Thanks were extended to the Delta Hotel for significantly reducing meeting fees and to Sandra Lastovic from Skip the Bank for covering the remaining costs.

The organization welcomed new members, bringing the total count to 217.  Cumulative contributions to date have reached an impressive $629,680.  This meeting marks the end of the organization’s 12th year of operation, having started in October 2014.

The previous meeting resulted in a $20,645 donation, marking the first time the organization crossed the $20,000 threshold.  We had a high (95%) member return rate on donations.  Thank you so much everyone!

A quick note for everyone that receipts for cheque donations will now be emailed or mailed directly from the chosen charity.

Members were recognized for their long-standing commitment with Service Pins: 18 members for 3 years, 20 for 5 years, and 17 for 10 years.

Pin recipients at the meeting!

Three Charities Nominated

• Kiwanis Music Festival of Guelph (nominated by Barbara McKay, presented by Heather Fleming)
• Central Ontario Leadership Seminars (nominated and presented by Kristen Gardiner)
• YMCA of Three Rivers (nominated and presented by Lisa Hood)

Kiwanis Music Festival of Guelph (nominated by Barbara McKay, presented by Heather Fleming)

The Kiwanis Music Festival, coordinated by Heather Fleming for 18 years, recently concluded its 45th year. It serves as the largest youth arts organization in Guelph and Wellington County, dedicated to fostering music education and performance opportunities for individuals of all ages and levels.

The festival operates for approximately one month each April across various city venues, hosting 40-60 sessions. There were over 3,000 participants in its most recent year.  While primarily focused on youth, it also welcomes adult “aspiring musicians” and  provides crucial performance opportunities that are otherwise limited, allowing participants to share talents, hear peers, and work towards a yearly goal.

The festival operates with an annual budget of approximately $80,000.  Registration fees cover only about one-third of the total costs.  It relies heavily on donations, which are increasingly challenging to secure. A significant portion of funding comes from individual donors and an annual fundraising concert held in February.

The festival emphasizes the profound importance of music and music education in society, advocating for the continued support and encouragement of the arts in the community.

Central Ontario Leadership Seminars (nominated and presented by Kristen Gardiner)

The Central Ontario Leadership Seminars (COLS) is a Canadian-based charity focused on developing leadership potential in Grade 10 students across Central Ontario.  Its mission is to seek out, recognize, and develop leadership potential in Grade 10 students, prioritizing equitable opportunity, ensuring all young people with leadership potential can attend regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Since May 1982, COLS has hosted over 100 Grade 10 students annually.  The annual seminar focuses on developing leadership skills and promoting community involvement through interactive speakers, panels, discussions, and activities.  The program is hosted at the University of Guelph, having recently signed a five-year contract.

COLS is 100% volunteer-run; no one involved in planning or execution is paid.  Over 95% of volunteer staff are returning alumni, who apply and interview for limited positions. A volunteer Board of Directors governs the organization, supported by various committees.

It is funded on a year-to-year basis through the generosity of donors and sponsors, including optimist and service clubs, and private donors (many of whom are alumni).  The annual seminar costs approximately $70,000 to run.

While the conference is held in Guelph, only two Guelph students attended the most recent seminar. COLS aims to increase its presence in Guelph schools and attract more local students, potentially through one-day seminars at high schools to reach a broader audience.

YMCA of Three Rivers (nominated and presented by Lisa Hood)

The Guelph YMCA’s Youth Wellness Hub provides a vital, free, and supportive drop-in space for youth aged 13-26, offering recreational activities alongside crucial mental health and well-being support. Since opening last September, it has become one of the busiest hubs in the province, serving upwards of 40 young people daily. 

The Hub functions as an easy-to-navigate system for youth to access various resources. It partners with CMHA, the Children’s Foundation, Second Chance Employment, and approximately 25 other local agencies, with providers coming directly to the Hub.  Staff are young role models trained in mental health first aid, enabling them to identify warning signs, calls for help, and subtly gauge needs like food security. The primary goal is to build trust through recreational activities, allowing youth to feel comfortable seeking help for deeper issues as relationships develop.

