MOUNT FOREST – The 2024 Mayor’s Charity Bonspiel was the revival of an event held for the first time in Arthur in 2020.
And the second edition of the event exceeded expectations, raising $8,000 for local youth-related causes.
“It was highly successful,” Mandy Jones, Wellington North manager of community and economic development, told council on Dec. 16.
“Our goal was $5,000, so we exceeded it by $3,000, which was fantastic.”
The first iteration of the event, held in February 2020 at the Arthur and Area Curling Club, raised $4,500 for youth groups and organizations, stated a report from Jones.
As part of celebrations for the 25th anniversary of amalgamation in 2024, staff had proposed revitalizing the event, with youth organizations to benefit from the proceeds once again.
The second event, referenced as the “second annual Mayor’s Charity Bonspiel” in a township news release, took place on Nov. 21 at the Mount Forest Curling Club, attracting 48 curlers who contributed to the fundraising total.
Jones told council the following organizations and programs would receive funds from the event:
- Centre Wellington Community Foundation’s Wellington North Youth Fund, $2,500;
- Saugeen Student Start Up Program, $1,500;
- Wellington North Township’s youth programs, $500;
- Wellington 4-H Association, $500; and
- lunch programs for six local schools, $500 each for a total of $3,000.
“As mayor, I believe in supporting our local youth programs,” Mayor Andy Lennox stated in the news release.
“These initiatives are vital in nurturing the talents and potential of our young people, providing them with opportunities to grow, learn and thrive.”
During the council meeting Lennox said in keeping with the first event, funds were dedicated to youth programs, but there was also “some discussion” about whether to allocate some of the funds toward the Mount Forest pool project.
“Next year, I think we would dedicate all the proceeds of the bonspiel toward the community fundraising for the Mount Forest pool,” he said.
This year’s event was presented by 88.7 the River, and the team from Coburn Insurance won the late draw and the overall bonspiel, while the Walker Industries team won the early draw.
Lennox expressed thanks to township staff who organized the event, as well as to participants, sponsors and volunteers who helped to make it possible.
“The community’s support and generosity have been truly inspiring,” he stated in the release.
“This event not only brings us together for a day of fun and friendly competition but also makes a significant impact on the lives of many in our community.”
