Two-Day Petes Alumni Celebrity Hockey Classic In Support of Easter Seals Coming To Peterborough

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Easter Seals Ontario and the Peterborough Petes have teamed up to introduce the Peterborough Petes Alumni Celebrity Hockey Classic, a two-day event taking place on Mar. 11 and 12 at The Venue and the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

photo courtesy of the peterborough petes.

The Peterborough Petes Alumni Celebrity Hockey Classic offers hockey fans the chance to play with former NHL greats in a two-game tournament, as well as the opportunity to meet and greet the players during an exclusive VIP Draft Party on Mar. 11. The VIP Draft Party will take place at The Venue and give registered teams a chance to select an NHL alumnus to join their team.

Confirmed alumni for the Classic include Doug Gilmour, Gary Roberts and Brad May. A full list of alumni participating in the event will be released in the coming weeks.

On Mar. 12, the on-ice portion of the classic will begin, with each team guaranteed two games. Teams who register for the tournament will be provided with jerseys and socks. All games will take place at the Peterborough Memorial Centre before the Petes host the rival Oshawa Generals later that night.

To register for the tournament, each team is responsible for a $1,500 registration fee, as well as a fundraising minimum of $500 per player. Fundraising proceeds are in support of Easter Seals.

Interested teams can contact Jenn to register. Full details for the event can be found by visiting the website.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Launches 40th Annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim Fundraising Campaign

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough has launched the 40th annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim campaign, with an ambitious fundraising goal of $1.5 million.

photo courtesy of the rotary club of peterborough.

This year’s theme is 1986, the year the Carl Oake Rotary Swim was founded, and organizers are encouraging those participating in the swim to dress in their 80’s attire.

“Our goal is to reach and surpass more that $1.5 million in support of Easter Seals, The YMCA’s Strong Kids Program and Rotary projects,” said Rotarian and swim committee co-chair Ken Seim.

The 40th annual Carl Oake Rotary Swim is taking place Feb. 27 at the YMCA of Central East Ontario, 123 Aylmer Street South, at 7 a.m.

Donors and participants are encouraged to sign up and/or donate at their website.

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PVNC Catholic School Board Raises Over $50,000 During Annual Board Wide United Way Campaign

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The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board has raised $50,768.13 as part of its annual 2025 United Way campaign.

file photo.

The campaign brought together staff and students from across PVNC Catholic through payroll donations and an array of school-based fundraising initiatives. From pumpkin carving contests and soup sales to dress-down and pajama days, spirit weeks and more, school communities shared in the commitment to helping others.

“This campaign is something PVNC Catholic can be incredibly proud of,” said Mark Giunta, Communications Manager and PVNC Catholic United Way campaign co-chair. “Our staff and students see the needs in their communities every day, and they respond with compassion, energy, and generosity. Raising more than $50,000 is a powerful reflection of what we can achieve when we come together.”

Funds raised through the campaign will support United Way Peterborough and District, Northumberland United Way, United Way Durham Region, and United Way for the City of Kawartha Lakes as they provide programs and services that help communities, individuals and families thrive.

“The success of this year’s United Way campaign is a wonderful example of faith in action,” said Director of Education Stephen O’Sullivan. “Rooted in Catholic Social Teachings, our school communities consistently answer the call to care for others. I am deeply grateful to our staff and students whose generosity and joyful spirit continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.”

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The Salvation Army In Danger of Not Meeting Its Fundraising Goal

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The Salvation Army in Peterborough has reported a $150,000 shortfall of its fundraising goal which will severely limit its services to the community in 2026.

Since the beginning of December, more than 2,000 households in Peterborough have received Christmas hampers from The Salvation Army. Photo courtesy of the Salvation Army in Peterborough.

According to a press release, the Salvation Army raises funds that cover 75 per cent of our Community and Family Services' total operating budget. Due to rising community needs, the number of people accessing their services increased by 15 per cent.

“We know how generous our community is here in Peterborough,” said Mark Dalley of the Salvation Army. “We trust in the overwhelming spirit of giving that we have seen in the community of Peterborough in years past to step up and help us reach our goal.”

Donations can be made at their Christmas Kettles, its office on 219 Simcoe St. or by mail. Credit card donations can also be made by phone at 705-743-3131, ext 257.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough's Annual Holiday Lunch Puts Giving Spirit On Display; Donation Amounts and Breakfast Club Awards Announced

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough’s Annual Christmas Lunch had its share of fun and giving at the Northminster United Church on Monday afternoon.

Rotarians and a FCCC representative with the cheque presented to FCCC of $8,500 from the Rotary Club’s “Fore the KIds” golf tournament. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The organization announced a total of $17,000 raised from its Fore the Kids Golf Tournament, held at the Katchiwano Golf Club on Sept. 25. Those funds are split equally ($8,500) between Five Counties Children’s Centre and the Rotary Club for their projects.