90% of youth experiencing a crisis receive clinical support within 72 hours and 99% of youth who visit the site would recommend it to a friend, highlighting its positive peer reputation.  The program serves youth aged 13 to 26, specifically including “transitional aged youth” (18-26) who often lose access to children’s services and still require support.

Access is free, requires no YMCA membership, and has no qualification or triage process. Youth can simply drop in. The facility is also accessible via a dedicated bus stop.

The program is jointly funded by the YMCA and CMHA. The YMCA is responsible for raising $200,000 annually specifically for programming costs; rent and insurance are covered by other YMCA revenue streams. A shortfall in funding will lead to reduced operating hours, particularly during the summer months. Currently, hours are Monday through Friday (afternoons/evenings) and one Saturday a month.

Chosen Charity

YMCA of Three Rivers!

Here is how you can make your donation… 

Online through our 100WWCG CanadaHelps fundraising page:

Follow this link to make your donation online. 

• If you choose this option, please make a payment of $104.00 to our chosen charity, to cover your donation plus processing fees.
• Choose the selected charity from those listed on the webpage.
• A charitable receipt will be issued for online donations, as soon as your payment has been made.

Payment by Cheque (before June 29^th)

• Please make your cheque payable to YMCA of Three Rivers (please add in the memo line: Youth Programs)
• To the amount of  $100.00 
• Send by June 29th to Priscilla Monteith @ 25 Arthur St N in Guelph ON N1E 4T7

Thank you from United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin

You can read the comments from Glenna Banda, ED of United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin here.

Next Charities – Nominations

• Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington – Nominated by Trish McComb
• Guelph Food Bank – Nominated by Colleen Kiriakos
• Guelph Public Library – Rosa Rattray Early Literacy Fund – Nominated by Wendy Fletcher

Our Next Meeting Date Is: Wednesday, October 14, 2026.  See you then!

Thanks were extended to the Delta Hotel for significantly reducing meeting fees and to Sandra Lastovic from Skip the Bank for covering the remaining costs.

We currently have 215 active members! New members were welcomed, including Leah, who is already assisting with photography. Since October 2014, the organization has made $628,834 in donations, approaching the end of its 11th year of operation.

A total of 17 three-year, 19 five-year, and 15 ten-year service pins were awarded. Those in attendance were invited to come forward for a group photo.

Please note: charities will now have the option of sending email receipts directly to our cheque writing donors. As with mailing addresses, donors’ email addresses will be provided to the charities with strict instructions not to use them for other purposes. Any misuse should be reported.

The Three Nominated Charities

North End Harvest Market: Nominated by Peggy Brightwell and presented by Barb McPhee, Market Manager

The North End Harvest Market provides free produce and fosters community support with a dignity-first approach, seeking funding to sustain its operations.  Established in 2014, NEHM offers free produce to individuals and families facing food insecurity. It reaches vulnerable populations often overlooked by traditional statistics, including those experiencing homelessness, seniors in seclusion, and children in the system.

NEHM is hosted at no cost by Trinity United Church.  Collaborations and programs include All City Brewing Co. for fundraisers and a free holiday lunch, the Children’s Foundation and Santa to support families during the holidays, “Peas in the Pod,” an informal monthly meeting for grassroots food suppliers, and was the first organization to partner with FEWD (Food Equity With Dignity) to provide free hot meals at the market twice a month.

The total annual cost for produce alone is approximately $78,000. NEHM receives $40,000 from the City of Guelph’s Community Benefits Agreement through the Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition (GNSC). The GNSC covers administrative costs and wages for a part-time market staff.  The remaining funds must be raised by the market, primarily through its “Adopt a Week” program, where a $1,500 donation sponsors one week of market operations.

If selected for funding, the donation would directly support the food budget, enabling the market to remain open for the second half of the year.

Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario: Nominated by: Sanpreet Sihota and presented by Robin Arnott, Community Engagement Coordinator & Chloe Chaput, Yoga for Parkinson’s Instructor

The Parkinson Society, represented by Robin Arnott and Chloe, presented a proposal for funding their “Chair Yoga for Parkinson’s” program in Guelph. April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, highlighting the timeliness of this initiative.

