Five Counties Children's Centre Brings the Fun With Annual Backyard Summer Social On June 22

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) is bringing the heat for its Backyard Summer Social fundraising event which will take place on June 22 from 1 to 4 p.m., as announced on Monday.

Five Counties Children’s Centre staff members Linsey Kampf (left) and Maddie Jackson (right) encourage people to come out to the third annual Backyard Summer Social on June 22. In each of its first two years, the Backyard Summer Social has raised more than $40,000 annually. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The summer fun is at FCCC’s backyard space on 872 Dutton Rd. in Peterborough.

The funds go to FCCC’s Building Abilities For Life Campaign which funds priority, high-demand services like speech therapy and occupational therapy in an effort to reduce long waiting times for kids to receive these critical services according to a press release.

Activities at the Social are a petting zoo, alpacas, axe-throwing, circus performers, inflatable jousting, classic picnic games, live music, drinks, treats and foods from local vendors.

“The Backyard Summer Social is an adults-only event that lets you be a kid again, at least for an afternoon,” said Lyn Giles, FCCC director of fund development. “No tux, gown, or heels are required — instead, sun dresses, T-shirts, shorts, or sandals are how to make a fashion statement here.”

Tickets to the Backyard Summer Social are $125 each and available online, through email at development@fivecounties.on.ca or call 1-888-779-9916, ext. 300).

Along with a $75 charitable tax receipt, each ticket purchased to the Backyard Summer Social includes all food from various local vendors, one drink ticket, live music, access to all activities and games and a chance to win prizes.

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Smile Cookie Campaign Raises $50,713 for Five Counties Children’s Centre

The Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) did not frown as it received $50,713 from the annual Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign in Cobourg and Colborne.

Five Counties Children’s Centre CEO Scott Pepin gets help from volunteers to serve up smiles during the recent Smile Cookie Campaign at Tim Hortons in Cobourg and Colborne.. Tim Hortons has been raising funds for local charities for over 25 years. In total since its inception in 1996, the Smile Cookie Campaign at Tim Hortons has raised more than $111 million for charities and community groups. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The campaign ran from April 29 to May 2. The proceeds of each Smile Cookie sold helped FCCC’s high-demand treatment services such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, reduce wait times for kids and their families in Northumberland County.

“Smile Cookie really lived up to its name, as the funds raised from their sales will put smiles on the faces of many children and their families in our community who can get the care they need when they need it,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “We want to say a huge thank you to the Northumberland community for showing their support through the purchase of Smile Cookies and their donations during the campaign.” 

Five Counties was among hundreds of charities and community groups in Canada and the U.S. to benefit from the Smile Cookie campaign his year. Nearly $18.8 million was raised in total in 2024 according to a Tim Hortons news release.

"We'd like to extend a huge thank you to every Tims guest who supported our annual Smile Cookie campaign this year,” said Axel Schwan, Tim Hortons president. “Through your generosity and support, we're collectively making a big impact for more than 600 charities and community groups.”

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Five Counties Children's Centre Chosen As Smile Cookie Campaign Recipients

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) has been selected as the local charity that benefits from the annual Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign, announced on Monday. 

Five Counties volunteers will be at local Tim Hortons locations in Cobourg and Colborne next week to assist with the Smile Cookies Campaign. The annual fundraising campaign returns, with proceeds supporting Five Counties kids. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The campaign runs from April 29 until May 5 at locations in Cobourg and Colborne.  

“We are very grateful to Tim Hortons locations in Cobourg and Colborne for selecting Five Counties to be the beneficiary of the annual Smile Cookie Campaign,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “Fundraising efforts like this help reduce wait times and ensure more children and families get the access to care they need when they need it.”  

Residents are encouraged to visit a Cobourg or Colborne Tim Hortons to support Five Counties to purchase a Smile Cookie. Bulk orders are also available and can be ordered by completing this form. During the campaign, Five Counties staff, volunteers, families, and supporters will be at Tim Hortons locations to collect donations and thank visitors for dropping by.  

