Shannon Brogan and husband Keith Smythe are no strangers to pain and suffering, but bolstered by faith, family and community, the former drug addicts emerged from the experience with a passion to help others.
To do that they formed Second Beginnings Charitable Foundation, which includes the flagship, downtown Langley’s Kalma’s Family Restaurant, plus Brogan’s Family Deli and Second Beginnings Thrift Store, building community, connections and resources to help find solutions.
“They lived it and they came through it. They are such gracious people and bring knowledge, experience and authenticity to others facing similar situations,” says Brenda Weidner, Director of Second Beginnings Foundation. “Shannon is the vision behind this. We want people to get involved, we want people to know what’s available to them and find connections.”
1. Kalma’s Family Restaurant
At Kalma’s Family Restaurant, diners enjoy hearty, affordable comfort food with an atmosphere to match.
“It’s definitely warm and friendly – it’s family, and it’s authentic,” Brenda says.
Kalma’s is a major hub in downtown Langley, but with far more on the menu than delicious home cooking: it’s a place to build connections within the community. Among the events on the calendar this year are:
- Tuesday Freedom Session, from 7 to 9 p.m.
- Wednesday worship, open discussion and Bible study from 7 to 9 p.m.
- Thursday open mic, with music on-stage from 6 to 10 p.m.
- Friday karaoke from 7 to 11 p.m.
- The first Saturday of the month, Kalma’s free community dinner, from 5 to 9 p.m.
- The remaining Saturdays offer community fellowship, from 5 to 9 p.m.
- Sundays are for family karaoke from 5 to 9 p.m.
2. Brogan’s Kalma Family Deli
Next door, discover Brogan’s Kalma Family Deli, named after Shannon’s father and Kalma’s founder, Michael Brogan. A force throughout the Lower Mainland. Michael passed away in January 2017. “He had the biggest heart ever and Shannon has carried on his legacy,” Brenda says.
Greeting the new year with expanded catering offerings, additional Brogan’s activities include Weekly classes like Freedom Session, Alpha, Bible Studies, and other development classes to help people of all walks of life.. Come for a visit, a safe haven, a friendly ear and a warm hug with a cup of coffee. Stay tuned for all upcoming dates and times.
3. Second Beginnings Thrift Store
In addition to raising valuable funds for outreach and initiatives like sending children to camp, Second Beginnings offers individuals training opportunities and a chance to gain valuable skills they can take into the workforce.
The shop also offers emergency assistance for those in desperate need, whether leaving an abusive situation, getting off the streets or embarking on a new life after rehab – furniture, a new set of clothes, and simply knowing someone cares can help someone get back on their feet.
“We want to provide a means to an end here, a sustainable answer to these problems,” Brenda says. This is only the beginning.
How can you help?
Stop in – for a coffee, a meal, to volunteer or just to say hello. Find Kalma’s, Brogan’s and Second Beginnings in downtown Langley at 20555 56 Ave. in Langley, BC.
