Now in its 13th year, Curl for a Cause continues to help local charities.
Founder Bruce Hawkins said this year’s event on March 24 included 96 curlers. On Monday, Hawkins stated the preliminary fundraising total is $55,006 for 2018.
“That is our highest ever,” he said, adding the total may change.
Hawkins said the event features a large silent auction in addition to an online auction started a few years ago. Both have gone over very well, he said.
Event programs also help to raise money through local advertising and event T-shirts are also sold,
“I started the event 13 years ago. At that time it was called Curl for the Cure – and it was all about supporting the Cancer Society,” said Hawkins. “About six years ago we changed direction a little and became Curl for a Cause.”
He explained that each October anyone can apply to be one of the supported charities for the next event. In November, committee members decide which charities will be supported.
“We pick six each year, and the bonspiel has gotten bigger and better since the change,” Hawkins said.
“All the money stays in the community. That is one of the criteria – that it must be a local charity. I think folks really like that.”
Hawkins added a 10-member committee, including a couple new additions this year, helps plan the event.
This year, the event supports the KidsAbility, Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington, Fergus-Elora District Soccer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Centre Wellington, the Centre Wellington Foodbank and Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis.
“One of the things we are very happy about is that local businesses are very supportive (of the event),” said Hawkins.
“We really appreciate it and the charities benefit from the generosity.
“We all benefit.”