All money raised from Smile Cookie for Five Counties will go towards its Building Abilities for Life Campaign. This campaign funds priority, high-demand services like speech therapy and occupational therapy to reduce long waiting times for these critical services.  

Tim Hortons has been raising funds for local charities for over 25 years. Last year, Tim Hortons restaurants across Canada raised a record-breaking $19.7 million for over 600 local charities and community groups. The Smile Cookie Campaign has raised over $90 million since the program’s inception. 

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Five Counties Children’s Centre to Return to Minden

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) has signed a new lease for space at the Minden site of Haliburton Highlands Health Services at 6 McPherson St.

Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The renovated, approximately 700-square-foot space is just off the main entrance, on the second floor of the Community Health Wing of the HHHS site. This space will allow Five Counties staff to see and support more Haliburton County kids, youth and families according to a press release.

“We are pleased to reach agreement with Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) on this space that will allow Five Counties to provide care closer to home,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “Re-establishing our presence in Minden will save local families the need to drive to Lindsay or Peterborough to access treatment and therapy services.”

Moving into the HHHS site in Minden is a homecoming for Five Counties, which previously leased another portion of the facility. That arrangement ended when HHHS had to reclaim the space during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“HHHS is delighted to welcome Five Counties Children’s Centre back into our building,” said Veronica Nelson, HHHS President and CEO. “Five Counties’ dedication to the community through therapy and treatment services to support children with physical, developmental, and communication needs and their families, is inspiring. HHHS looks forward to a continued partnership with Five Counties to bring health and wellbeing to our younger local population.”

Five Counties provides speech, occupational, and physical therapies and other kids’ treatment services in Haliburton County, Peterborough, City of Kawartha Lakes and Northumberland County. Five Counties staff work in Centre sites in Minden, Lindsay, Peterborough, Cobourg and Campbellford, as well as in local schools and virtually to support kids and youth from birth to age 19 (21 if still in school).

“We know that early intervention – especially when it comes to how a child talks or walks – is so important to help kids reach their full potential,” said Pepin. “Parents and caregivers are dealing with so much already if their child has been diagnosed or identified with unique needs that impact their development. That’s why making it easier for families to get the help they need when they need right in their own community is essential.”

Post-pandemic, Five Counties has been seeking new space in Haliburton County. Five Counties opened a new satellite location at Archie Stouffer Elementary School in Minden in the past year or so, using a repurposed classroom for treatment space. The space has been helpful as a base of operations for Five Counties staff to see local families and provide treatment in area schools.

“We’re extremely grateful to the Trillium Lakelands District School Board, which has been very generous in allowing us to use the classroom space as a way to see kids, students and families right here in their own community,” said Pepin.

Even with Five Counties moving into the HHHS site in Minden, the Centre will continue to use the space at Archie Stouffer School for physiotherapy services, as the wider space there is ideal for this treatment.

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Backyard Summer Social Returns For a Third Year In Support of Five Counties Kids

The Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) is bringing the third edition of its Backyard Summer Social for June 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at their backyard space at 872 Dutton Rd., announced on Thursday.

The Backyard Summer Social takes place in the outdoor backyard space created almost five years ago at Five Counties site in Peterborough. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

Tickets to the Backyard Summer Social are $125 each and available online, by emailing development@fivecounties.on.ca or calling 1-888-779-9916, ext. 300.

The purchase include a $75 charitable tax receipt, all available food from a variety of local vendors, one drink ticket, live music, access to all activities and games and a chance to win prizes.

“The added benefit is that by joining us to celebrate the start of summer, it lets you be a kid again – at least for the afternoon – with the proceeds of your ticket going directly to support treatment for our kids and their families,” said Lyn Giles, FCCC director of fund development.

The Backyard Summer Social has raised more than $40,000 annually in the past two years. The money raised goes directly to Five Counties ‘Building Abilities For Life Campaign which funds priority, high-demand services like speech therapy and occupational therapy in an effort to reduce the long waiting times for kids to receive these critical services.

