ELORA – Sensational Elora has almost completed a five-year strategic plan, thanks to a $26,000 federal grant from the Community Services Recovery Fund.
Combating food insecurity is the primary goal of the volunteer-driven organization, but it is its events that have made the organization known in the community, including Pumpkin Day, Empty Bowls Project, The Soup Off, Fergus Pub Night, Film on a Plate and Sensational Sounds.
And of course there’s Monster Month, which highlights Monster March and the Twilight Zoo of monsters, which have become a major local and visitor attraction in Elora.
The strategic plan includes:
– work to promote awareness of the organization;
– strengthening and expanding partnerships;
– establishing event evaluation and assessments;
– formalizing organizational governance; and
– identifying new fundraising opportunities.
“I expect we’ll see some changes,” said chair Kirk McElwain in a phone interview, adding the strategic plan is not yet completed.
“We’ll do what makes sense. We’ll evolve.”
Through its events in 2023, Sensational Elora raised $14,000 for the Centre Wellington Food Bank and the food program at Centre Wellington District High School.
That brings its total donations to $171,000 since its inception in 2008.
“The thousands of dollars raised allows us to continue our essential grocery program which provides meat, dairy and other products to families. We are so grateful for Sensational Elora!” said food bank executive director Curt McQueen.
“Sensational Elora has impacted our school community by generously donating thousands of dollars over the years to our CW Eats breakfast program. These funds have greatly enhanced my ability to ensure that no student goes hungry during the school day at CWDHS and can instead focus their attention on student learning,” added Nicole DeBeyer, a chef instrutor at the high school who oversees CW Eats.
“Projects like Sensational Elora are testament to the power of our collective action and our ability to come together to make a positive difference in the world,” Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development stated in a press release.
Sensational Elora provides a meaningful way for local businesses to sponsor events and promote their services while supporting the fundraising efforts.
The organization is seeking more board members.
Anyone interested can email info@sensationalelora.com.
For more information, visit sensationalelora.com.
