The Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent will see a large funding boost following the 21st annual Festival of Giving.
A grand total of $160,800 was raised at the virtual rock-themed fundraiser on Saturday, June 25, 2022.
Fund Development Officer Lisa Caron says the event received a great response from the community and organizers are thrilled with this year's success.
"The event went really well. We were able to raise over $160,000 which is amazing," said Caron. "We have great community support through purchasing tickets and participating in the live auction."
As many as 40 volunteers helped organize Saturday’s event, which included an online silent auction, live auction, and other at-home entertainment.
"On Saturday the live auction was amazing," said Caron. "We had over 50 people involved in bidding on the live auction items. We are really happy with the results."
After three years of hosting virtual events, Caron said the foundation is looking forward to getting back to an in-person event. Next year’s in-person event is scheduled for April 1, 2023.
"We know the community is looking forward to that as well, so we are hopeful that can finally happen again," said Caron.
This year's festival was co-hosted by Chris McLeod and Tim Regan, while the live auction was presented by Greg Hetherington.
All the money raised from the rock-themed event will be going towards supporting social work, therapeutic recreation, and music therapy at the treatment centre.
“Thank you to our sponsors, virtual guests and volunteers for making this a successful event and raising important funds that we need for our kids," said Foundation President Mike Genge. "Without the community support, the money raised from this event would not be possible. The funds raised will go towards programming like social work and therapeutic recreation that serve the children with special needs in our community.”
