Community Living campaigns kick off 2021

REGIONAL — For so many local charities, the ability to raise money can always be challenging, but even more so, in the midst of a pandemic.

Despite the challenges, Community Living Essex County has managed to have a successful start to 2021, as they recently announced the results of three recent fundraising initiatives.

Although unable to hold the traditional live event, Ken Knapp Ford in Essex played host to the first ever Virtual Jingle Bell Run. Organized over a three day period in December, the event encouraged walkers and runners to register, collect pledges and participate at their own pace.

The event was a resounding success as over 300 people, some from as far away as Ottawa, participated. Last Friday, a cheque for $6,000 was presented virtually, by members of Ken Knapp Ford and the event steering committee, to Community Living Essex County.

In addition to that fundraiser, the New Year was ushered in with the first ever Holiday Raffle held by Community Living Essex County.

The raffle was a huge success with a sell out of 1200 tickets, raising an incredible $20,000.

These successes followed the 6th annual Giving Tuesday campaign, held in December with Libro Credit Union serving again as the corporate partner. Libro matched all donations made dollar-for-dollar, and helped to raise $12,000 in support of Community Living Essex County.

“We are very grateful to all of our supporters and community partners”, said Karen Bolger, Executive Director. “What a wonderful way to begin 2021. Thank you.”