Peterborough Lakers Launch Second Annual Fundraiser For PRHC Foundation On June 25

For a second straight year, the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers have teamed with the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation to support the latter with a special fundraising night on June 25.

(From left to right) Lesley Heighway PRHC Foundation president and CEO shows off her ball skills as Bob Hall, Kinsmen vice president; Teddy, Lakers Mascot and Pete Dalliday, Lakers director of community engagement and partnerships watch on. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

PRHC Night is when the Lakers take on the Brooklin Lacrosse Club, with all proceeds going towards the PRHC Foundation.

The funding supports PRHC Foundation’s $70 million Campaign to fund state-of-the-art hospital equipment and technology, help attract top healthcare professionals and address urgent needs at PRHC.

With $61.7 million raised, the Lakers have chipped in again to help the PRHC Foundation reach their $70 million goal by March.

“Last year’s PRHC Night was a success and the organization is excited to build on that momentum,” said Len Powers, Lakers Board Chair. “The Lakers are all about community and there’s nothing more important than supporting our regional hospital. PRHC is there for all of us when we need it most and we’re proud to do our part to help.”

The Kinsmen Club of Peterborough committed to match fundraising efforts from the game up to $10,000.

“The Kinsmen Club of Peterborough is proud to support both the Peterborough Lakers and the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation,” said Bob Hall, Kinsmen vice president. “For 96 years, the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough has been serving our community’s greatest needs through volunteer service and initiatives such as Kinsmen Super TV Bingo, which raises funds that support communities across the Peterborough region and Eastern Ontario. Healthcare impacts every person and family in our region, and we’re excited to help amplify the fundraising efforts on June 25.”

@ptbo_canada June 25 is PRHC Foundation Night for the @ptbolakerslax with all proceeds for the PRHC Foundation! #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #sports ♬ Fighters - OctaSounds

To help with fundraising, an auction featuring a signed hockey stick from Philadelphia Flyers rookie and Peterborough native Porter Martone, as well as a jersey auction. In celebration of Canada Day, the Lakers are sporting Canadian-themed jerseys to be auctioned following the game.

The Lakers’ new Ball Toss initiative will also support the Campaign on game day. Fans can purchase three balls for five dollars for a chance to win by landing closest to the centre of the floor.

Fans can add a two-dollar donation to the PRHC Foundation while purchasing tickets by using the code ‘PRHC26.’

“We’re thrilled to once again partner with a championship organization like the Lakers,” said Lesley Heighway PRHC Foundation president and CEO. “They represent dedication, heart and excellence. We know how passionately this region rallies around the Lakers and PRHC and together we can help reimagine healthcare close to home. It’s wonderful that another community organization like the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough is excited to be a part of the collaboration.”

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CMHA HKPR's Fourth-Annual 'Change the Cycle' Fundraiser For Mental Health Hits Paths This Saturday

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) fourth-annual 'Change the Cycle' fundraising event is hitting the trails at Nicholls Oval this Saturday.

Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education (left), Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president (middle) and Presley Overgoor, The Wolf 101.5’s promotions coordinator durign the initial event’s launch on APril 10. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Cyclists can register for a 4k, 12k or 26k ride along the Rotary Trail in Peterborough. They can register online as individuals or teams. Registration is $20 per person, and children 12 and under can register for free. Registration includes the ride, a t-shirt and a BBQ lunch.

New this year is a theme song created by Lindsay-based grunge band, ‘Soup,’ to showcase their hit, ‘Let’s Go For a Ride.’ The band was formed by Lindsay resident Simon Ward, the founder of Strumbellas.

Proceeds from the event will support unfunded and non‑annualized mental health programs at CMHA HKPR, helping fill critical gaps so individuals and families can access the services they need according to Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education.

“Proceeds this year will be going towards unfunded mental health programs for the CMHA,” he said. “(It’s) All the services that will best support those in the community that need it the most.”

This year’s 2026 Agents of Change are: Michelle Mackey, Linda Kash, Phil Jolicoeur and Peterborough Petes mascot Roger.

This year’s goal is to raise at least $25,000. Last year’s event raised $30,537.08; 2024 raised $25,500; and the inaugural event raised over $40,000, all totalling over $100,000 for mental health initiatives.

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Golf Tournament Fundraiser Gets Two New E-Bikes For Peterborough Police Service

The Peterborough Police Service has two new e-bikes on the road thanks to a donation from the organizers of the second-annual Mimosas and Mulligans Golf Tournament.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

Hosted by Shelby Leonard-Watt, S.O.S. Save Our Soles owner, the tournament took place in August of last year. For the second year in a row, the Peterborough Police Service Community F.I.R.S.T Unit was one of the designated donation recipients.  

