The annual fundraising bonspiel at the Fergus Curling Club will have a new name this year, but what hasn’t changed is the desire of organizers to help local causes.
“It’s a feel-good thing about giving back to the community,” said Bruce Hawkins, chairman of the event, which has raised more than $144,000 over six years.
Previously known as Curl for the Cure, the bonspiel had annually supported local and national cancer charities.
Organizers have changed the name to Curl for a Cause, and for the second year, the event will benefit six local not-for-profit organizations.
“It’s a far more appropriate name,” said Hawkins.
He explained all funds raised this year will be “curler directed” to any one of the following local groups: Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Community Living, the food bank, KidsAbility, The Door and Women in Crisis.
“Those people do good work in the community … yet it’s always the big guys that get the money,” Hawkins said, explaining the impetus for changing and adding beneficiaries of the event.
Proceeds from the event, which regularly welcomes 96 teams, has increased steadily over its six-year history, culminating with $31,486 in 2011.
Money is raised four ways:
– through pledges raised by cutlers (which can range from $50 to over $3,000);
– selling advertisements on T-shirts given to participants;
– donations from local individuals and businesses for a silent auction; and
– selling ads on event programs (new this year).
“We try to encourage the philanthropist in everyone,” Hawkins said.
He added organizers are very thankful for the great support from within the community for the event, which features mostly local teams with a few from Guelph and the odd one from as far away as Oakville.
A committee of 10 puts in a lot of work to ensure the annual event runs smoothly, Hawkins explained.
The 2012 Curl for a Cause event is set for March 24.
To register a team, advertise or donate an item for the auction, call Hawkins at 519-787-0132.
