In the late 1980s, Dr. Roberto Canizares and late wife (also a physician),began caring for homeless persons who St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church sheltered for two-week stretches in the winter months as part of a coalition of faith communities. In the beginning, they cleaned, washed dishes, and the like. Later, when the Thurman Brisben Center opened year-round on its Essex Street, Dr. Canizares volunteered as a family doctor—assessing children and adults alike, making referrals, and prescribing treatments for simple maladies.
He was one the Brisben Center’s first board members, a distinction he still holds today as Director Emeritus. Dr. Canizares has had a front row seat to the organization’s evolution from a volunteer-run church ministry to a dynamic service provider staffed by professionals steeped in the knowledge of systemic homelessness and effective, data-driven interventions. The Brisben Center, and especially those it serves, have been fortunate to receive his care and support.
In a reflective moment Dr. Canizares explained his philanthropy like this: When you give, you receive. If you have money, just give. You don’t have to give a lot. I know that. That’s the reason I am not rich. Give something you think will help. I chose the Brisben Center by accident, got hooked on it. I know my money helps people who truly need it. The awards I’ve received I’ve given to the homeless. The more you give, the more you receive.
The Brisben Center is helping homeless individuals and ...families rebuild their lives - from surviving to thriving.
The Brisben Center | 540-899-9853 |
Development officer Chris Payton receives 120 incredibly ...warm blankets from James Bannow of Optima Health. They are hugely appreciated by exiting residents during these winter months. Thanks, Optima!
On this day, we honor the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King ...Jr.'s life and the work he did to advance racial equality, human rights, and economic justice.
Staff and volunteers whipped up an Italian feast for the ...residents at the Brisben center. A Brisben bunch, delicosa!
The Brisben Center communicates URGENT needs via an URGENT ...NEEDS EMAIL LIST. If you want to be a Brisben Urgent Needs First Responder, please send an email to info@brisbencenter.org or call (540) 899-9853 ext 114.
THE BRISBEN CENTER
471 CENTRAL ROAD
FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA 22401
(540) 899-9853