52nd Easter Seals Telethon Kicks Off With Live Event For March 24; Higher Ambitions With $100,000 Goal Set

The 52nd Easter Seals Telethon fundraiser has kicked off for March with their live event broadcasting on March 24 on YourTV and Global Peterborough from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(From left to right) The Growdens Tara, Teddy, Dan and Ambassador Sawyer sharing a moment as the 52nd Easter Seals Telethon Kicks Off. Sawyer is returning as a regional ambassador after being announced as a new one last year. She was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder which affects the 15th chromosome. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The announcement was made at Lansdowne Place with Deputy Mayor Joy Lachica proclaiming March to be Easter Seals Month in Peterborough.

Telethon host Stu Harrison is returning as well as Graham Hart, celebrating his 50th year volunteering. Actress Linda Kash and Energy Morning Show’s Brian Young are hosting the Wheelchair Challenge where small teams come on the Telethon to contact everyone they know for donations.

”They're calling and reaching out to their contacts list of corporate supporters, family members, employers, that kind of thing and basically drumming more donations for us,” Coralie Jacobs of Easter Seals Ontario “It's sort of a neat and little competitive little edge to the show.”

Easter Seals is its 102nd year with the 52nd and is a fundraiser that provides support for children and youth with physical disabilities. The televised event celebrates success stories, showcases Easter Seals kids and their families, recognizes donors and sponsors.

Jacobs credits everyone involved in the event and/or its promotion on why the event has been successful for over a century.

“A lot of that has to do with who's involved with it and they're putting the word out for us,” she explained. “It's really valuable for people to understand and help them understand what it is that we're doing.”

For the 52nd edition of the Telethon, a goal of $100,000 was set, an increase of $80,000 in years prior.

“We've never had that as our goal, it's always been 80,” said Jacobs. “We're very good at exceeding 80 and I'm comfortable with that but this year I thought, 'you know what, let's go for it,' 100 grand, I know this community can do it.”

Also returning to the Telethon is regional ambassador and seven-year-old Sawyer Grace Growden who has Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder which affects the 15th chromosome. She uses a wheelchair and a walker to help with her mobility.

“She loves the attention, loves being on camera,” said Dan Growden, Sawyer’s father. “You can tell by the laughing and giggling that she loves to be here.”

Last year, the family participated in the Easter Seals Family Camp and have already applied to participate for 2024. The camp gives families an opportunity to meet other families, have an accessible family vacation with overnight camping. The camp has a wide range of programs that are geared to various age groups for families to partake in.

“It was an incredible experience to be there as a family, meet other families,” said Dan. “Teddy got to meet siblings of other kids with physical disabilities so it just a great time all around.”

Supporters can donate during the Telethon or at anytime online.

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38th Annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim Takes the Plunge For Easter Seals and Rotary Projects

The 38th annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim plunged into the YMCA Central East Ontario pool to fundraise their goal of $50,000 for Easter Seals Ontario and Rotary Club of Peterborough on Friday morning.

Vanessa Oake Hogan (left) with her sister Renée Oake shortly after the latter did 146 laps in the swimming lane. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This event has fundraised over $1.4 million for Easter Seals and Rotary Projects. Other recipients of the proceeds are literacy programs, various shelters (Brock Mission, Yes Shelter and more) Breakfast for Kids, Camp Kawartha, Rotary Trail and more.

Roughly $5,300 of the $50,000 goal was already raised online at the publication of this article but more funds have yet to be accounted for with a final tally.

Carl Oake started this event 38 years ago. He says he was inspired by the work the Easter Seals did because of his relatives. His mother’s twin sister contracted polio in the 1950s while a cousin of his was born with spina bifida - both physically debilitating diseases.

Carl’s daughter, Vanessa Oake Hogan, succeeded in the role of organizing the event in 2017 after the former was satisfied that the event had so much community support over the years. She and her sister, Renée Oake, were proud to carry on their father’s legacy.

“He built so much momentum with this event over the year and it's gained a lot of support with the community so it was a natural for us to carry it on,” said Vanessa. “It's definitely important for us to carry on dad's tradition.”

