Peterborough Lakers Alumni Donate $750 to Kawartha Food Share During Christmas Social; Loonies On the Street Fundraiser This Thursday

The Peterborough Lakers Alumni were in the giving spirit during their Christmas Social Party as they donated $750 to Kawartha Food Share’s ‘Loonies On the Street’ fundraising campaign at Sticks Sports Pub on Saturday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Lakers ALumni.

All were invited to the Christmas Social where patrons could, mingle, socialize, win prizes and enjoy pub food.

The 24th-annual fundraiser runs this Friday outside of Peterborough Square. Volunteers will take loose change donations throughout George Street with Peterborough Lions Club collecting on the Hunter Street Bridge.

Due to the postal strike, donation letters could not reach community members. Those who cannot donate at the event can go to KFS’s warehouse at 665 Neal Dr.r donate online.

This year’s goal is to raise $100,000 to purchase goods for KFS to redistribute to 37 food banks.

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Peterborough Petes Partner With Pedal For Hope Tour For 2025 Pink in the Rink Game On Feb. 1

The Peterborough Petes 16th Annual Pink in the Rink Campaign will support the Pedal for Hope tour, a part of Cops for Cancer at the Canadian Cancer Society, announced at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s game is against the Oshawa Generals on Feb. 1 at 7:05 p.m.

The proceeds will go towards pediatric cancer research and to support the Pediatric Family Counselling Service. This program provides support to families and children coping with a cancer diagnosis, as well as young adults who have surpassed their diagnosis as they transition into adulthood.

Last season, the Petes Pink in the Rink Campaign surpassed the $1 million mark in funds raised for cancer research over the event's 15-year history. This year, the fundraising goal is $50,000.

The Pedal for Hope team will be the Ambassadors for this year’s Pink in the Rink Campaign. The Petes will highlight a team member each week as a community spotlight for those behind this program. 

“The Pedal for Hope team is thrilled to be named the Ambassadors for the 2024-25 Pink in the Rink game,” said Staff Sergeant John Townsend, Pedal for Hope founder. “The money raised at this game will go directly towards helping local children living with cancer and their families through the Canadian Cancer Society’s vital support services and research. 

This event is about more than just hockey,” noted Jonathan Melee, Petes captain. “It's about coming together as a team, as a city, and as a community to make a real difference. Through our support of the Pedal for Hope Tour, we can help fund crucial research and offer hope to families affected by pediatric cancer. The strength and resilience of these young patients inspire all of us, and as a team, we're committed to helping however we can.” 

“Everyone knows someone whether it’s a family member, friend, community member, or even themselves who have been touched by cancer,” said Townsend. “It takes a community to support each other, and events like these give us the opportunity to spread the word that they are not alone, we are here to support. Every cent truly makes an impact, and we are grateful for this opportunity to work with the Peterborough Petes organization this year to help make a difference in our community.”

Several activations will support the Pink in the Rink Campaign this year. These include Pink in the Rink t-shirts, an in-person silent auction during the game and an in-person game-worn jersey auction on the ice after the game. The Petes will release the Pink in the Rink game jersey design to the public in the coming weeks.

Fans are invited to submit their loved ones' names and pictures to be featured on the video board during the Pink in the Rink game. Fans can submit their loved one’s information by going online.

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Harmony for Healing Announces Second Benefit Concert ‘Wish You Were Here' For Suicide and Mental Health Awareness

Harmony for Healing has announced the return of its annual event, ‘Wish You Were Here,’ a benefit concert dedicated to mental health awareness and suicide prevention, announced at The El(P) on Wednesday morning.

(From left to right) Wade Hamblin; ReMax Hallmark Eastern Realty; Ellen Watkins CMHA HKPR CEO; Phillip Jolicoeur, Harmony for Healing Founder and Tracy Graham, CMHA HKPR Director of Programs and Services. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The concert is part of Harmony for Healing’s goal of raising $50,000 over five years to provide critical mental health resources. It will be held on Feb. 20 at Market Hall Performing Centre and is meant to transport people back to the sounds of the 1970s.

The goal is to raise at least $10,000 to support the life-saving Assertive Outreach Suicide Prevention program.

“I've ran hundreds of events and there's always community support on some level but for Harmony for Healing last year and then again this year, the amount of people that jump on (not just the support, the cause and the initiative) have their own stories to share is really what thrives an event like this,” said Phillip Jolicouer, Harmony for Healing founder. “Businesses and supports can align themselves with mental health because we're all dealing with it so it means a lot to me more than just the financial aspect.”

