In celebration of Black History Month, Fred Gibson is being spotlighted as one of the community’s influential Black trailblazers and entrepreneurs. Born and raised in Barbados, Gibson has dedicated much of his life to building a safer, more inclusive Pickering for all its residents.
As the president of Sarah McDonald’s Place, a non-profit housing initiative in Pickering, Gibson has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of local residents for over 23 years. The housing project, named after Durham’s first Black principal and Pickering Carib-Canadian Cultural Association (PCCCA) founding member Sarah McDonald, provides affordable housing with a focus on creating a welcoming environment for everyone. With 63 units available, the building consistently operates at full capacity, providing shelter to families in need.
“I’ve always believed in making it a safer community for everybody. Everybody is valuable,” says Gibson, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in a diverse society. He recalls growing up in Barbados, where his parents, despite being better off than many of their neighbors, never turned anyone away. Gibson carries that same spirit of generosity with him today, striving to help those in need through his work at Sarah McDonald’s Place.
The project also offers programs to support the youth, like a recent future pilot program designed to guide young people toward a brighter future. This approach is reflective of Gibson’s broader mission: to provide opportunities and build a community where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive.
Gibson, who moved to Pickering in 1976 and worked at IBM for 33 years, has witnessed the community’s growth over the years. While he acknowledges that Pickering is a good place for Black residents, he believes there’s always room for improvement. “There’s always more you can do,” he said, acknowledging that change is happening, but often too slowly. He also stresses the need for greater representation from the Black community and believes that more voices are needed to ensure that the community continues to evolve.
Looking ahead, Gibson’s most pressing concern is housing for everyone. “It’s not white against them,” he explains, highlighting the need for a holistic approach that addresses the needs of all community members. He’s currently involved in discussions about a future housing project on Kingston Road, which is still in the early stages.
At 82, Gibson remains active in his efforts to make a positive impact in his community, even as he encourages the younger generation to take on the mantle of leadership. “You always have to try to pass it on to the younger people to keep it going so that it doesn’t die,” he says.
Gibson’s commitment to community service and his unwavering dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive Pickering is a testament to his lifelong passion for helping others and making the world a better place for future generations.