”I'm just proud to carry on the torch for my father for such a good cause,” said Renée.

Teams and groups could swim in lanes to participate in the fundraising event.

New to this year’s swim was the ‘Cannonball’ and ‘Floating Catwalk’ Challenge. They were alternative activities for those who cannot swim or could not get a team to help raise money while participating in the event.

“It was a great addition,” said Vanessa. “I think it's definitely something we would want to continue.”

The online fundraising page remains open for donations until March 15.

“It's always a lot of work leading up to it but it's the day of the event you say, 'Okay, it's all worth it,' and I'm really happy to have all the support and the volunteers,” said Vanessa.

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YWCA's Empty Bowls Fundraiser Raises Nearly $20,000 For Its Nourish Food Program

The 20th annual YWCA Empty Bowls event has raised just under $20,000 in support of our Nourish Food Program that ran at The Venue on Friday.

The Nourish program offers monthly food boxes, community gardening, and a weekly market at Curve Lake First Nation, bringing high quality produce from local farms to the community at affordable prices. Thanks to the support of the community, we distribute about 260 food boxes each month to individuals and families around the Peterborough area. Photo by Keegan Beekers.

The Empty Bowls event has raised over $210,000 for the YWCA. All proceeds support the YWCA’s Nourish Food Program which provides fresh food at affordable costs to families experiencing hunger.

Close to 200 guests attended the event with a wide variety of food options available provided by 15 local restaurants. The handcrafted ceramic and wooden bowls created and donated by community artisans were a big hit with participants, many of whom purchased extra bowls to take home.

“This year, more than ever, I’m encouraged and humbled by the number of people who support Empty Bowls with their generosity. The time devoted to making this event a success holds true this year more than ever,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director. “20 years is a remarkable milestone, especially given the challenges in recent years. It is a testament to the dedication of our community members who fired up their kilns, sharpened their chisels, showed up, donated, sponsored, volunteered, and continued the legacy of Empty Bowls in Peterborough.”

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Peterborough Petes Next Gen Game Raises Over $21,000 For Five Counties Children's Centre

The Peterborough Petes’s annual Next Gen Game raised $21,341 for Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) that was held on Feb. 19, announced on Tuesday.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. Last year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in the Peterborough, Northumberland, Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The money is used to support kids’ treatment services at FCCC.

In 12 years of running the Next Gen Game, this was the highest total fundraiser since the partnership.

 “We are so grateful to the Petes, their fans and our other supporters for again showing their support for Five Counties kids,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The funds will go directly to our Building Abilities For Life (BAL) campaign that supports high-demand treatment services at Five Counties. Through these funds, we can help to reduce wait times and ensure more children and families get access to the care they need when they need it.”

There were eight FCCC kids who enjoyed a behind-the-scenes experience at the game, ‘signing’ a one one-day contract with the Petes of working roles within their organization. They included general manager, coach, scout, PA announcer and more.

“The smiles on our kids’ faces lit up the Memorial Centre,” said Pepin. “The Petes were first-rate in creating the Next Gen opportunity, and we heard many good comments and compliments from the kids and their families about their experiences behind the scenes.”

“Every year this event continues to grow. It’s a great opportunity for families to come out and enjoy their Family Day while supporting other kids in our community,” noted Eric Ebenbauer, Petes director of sales. “We look forward to continuing this tradition and engaging with Five Counties clients for future Next Gen programs, which was presented by Tim Hortons this year.”

The Petes hit the ice at home on Thursday to host the Erie Otters for Pride Night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

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Peterborough Petes Game to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough in 'Big Game For Kids' On March 7

The Peterborough Pets game against the Ottawa 67’s on March 7 will be extra special as a fundraising night for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough (Peterborbough Bigs) in the “Big Game for Kids,” announced on Thursday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Bigs.

The game at the Peterborough Memorial Centre has the puck drop for 7:05 p.m. The event features a classic photo booth, chuck-a-puck prizes and local hockey action while making meaningful differences for Peterborough youth.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Peterborough Petes and Monaghan Lumber for the 'Big Game for Kids,' an event that combines the excitement of hockey with the spirit of community giving,” said Brent Shepherd, Peterborough Bigs executive director. “Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of children and youth in our community by providing them with the support and guidance they need to succeed.”

