As this year’s golf season gets off to a soggy start and charity tournaments are being booked, the results of previous efforts are in.
Businesspeople from across the province gathered for a day of fun in the sun to benefit local children’s charities at the third annual CIBC Children’s Charity Classic.
“Having local industry understand the need in this community means the people who attended this event really embrace our cause,” says executive director Patricia Copeland of Grieving Children at Season’s Centre, one of two agencies receiving proceeds from the recent golf tournament.
“The money raised will go to support children experiencing grief. It means we can provide our services free of charge so all families have access when they are in need.”
Bev Juno, the legal resource advocate at Barrie’s Women and Children’s Centre, was also on hand at the Barrie Country Club (BCC) to thank organizers for their support.
The local branch of CIBC Wood Gundy, comprised of more than 21 independent investment advisors managing a combined portfolio in excess of $1.5 billion, hosted the tournament in conjunction with corporate partner CIBC Commercial Banking.
“We are very pleased and proud to be associated with both of these very worthy centres,” stated Cam Taylor, first vice president, investment advisor and branch manager, “and to be able to assist them in their very valuable work with children who are grieving over the death of a loved one or who, along with their mothers, need a safe haven.”
Proceeds from the day topped $25,000, says investment advisor Michael Van Berkel, who helped organize the event.
More than 90 players turned out for the day of fun-spirited golf (it was a best-ball format) and even better food.
Canada Life sponsored a buffet lunch supplied by Cravings Fine Food Market & Catering, Oscar’s Restaurant and Michael & Marion’s. Dinner, sponsored by CIBC Asset Management Inc., was prepared and served by the BCC.
Although playing for fun, there were some serious opportunities to win. The two hole-in-one contests offered a car from Georgian Pontiac Buick GMC, and an RTV from Track & Wheels Equipment Brokers.
This tournament is just one event in the ongoing commitment CIBC Wood Gundy has made to local children’s charities. Its advisors also participate in CIBC World Markets Miracle Day, a one-day global initiative during which they join their colleagues to donate their fees and commissions to children’s charities.
Started in 1984, the CIBC World Markets Miracle Day has raised more than $180 million worldwide, supporting 400 agencies in Canada alone.
Local Barrie and area charities Big Brothers Big Sisters Barrie, Orillia, and Georgian Bay, Community Living Huronia Foundation, Children’s Aid Foundation of Simcoe County and Youth Haven (Barrie) were this year’s recipients of more than $39,000 raised by the Barrie Branch.
This year’s CIBC World Markets Miracle Day will take place on Dec. 3.