The organization ensures “no one has to face Parkinson’s disease alone.”  They provide educational programming, community-building initiatives (support groups, workshops, conferences), and exercise programs.

Research has shown significant benefits for both motor and non-motor symptoms, enhancing flexibility, strength, posture, and balance (areas greatly affected by Parkinson’s). It also addresses anxiety, depression, and stress often associated with Parkinson’s. Programs can be modified for various stages of Parkinson’s, including chair-based and supported poses, ensuring safe participation regardless of mobility level.

The requested funding would directly support the Guelph Chair Yoga program to sustain its operations, expand class availability by hiring additional instructors, add educational components and workshops based on participant needs and continuously develop and improve the program over time.

United Way – Home for Good Campaign: Nominated by Margaret Middleton and presented by: Sarah Haanstra, ED, Guelph Community Foundation

The United Way Home for Good campaign, a joint initiative with the Guelph Community Foundation, is dedicated to addressing chronic homelessness by funding and building permanent supportive housing solutions in the Guelph community. The campaign aims to tackle the pervasive issue of homelessness by providing stable, supported housing, thereby alleviating the fundraising burden on local charities and fostering a collective community solution.

The campaign raises funds specifically for building permanent housing, allowing direct service charities to focus on their day-to-day work rather than fundraising for infrastructure.  Moving into permanent supportive housing provides a safe unit with 24/7 staff support, on-site health clinics, and community.  This stability allows residents to focus on recovery, improve health, pursue education, volunteer, and ultimately regain a sense of safety, confidence, and a future.

To date, Home for Good has raised $2.6 million. These funds have contributed to three key projects, creating 72 permanent supportive housing units in Guelph. The next project, “Welcome 2 Waterloo” (located on Waterloo Avenue), led by Wyndham House, will add 13 new housing units. Ten of these will be fully supported, and three will offer flexible support, suitable for individuals or small families. Housing is intended to be permanent. While some residents may eventually transition to less intensive subsidized housing as their needs change, others will require 24/7 support indefinitely to remain safely housed.

Chosen Charity

United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin – Home for Good Campaign!

Here is how you can make your donation… 

Online through our 100WWCG CanadaHelps fundraising page:
Follow this link to make your donation online. 

• If you choose this option, please make a payment of $104.00 to our chosen charity, to cover your donation plus processing fees.
• Choose the selected charity from those listed on the webpage.
• A charitable receipt will be issued for online donations, as soon as your payment has been made.

Payment by Cheque (before April 21st)

• Please make your cheque payable to United Way Guelph Wellington Dufferin (note in memo line: Home for Good Campaign)
• To the amount of $100.00 
• Send by April 21st to Priscilla Monteith @ 25 Arthur St N Guelph ON N1E 4T7

Thank you from Alzheimer Society Waterloo-Wellington,

Lawrence Lutgendorff, Director of Fund Development and Communications, joined the meeting.  Read his full comments here.

Next Charities – Nominations

• Kiwanis Music Festival (nominated by Barb McKay)
• Central Ontario Leadership Seminars (nominated by Kristen Gardiner)
• YMCA of Three Rivers (nominated by Lisa Hood)

Our next meeting is Monday June 15^th.  See you then!

It was a full house tonight! We needed to bring in extra chairs!

Thank you to our sponsors: Sandra Lastovic at skip the bank and Delta Hotels. Our thermometer sits at $609,487 with 205 active members.

Sharon McLean was welcomed to the team as the new press release writer, taking over from Melanie. Thank you Melanie!

Service pins were distributed. We had 13 members receiving three-year pins, 14 members receiving five-year pins, and 12 members receiving ten-year pins.

Charities Presenting

Up and Running Guelph – Nominated by Suzanne Conquer and Presented by Suzanne Conquer Board Chain & Kate Webster volunteer

Dedicated to helping manage mental health, Up and Running is in its 10ᵗʰ year.  Last year there were 300 participants in the program and the organization was awarded the 2025 Community Award. The program manager is at the heart of everything that is done. The funds received from 100WWCG would help to sustain this role through the next 6 months.  