Last year's sold-out concert, ‘Spirit In the Sky’ raised $13,500 on Feb. 22 at Market Hall Performing Centre.

Joilcouer says this year, he wanted to amplify his mission through a four-pillar approach.

His four pillars of impact approach are as follows:

1. Awareness: Shedding light on mental health challenges and suicide prevention through personal stories and signs to watch for.

2. Prevention: Empowering our community with tools to foster mental resilience, strengthen support networks, and promote access to mental health resources.

3. Intervention: Sharing guidance on what to do when someone is in immediate crisis, including local support options and crisis hotlines.

4. Post-Vention: Supporting survivors and those impacted by suicide through grief counselling, support groups, and outreach.

Jolicouer’s mother had unexpectedly taken her own life on Nov. 30 and the series of shows is a tribute to her memory.

“My mom loved people. She loved local music and music in general,” explained Jolicouer. “You could see her front row in any of the local venues around town so my connection to her with this was to make a local event to hire local musicians, put on a phenomenal rock concert that I could picture my mom where I could picture her up front dancing and enjoying herself and bringing a message that you're not alone. I want to spread that as loud as possible and through music.”

Registration for the event can be found online.

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United Way Reaches 30 Per Cent of Fundraising Goal; City Holds Chili Cook-Off & Bake Sale Fundraiser

Twelve chilis and baked goods made by City of Peterborough staff helped raise money for United Way Peterborough & District as the latter has announced that they raised 30 per cent ($450,000) of their $1.5 million fundraising goal at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre on Wednesday.

Mayor Jeff Leal was a judge to try our 12 different chilis made by City of Peterborough staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The United Way set its $1.5 million goal on Sept. 11 which runs until March 31.

The announcement occurred during the City of Peterborough's workplace campaign launch event.

“United Way Peterborough & District and the City of Peterborough have had a longstanding partnership which has included running one of the most successful workplace campaigns for a number of years,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Workplace campaigns were threatened by the pandemic, making it difficult to build community and engage employees in the campaign. Today, the City of Peterborough hosting their annual chili cook-off once again is a sign that we are turning over a new page in our community.”

The ‘30%’ signs were made from pictures of chili bowls. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Russell continued emphasizing the importance of hitting the campaign goal based on the community's needs.

“There is a rising need for support services in our community and a dwindling number of other funding sources available to sustain these services,” said Russell. “Participating in the United Way campaign means that you are building community by contributing to the largest non-government funder of social services.”

He continued to speak about the energy he has felt on the campaign trail and the power of the new donation match challenge.

“It has never been as easy as it is today to extend the reach of your gift through the Double Your Difference initiative,” said Russell. “We're finding that the energy of this year's campaign is contagious, with workplaces facilitating more creative employee giving opportunities than we have seen in recent years.”

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JA NEO Launches 'When I Grow Up' Campaign to Aid Youth With Tools For Their Future Careers

Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario (JA NEO) has launched its ‘When I Grow Up’ campaign to inspire and empower youth with the tools and knowledge to explore and pursue their future careers, announced at the Venture North Building on Wednesday.

John McNutt, JA-NEO President and CEO making the announcement at the Venture North Building. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The campaign promotes financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship among young people, helping them envision and achieve their full potential according to John McNutt, JA-NEO President and CEO.

“The ‘When I Grow Up’ campaign is designed to address the root causes of systemic poverty, homelessness, youth unemployment and underemployment by equipping students with practical skills and experiences,” he said. “Through interactive workshops, mentorship programs and real-world career exploration opportunities, JA NEO is dedicated to preparing a financially informed generation for success, shielding them from systemic poverty and homelessness.”

JA NEO’s programs teach financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship to youth in grades 3 to 12.

JA NEO also introduced its Holiday Matching Gift Initiative, where every dollar donated until Dec. 31 will be tripled (up to $40,000). This was possible by matching donors such as Alf Curtis Home Improvements Inc., Peterborough Truss & Floor Ltd., and Peterborough & Distinct Construction Association.

Anyone can donate to the cause by clicking the link.

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Tim Hortons Launches Second Smile Cookie Holiday Campaign For Kawartha Food Share

Tim Hortons is keeping Kawartha Food Share (KFS) happy this holiday season, as the latter has been selected as the recipient of the Holiday Smile Cookie Campaign.

