Proud to live in a community that gives back Paris moms support Campfire Circle fundraiser to the tune of $3,500

By Peggy Pawley

We have heard it often: “be the change you want to see in the world”. The thing is, it’s true. We can’t expect change to happen if we aren’t going to do something.

There are so many ways to help and give back and over the years I have had many creative and fun ways to raise funds for different charities. In doing so, I’ve met incredible people and have learned how this ripple effect of charity can work We may never know the full impact of giving back, or supporting charitable efforts, but I know how it has changed me and my perspective on life.

A couple of years ago a friend of mine had posted in a local Facebook group about a unique fundraiser that would support Campfire Circle, a camp that aims to deliver fun, friendship and a sense of community for children and families who are navigating the challenges of a childhood cancer journey.

For $10, we could buy a LCBO ‘loot bag’ which was filled with fun stuff donated by the LCBO and 100% of the proceeds would be given to the Camp. These bags were so fun, and what an easy way to support this camp I picked up a couple for our summer adventures and in that moment felt good!

The following year when the fundraiser was launched, I had moved to Paris and thought, “hey, maybe my new community would be interested?” I posed the question on Facebook and the ‘Moms of

When Paris resident Peggy Pawley asked if anyone would be interested in supporting Campfire Circle by purchasing LCBO ‘loot bags,’ she was blown away by the response. Pictured above is Peggy’s partner Tim with a truckload of bags, raising a total of $3,500

Paris’ were all over it! Over 350 bags were preordered and purchased. A total of $3500 donated to Families dealing with the unthinkable were going to be able to maybe have a day or two of NOT thinking about it. WOW – what an impact!

The thing with charity work is how it can be such a family affair! My partner was right there beside me as we managed the pre-orders and pickups, my father-in-law helped us get all the bags from Port Union to Paris, and the kids helped us make space in the garage until people picked them up!

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