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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The Rotary Club of Peterborough's 'Fore the Kids' Fundraiser Golf Tournament Hits the Greens On Sept. 17

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough is hitting the links for its annual ‘Fore the Kids Golf Tournament’ on Sept. 17 at the Katchiwano Golf Club in support of Rotary projects and Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC).

Rotarian and City Councillor Kevin Duguay opts to hit two balls simultaneously during the Media vs. Rotarians putting challenge to launch the event. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Golfers, regardless of skill level, are invited to register for $200 per person which includes a round of golf, a cart, lunch and a chance to win prizes. This year’s fees include the Rotary’s passport which offers mulligans, pro driver shots and raffle tickets.

“The Fore the Kids Charity Golf Tournament is a great example of our community coming together to support local children and families,” said Scott Pepin, CEO, Five Counties Children's Centre We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Peterborough, Linwood Homes, and everyone involved for helping raise funds that make a lasting difference for children receiving services through Five Counties Children's Centre.”

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough is hitting the links for its annual ‘Fore the Kids Golf Tournament’ on Sept. 17 Katchiwano Golf Club in support of Rotary projects and Five Counties Children’s Centre. #rotaryclub #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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Gauvreau Accounting's Fifth Annual 'Gear Up For Good' to Give Children Across Canada 300 Stuffed Backpacks For Back to School

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For the fifth year in a row, Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory is giving kids across Canada a head start for back-to-school with its Gear Up for Good campaign, providing 300 fully stocked backpacks to children in need, announced on Thursday.

Bob Gauvreau, Gauvreau Accounting CEO (right) with staff; members of Big Brothers, Big Sisters Peterborough; Kawartha-Haliburton Children's Foundation and more with backpacks to be stuffed and ready for donation for children getting ready to get back to school. Since the campaign began, the community has helped provide over 600 fully stocked backpacks to children and families. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s campaign aims to send 200 backpacks for children in Ontario and 100 for children in Manitoba. The backpacks in Ontario are for children affiliated with Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough and Kawartha-Haliburton Children's Foundation.

“Every child deserves to feel prepared and excited when they walk into their first day of school,” said Bob Gauvreau, CEO of Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory. “Gear Up for Good is about more than backpacks- it’s really about bringing businesses, employees, and community members together to make a meaningful difference for families who need support.”

Gauvreau Accounting invites local businesses, organizations and community members to help by donating backpacks, school supplies, healthy snacks, water bottles, lunch pails, children’s haircuts or salon/barber services or financial contributions to help purchase needed items.

@ptbo_canada For the fifth year in a row, Gauvreau Accounting, Tax, Law & Advisory is giving kids across Canada a head start for back-to-school with its Gear Up for Good campaign, providing 300 fully stocked backpacks to children in need. #fyp #news #ptbocanada #journalism #backtoschool ♬ Reflections on 52nd - AGM3

“Community partnerships are what make this campaign possible,” said Gauvreau. “Whether it’s a fully stocked backpack, a haircut before the first day of school, or a donation of supplies, every single contribution helps set a child up for success- gives them confidence to start the school year.”

The campaign runs from July 23 to Aug. 12. Donations can be made through its webpage or donations can be dropped off at 150 King Street, Suite 100 W, by Aug. 12 at noon. Backpacks will be distributed on Aug. 18.

“The more that we can pack in here for these kids and their families, the more it supports their success throughout the years,” said Gauvreau.

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Five Counties Children’s Centre Family Leads the Charge For Little Lakers Night On July 16

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To lead the charge for the fourth consecutive year of the Little Lakers Night with the Peterborough Lakers, the Hyde family is representing Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) for July 16 against the Oakville Rock.

(from left to right) Georgia Dueck, Peterborough Lakers Game Day Operations; Isabelle Hyde, 8; Maureen Hyde; Edward Hyde, 8; Elizabeth Hyde, 12 and Kassie Graham, FCCC Community Engagement Coordinator. Last year’s Little Lakers Night netted $16,128 to support children’s treatment services at Five Counties. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The fundraising game directs all proceeds to FCCC’s Building Abilities for Life campaign, which enables more kids and youth in the region to access life-changing treatment services when they need them. The night also shines a spotlight on children and families who have benefited from FCCC’s services.

The Hyde family has had three children (Isabelle, 8; Edward, 8 and Elizabeth, 12) who have benefited from FCCC.

“We’ve done speech and we’ve done occupational therapy,” said Maureen Hyde. “Edward and Isabelle didn’t speak until later on in life… Edward does occupational therapy for his tightness of his legs for his autism… Elizabeth didn’t walk so they straightened her legs as well.”

“My hip would go out whenever I’d walk so I needed therapy for that,” added Elizabeth.