The program manager handles the logistics planning, recruiting and communication. The group meets 2 times per week for an hour.  There are two daytime and two evening sessions that run for 7- 10 weeks.  Participants cover 1km-4km in a session and pay $40 for a full program (participation cost is prorated so cost is not a barrier). There is a fund raiser in the Fall which raises approximately $20,000.  Last year Up and Running received a grant from the city but is not eligible this year.

Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario – Nominated by Sampreet Sihota Presented by Robin Arnott, Community Engagement Coordinator

The Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario (PSSO) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers. Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder, with 500-600 new clients annually for PSSO, indicating rising demand.

PSSO steps in when individuals are diagnosed, often feeling lost after a long medical process, to provide hope and guidance.  While their main office is in London, the society has a strong presence and dedicated coordinator in Guelph to support local programming.  PSSO aims to make Guelph its new educational hub, planning to host its largest annual conference there, expecting 250-300 attendees.  The requested funds would primarily support initiatives in Guelph, including conference costs, additional workshops, and new exercise programs (like yoga). An increase in funding would also help cover support group costs such as rent and allow for more resources for members.

Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington – Nominated by Mary Jackson, Presented by Lawrence Lutgendorff, Director Fund Development and Communications Minds in Motion Program

The Society helps “loosen the chains of isolation” of Alzheimer’s by reconnecting people to a community of support. They offer counseling and education to help families understand and cope with dementia.  The association was seeking funds to help expand the “Minds in Motion” program, a weekly recreational therapy class specifically designed for people with dementia and their care partners (e.g., spouses).  It combines physical exercise, social connection, and cognitive stimulation.  The “Minds in Motion” program receives no government funding and is offered free of charge to clients. There is a constant waiting list of approximately 1,000 people per year.  A $100 donation can provide space for one couple to join an 8-week Minds in Motion session.

Chosen Charity

Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington

Here is how you can make your donation… 

Online through our 100WWCG CanadaHelps fundraising page

Payment by Cheque (by January 22nd) – Please make your cheque payable to Alzheimer Society Waterloo-Wellington, adding Area of Greatest Need to the memo line, to the amount of  $100.00. Send by Jan 22nd to Priscilla Monteith 25 Arthur St N Guelph ON N1E 4T7

Thank you from G2G Rail Trail

Willow Hall, ED shared an update on the impact, not only of 100WWCG’s latest donation, but the overall momentum that our support has created in building the trail.

Next Charities – April Meeting

The three charities to present at our next meeting were chosen from the (very beautiful) hat are North End Harvest Market, Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario, and United Way GWD Home for Good.

April 7ᵗʰ is our next meeting.  See you then!

Our October meeting marked the first meeting of the 11^th year of 100WWCG!  And it was a packed room again!

The meeting started with thanks to our sponsors – the Delta Hotel and Sandra Lastovic from Skip the Bank.

New members were welcomed, with a few joining us at the meeting.  The organization currently boasts 198 active members, and since 2014, the organization has donated more than $590,000.

There were some updates regarding the 100WWCG team:

• Melodie is stepping down as the press release writer, and a new volunteer is needed for this role (estimated commitment: a couple of hours per quarter).
  • A new donation follow-up team has been established:
    • Priscilla will handle cheque tracking.
    • Rachel will manage CanadaHelps tracking.
    • Vicki will be responsible for follow-up calls for forgotten donations.

Service pins were awarded to members for their tenure: nine 3-year pins, ten 5-year pins, and fourteen 10-year pins.

The Nominated Charities

The three nominated charities this meeting were:

1. Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail Inc. – Nominated by: Cyndy and Sharon McLean and Presented by: Cyndy McLean and Willow Hall
2. Community FEWD Program (Food Equity with Dignity) – Nominated by: Trudy Dickinson and Presented by: Yasemin Zorlutuna
3. The Guelph Enabling Garden – Nominated by: Annette Anderson and Presented by: Annette Anderson and Heidi Torreiter

Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail Inc.

