Here in the Maritimes, The Salvation Army is guided by three advisory boards, in Halifax, Moncton and Saint John. These boards are comprised of business leaders and philanthropic supporters that offer support and strategic thinking from each member’s considerable experience and expertise. Today we present our latest entry in a series introducing you to members of our advisory boards, profiling Brian Forbes of the Moncton Board.
Brian is a second generation member of Moncton’s Advisory Board. Born and raised in Moncton, Brian attended University of New Brunswick and has been practising law in Moncton since 1977. Brian practices at Forbes Roth Basque, a firm he helped form. His practice is focused on Estate Planning, Corporate and Commercial Law and Estate Litigation. Aside from serving on The Salvation Army Moncton Advisory Board, Brian is also an active member of the United Church of Canada, and is active in youth sport programs.
What made you decide to become a Board Member?
BF: When my father died 28 years ago, I was asked by the then Chair of the Moncton Advisory Board if I would be willing to consider taking his seat. I was, and continue to be, honoured to do so. I’m proud of the contribution of the Advisory Board, locally, to The Salvation Army, and equally proud of what The Salvation Army does in Moncton.
Is there a particular aspect of work The Salvation Army does that really interests you?
BF: No, but I think what I like most is their spirit of community involvement and fellowship. I see elements of charitable giving every week in wills I prepare and in matters that are in the office and on my desk. I know how highly regarded The Salvation Army is in the community and particularly in the business community, and I’m pleased to participate.
What do you do in your spare time?
BF: I’m active in my church, the United Church of Canada, and I’m active in the business community and with professional organizations. Additionally, my life would have a lot less meaning without the Boston Red Sox and their constant need for my encouragement.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned while serving as a Board Member?
BF: I think the most valuable lesson would be the continued application of patience to problem solving. Some business decisions seem fundamentally easy and logical but require so many parties’ input before it is finalized. The Salvation Army has made me a more patient person, although my family will never believe that of me.
If someone came up to you and asked, “Why should I give to The Salvation Army?” what would you say?
BF: I think my answer would be, if there’s an agency on the planet that does more good with the assets the community provides to them, I would want to meet that agency and its people. There are many others in our community, I’m sure, who do great good with a dollar, but none that can surpass The Salvation Army.