Dan Johnstone, AKA Can Man Dan, isn’t slowing down after a 15th successful food and toy drive over the holidays. His newest endeavour is as Belmont Sobeys’ first-ever community engagement specialist working in a brand new community engagement office within the store’s walls. “This role will see Dan acting as a special consultant and expert liaison to any non-profit or charitable organization looking for fundraising opportunities, industry advice, help craft large or special orders, or to merely secure a good deal on store products,” said a media release from Wednesday. Johnstone will also be helping the Belmont Sobeys, owned by Jerry MacLachlan, with connecting to local communities and grassroots initiatives on a “deeper and more meaningful level.” The Can Man Dan Foundation will also be expanding its current community grant program to include Sobeys gift cards – and non-profits looking to apply for a community grant can apply for one in-store as of Wednesday. “This partnership … is a no-brainer and our history goes way back,” MacLachlan said in the release. “We’ve done a lot of events and good things together for Edmonton and those less fortunate … We’re kindred spirits in a lot of ways.” MacLachlan, who is a recipient of the King Charles III’s Coronation Medal for service to the community, describes Johnstone as an “Edmonton legend.” Johnstone and his foundation have been a staple in the city for years, recently raising more than 60,000 pounds of food for Edmonton’s Food Bank and $50,000 worth of toys for Santa’s Anonymous in a week-long outdoor campaign. “I know how hard it can be for NPOs and charitable organizations to make fruitful connections and obtain long-term partnership status,” Johnstone said. “I’ve personally been through all of that, and now I’m looking to help bridge that gap.” Can Man Dan and Belmont Sobeys are now offering appointments with non-profits and charities around Edmonton free of charge every Monday and Thursday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, but emailing in advance to make an appointment is recommended.
