NEWS RELEASE
CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION OF GUELPH
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The Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington’s (CFGW) biggest annual celebration, the Around the World Gala, honours loyal supporters and highlights the impact the community has made in changing the lives and brightening the futures of local children.
“We are so privileged and so grateful for the support of our community; we know we could not do this without them,” says Glenna Banda, CFGW executive director.
Every year, as awareness of the foundation’s programs grows, more and more families turn to the organization for help. “I dread the day I have to start turning families down,” says Karyn Kirkwood, Free to Play program director, as annual funds for the program begin to run out.
Free to Play provides opportunities for children in financial need to take part in sports and arts activities, allowing them access to vital social development skills and helping build their self-esteem and a network of friends for children and parents alike. Free to Play, one of four core programs run by CFGW, inherently strengthens the community by building relationships.
“We’ve seen an incredible, widespread impact in the community,” says Kirkwood, who is also the director of the Adopt-A-Family Program, “particularly when families who were once in need return to our programs as donor families. It’s amazing.”
All funds raised at Around the World go to work immediately, bettering the lives of local children in an effort to build a brighter, stronger future for all families in Guelph and Wellington. Presented by Dan Burnham and The Co-operators Insurance, the gala is sponsored by local businesses and includes a sit-down dinner, live entertainment, and fantastic items in the live and silent auctions.
Each year, the event takes its theme inspiration from a different location. This year, in honour of the country’s anniversary, Around the World stays close to home and celebrates A Walk Through Canada with a fun, Children’s Foundation twist.
“This event is a great reflection of what we try to provide for local children at an adult level,” says Banda, “A strong sense of community, a great sense of fun, fantastic food and all done with a playful spirit.”
This year’s gala takes place at the Delta Guelph Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 14. Tickets for the event are $130 and available on the Children’s Foundation website along with further event information. Please visit www.childrensfoundation.org.
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