@ptbo_canada The fourth-annual Little Lakers Night takes over the Peterborough Memorial Centre as the @ptbolakerslax take on the Oakville Rock on July 16! All proceeds from the fundraising night go towards Five Counties Children’s Centre! #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #peterboroughlakers ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

The Hyde’s will take part in the ceremonial pre-game ball drop.

“Little Lakers Night is one of those special events that brings our community together around a shared purpose — supporting children and families while celebrating the spirit of sport,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “For many of the kids and families we serve, this night creates unforgettable memories and opportunities to feel connected, included, and celebrated. We're deeply grateful to the Peterborough Lakers, our sponsors, and the community for helping make this event such a success year after year.”

“The partnership between the Lakers and Five Counties is something we're incredibly proud of,” says Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers Director of Community Engagement and Partnerships. “Little Lakers Night is a chance for our team, our fans and our community to come together in support of local children and families. We’re excited to welcome Five Counties families and Lakers fans together for a fun-filled night that supports an incredible cause and showcases the positive impact we can make when we work together.”

Little Lakers Night kicks off with pre-game festivities starting at 7 pm. Activities and fundraising initiatives include face painting by donation, outdoor games, a ‘Pass the Bucket’ fundraiser and ‘Ball Toss for a Cause.’ During the game, a silent auction is being run with prizes such as Toronto Blue Jays tickets, a couples Float package, local gift cards, sports memorabilia and more. New this year is the debut of a new Lakers Jersey auction, with six available.

Tickets for Little Lakers Night on July 16 are available on the Five Counties website. Every $15 ticket purchased through Five Counties helps support children and families in the community.

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Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society Appoints New Executive Director

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Amanda Baker-Colacicco has been named the new Executive Director of the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society (KHCAS), effective on Monday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Baker-Colacicco has experience in the position, as she is the Executive Director of Family & Children’s Services of Frontenac, Lennox & Addington.

“The most meaningful change comes from working respectfully alongside communities and partners, with a focus on equitable and accessible supports,” said Baker-Colacicco.

Baker-Colacicco is developing a new Strategic Plan as she steps into her new role. She is also responsible for completing the organization’s Deficit Management Plan and Collaborative Operational Review work plans, which have been underway for the past 18 months.

Baker-Colacicco is a registered social worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She holds a Master of Social Worker degree from Wilfred Laurier University, an Honours BA, Child and Youth Care from Toronto Metropolitan University and a Public Sector Executive Leadership Certificate from Queen’s University Smith School of Business. Baker-Colacicco is a member of the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Society Board of Directors.

She takes over Rosaleen Cutler, who served as the interim Executive Director.

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Community Care Peterborough Announces 2026 Grandparent of the Year Award Winners

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Community Care Peterborough (CCP) has announced the winners of its 38th annual Grandparent of the Year Awards, presented at the Royal Gardens Retirement Residence on Thursday night.

Left Picture: Regan Doughty (left) and Annabelle Pigeon (RIGHT). Right picture: Brian Downer (left) and Laila McIlmoyle (right). Photo courtesy of Kayla Le Franc and CCP.

Students in Grades 1 to 6 from the City and County were invited to submit a hand-drawn picture and a short written piece honouring a grandparent, elder or special older person in their lives. Winners and honourable mentions were selected in both English and French for two age groups: Primary (Grades 1–3) and Junior (Grades 4–6).

“This event is such a meaningful celebration because it brings families together around the stories of the older adults they love,” said Chris LeBlanc, CCP director of donor and public relations. “One of the best parts of the awards ceremony is seeing the families of our winners smiling from ear to ear as they celebrate their children, their grandparents, and the special connections between them. We are also deeply grateful to the teachers who welcome this initiative into their classrooms and encourage their students to take part. Their support means so much to young people, and we truly could not do this without them.”

The 2026 Grandparent of the Year Award winners are:

Primary Category – Grades 1–3 (English)

Winner: Laila McIlmoyle, Grade 3, Immaculate Conception CES
Honouring: Papa Brian Downer

Honourable Mention: Everly Colquhoun, Grade 3, Monsignor O’Donoghue CES
Honouring: Grammy Sue Wheeler

Primary Category – Grades 1–3 (French)

Winner: Quinn Keast, Grade 2, Kaawaate East City Public School
Honouring: Grandma Clare Keast

Honourable Mention: Felix Myles, Grade 2, Kaawaate East City Public School
Honouring: Gramps Bruce Scott

Junior Category – Grades 4–6 (English)

Winner: Annabelle Pigeon, Grade 5, St. Alphonsus CES
Honouring: Grandma Regan Doughty

Honourable Mention: Levi Inglis, Grade 5, Kawartha Classical Christian School
Honouring: Grandpa David Miller

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Boardwalk Board Game Lounge Taking Kids On Imaginative Journey This Summer With Dungeons & Dragons Camp

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This summer, the Boardwalk Board Game Lounge is gathering young adventurers to open their imaginations for the Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) Summer Adventure Camp in downtown Peterborough.

