PHOTOS: Local Kids Get a Back-to-School Head Start From United Way's 23rd 'Backpacks For Success' Initiative

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The United Way Peterborough & District’s 23rd Backpacks for Success initiative filled roughly 400 backpacks with supplies to help kids get a head start on the back-to-school season at the Calvary Pentecostal Church on Thursday.

Volunteers from Swish and IG Wealth Management were on hand to help United Way staff stuff the backpacks. They are being distributed to students across Peterborough and surrounding areas.

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Gauvreau Accounting's Fifth Annual 'Gear Up For Good' Surpasses Campaign Goal Giving 310 Fully-Stocked Backpacks For Kids Going Back To School

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Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law and Advisory’s fifth annual ‘Gear Up for Good’ campaign surpassed its goal, seeing 310 fully stocked backpacks reach local children heading back to school this fall.

The 2026 campaign brought together local businesses, donors, volunteers, Gauvreau team members and community organizations to ensure children had the supplies and support they needed for a strong start to the school year.

The goal was to send 200 backpacks for children in Ontario and 100 for children in Manitoba.

“This campaign is a perfect example of what happens when a community decides to show up,” said Robert Gauvreau, Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law and Advisory CEO. “We set a goal of 300 backpacks, and our community didn’t just meet it-  they pushed us past it. We’re incredibly proud of what everyone accomplished together.” 

This year’s backpacks are being distributed through: 

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough -100 backpacks

  • Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation - 100 backpacks

  • Peterborough Youth Services - 10 backpacks

  • United Way Winnipeg - 100 backpacks

In addition to the backpacks, the children and families also received: 

  • 300 pizza dinners donated by Domino’s - 200 for Peterborough and 100 for Winnipeg 

  • 200 Boro gift cards donated to provide families with additional flexibility and support (DBIA + Community Futures Peterborough)  

  • Free back-to-school haircuts for participating children (Asta Hair Styling School)  

“This year was about more than filling backpacks,” said Tiffany Arcari, Gauvreau Community Manager. “We wanted to take some of the pressure off families heading into September and give kids a few extras to help them feel confident and excited about the school year. The response from our partners and the community was incredible.”

@ptbo_canada Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law and Advisory’s fifth annual ‘Gear Up For Good’ campaign surpassed its goal, seeing 310 fully stocked backpacks reach local children heaing back to school this fall. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism #backtoschool ♬ Back to School - FASSounds

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100 Women Peterborough Awards Over $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity; New Leadership Transition For Organization

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Members of 100 Women Peterborough have given $10,000 to Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region during their second meeting of the year on June 16.

Photo courtesy of 100 Women.

The decision came following presentations from Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, One City Peterborough and the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation.

Presenting on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, Natalie Raponie, Operations General Manager, spoke about the profound impact safe and affordable housing has on individuals and families throughout the region.

"A safe place. That's not a small thing. That is the thing that makes everything else possible,” said Natalie Raponie, Operations General Manager “The dollars raised today in this room would cover the cost of the commercial sprinkler system, and that's the difference between a house and a home that's actually safe. I am extremely happy and elated. Thank you for making this possible.”

The evening also marked a significant milestone as longtime organizers, Rose Terry, Alyssa Stewart and Wendy Hill, officially passed the leadership of 100 Women Peterborough to a new organizing team and long-time members, Rita Wilke, Natalie Raponie and Janie Kelly.

Outgoing organizer and co-founder of 100 Women Peterborough, Rose Terry, reflected on the group's accomplishments and the importance of the transition.

“When we started this journey, we knew that collective giving could create meaningful change in our region, but we could never have imagined the incredible impact this community would have," said Rose Terry, 100 Women Peterborough co-founder. “Together, we have now raised more than $263,000 for local charities and causes that are helping people throughout Peterborough and the surrounding area. We are immensely proud of what this group has accomplished and deeply grateful to every woman who has been part of this collective. As we pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, we do so with complete confidence. Fresh perspectives and new energy will ensure this impactful giving group continues to thrive and make a difference in our community for years to come”

The group also announced the charities selected through a draw to present at the next meeting. They include: Lakefield Youth Unlimited, Farms at Work, and Peterborough Folk Festival.