The presentation by Cyndy McLean and Willow Hall focused on the Guelph to Goderich (G2G) Rail Trail and a critical initiative called the “Bridge the Gap” project, aimed at creating a safe, off-road connection between the G2G trail and downtown Guelph.

The G2G is a 130-132 kilometer multi-use trail connecting Guelph to Goderich.  It serves users of all ages and abilities, including multi-generational families and individuals using mobility aids. Currently, the Guelph section of the trail requires an on-road detour via Silvercreek to reach the trailhead.  This detour is extremely dangerous.  The “Bridge the Gap” project would allow direct, safe access from downtown Guelph and connecting trails.

The critical next step is to fund the “detailed design,” which serves as the blueprint for the trail’s construction phase. Securing funds for this design is vital to move the project forward.  While the City of Guelph is supportive, they require continued commitment from the community to match funds.  The detailed design will produce visual representations and plans necessary for a larger capital fundraising push of $1.5 to $2 million for the actual construction.  If chosen, the donation would fund this design.

Community FEWD Program (Food Equity with Dignity)

Yasemin Zorlutuna began by advocating for a more sustainable food system, with a focus on reducing the amount of donated food that goes to waste.  She shared that existing food security solutions, such as food banks, often receive large donations of raw food but lack the capacity to process it quickly.

FEWD accepts large quantities of raw, surplus food and transforms it into hot meals for the community. The program works within Guelph’s network of food security groups (e.g., the food bank, The Seed, North End Harvest Market). Volunteers cook and serve meals via mobile pop-up stands 2-3 days a week at accessible community locations. All meals are offered for free to everyone, without questions, emphasizing dignity. The program also prepares and provides meals to other local groups, such as Wyndham House (a youth shelter).

Over the last 3 ½ years, 25,000 pounds of food has been saved from landfills and 60,000 meals provided to the community. It relies on grants, donors, and revenue generated from catering services offered on the side.  If chosen, the donation would go towards covering operational costs.

The Guelph Enabling Garden

Annette Anderson and Heidi Torreiter shared the impact of the Guelph Enabling Garden (GEG). Located in Riverside Park along the Speed River, GEG provides free horticultural therapy programs for individuals and groups.  GEG collaborates with various agencies to provide structured therapeutic experiences. 

Programs serve about 600 regular participants annually, ranging from one-time visits to weekly sessions over several months.  Beyond formal programs, the garden encourages passive engagement for its approximately 20,000 annual visitors through interactive sensory experiences, a fairy garden, an invitations-for-play area (with toys, games, and books), and a community food garden where produce can be harvested for free.  If chosen, funding would support the horticultural therapy program delivery.

Chosen Charity

Our chosen charity was Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail Inc.  Congratulations!

Due to an ongoing postal strike, please donate online if you can. 

Online through our 100WWCG CanadaHelps fundraising page:

Follow this link to make your donation online. 

• If you choose this option, please make a payment of $104.00 to our chosen charity, to cover your donation plus processing fees.
• Choose the selected charity from those listed on the webpage.
• A charitable receipt will be issued for online donations, as soon as your payment has been made.

Payment by Cheque (before Oct 29th)

• Please drop your cheque off at the home of Priscilla Monteith @ 25 Arthur St N in Guelph.
• Please make your cheque payable to G2G Rail Trail Inc (add Bridge the Gap Project to the memo line)
• To the amount of $100.00 

Thank You from Michael House

Karen Kamphuis joined us with an update on the impact of being the chosen charity at our June meeting.  With over $18,000 donated, Michael House was able to support 6 months of programming.  This included counselling sessions and life skills programs.  For Karen’s full comments, please click here.

Next Meeting

Our next meeting is Jan 8^th.  The tradition of drawing our nominees for the next meeting from the hat has returned (and the hat was decorated beautifully if you weren’t there to see it)!   Here are the charities drawn:

• Up and Running Guelph.
• Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario.
• GCHC Pathways to Remembering.

Organizers will contact these individuals to confirm their availability. If a nominee cannot attend, another name will be drawn.  Stay tuned!!

