A young philanthropist has provided a boost to this year's Growing Support for Cancer initiative. The annual program was started by Darcy Miller, and sees a crop planted and harvested, with all proceeds going toward Cancer Care Manitoba. Oakville School student Dylan Lee recently saw an opportunity to assist their work, by requesting donations for the initiative for his birthday in lieu of gifts. Lee says the decision to help the Millers wasn't difficult, given their relationship and ongoing contributions to the community.

"I've been best friends with his son for about eight years now. I love the family, what they do for the community and everybody else, so I thought 'Hey, why not give back to them?'."

Lee says his friends were incredibly generous, and he was able to present a cheque to Cancer Care Manitoba for about $470. He explains he wasn't expecting that kind of support, but is grateful for everyone's contributions.

"I was quite surprised and very grateful. I just wanted to give back to them. With all that money, I felt really good."

Miller says he was taken aback when he had heard what Lee was planning for his birthday, calling his support exciting. As a community minded individual himself, Miller says it's great to see the next generation continuing to carry the torch.

"For these kids to step up and see they can take some responsibility, it's great. Everybody can make a difference if they want to get involved."

Miller says they're gearing up to plant the crop for Growing Support for Cancer, noting they're just waiting for the field to dry up. This year's charity crop will be planted near Fortier.