Retired Brantford business owner challenges others to match his donation to future generations

From Left to right: Councillor John Utley, Councillor John Sless, Councillor Cheryl Antoski, Donor John Monné, Acting Mayor Dan McCreary, Councillor Brian Van Tilborg, Director of Parks Services, Brian Hughes, Councillor Joshua Wall, Councillor Greg Martin.

Brantford, ON – Today, Acting Mayor Dan McCreary and a large contingent of City staff were in attendance as long-time Brantford resident and retired business owner John Monné, 89, enthusiastically announced a donation of $10,000 to the City’s Parks and Recreation department for the sole purpose of planting trees throughout the community. Furthermore, John announced that he is willing 10% of his total Estate to the same worthy cause, and challenged his fellow seniors to do the same.

“It is my sincere hope that this initiative spreads throughout Brantford, the County of Brant and southern Ontario”, Monné said. “I think people are much more likely to contribute to something that will impact the beautification of their own backyard.”

John chose December 5th to make this announcement because the date has special significance, “growing up Dutch, I associate this date with St. Nicholas Eve which is when St. Nicolas would give gifts to young children. I see this as a gift to make the environment better for future generations so today was the perfect time to share this with my community”, Monné added.

Owner and operator of the local business Maverick’s Spring Makers for over 40 years, and a passionate outdoor enthusiast, John is also a pan-american masters swimming championships gold medal winner in the 200-metre breaststroke and the 400-metre Individual Medley (IM) in the 85-89 age group.

“This is really an exciting day for the City”, said Councillor Dan McCreary. On behalf of Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis, my fellow Councillors, and a grateful community, I can’t thank John enough for his generosity and for the outstanding example he’s setting for others to follow in this season of giving.”

The City looks forward to honouring John with a recognition event on April 22nd, 2020, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, when the first tree as a result of his donation will be planted.

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Media Contact:

Maria Visocchi, Director, Communications and Community Engagement |

City of Brantford | Office: 519.759.4150 Ext. 5754 | mvisocchi@brantford.ca