Kawartha Food Share is a central collection and distribution warehouse that partners with 37-member agency food banks, food cupboards and other food action programs in the City and County of Peterborough. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The campaign launches next Monday and runs until Nov. 24 at all Tim Hortons locations in Peterborough, Lakefield, Bridgenorth, Curve Lake and Havelock. Cookies are $2 each and all proceeds will be split between KFS and Tim Hortons Foundation Camps.

Last year, the campaign raised $67,290.96.

“Supporting communities is at the heart of the Tim Hortons brand and there's no better time than the holiday season for us to rally with guests, Tims’ restaurant owners and team members to spread kindness right across Canada,” said Axel Schwan, Tim Hortons president.

This year’s Holiday Smile Cookie is a white chocolate chip sugar cookie infused with red and green sprinkles and finished with a hand-decorated smile.

“We are so thrilled to be partnering with Tim Hortons for this wonderful initiative,” said Ashlee Aitken, KFS general manager. “The funds raised during this campaign will assist us in purchasing much-needed food items to keep our agencies shelves well stocked.”

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Get Your Dogs Clean With 'Pug Wash' Fundraiser to Support Peterborough Veterinary Outreach On Nov. 10

Get your dogs cleaner and support the Peterborough Veterinary Outreach (PVO) as Pet Styling by Becki is hosting a ‘Pug Wash’ fundraising event at 655 Parkhill Rd. W. (behind the plaza) this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Pet Styling By Becki.

Proceeds go to PVO, which services Peterborough, who may experience barriers that prevent them from accessing veterinary care. 

The cost is $25 (cash only) for each dog which includes de-shedding, a bath, ear cleaning, blow-drying, brushing, nail trimming and lots of ‘pug hugs.’

Photo courtesy of Pet Styling By Becki.

All small-breed dogs are welcome including short-hair pugs such as Frenchies, Bostons, Jack Russells, Dachshunds, and more. 

“The Pug Wash is our favourite event and the Peterborough Veterinary Outreach program is a perfect non profit organization to support local pets,” said Becki.

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GPHSF Accepting Registration For Inaugural Charity Volleyball Tournament to Support Concussion Education and Awareness For Youth Sport

In support of concussion education and awareness for youth sport, the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) has announced its inaugural Charity Volleyball Tournament at Adam Scott CVI on Feb 1.

Photo courtesy of GPHSF.

Only 12 teams are available for the recreational coed tournament. Teams are $240 with a $50 tax receipt. Registration includes prizes and swag, six guaranteed games (sets) plus playoffs (single elimination knockout), referees, 50/50 and activities throughout the day. Register before Jan. 26 by clicking the link to register online.

“Concussion education and awareness is something that our Foundation has funded for a very long time” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “Over the past few years, we have been able to provide funding to two very important initiatives; PACA (Peterborough Athletics Concussion Awareness) and the H.O.P.E Bursary in Honour of Steve Montador. This recreational coed tournament will be a fun day that helps us continue supporting these important concussion programs.”

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. If you would like to sponsor or learn more about the event, please email Vince@GPHSF.ca or call 705 740 8074 ext.101.

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Registration Open For Third Annual GPHSF Charity Bonspiel

Registration is now open for the third annual Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) Charity Bonspiel, held on Feb. 15 at the Peterborough Curling Club.

Photo courtesy of GPHSF.

“We are really excited for our 3rd Bonspiel in partnership with Imprinted Apparel Store. This event continues to grow each year. The response remains incredibly positive. We have a great time putting it on and being part of this event” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “Funds raised from this event will continue our mission to broaden health equity and access to healthcare for the residents in Peterborough City and County as well as Hiawatha and Curve Lake First Nations.  Funds will support our partnership with the Peterborough Family Health Team, along with many other community organizations we work with.”

Registration is $300, with a $60 tax receipt. The day includes two games along with breakfast and lunch. There are $2,000 in prizes to be won provided by Imprinted Apparel Store and $500 in prizes provided by Goldline. Other activities such as trivia challenges, raffle draws, cornhole boards and many other opportunities to win prizes will be at the event.

Participants can register online. Only 24 teams are available. GPHSF notes that participants should have some experience with the game and their equipment. They will not be able to provide on-ice training for beginners.

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Hometown PTBO: Heidi Westbye Competing At the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers in Dubai and Raising Funds For Her Trip

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with 15-year-old Heidi Westbye about being selected to compete in the International Meeting of Young Beekeepers in Dubai this December for Team Canada, how she got into beekeeping and how she is raising money to fund her trip.

To donate to Heidi and her team's cause, follow the link.

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