Peterborough's Walk About Clown Spreads Smiles Upon the City

Carolyn Collins has been dubbed Peterborough’s Walk About Clown and is spreading smiles - and donations - to the community.

Photo Courtesy of David Bui.

When Collins began to sense that a close friend of hers was struggling with the ongoing lockdown, she took it upon herself to cheer her up.

Though she is retired, Collins worked as a clown in the past. She found her best clown outfit and took to the sidewalk in hopes that walking past her friend’s window would put a smile on her face. During the short five-minute walk, she got more attention than anticipated.

“I had at least a dozen vehicles honking and waving at me,” she said. “So I thought I should keep it going.”

Collins now sports fun outfits and hula hoop tricks on the corner of Cherryhill Road and Brealey Drive every weeknight from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. dependent on the weather.

She also leaves encouraging chalk messages on sidewalks and posters on nearby posts.

Photo Courtesy of David Bui.

“The smiles are the best part,” she says.

Fans of Collins have given her money though she does not keep it for herself.

“I’ve decided any money I’m given will go to charity,” she explained. “I was just able to drop off $365 to Community Living in Peterborough. The way I see it, somebody else needs the money more.”

She has now begun collecting money for Five Counties Children’s Centre and has decided every month she will donate to a different charity.

While clowning around is raising money for various charities around the city, Collins says she does it is to spread joy.

“One smile turns into two. Two turns into four and next thing you know we have a million smiles.”

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