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Five Counties Children’s Centre Receives $30,000 Donation From Kawartha Tri‑Sport Towards Essential Services

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After a three-day fundraising event in Ennismore, Kawartha Tri‑Sport Tournament organizers donated $30,000 to Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) towards its essential services, announced on Monday.

Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer (right) with Kassie Graham, FCCC’s Community Engagement Coordinator (right) with the donation of $30,000. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

These services include speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and specialized programs that build abilities for life.

The funds are part of the $100,000 that was raised overall at the most recent Kawartha Tri-Sport Tournament – the 10th anniversary of the event that features baseball, hockey and golf.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kawartha Tri‑Sport and everyone who took part in this year’s tournament,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “This generous contribution will directly support children and youth in our community, helping them access the therapy services they need to grow, learn, and thrive. We’re honoured to be part of an event that brings people together to make such a meaningful difference.”

Along with Five Counties, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizers donated funds to Down Syndrome Canada and to local families in need of support.

“We are so proud to give back to the community that has given so much to us and our families,” says Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer. “Supporting Five Counties is just one small way we can make a difference together. Kawartha Tri-Sport is so grateful to be part of something that makes a positive impact.”

The annual Kawartha Tri‑Sport tournament was launched in 2016. It brings together athletes, volunteers, and supporters for a weekend of friendly competition and community spirit. Since its inception, the Kawartha Tri-Sport event has raised more than $400,000 for local charities.

Scott says charities supported by Tri-Sport often have a personal connection to the organizers. “We are so honoured to support organizations that make a difference in people’s lives,” said Scott. “We are also still overwhelmed by what’s been achieved. It all comes down to the people that support our mission every year and the generosity of our community, businesses, participants, family and friends.”                                             

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Trent Giving Day Raises Over $2.6M in Support of Student Opportunities

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The Trent University community raised more than $121,000 during the 2026 Trent Giving Day, bringing Giving Day contributions over $2.6 million in support of students over the past six years.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“Thank you to the Trent community for your generosity that strengthens our student supports and reflects our shared commitment to their future and the momentous impact they will have on the world,” said Sandy Marett, Trent associate vice president of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement.

Launched in 2021, Trent Giving Day is a 24-hour campaign that supports students where it matters most, including on-campus employment, experiential learning, wellness initiatives, scholarships, and enhancements to collegiate and campus spaces.

This year’s campaign saw major support from alumna Joanne Dereta, who increased her matching gift to $18,000.

“Seeing the level of engagement and participation on Trent Giving Day to support Trent students encouraged me to increase my match and gift to the Trent Fund so that even more students can access opportunities and support,” said Dereta.

Trent Giving Day also highlighted the Trent Fund, the University’s most flexible source of support, helping address students’ most pressing needs, including financial assistance, on-campus employment, experiential learning opportunities, and wellness supports.

Tabytha Wells benefited from the Trent Fund by securing on-campus employment that aligned with her research interests in Aging. Wells worked with the Trent Centre for Aging & Society and gained invaluable experience launching an intergenerational classroom model that fosters connection between Trent students and older adults.

“My work with TCAS was the ultimate launchpad,” she said. “It gave me the professional velocity to transition from a student to a researcher, providing the skills to ensure that academic work actively makes life more accessible and equitable for our neighbours.” 

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Carl Oake Rotary Swim Breaks $1.5 Million Milestone After Raising Over $51,000 At 40th Fundraising Event

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 40th Annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim hit its $1.5 million fundraising milestone by raising $51,286.35, announced at the McDonnell Activity Centre on Monday afternoon.

(From Left to Right) Ken Seim, Former Rotary Club of Peterborough president; Vanessa Oake Hogan, Century 21 United Owner; Jeff Taylor, Baker Tilly Managing Partner; Andrea Peterson, Easter Seals Ontario Development Officer and Tony Grady, Rotary Club of Peterborough President. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

The goal was to raise $50,000 which was met.

The fundraising Swim was on Feb. 27 at the YMCA of Peterborough, marking its 40th anniversary.

This year’s theme was the 80s, reflecting 1986, when Oake founded the event to celebrate music, fashion and pop culture of the time.

