UPFRONT
Have a holly, jolly jog for Food Source and APCH
Therapeutic horse riding in Lindsay needs help
THRIL, a local registered charity that offers horse riding therapy, is looking for some community assistance with equipment purchases. As a member of the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association, THRIL helps participants to work on their balance, strength and coordination while also improving their self-confidence, self-esteem, communication and socialization skills. Its goal is to improve the lives of children, youth and adults with physical, intellectual and emotional challenges.
A Place Called Home (APCH) and Kawartha Lakes Food Source (KLFS) refuse to let COVID-19 hinder their festive spirits. Their annual Jolly Jog fundraiser will take place on Nov. 28 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. despite the challenges 2020’s pandemic presents. “Many non-profits, including APCH and KLFS, have had to forgo annual fundraising events that are integral to sustaining operations and programs. At the same time, our services are arguably more essential,” says Kate Dorotheou, community engagement coordinator at KLFS. “Luckily, this event takes place outdoors, which allows us to more easily adapt to COVID-19 restrictions.” This year’s Jolly Jog will allow registered participants to either run a five-kilometre route of their choosing, or to run a set five-kilometre route starting and ending at Calvary Pentecostal Church in Lindsay. Money will be raised through pledges and will be split evenly between the two non-profits. A small team of volunteers will be on location to allow for staggered start times and to collect donations. As always, there will be prizes for the most festive attendees and for the top fundraiser. The charities are also planning for participating families to have Zoom meetings with Santa following the event. For more information contact Kate at 705-324-0707 or volunteer@kawarthalakesfoodsource.com.
Due to COVID-19, the Lindsay-area organization has lost most of its income in 2020. Its spring program was cancelled and its summer and fall programs ran with limited capacity. It has also had to forgo its usual fundraising functions. The financial shortfall is discouraging, says Kelly Russell, program director of THRIL. The charity was planning to buy two large pieces of equipment this year: a driving cart and a hydraulic lift to assist riders who cannot stand independently. “We need both volunteer support and financial support to ensure that our programming is not only sustained but can continue to grow to meet the needs of the most physically challenged participants,” says Russell. Visit www.thril.ca for more information or to make a donation.
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www.lindsayadvocate.ca
