What’s the deal with One Love?
One Love International has been in existence for about one year. It’s a registered society run by Dan Pageau. In December, Pageau opened the doors to One Love thrift store and skateboard shop at 4845 Imperial St. in hopes of funding the many projects he has up his sleeve. The store sells gently used, vintage clothing as well as new skateboards, many designed by Pageau himself, and skateboard apparel.
Why open a not-for-profit business?
Pageau is a former professional skateboard champion who spent 10 years on tour travelling around the world. He wanted to give back to the community and so, after completing BCIT’s non-profit management program, he founded One Love. The shop is run by Pageau and a group of volunteers with the majority of profits going towards charity projects organized by One Love.
Why Burnaby?
Pageau is especially interested in helping at-risk youth, so he chose a store front across the street from the Bonsor Skatepark.
When he’s not running the store…
Pageau spends what little spare time he has coming up with other projects for One Love to organize. He’s already started working on a Battle of the Bands for next October. During the holiday season, One Love donated gift cards and toys to a group of single mothers.
What’s next?
The next big project for One Love is a free kids’ clothes program for low-income families. Families in need will be able to register online and then come by the shop to pick out about five items per child. See www.onelovesociety.com.