A cheque for $12,000 was presented to Andrea Peterson of Easter Seals Ontario and another for $3,000 was presented to the YMCA for the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The remaining funds go towards the Rotary’s community projects.

Two teams of participating swimmers were also awarded prizes. The top fundraising swim team, Team World Barbie, was awarded tickets to see The Century 21 Lakers and the swim team with the best costumes. The Crocodile Dundees won a game-worn Peterborough Petes helmet and game-worn Century 21 Lakers gear.

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Kinsmen Club of Peterborough Donates $6,000 to Riverview Park and Zoo For Accessible Playground

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The Kinsmen Club of Peterborough has donated $6,000 to support the accessible playground project at Riverview Park and Zoo in a cheque presentation on Monday morning.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The proceeds were from the 2025 Father’s Day Classic Car Show and Fundraiser. 

The accessible playground project focuses on improving access, reducing steep slopes and enhancing play opportunities for visitors of all abilities. These upgrades include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier, and relaxing, shady spaces with great sightlines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.

Riverview Park and Zoo, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Peterborough, is raising $1.5 million through Project ROAR, a community-driven campaign to support the development of a fully accessible and inclusive playground. 

“The Kinsmen Club of Peterborough’s contribution is helping advance efforts to improve accessibility and play opportunities at Riverview Park and Zoo,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Through Project ROAR, and with support from community partners and donors, this work is moving forward to create a more accessible playground that better supports residents and visitors. Donations raised through community events like the Father’s Day Classic Car Show hosted by the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough continue to play an important role in this progress.” 

Project ROAR is dedicated to transforming the Riverview Park and Zoo playground into an inclusive space for all. Donations can be made online or by visiting the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s website.

The Kinsmen Club of Peterborough is hosting the Father’s Day Classic Car Show and Fundraiser again on June 21 at Riverview Park and Zoo, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event features live music, a BBQ, a prize table and a 50/50 draw. Admission is by donation. A rain date has been scheduled for June 28. 

Those wishing to participate in the Classic Car Show must register their vehicle. 

Registration can be completed online or by contacting Barry Craft at 705-292-5171 or bcraft@nexicom.net. Advanced online registration is open. The fee to register is $10. Participants can also register vehicles at the gate on the day of the event, beginning at 8 a.m. The registration fee at the gate is $15. 

All vehicle entries must be model year 1999 or older. 

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Donor Wall Design Unveiled For Rotary Club of Peterborough and Riverview Park & Zoo's Accessible Playground Project; First Major Donors Honoured

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough and the Riverview Park & Zoo have unveiled a proposed design for the major donor recognition wall for the Rotary Accessible Playground, which was announced on Wednesday morning.

Rotarians, donors and zoo staff having a blast at the playground in the approximate area of where the accessible playground will be. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Several major donors were recognized at the event for their contributions towards the playground. The project costs $1.5 million and was first presented to the Rotary Club of Peterborough in 2024.

“Rotary is thrilled to take the lead in making this playground accessible because we believe everyone and every child deserves a place to play, learn, and grow – regardless of ability,” said Betty Halman-Plumley, then-president of Rotary. “This project reflects our commitment to inclusion, community service, and building spaces where everyone feels welcome. Together with the Riverview Park & Zoo, we are building more than just a play space – we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community for families to thrive.”

The Club pledged $500,000 and has raised over half of its total, with approximately $288,250 raised, according to Club president Tony Grady.

The following donors were recognized at the event:

Climber Level ($5,000)

  • Grady’s Feet Essentials

  • Darling Insurance

  • AON Inc.

  • Rotarians Jim Coyle and Wendy Hill

  • BWXT

Activators ($10,000)

  • Part Time CFO Services

The proposed donor wall for the accessible playground at Riverview Park & Zoo. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Special recognition went to Merrett Home Hardware for building materials donations, Rotarian Mike Evans and his family foundation pledged $40,000 and Paul Hickey announced a contribution of $50,000.

“Our family is honoured to pledge $40,000 in support of this project because we believe everyone - of all ages - should be included and able to enjoy this space within our community,” said Evans.

Barry Craft, representing the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough, is hosting the annual Father’s Day car show. The Kinsmen pledged to donate proceeds from their annual Father’s Day Car Show, $6000, to the project.