The meeting commenced with welcoming attendees and thanking sponsors, highlighting the contributions of Sandra from Skip the Bank and The Delta. 100WWCG celebrated reaching 200 active members and acknowledged a total of $571,008 in donations since 2014!  Service pin awards were distributed – (7) Three-Year pins, (10) Five Year pins, and (13) Ten Year pins.

Bequest Awarded

A special bequest from the estate of Gale Dudnick was awarded to three runner-up charities from the past three years – North End Harvest Market, Guelph Chamber Choir and Ignatius Jesuit Centre Farm. Each charity received $8,333.33

1. North End Harvest Market ( Charity representative: Barb McPhee & Nominator: Peggy Brightwell)
2. Guelph Chamber Choir (Charity representative: Charlene Pauls, Artistic Director & Nominator: Megan Hodge)
3. Ignatius Jesuit Centre (Charity representative: Lisa Conroy, Farm Educator & Nominator: Maya Wariyar)

Please note: A couple of caring members noted at the meeting that Ignatius Jesuit Centre has been reported as closing and asking what was to be done with our donation. We have clarified and have spoken with Ignatius Farm, the program originally nominated. They are in receipt of our cheque. Loyola house is closing but the property will continue to operate as a spiritual and ecological center. Ignatius Farm assures us the farm education program has been operating virtually and will continue to do so. Indeed, with our donation they hope to get back to delivering live farm training. They have offered to report back in October and we’ve encouraged them to do so.

The Three Nominated Charities

Here is a quick overview of the charities that were nominated for the meeting and the presentations:

1. Guelph Youth Music Centre (GYMC) (Nominated by Tannis Sprott & Presented by Damian Weston, ED)

 The Guelph Youth Music Centre (GYMC) presented their case for funding, highlighting their work in providing low to no-cost music programs for children, including those with disabilities and marginalized youth. Executive Director Damian Weston shared a personal story about the impact of music in his life and emphasized the importance of providing meaning and community through music education. He specified that funding would primarily support the Beat Making program and address the need to replace residential toilets with industrial ones. GYMC primarily relies on revenue from music lessons and rentals, along with some grant funding, and collaborates with Free to Grow for financial assistance to low-income families.

2. Guelph Youth Singers (Nominated by Heather Mair & Presented by Karie Rippin Bilger, Board Chair, and Emily Petrenko, Artistic Director)

The Guelph Youth Singers (GYS) presentation highlighted the organization’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality choral training to children, emphasizing the positive impact of music education on academic achievement, mental health, and social skills. They discussed the unequal access to music education in schools and how GYS fills this gap by offering various choir programs. GYS is introducing a scholarship program to enable more children to participate, particularly those from equity-deserving communities, and is seeking funding to support this initiative. The organization is actively working to rebuild its membership after a decline due to COVID-19 and has reduced tuition fees to attract more participants.

3. Michael House ( Nominated by Terrie Jarvis & Presented by Karen Kamphuis, ED)

Michael House provides resources, housing, and support to single mothers and their children, aiming to transform lives through residential and supportive housing programs. They offer 24/7 support, parenting and life skills training, and counseling, particularly addressing mental health needs and trauma. Impact stories from women in the program highlight newfound confidence and the ability to rebuild their lives. Funding would support vital programming and counseling to continue building into the families’ lives.

Our Chosen Charity – Michael House!

If you haven’t sent in your $100 donation yet, please do so by June 30th.  Remember there are two ways to make your donation:

1) Online at our 100WWCG Fundraising Page (please add $4 for processing fee) OR
2) Send a cheque to Liz Brant (made out to Michael’s House) at 10 Wood Duck Court Guelph ON N1C 1B1

Thank You from Chosen Charity – Chalmers Community Services Centre

The meeting included a presentation from Crystle Avery, Executive Director of Chalmers Community Services Centre, expressing gratitude for being chosen as the charity and highlighting the growing needs in the community. Chalmers is using the donations to provide more food, including healthy options like oranges, eggplant, and cheese, to meet the increasing demand at their pantries and cafes. You can find Crystle’s full comments here

Other Notes

• You can view the Press Release for the meeting here
• The next meeting is scheduled for October 15th at the Delta.  Hope to see you there!