All funds raised benefit Peterborough Bigs’s mentoring programs, allowing the organization to continue matching young people with caring adult mentors, fostering meaningful relationships and positive outcomes according to a press release.

Tickets are available at the Peterborough Bigs website or by contacting Hilary Morgan at (705) 743-6100.

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Homelessness Benefit Concert Returns With 'Peterborough Performs IV' For United Way at Showplace On March 7

Sixteen acts are taking the stage at Showplace Performance Centre for United Way’s ‘Peterborough Performs IV: Musicians United to End Homelessness’ to fundraise for homelessness initiatives announced Thursday morning.

Musician Dan Hicks is one of 16 acts joining ‘Peterborough Performs IV."‘ Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The one-night event takes place on March 7 at Showplace (290 George St. N.) at 7 p.m. with tickets for $50.

The campaign is in its fourth year with the ultimate fundraising goal $1.45 million. The concert has raised over $84,000 to date, with 95 per cent of the proceeds going to local shelters according to Paul Rellinger, event organizer.

“We all feel homelessness is a big issue that we can't as individuals do anything about,” he said. “You can make a difference with this event.”

While the event averages over $28,000 annually in raised funds, Rellinger adds that no goal is set for this campaign's fourth edition.

“The first goal is to do better than the year before,” he said. “What I'm really excited about is the event is going to well pass $100,000 in money raised over four events and that's pretty good for something that was just an idea four years ago.”

Tiffany Arcari from ‘The Tiffany Show’ is the emcee for the event.

The following are the acts performing at this year’s concert:

• The Weber Brothers Band

• Emily Burgess

• SJ Riley

• The Austin Carson Band

• The Peterborough All-Star Band (featuring Rick and Gailie Young)

• The Cheryl Casselman Trio

• Irish Millie

• Tom Eastland

• Chris Collins

• Bread & Soul

• Phil Stephenson/Glen Cardus/Ron Kervin

• Jacques Graveline

• The Hippie Chicks

• Michaela Hetherington

• Dan Hick

• Tim Burnie (stand-up comedian)

An online auction with over 50 items runs until March 7 at 10 p.m. Local businesses, sponsors and organizations have donated all the lots for the auction.

Tickets to Peterborough Performs are available for purchase at the Showplace Box Office. The discount code ‘LoveLocal’ is available to purchase two tickets for $40 until next week Thursday.

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Trent University Crushes Fundraising Goal Raising Over $117,000 For United Way

Trent University's faculty, staff and retirees smashed their fundraising goal of $100,000, raising $117,847 for the United Way supporting those in need in Peterborough and Durham at a cheque presentation held at Bata Library on Thursday morning.

Trent's support and annual campaigns for the United Way date back to 1965 and have raised more than $2.7 million for the organization. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The enthusiasm and generosity displayed by Team Trent have set a standard for what can be accomplished when we come together with a shared purpose,” said Marcus Harvey, United Way board chair and Trent University Faculty Association executive director. “Trent's annual campaign will make a tangible, positive impact on the United Way and the agencies and individuals they serve.”

The campaign launched in October with fundraising events such as the annual kick-off BBQ, a chili cook-off and white elephant tables.

“I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to Trent University for their unwavering dedication and generosit,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Their remarkable efforts in raising funds epitomize the essence of community support, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us receive vital assistance. Thank you to the donors and campaign ambassadors at Trent University for your outstanding commitment to building a strong community. Together we can uplift lives and forge brighter futures.”

The funds will aid United Way in redistributing it to its community partners including its ‘Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy.’

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Wolfe Lawyers Two-Hour Free Holiday Parking Raises Over $12,000 For Kawartha Food Share

Downtown shopping has paid off in a big way as the Wolfe Personal Injury Lawyers Two-Hour Free Holiday Parking raised $12,625.58 for Kawartha Food Share (KFS) at a cheque presentation at the latter’s facility on Wednesday afternoon.