“I believe our portion of that is going towards the zoo legacy project, which is making an accessible playground at the (Riverview Park & Zoo) zoo a reality,” explained Tony Grady, Rotary Club of Peterborough president.

The Koeslag Cup was awarded to the Breakfast Club team that prepared the most nutritious, delicious, and elaborate breakfast for the children at Prince of Wales Elementary School. The Friday Breakfast Crew captured the cup, with Rotarians Nick Avlonitis and Doug Armstrong, as well as friends of Rotary, Linn Thain, Donna Burley-Chestnut, Jeff Clark, Dale Wilson and Brian Wilson on the team.

The team served the students Nick’s “world-famous” pancakes with chocolate chips, whipped cream, sprinkles, fresh fruit and chocolate milk.

The cup was named last year in honour of its creator, the late Peter Koeslag, a dedicated volunteer of the Prince of Wales Breakfast Club.

Before last year’s school calendar, Prince of Wales School had received two new ovens from the Rotary Club and Leon’s Peterborough. The breakfast program serves over 500 students and has a positive impact on their learning according to Brad Conlin, Prince of Wales vice-principal.

“We noticed a huge difference in kids having a full belly. They're coming down, and they're ready to learn when they get into class,” he explained. “When kids get into their classrooms without something to eat, we often see them disregulated and it’s hard for them to concentrate.”

Brad Conlin, Prince of Wales vice-principal (left) with Rotarian Nick Avlonitis, being presented with the Koeslag Cup. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Club also awarded prizes for the best Christmas Sweaters:

  • Funniest sweater: Bruce Gravel

  • Most creative sweater: Marie Press

  • Best overall sweater: Bruce Clark

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Youth Mental Health Awareness an Emphasis For Third Annual Harmony for Healing's Fundraising Concert On Feb. 19

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Harmony for Healing has announced the third consecutive year of its annual event with ‘Power of Love: Voices of Youth’ as a locally produced mental health awareness campaign and live concert fundraiser to be held at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre on Feb. 19.

(From left to right) Wade Hamblin; ReMax Hallmark Eastern Realty; Callie Lorente, CMHA HKPR Manager of Integrated Crisis Services; Phillip Jolicoeur, Harmony for Healing Founder and Caitlin O’Connor, musician. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s initiative places an even stronger focus on youth mental health, connection and hope. Harmony for Healing creator and producer Phillip Jolicoeur had his mother pass away from suicide in 2022, with the event serving as a tribute to her.

“Harmony for Healing started as a way to turn pain into purpose,” he said. “This year feels especially close to the heart as we lift up youth voices and remind them they matter, they are heard, and they are not alone. These stories and moments are created locally by people who truly care.”

Harmony for Healing has raised over $29,000 to date, including $15,744 raised last year alone, toward its five-year goal of $50,000. All proceeds support the Assertive Outreach Suicide Prevention Program (AOSP) through CMHA Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge, providing life-saving support to individuals and families in crisis.

The event has sold out in the first two iterations, which blend music with meaningful conversations around mental health and suicide prevention.

This year’s awareness campaign centres on stories from local youth, sharing their lived mental health experiences through a professionally produced video series.

@ptbo_canada Harmony for Healing returns for its third consecutive year with a youth-centred mental health awareness campaign and live concert Power of Love: Voices of Youth 💜 #ptbocanada #peterboroughontario #mentalhealth ♬ Vittra - Kasbo

The youth are involved through:

  • Production and behind the scenes roles

  • Youth storytelling and creative contributions

  • Volunteer opportunities

  • Live show participation

  • Collaboration with up and coming local youth artists

‘Power of Love’ celebrates iconic 1980s anthems performed by 100 percent local musicians, creating an atmosphere of connection, compassion, and community.

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Second Annual Mayoral Golf Tournament Raises $6,507 For Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation

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The second annual Peterborough Mayoral Invitational Charity Golf Tournament, held at Kawartha Golf Club, raised $6,507 for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation.

(From left to right) Nigel Lister, Regional Manager, Market Development of Cambium Inc; Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president; David Feeley, senior manager at Cogeco and Mayor Jeff Leal. Last year’s event raised $9,710 for Community Living Trent Highlands and Kawartha Food Share. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The event took place on Sept. 8 at Kawartha Golf Club and was originally announced on Aug. 7 by Mayor Jeff Leal at PRHC.

“I want to sincerely thank all the participants and sponsors who so generously supported the PRHC Foundation’s Campaign for PRHC, helping our regional hospital continue to deliver high-quality health care right here in our community,” said Leal. “Special thanks to Nigel Lister for organizing the tournament, and to the PRHC Foundation staff for their support.”

@ptbo_canada The second annual Peterborough Mayoral Invitational Charity Golf Tournament raised $6,507 for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation. ##ptbocanada##journalism##news##fyp##golf ♬ Mario like action game 2 - Jun Takahashi

The tournament drew roughly 100 golfers to support the cause. In August, the PRHC Foundation announced that it had extended its fundraising goal of $60 million to $70 million.