Last August, the Rotary Club of Peterborough and the Riverview Park & Zoo first unveiled their preliminary plans for a new, totally redesigned playground at the zoo which would be accessible to people of all ages and all abilities.

Upgrades include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier, and relaxing, shady spaces with great sightlines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.

Mary Kate Whibbs, Zoo operations and support manager, has invited residents to learn about proposed upgrades to the accessible playground at Riverview Park & Zoo and provide feedback to help shape the project at a public drop-in session set to take place on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Park & Zoo, Rotary Education Centre.

“The level of support we’ve seen so far has been incredibly motivating. It really speaks to the kind of community we have supporting this project, one that values inclusion, accessibility, and spaces where everyone feels welcome,” said Whibbs. “It’s been especially inspiring to see this project bring people together around a shared vision. That momentum is helping us move forward with confidence, and we’re excited to keep building on it as we work toward a space where every child and family can play, connect, and enjoy the playground together.”

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough has unveiled its donor wall design for its accessible playground to be built at the Riverview Park & Zoo! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #dailynews ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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Order of the Eastern Star Peterborough Chapter Donates $25,000 to YES Shelter

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The Order of the Eastern Star Peterborough Chapter has made a $25,000 donation to the YES Shelter for Youth and Families.

Photo by Felicia Massey.

The donation, made possible through proceeds from the sale of the Chapter’s building several years ago, reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting the community.

“We’re very proud to be able to provide this help to the YES Shelter,” said Patti James, Worthy Matron of the Peterborough Chapter. “The heart and soul of the members of the Order of the Eastern Star has gone into raising money to help local charities and it feels meaningful to invest in something that will have a lasting impact on young people in our community.”

The Order of the Eastern Star is one of the largest fraternal organizations in the world, open to both women and men, with a long-standing commitment to charity, community service and supporting those in need. The $25,000 donation will directly support the renovation of one of YES’ RISE Youth Housing locations. Once complete, the project will create six additional housing units for young people who would otherwise be experiencing homelessness, along with a dedicated Youth Drop-In Space open to all youth in Peterborough who are navigating housing instability.

“This gift is incredibly significant,” said Aimeé Le Lagadec, Executive Director of YES Shelter for Youth and Families. “Not only does it help us move closer to completing this much-needed space, but it also reflects a strong belief in the potential of the young people we serve. We’re so grateful to the Order of the Eastern Star for choosing to invest in youth in our community in this way.” 

The RISE Youth Housing Program is a supported housing program that provides young people with the support needed to permanently resolve their homelessness. Once complete, the expanded RISE site will help more young people find stability, build life skills and move forward with confidence while also creating a welcoming space where youth can access support, connection and care.

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Empty Bowls Community Fundraising Event Celebrates 22nd Year

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Attendees filled their bowls and their stomachs at the Showplace Performance Centre Friday for Empty Bowls 2026; a fundraising event aimed to address hunger in the local community, with all proceeds supporting One City Peterborough.

After 21 years of Empty Bowls supporting the YWCA Nourish Food Program, which ended in 2025, One City Peterborough has partnered as the new beneficiary for the fundraiser. All proceeds will support One City’s daily meal program at Trinity Community Centre.

180 event attendees received a handmade artisanal bowl from Kawartha Potters Guild, opportunity to participate in the silent auction and an array of food options from local restaurants and vendors including:

  • Hanoi House

  • St. Veronus

  • The Vine

  • La Mesita Restaurante

  • Hard Winter Bakery

  • By the Bridge

  • The Food Shop

  • Sam's Place

  • Love You Mean It

  • Ashburnham Ale House

  • Silver Bean Cafe

@ptbo_canada 180 attendees filled their bowls and their stomachs Friday at Empty Bowls 2026; a fundraising event aimed to address hunger in the local community, with all proceeds supporting One City Peterborough! 🥣 Visit ptbocanada .com to read more! #ptbocanada ♬ Does it Really Matter? - Boyan

“It’s really exciting that so many people wanted to participate in this event,” said One City’s Mackenzie Clark-Smith. “So many community members have told me they’ve been coming to this for 10 years, and others have said that this is their first time. It is very exciting that people who have liked the event in the past and those who are newcomers are all here supporting.”

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