Leon Burt

Board Member and Artist in Residence for music and writing

Leon Burt is a published author, a poet and a musician. Leon has been writing short stories and poetry since he was in elementary school. He grew up in a house filled by music and family and this prompted him to write his own songs, sing, and to play guitar, within the home and at his church. He joined Art With A Heart in 2009 as a way to help people in Canada and abroad.

His passion to help those in need was sparked during a 2007 mission trip to Ukraine, where he worked with young people in orphanages, discovering that without intervention, the prospects for these kids were slim.

“Some of these kids really moved me. Growing up in Newfoundland, surrounded by a vibrant, musical and supportive family, I had everything I needed. People took the time to listen to me, to recognize that I have value. Seeing people in Ukraine who don’t have anything, even emotional support, it spoke to me.” Leon shared.

He wrote about his first journey to Ukraine in “To Love and To Give: the Heart of the Mission,” and self published it through his publishing house, HopeJuelle Publishing. His book was featured at one of the first fundraising initiatives by the new charity in October 2009. The evening included a gala dinner, book signing and original art auction, in support of kids at Ukrainian orphanages.

Leon lives in Durham Region with his wife Angel and their two daughters, and plays bass guitar in a band. His role with Art With a Heart includes helping people to write their biographies and artist statements, as well as initiative planning and implementation. He is also a writing and musical facilitator.

He is a superintendent at Canada Post, where he has been working for nine years.

When asked about the art-based charity, he said, “Art With a Heart helps people understand they are capable.” This fits with his belief that life is more than having success, it is meant to have significance.