“We’re grateful to Mayor Leal and the organizers, participants and sponsors of the Peterborough Mayoral Invitational Charity Golf Tournament for supporting the $70 million campaign to reimagine health and care at Peterborough Regional Health Centre,” Lesley Heighway, PRHC Foundation president. “Your generosity will help fund state-of-the-art technology that drives innovation and empowers lifesaving care for our family, friends and neighbours. Not only that, but community-organized events help us spread the word about the importance and impact of donations, inspiring others to get involved.”

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Loonies on the Street Fundraiser Returns: Raising Funds for Kawartha Food Share

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The 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser in support of Kawartha Food Share returned to Peterborough Square at the corner of George and Simcoe Streets on Friday morning.

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers donated $1,000 towards the cause, while the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough gave $10,000 as part of their TV Bingo proceeds.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP, donated $250 and challenged Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP and Mayor Jeff Leal to match his donation. If theirs exceeds Smith’s, the MPP will match the increase.

A final count of all proceeds is expected to be released next week.

Kawartha Food Share is a central collection and distribution warehouse that partners with 37 member agencies, including food banks, food cupboards and other food action programs in the City and County of Peterborough.

Donations can also be accepted online.

@ptbo_canada The Bucket Brigade was back this morning for Kawartha Food Share’s 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser at Peterborough Square! 🎅 #PTBOCanada #peterboroughontario ♬ Christmas - Axby

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Tim Hortons's Holiday Smile Cookie Campaign Raises Nearly $35,000 For Kawartha Food Share

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Kawartha Food Share (KFS) has got more happy faces this holiday season as Tim Hortons and its Holiday Smile Cookie Campaign raised $34,594.54, presented at the former’s facility on Thursday afternoon.

(From left to right) Jasmine Lacsote, Stephane Lacoste, Ashlee Aitken, Greg Blair and Jennifer McCall.Kawartha Food Share is a central collection and distribution warehouse that partners with 37-member agency food banks, food cupboards and other food action programs in the City and County of Peterborough. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The campaign ran from Nov. 17 to 23 at all Tim Hortons locations in Peterborough, Lakefield, Bridgenorth and Curve Lake. Over 43,000 cookies were sold and $69,189.08 was raised, split evenly between Tim’s Foundations Camps and Kawartha Food Share.

“A huge thanks goes out to the countless Tims guests who purchased Holiday Smile Cookies for their generosity,” said Axel Schwan, Tim Hortons president. “With 100 per cent of proceeds from every cookie sold donated to local charities, community groups and Tims Camps, you've helped make a real difference in your community.”

“This donation couldn’t come at a better time as we’re in the thick of the busy holiday season,” explained Ashlee Aitken, KFS general manager. “We will use these funds to purchase much needed food items for our 37 member agencies and ensure that they are all well stocked for the holidays and beyond. Thank you to the many volunteers who helped us decorate cookies and make this campaign such a great success!”

The campaign raised $13 million in total, with proceeds donated to more than 600 charities and organizations nationwide.

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Community Care Peterborough Launches their 2025 Annual Appeal: Because We Care

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Community Care Peterborough (CCP) has launched its 2025 Annual Appeal, “Because We Care,” inviting Peterborough and surrounding areas to support community services that help seniors and adults with disabilities remain independent at home.

The inspiRation behind because we care: Meals on Wheels volunteer Patty Tipton. Photo Courtesy of Community Care Peterborough.

CCP credits Patty Tipton, a long-time Meals on Wheels staff member, as the inspiration behind this year’s campaign. After years of service with Community Care, Tipton volunteered following her retirement, returning to greet callers and visitors at the organization’s Peterborough office.

“Patty’s dedication shows what caring looks like in action,” said Danielle Belair, CCP CEO. “When people give their time or their financial support, they help create stability and independence for thousands of neighbours. This appeal celebrates that spirit of generosity and invites new supporters to join us.”

In the past year, Community Care Peterborough volunteers contributed the equivalent of 48 full-time employees, donating tens of thousands of hours across the organization. Volunteers deliver Meals on Wheels, drive clients to medical appointments, make friendly visits and reassurance calls, support home help and maintenance services and more.

Because We Care celebrate volunteers and community generosity.

During the 2024 to 2025 year, Community Care Peterborough supported more than 6,000 residents throughout the City and County of Peterborough by providing:

  • More than 50,000 Meals on Wheels deliveries

  • 31,000 rides to medical and essential appointments

  • 20,000 friendly visits and reassurance calls

  • 9,000 home help and maintenance visits

“Our volunteers make our work possible, and our donors make it sustainable,” said Chris LeBlanc, Director of Donor and Public Relations. “Every hour and every dollar ensures that seniors and adults living with disabilities receive the care, connection and support they need to remain independent. Community generosity is the reason we can offer these services without barriers.”

Those who wish to support the 2025 Annual Appeal can learn more about the campaign, read Patty’s story and make a donation by visiting their website. Donations can also be made by phone and in person at any Community Care Peterborough office throughout the City and County.

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