Opportunity Changes Everything

2022 was, by all measures, a terrific year for the Foundation. With the pandemic restrictions lifted we saw a return to programs at the Club and importantly for the foundation, a return to hosting our events fully in person for the first time in several years.

The mission of BGC Kawarthas Foundation is to support the Club by attaining the necessary financial resources to meet the service needs. Our fundraising events and activities help keep programs affordable for families and ensure that no child is denied access due to financial obstacles.

Our three key events are the Youth Awards held in June, the Jeff Beukeboom Charity Classic held in August and the Dream Ball held in November. Each of these events last year was a resounding success.

The 4th Annual Kawartha Lakes Youth Awards were held here at our own facility in the gymnasium for the first time since their inception in 2020. It was a fantastic event with so many impressive young people being recognized for their outstanding achievements in the categories or Arts, Entrepreneurship, Physical Literacy, Humanitarian, Green, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Resiliency and Club Spirit, as well as the awarding of both the Ron Kennedy Scholarship and the Marcie Beall Scholarship.

The 28th annual Golf Tournament was again generously supported by our sponsors and hosted by Jeff Beukeboom and his family, this past year it was one of our best ever-sold out and complete with auction and dinner. It was a great event with many returning golfers renewing friendships after the previous two tournaments being held under pandemic restrictions.

The 28th annual Dream Ball which BGC Kawarthas Foundation has been running for three years, was our first full in-person event hosted at the Lindsay Armouries where it has traditionally been held. It was well attended and a total success. Great food, music and lots of socializing made it a night for all to enjoy while raising much needed funds for the children in our community.

Lastly although not a foundation event we saw the official opening of our skatepark bring much needed focus and attention on the youth in our community.

As I complete my term as president, I am grateful for the tremendous volunteers who represent our Foundation board. I am thrilled that we have been able to increase our board membership over the past year adding directors who bring a multitude of talents and skills to help us achieve our goals.

Thank you as well to the Foundation staff of Heather McCullough and Laurie Richards who ensure all our events are run smoothly and successfully, and William McGinn who supports communications. As well, I would like to thank Executive Director Amy Terrill for her leadership along with Jan Fattore, her administrative assistant, both who have been there for me with guidance and input.

It has been my pleasure to serve as Chair and President and I look forward to working with our incoming Chair Laurie Charlebois who I know will be fantastic in her new role.

Thank you , Geoff

Grier