GUELPH – The Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington is thrilled to announce that its Once Upon a Time Gala, presented by Elinesky Schuett Private Wealth of RBC Dominion Securities, raised over $132,000 to enhance the well-being of children and youth by connecting them to experiences and supports that contribute to their sense of belonging and help them to reach their full potential.
The gala was held at the Delta Hotel on Oct. 14.
Guests were greeted with music from the Kistemakers, enjoyed a glass of champagne from an elegant champagne wall sponsored by Elinesky Schuett Private Wealth, and were entertained by wandering magician Chris Westfall during the cocktail reception.
Upon taking their seats, guests were treated to a gift card, courtesy of Breathe Medical Spa, and a sweet treat from local bakery Sweet Temptations.
The gala’s emcee Sean Furfaro entertained the guests throughout the evening as they bid on silent and live auction items, played a fun dinner game, and tried their luck by participating in two raffles for a chance to win exciting prizes.
The event’s impactful Fund-A-Need raised close to $53,000 in donations bringing a Happily Ever After to so many children and youth in the community.
“The gala is our signature fundraising event at the foundation,” shared executive director Karyn Kirkwood.
“It’s all thanks to the incredible support from our sponsors, donors, guests, volunteers, and staff that it is such a resounding success and a fun night of celebration.
“We are profoundly grateful for everyone’s generosity and dedication, which works like magic ensuring that, for the kids we support, ‘Happily Ever After’ isn’t just a fairytale ending but a beautiful reality.”
The Foundation thanks all their sponsors, recognizing their Presenting Sponsor, Elinesky Schuett Private Wealth of RBC Dominion Securities; Gold Sponsors, Breathe Medical Spa, Altruck International Truck Centre, and Delta Hotels; Silver Sponsors, Crozier Consulting Engineers, Contract Express, and Barzotti Woodworking Limited; along with Raffle Sponsors, Guelph Manufacturing Group and WestJet.
The Children’s Foundation helps approximately 23,000 children and youth annually by providing over two million healthy meals and snacks at schools, levelling the playing field with funding for over 1,350 recreational and life-skill activities, delivering holiday magic to more than 1,500 families and providing critical educational and mental health supports.
