For Canada Day to be a celebration-filled event with fireworks, cake, and parades, the Canada Day committee board of directors will need some help from the community.
The committee needs volunteers to help set things up at 7 a.m. Friday morning in Couchiching Beach Park and then again at 8 p.m. to help guard the perimeter of the firework base so the show can be put on safely.
Volunteers are also needed at noon to sell buttons during the parade; the sale of buttons is a major fundraiser for the popular park events.
“We are a not-for-profit committee that volunteers and raises funds for all of Canada Day related things that are going on at the park,” says executive member Mike McLaughlin. “Without our volunteers and financial sponsors, we really wouldn’t be able to put the day on.”
Every dollar raised is crucial for the longevity of the event, McLaughlin says.
“If we make more money this year we can put more money into next year’s fireworks,” he said. “Maybe we can offer something greater in the children’s village next year. It’s just an ongoing process and it’s our biggest fundraiser that’s open to the entire community.”
To volunteer, you just need to show up at the park's entrance on Friday morning and find the volunteer tent.
“We are so grateful and appreciative of anyone who comes forward to help,” McLaughlin said. “If you see a volunteer this Friday, just thank them. It really goes a long way and it helps when people know they are appreciated.”
This year’s firework show is being dedicated to Chris Bellchambers, a well-known community volunteer who passed away last summer.
“Chris always loved volunteering on Canada Day,” McLaughlin said. “We thought this is a good way to give back to him.”
McLaughlin says Bellchambers was an integral part of the Canada Day festivities in Couchiching Beach Park and always found people who were willing to help volunteer.
“He will be missed this year,” McLaughlin says.