Anyone purchasing a ticket prior to May 20 will be entered in a draw to win a FujiFilm Instax Mini 12 camera. A winner will be selected and notified during the week of May 21.

“Our Backyard Summer Social is an adults-only gala event that lets you swap out the tux, gown and heels for T-shirt, shorts and sandals, all the while supporting a great cause,” says Lyn Giles, Director of Fund Development at Five Counties. “The Backyard Summer Social promises to be an entertaining, high-end experience with equally high-end impact.”

Amenities at the Backyard Summer Social include:

• Delicious food from La Mesita, Gangers of Cheese, and Hanoi House

• Sweet treats from Central Smith and the Kawartha Butter Tart Factory

• Musical performances by Nicholas Campbell and the Boogie Time Ramblers.

• Live auction and door prizes.

• Axe throwing, petting zoo, inflatable jousting, old-fashioned picnic games and more.

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Peterborough Petes Next Gen Game Raises Over $21,000 For Five Counties Children's Centre

The Peterborough Petes’s annual Next Gen Game raised $21,341 for Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) that was held on Feb. 19, announced on Tuesday.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. Last year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in the Peterborough, Northumberland, Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The money is used to support kids’ treatment services at FCCC.

In 12 years of running the Next Gen Game, this was the highest total fundraiser since the partnership.

 “We are so grateful to the Petes, their fans and our other supporters for again showing their support for Five Counties kids,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The funds will go directly to our Building Abilities For Life (BAL) campaign that supports high-demand treatment services at Five Counties. Through these funds, we can help to reduce wait times and ensure more children and families get access to the care they need when they need it.”

There were eight FCCC kids who enjoyed a behind-the-scenes experience at the game, ‘signing’ a one one-day contract with the Petes of working roles within their organization. They included general manager, coach, scout, PA announcer and more.

“The smiles on our kids’ faces lit up the Memorial Centre,” said Pepin. “The Petes were first-rate in creating the Next Gen opportunity, and we heard many good comments and compliments from the kids and their families about their experiences behind the scenes.”

“Every year this event continues to grow. It’s a great opportunity for families to come out and enjoy their Family Day while supporting other kids in our community,” noted Eric Ebenbauer, Petes director of sales. “We look forward to continuing this tradition and engaging with Five Counties clients for future Next Gen programs, which was presented by Tim Hortons this year.”

The Petes hit the ice at home on Thursday to host the Erie Otters for Pride Night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

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New Consultant Pediatrician Joining Five Counties Children’s Centre

Dr. Sean Godfrey is joining Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) as a consulting pediatrician starting this month.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. This past year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in its region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

Godfrey has over 25 years of experience in hospital and community settings. He is splitting time supporting kids and clients at Five Counties sites in Peterborough, Lindsay and Cobourg while seeing other children, youth and their families from across the region at his new private medical practice he is setting up at Five Counties in Peterborough.

“Dr. Godfrey is a well-respected and highly regarded consultant pediatrician who will enhance the specialized care available to our youngest citizens,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The partnership will directly benefit Five Counties kids and clients but also support other families from Peterborough, City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County and Northumberland County whom Dr. Godfrey will see on a referral basis through his own pediatric practice.”

From 1999 to 201, Godfrey was a staff pediatrician at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa. Between 2008 and 2014, he also served as the hospital’s chief of pediatrics. For over 20 years, Godfrey has been director of KinderClinic, a children’s urgent care clinic he founded based in Whitby and Simcoe.

“Five Counties Children’s Centre has a wonderful reputation for what it does for families in this region, and I look forward to contributing to that success,” said Godfrey. “Over my career, I’ve been fortunate to have a private practice within a community setting that allows me independence and a chance to establish rapport with families. In both situations, it’s a joy to see children flourish and grow to reach their full potential.”

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First Little Lakers Night Raises Over $6,700 For Five Counties Children's Centre

The Peterborough Lakers in their ‘Drive For Five’ quest takes time to help the community as their first-ever Little Lakers Night from July 27 raised $6,784 for Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) Building Abilities For Life campaign, announced on Thursday.