“Community First plays an important role in our downtown, and we’re proud that our tournament helped fund two new e-bikes that will allow officers to be more visible, mobile, and engaged throughout the community,” said Leonard-Watt. “We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors, players, and everyone who came out to support the event and help make this contribution possible.”

The donated funds were accepted by the Police Service Board, which allowed the Peterborough Police Service to purchase two e-bikes from 171 E-bike Co. in Huntsville.  The e-bikes arrived in May, when officers received training on the maintenance and instructional use. They have decals identifying them as police property, as well as blue and red lights that can be activated. 

They will be used by Community F.I.R.S.T throughout the City to support public safety and community engagement initiatives.

“We are very thankful for this donation and applaud the community spirit all of our local businesses and residents who supported the golf tournament,” said Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Chief. “It was important to us to consider equipment that would have an immediate impact on officer visibility in the downtown core, the ability to respond in areas of the city more easily accessible by two wheels and have the option to access electric speed was very appealing.”

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NHL Alumni Take to the Peterborough Memorial Centre Ice For Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario

Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators alumni are hitting the Peterborough Memorial Centre ice for ‘Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario,’ on Nov. 6 in support of Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF).

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The alumni teams both feature former NHL players, some of whom would have competed in the classic playoff games in the early 2000s that started the rivalry. 

“We are really excited to be hosting Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario, with the Peterborough Memorial Centre,” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “Ottawa and Toronto were a huge playoff rivalry in the early-2000’s. We still see the rivalry in regular-season games and the playoffs today. Most recently in the playoffs in the spring of 2025. It is a great rivalry with a passionate fan base. We are excited to host the Toronto and Ottawa fans at Peterborough Memorial Centre.  Proceeds from the event will support our concussion fund. This fund helps to provide education and awareness for youth sport concussion through funding Peterborough Athletics Concussion Awareness (PACA) and providing the HOPE Bursary in Honour of Steve Montador.”

“Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario is going to be an exciting evening for hockey fans and a wonderful opportunity to support an important cause in our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Bringing the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni and Ottawa Senators Alumni to the Peterborough Memorial Centre will showcase the passion and excitement of this historic rivalry while helping raise funds for concussion education and awareness initiatives that support local youth and families. I encourage residents and visitors alike to come out, enjoy a great night of hockey and support the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation.”

A full roster for each team will be announced closer to the event.

Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. online, in person at the PMC Box Office or by phone at 705-743-3561. Tickets start at just $30 each, with a limited number of VIP upgrade tickets available, which include a pre-game meet-and-greet with either the Ottawa Senators or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

PMC Scoop and GPHSF mailing list members have early access to tickets with a pre-sale on Wednesday and Thursday.

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

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 University to Undertake Major Rehabilitation For Faryon Bridge With Philanthropic Support

Trent University’s Faryon Bridge rehabilitation and renewal project is underway after more than six million dollars in donations were raised, announced on Thursday afternoon.

The Fayon bridge is widely regarded as one of the defining works within Canadian architect Ron Thom’s master plan for the University, brought to life by architect Paul Merrick and structural engineer Morden Yolles. File Photo.

The project is to preserve its structural integrity, support safe daily use, and protect its defining architectural features for future generations.

“The Faryon Bridge is central to the identity of Trent’s Symons Campus, and this rehabilitation project will help preserve both its architectural significance and role in everyday campus life well into the future,” said Julie Davis, vice-president, External Relations & Development. “We are incredibly thankful for the support this project has already received.”

The Faryon Bridge serves as the main connection between the east and west banks of the campus. According to the University, it supports thousands of daily crossings while carrying critical power and telecommunications infrastructure across the Otonabee River. Independent engineering assessments confirmed the need for significant rehabilitation work to maintain the bridge’s structural integrity and long-term reliability.

It opened in 1968 as part of the original vision for Trent. Its design has earned national recognition, including a merit citation from the Design Canada Concrete Awards in 1971.

The Faryon Bridge has been part of generations of Trent’s growth, from convocation and Head of the Trent to student chalking, postering and public expression. Several love stories, bearing witness to first kisses, engagements and wedding photos have occurred on the bridge.

That connection inspired Doug Kirk, chair of Trent’s Board of Governors, and his partner, Mary, to kickstart the fundraising campaign for the Faryon Bridge rehabilitation with a $1-million gift.

“The Faryon Bridge is tremendously important to the Symons Campus and to the Trent community,” said Kirk. “We made this gift to help ensure the bridge is restored fully and part of a defining Trent experience for the next generations of students. We encourage others to dig deep and help support this meaningful project.”

Work on the bridge began in February and will continue over multiple construction seasons. The project includes renewing the deck and balustrades, restoring the beams and arches that support the structure and strengthening the piers and foundations. Environmental stewardship will guide each phase of the work to protect the Otonabee River and surrounding habitat, and heritage stewardship will preserve its original design and visual presence on campus.