Boardwalk Board Game Lounge co-owners Dylan Reinhart (left) and Connor Reinhart (right) are brothers. The Lounge is fully-equipped with a kitchen and bar and HOSTS TOURNAMENTS/GAMING events on a regular basis. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Children aged nine to 13 can come and play D&D with other kids at this event, regardless of experience.

Camps can run as short as two days and as long as five.

Each D&D Camp has kids guided by a Camp Leader/ Dungeon Master to design a character and take that character on a quest through unexplored fantasy lands, according to Dylan Reinhart, Boardwalk Board Game Lounge co-owner.

“It’s tricky to learn to play D&D,” he explains. “It’s not like a Board Game where you can open the box and just start playing. Dungeons & Dragons really thrives when you have an experienced player at the table acting as Dungeon Master.”

Dungeon Masters in D&D play a dual role: presenting the world to the players and adjudicating the rules as the characters explore it. Reinhart says the game teaches children a wide variety of skills and helps them apply them in D&D and in real life.

“We’re using everything we know about teaching people Board Games and my background as an Outdoor Educator to design a camp that will provide a fun and unique experience while also giving kids the chance to practice real-life skills like teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, critical thinking and even basic math,” he said.

By the end of camp, kids will leave with a set of dice, a miniature representing their character, and memories of their experience.

The camp has 16 sessions starting on June 5 with the last one running from Aug. 17 to 21.

Registration and the schedule can be found on the Boardwalk’s website.

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PVNC Catholic Mathletes Crunch Numbers For Success At Annual Math Olympics 

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From high-speed multiplication to complex logic puzzles, students were crunching numbers at the annual PVNC Catholic Math Olympics at Holy Cross Secondary School on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNC Catholic.

The event was hosted by the PVNC Catholic Math Team, with over 200 students from 22 schools competing.

The Mathletes took a variety of challenges that included the following:

  • The Skills Challenge: A gauntlet of puzzles designed to push critical thinking to the limit.

  • Probability & Strategy: Fast-paced dice games where Mathletes calculated risks in real-time.

  • Number Hive: A buzzing multiplication challenge that rewarded speed and precision.

  • Spatial Reasoning: The legendary estimation jar, where students used their best formulas to guess the coin count.

The results of the competition are as follows:

Grade 3/4

  • 1st Place: St. Alphonsus CES, Peterborough

  • 2nd Place: St. Paul CES, Peterborough

  • 3rd Place: St. Mary CES, Campbellford

Grade 5/6

  • 1st Place: St. Anthony CES, Port Hope

  • 2nd Place: St. Dominic CES, Lindsay

  • 3rd Place: St. Anne CES, Peterborough

Grade 7/8

  • 1st Place: St. Anne CES, Peterborough

  • 2nd Place: St. Joseph CES, Douro

  • 3rd Place: St. Martin CES, Ennismore

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Elementary School Students Shine at Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 12th Annual Spelling Bee

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There were 120 of the top spellers from Grades 4 to 8 across the Peterborough region that competed in the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 12th annual Spelling Bee at Fleming College on Saturday.

(From left to right) Henry Sharpe, Adam Scott Intermediate; Hudson Inglis, Kawartha Classical Christian School and Tyler Phillips, St. Theresa CES. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

The top spellers in the junior division (Grades 4-6) were:

  1. Verna Conlin Hanley, St. Anne CES

  2. Elise Stenko, Westmount PS

  3. Daniel Casado, Monsignor O’Donoghue CES

The top spellers in the intermediate division (Grades 7-8) were:

  1. Henry Sharpe, Adam Scott Intermediate

  2. Hudson Inglis, Kawartha Classical Christian School

  3. Tyler Phillips, St. Theresa CES

(From left to right) Verna Conlin Hanley, St. Anne CES; Elise Stenko, Westmount PS and Daniel Casado, Monsignor O’Donoghue CES. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Earlier in the spring, thousands of students participated in qualifying spelling bees at their schools to compete at the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 12th annual Spelling Bee.

Prizes include a laser tag party at Zap Attack Laser Tag, a 9-day Trent Excalibur Camp, a week at Camp Kawartha Environment Camp, bikes from Canadian Tire on Lansdowne Street and lessons at the Art School of Peterborough.

In addition to prizes, top finishers earned literacy bursaries for their schools, with $1,000 awarded for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place. These funds help support literacy initiatives within participating schools according to the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

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