(From left to right) Mayor Jeff Leal; Ashlee Aitken, KFS general manager; Councillor Alex Bierk and Bill Wolfe, Wolfe Personal Injury Lawyers. Kawartha Food Share currently assists more than 9,000 people every month through its 36 member agencies. It supports four meal programs, seven city food banks, six housing projects, seven county food banks and over 20 food cupboards across the City and County of Peterborough. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

From Nov. 25 to Dec. 31, Wolfe Lawyers sponsored Downtown Peterborough's free parking. This includes all downtown municipal parking spaces such as on-street parking, municipal parking lots, the King Street Parking Garage and Simcoe Parking Garage.

Any optional parking fees paid through parking meters or the HotSpot App went towards KFS during that time.

“The Two-Hour Free Holiday parking promotion is a true win-win scenario that collects much-needed donations for the Kawartha Food Share while encouraging people to enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment of downtown businesses,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

“We appreciate the support and generosity of shoppers and residents making voluntary donations during the holiday season,” said Bill Wolfe of Wolfe Personal Injury Lawyers. “These funds, through the support of Kawartha Food Share, will help to put food on the tables for people.”

“We are so thankful for the continued support of the City of Peterborough and the local shoppers for donating to Kawartha Food Share each and every December,” said Ashlee Aitken, KFS general manager. “This year, more than ever before, we needed this donation to help us restock our shelves.”

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Publican House's 'Our Pet Pilsner' Raises Over $8,500 For Peterborough Humane Society's Animal Care Centre

Since its inception in early February of 2022, Publican House’s fundraiser beer ‘Our Pet Pilsner’ has raised over $8,500 for the Peterborough Humane Society and their Animal Care Centre.

Our Pet Pilsner is a 4.5 per cent German-style that won a gold medal at the 2023 Ontario Brewing Awards. pilsner Photo courtesy of Publican House Brewery.

The money was to aid the Humane Society’s move to their new $10 million Animal Care Centre on Technology Drive.

The beer originally raised $5,000 as of May last year. The downtown pub raised another $3,590 and donated the money in another cheque presentation last Friday.

The brewery plans to continue to raise money for the Humane Society throughout 2024.

”With the gold medal recognition at this year's Ontario Brewing Awards, we hope to raise even more in 2024. Thank you to everyone who has enjoyed an Our Pet Pilsner and to the amazing team at the Peterborough Humane Society,” as stated in an Instagram post.

As part of the collaboration, Publican House showcased a pet for adoption from the Humane Society on their social media every month.

The beer label design was created by local artist Jason Wilkins.

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Peterborough Petes 15th Annual Pink In the Rink Game To Support Wheels of Hope Running This Saturday

In support of Wheels of Hope, the Peterborough Petes' 15th annual Pink in the Rink game is set for Saturday when the Petes host the Niagara IceDogs at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The team is wearing special theme jerseys designed by Kyle McDonald of Pioneer Inc. that highlight the names of nearly 200 people battling cancer and feature a special Canadian Cancer Society shoulder crest.

The funds support the Wheels of Hope transportation program provided by the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). It connects people to cancer treatments with volunteer drivers and travel cost reimbursements.

All Petes players and coaches will act as ambassadors for the campaign. Family, friends and fans can donate on behalf of a particular player or coach by going online and choosing their name from the dropdown menu on the CCS fundraising website.

Fans can also support the campaign through an in-person silent auction in the North Lobby on game night, a special chuck-a-puck at the second intermission or by purchasing an Official 15th Annual Pink in the Rink t-shirt and/or Anniversary Pin.

Bobcaygeon Brewing Co. has produced a limited edition run of Petes Lager featuring a Pink Can. Each can sold sees 25 cents donated to the Pink in the Rink campaign.

After raising $954,136 over the past 14 years, the Petes announced that this year’s fundraising goal is $50,000. If achieved, the Petes and the Peterborough community will hit $1,000,000 raised in the fight against cancer in Pink in the Rink’s history. 

Official game jerseys are available at the Pink in the Rink live post-game auction. Fans are asked to move to the Gibson’s Finest Club Section immediately following the game to participate in the auction. A game ticket is required to take part in the game-worn jersey auction. 

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