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YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Raises Over $38,000 to Support Those Who Experienced Gender-Based Violence

To maintain support for victims of gender-based violence, the YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71.

Men and Women participated in the downtown walk on Friday Afternoon. Several men sported red high heels in solidarity for the cause. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“This is more than we ever could have hoped for and we are beyond grateful to all who helped make this possible,” said Sarah Perkins, YWCA philanthropy communications coordinator.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(It covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march on Friday afternoon. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

@ptbo_canada The YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71 to support its programs for those who have experienced gender-based violence. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ Strong Woman Stand Up - Chris B Harris & Jasmine T Harris & Daniel Kenneth Solovitz

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PHOTOS: YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Marches Through Downtown For Awareness For Gender-Based Violence

To raise awareness and funds for gender-based violence, the YWCA held its annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes and marched through Downtown Peterborough on Friday afternoon.

Roughly 70 people marched down George Street to raise awareness of domestic violence while raising funds for its life-saving programs. All photos by David Tuan Bui.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

“It takes a community to end violence against women; it takes all of us,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. While a final tally has yet to be released, the top team had raised over $4,400, while the top individual had raised just under $1,700 at the time of publication. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(it covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Dolan.

While most of the march was composed of women, several men were part of the downtown walk, sporting red high heels in solidarity with the cause.

“The men who are here today are representative of a larger group of men who understand that violence against women are happening and largely men who are responsible for that violence,” explained Dolan.

Donations are currently being accepted and can be made online.

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Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign Raises $136,711.96 For Peterborough Humane Society and Five Counties Children's Centre

The community came together for the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign, raising $136,711.96 to be split between Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) and the Peterborough Humane Society (PHS), announced on Tuesday morning.

Nationally, the 2026 Smile Cookie Campaign raised a record‑breaking $23.3 million in support of more than 700 charities and community groups across Canada. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Each organization received $68,355.98 from the campaign, which ran from April 27 to May 3. Funds were collected from Smile Cookie purchases at any of the 18 participating locations in Peterborough, Bridgnorth, Lakefield and Curve Lake.

Five Counties is putting its proceeds towards its ‘Building Abilities for Life’ campaign that ensures kids can more easily access high-demand treatment services that will benefit them as they grow up.

@ptbo_canada This spring’s Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign raised $136,711.96 to be split between the Five Counties Children’s Centre and the Peterborough Humane Society. #p#ptbocanadaj#journalismf#fypn#newss#smilecookie ♬ Smile - Official Sound Studio

“Our community truly came together to make this all possible,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “We are grateful to everyone who volunteered their time, helped spread the word, purchased Smile Cookies, and supported this initiative. We are also very appreciative of Tim Hortons and its staff, who warmly welcomed our volunteers. Their ongoing generosity and commitment to community organizations is truly inspiring, and it was a pleasure to work alongside them and the Peterborough Humane Society.”

The Peterborough Humane Society is using its funds towards its animal care programs, including sheltering, medical care and adoptions for animals in need.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Tim Hortons owners for selecting us as a Smile Cookie beneficiary and for the opportunity to partner with both Five Counties throughout this campaign,” said Shawn Morey, PHS CEO. “We're proud to have more than 100 volunteers lend their time throughout the week. We extend our sincere thanks to the Tim Hortons staff who made us feel like part of the team. With the support of our community, many children, families, and pets will benefit.”

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Peterborough Butterfly Run Sets Records On 10th Anniversary

Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF), in partnership with Partners In Pregnancy Clinic (PIPC), has broken its fundraising record for the tenth-annual Peterborough Butterfly Run, raising over $97,000 and counting at Millennium Park on Sunday.

Since 2017, the event has supported families and individuals who have experienced a loss during pregnancy, the loss of a child or are unable to conceive. Photo courtesy of Harrison Perkins and the GPHSF.

The event had over 1,400 people registered in the 1K Memorial Walk, 1K Kids Fun Run and 5K Run/Walk.  The 5K Run/Walk record was also set with 840 participants.

The top three individual fundraisers are Lori Brock, Baldeep Paul and Alex Lloyd. The top three fundraising teams are ‘Angels’ by Our Side,’ ‘Team Jess and Angeline Dalliday’ and Friends of Frederick.

According to Ashley Weir and Kori Zwarych, co-chairs of the Peterborough Butterfly Run Executive Committee, over 1,000 bereavement kits have been made and distributed throughout the community. 

Funds from the run will support the Compassionate Care Symposium at Peterborough Regional Health Centre in June, an educational opportunity for clinicians in our area to learn how to better support Perinatal Bereavement Care. 

The Committee says they are working to hold more bereavement retreats and to expand the support available in our area. Money will also continue to be reinvested in the Peterborough Butterfly Run to ensure future events.

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