The Kiwanis Club of Orillia has always been dedicated to the well-being of the youth in the community, and their 100-year celebration honoured those within the community who also make a difference.
During June’s Casino Rama event, they hosted 300 community members and presented eight community partners with plaques and a $5,000 cheque to support youth who utilize their services.
“We are thrilled to announce and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of our community partners who have been instrumental in our mission to support and uplift the youth of Orillia,” said Amanda Tevelde, Vice-President, Kiwanis Club of Orillia.
“Their dedication and collaboration have enabled us to create impactful programs and initiatives that benefit young people in our community.”
Among those recognized were Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orillia & District, Orillia Youth Centre, Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe/Muskoka, Hospice Orillia, Mariposa House Hospice, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital’s Paediatric Unit, Orillia 4H Calf Club, and Easter Seals Ontario.
“Thank you to all our partners for your unwavering support and dedication. We look forward to continuing our work together to create positive change in our community,” she said.
“These partnerships exemplify the power of community collaboration. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of Orillia’s youth, empowering them to achieve their dreams and build a brighter future.”
The Kiwanis Club also makes a huge impact in the community through programming like their Kiwanis Children’s Safety Village, Terrific Kids Program, and so much more.
They also contributed financially, including $5,000 to Lion’s Oval School for tree planting, $7,500 to Hospice Orillia for the launch of their Youth Equine Therapy program, $10,000 to Mariposa House Hospice to create a children’s area, $75,000 to OSMH Paediatrics Unit for a patient monitoring system, $100,000 to OSMH Neonatal ICU Expansion and other pursuits.
The Club is hosting their Annual Auction this fall, which will help cover the cost of many community projects they help with.
“Our Auction is a large component of our fundraising efforts, allowing us to complete the important work we do within our community. We are thankful for the many community-minded people who make this all possible,” she said.
All auction items will be available through the live or silent auction at ODAS Park. For more information, visit their site here.
“The community is not going to want to miss out. Our auction isn’t just about the items; it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of our local youth. With the goal of raising funds to support the dreams and aspirations of the next generation, this event is nothing short of inspiring. Every bid you make, every item you win, is a step towards providing local youth with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive and succeed.”
She says the club is looking forward to working with community partners to continue to support youth in the area.
“We look forward to getting our Kiwanis Safety Village back into the local school and possibly getting a Builders Club up and running. What better way to ensure the future of our club than to have the youth of our community be directly involved with our group,” she said.
The club is always welcoming new members and community partners. To find out how you can join the club in completing its mission visit their website or email [email protected].
About the Kiwanis Club of Orillia
VISION
To improve the physical, emotional and social lives of young people in our local and global communities.
MISSION STATEMENT
To fulfill our vision by maintaining a strong membership through fun and fellowship, by undertaking relevant projects that have meaningful community impact, and by drawing on the skills of our members and their passion to make a difference.