean's Thought of the Day board

As well as being a father to William, 4 and Grace, 2, and his work at the café, Michael puts his all in to supporting newcomers to Canada in finding work, housing and building community as part of his role at Peterborough’s New Canadians Centre. "Peterborough is a great place in which to do this work. We’re not a city, but we are a community," he says. “I love seeing the people we help do well.”

The couple’s generosity seems to know no bounds. They love to help, and are terrific community ambassadors. The spare room in their home is rarely empty, hosting exchange students, newcomers, friends, travellers—all become part of their family for a time. “It’s a great experience for us, to share what we have, and for our children, whose community is expanded daily,” says Andrea.

Andrea with the kids at Lock N' Paddle event

Another cause close to their hearts is the situation of women and children experiencing violence or abuse. In support of these women, and in hopes of inspiriting other community members to do the same, the VanDerHerbergs—along with an anonymous local donor—have committed to MATCH all new and increased monthly donations to YWCA Peterborough Haliburton.

“Violence against women and children does not belong in our community," say Andrea. "Housing, food, safety and a place of shelter—the YWCA offers coordinated, pragmatic service, and a much-needed sense of hope women when they need it most. We are honoured to support their work.”

To help Michael and Andrea meet their goal of matching $5,000 in new and increased monthly donations, please give what you can here.

—guest post by Miriam Lyall

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