Five Counties kids Mya (left) and Elsie (right) pose with Peterborough Century 21 Lakers mascot, Teddy, during Little Lakers Night on July 27. Many Five Counties clients, families, volunteers, staff and supporters took part in the first-ever event held during the Lakers’ final regular season home game. Little Lakers Night raised nearly $6,800 for Five Counties Children’s Centre. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The fund helps FCCC reduce wait times and provide priority treatment services like speech and occupational therapies for children and youth in the region according to a press release.

“We are so thrilled to receive this support from the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers, during their drive to win a fifth consecutive Mann Cup title,” said Lyn Giles, FCCC director of fund development. “We are extremely grateful to fans, donors, supporters, volunteers, staff and others who came out to support the first-ever Little Lakers Night. It was a great success and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Lakers for this annual event.”

Funds were raised during the game through donations, t-shirt sales, a silent auction, facepainting, sponsorships and proceeds from that night’s 50/50 draw during the team’s last home regular-season game.

Several FCCC kids and families attended the game and also played roles during the pre-game ball drop and singing of the national anthem. 

During the game, four FCCC kids took part in the Peterborough Lakers Backstage Experience. They received a behind-the-scenes tour from Lakers board member John D’Altoe, got high-fives from team members on their way to the field, toured the video control room, helped in-arena hosts with giveaways and met the Lakers’ mascot, Teddy.

The partnership between FCCC and the Lakers continues during the club’s playoff run. The team’s Ticket Assist Program means Five Counties kids and their families get free tickets to every Lakers’ home game.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Brings Back Fore the Kids Golf Tournament For Sept. 14

The Fore the Kids Golf Tournament is making its return on Sept. 14, at Bellmere Winds Golf Course in Keene, announced by The Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Tournament proceeds are going towards the Five Counties Children’s Centre.

“We're excited to work with Linwood Homes again this year on the Fore the Kids Golf Tournament to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and youth in need within our communities,” said Wayne Harding, tournament Chair and former Rotary president. “Five Counties Children's Centre holds a special place in our hearts and this golf tournament serves as a beacon of hope, uniting individuals and businesses in a spirit of giving and camaraderie.”

All golfers are invited to register for $150 per person with a shotgun start of 1 p.m. The fee includes a round of golf, a cart, lunch and the chance to win hole prizes. Prizes include exclusive golf lessons, lake toys and a chance at driving home in a brand-new car from Jack McGee Chevrolet-Cadillac!

The tournament also features a raffle to win items such as a Plauski Square Stern canoe and paddles. Tickets are $10 apiece or three for $20.

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First-Ever Little Lakers Night Set for July 27 With During Lakers Final Home Game

The welcome mat is being rolled out by the Peterborough Lakers for their Little Lakers Lacrosse Night and Five Counties families for July 27.

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) is teaming up with the Peterborough Lakers for the first-ever Little Lakers Night on the team’s final regular season home game on July 27 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre against the Brooklin L.C.

“Five Counties has played a big role throughout the years in our family,” says Len Powers, a FCCC ambassador and Lakers’ board member. “We are really grateful for the work the Centre does to support kids and their families in our community and were excited to find a fun way to give back.”

Little Lakers Night features the following:

• Pre-game festivities starting at 7 p.m. – an hour before game time. Five Counties is holding a silent auction that lets people bid on items that include: a golf package for four at Wildfire Golf Club, a baby gift basket and tickets to Canada’s Wonderland.

• Facepainting for kids by donation, sale of freezies and the chance to buy commemorative Little Lakers Night T-shirts in support of Five Counties.

• A ceremonial ball drop before the game, featuring Five Counties family and representatives.

The proceeds support the Building Abilities for Life campaign, allowing more kids to get the essential treatment like occupational and speech therapies they need to be their best according to a press release.

“Community events like Little Lakers Night are integral to helping us get more kids into treatment, reducing wait times and allowing more families to get the care when they need it,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “We could not do what we do without the support of organizations like the Peterborough Lakers.”

Game tickets to Little Lakers Night are available through the Memorial Centre box office.

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