MACTIER, ON – A recent fundraiser in support of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind Muskoka has raised $350,000.
Called the Taste of Country, it was held August 24th at the sprawling centre located on Lake Joseph. It raised 10 per cent of its $3 million goal.
“CNIB Lake Joseph Centre’s annual event is part of our ongoing efforts to connect with our friends and neighbours on the lake, our community partners, and to support local businesses in the area,” said Tara Oliphant, Manager of Philanthropy for the CNIB. “With our presence and involvement in the community, and our focus on ability, not disability, we are changing what it is to be blind today.”
Area mayors in attendance included Ann MacDiarmid of Seguin Township and Muskoka Lakes Mayor Phil Harding.
“We are very fortunate to have the CNIB Lake Joseph Centre located within the Township of Seguin,” said MacDiarmid. “I was pleased to attend this special fundraising event on behalf of Seguin Township, and am thrilled to hear that all proceeds raised will be used to promote the CNIB Lake Joseph Centre – and consequently, Seguin – as a year-round, four-season destination.”
Harding echoed those sentiments.
“It was an honour to attend and represent the Township of Muskoka Lakes at the CNIB Muskoka: Taste of Country fundraising event”, said he said. “I look forward to seeing them reach their redevelopment campaign goal to help transform the camp into a year-round facility for children, youth and kids-at-heart.”
Located on the shores of Lake Joseph in Seguin Township since 1961, CNIB Lake Joseph Centre is a fully accessible lakefront facility that offers a unique blend of recreation and skills development in a safe, inclusive environment.
At CNIB Lake Joseph Centre, people living with sight loss, and their families, can enjoy the same summer pursuits as other Canadians, such as canoeing, campfires, kayaking, cycling, waterskiing, swimming, sailing and fishing. The funds raised from the event will expand programming to include winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice fishing, skating, hockey and cross-country skiing.