Pictures courtesy of Nadine Ryan

Our Spring meeting was VERY well attended and we had over 80 members in the room!  100WWCG now has 195 contributing members – 188 previous members plus 7 new members at our April meeting.  Our thermometer sits at $543,720 (53% of the way to the goal of $1 million). 

There were several pin recipients – (7) for 3 years, (8) for 5 years, and (10) for 10 years! 

Bequest to 100WWCG 

The first item of business was an announcement regarding a bequest that 100 Women Who Care Guelph received from Gale Dudnick of $25,000.  100WWCG is not a legal entity and the option to become a charity ourselves was discarded.  Options have been reviewed and discussed over the last few months and were narrowed down to two possibilities:  

1. Distribute the funds directly from the lawyer to one or more charities immediately via a special meeting using a special process. 

2. Partner with the Guelph Community Foundation to allow us to retain those monies in an endowment fund and use them over time, perhaps to provide some small award each meeting to the runners up. This has been a suggestion from many members over the years. 

An email will be sent to the membership outlining the options, providing more information, and addressing questions that were raised in the meeting.  We will vote via email on the two options.  Please keep an eye out for this! 

Pin recipients at the meeting

Nominated Charities 

1. Guelph Youth Singers 

Nominated by Heather Mair and Presented by Karie Rippin Bilger, Board Chair and Mary Meads 

Mary and Karie began by highlighting the many challenges that today’s youth face and the positive impact that music education can create including better concentration, sense of self, and anxiety management.  The GYS have (3) choirs, a mass choir, a musical theatre program, as well as festivals and concerts.  Their goal is to ensure fair and equal access for all children to the programs. 

Currently 60% of the costs for GYS are covered by tuition.  If chosen, the funds from 100WWCG would be used to support involvement from youth that cannot afford the tuition of approximately $1000.  (GYS never says “no” to someone who wants to be involved, but covering this cost can be challenging.) 

2. Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre 

Nominated by Ann Caine and Presented by Ann Caine 

The Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre provides the opportunity for an animal/human bonding experience.  Programs embrace everyone but focus on participants with disabilities such as anxiety, autism, and cognitive challenges.  The programs range from camps to life skills programs. Ann shared stories of some of the program participants including how Jack, a horse, was able to help a 6-year-old with extreme anxiety bravely leave his mother’s side and enter the barn on his own. 

The Centre does not receive ongoing government support and relies on grants, fundraising and donors to operate.  If chosen, the funds would be used to support a scholarship program. 

3. Chalmers Community Services Centre 

Nominated by Ali Jukes and Presented by Crystle Avery, ED 

Crystle shared that Chalmers Community Services Centre began 28 years ago.  Today there are 75 volunteers and 5 part time staff.  Support includes 3 food pantries and 2 cafes.  The goal is to support community members facing food insecurity with dignity and respect.  The Centre provides nutritionally balanced food baskets two – three days per week.  There are also another 25-30 guests at the cafes.   

Guelph could be one of the hardest hit communities by the Trump tariffs and economic uncertainty.  The Centre anticipates an increase in demand and if chosen, the funds will go towards the purchase of food for the baskets.  Crystle added that if not chosen, the Centre will either have to cut items included in the baskets or turn people away. 

Chosen Charity  

The chosen charity was Chalmers Community Services Centre.  Cheques can be made out to Chalmers Community Services Centre (memo line: Food Pantry – 100WWCG). 

You can see the Press Release here 

Thank You from Ronald McDonald House Charities 

Meaghan Moore, the Director, Advancement & External Relations of RMHC SCO, joined the meeting to provide an update as the chosen charity in January. Over the last 3 months, 17 families from Guelph were supported (8 families are still there).  This is the equivalent of 212 nights and meals.  “From all of us at RMHC, and from the Guelph families who have walked through our doors this year, thank you.” 

Board Chair at RMHC South Central Ontario, Paul Matteis, also spoke to the impact that the donation from 100WWCG has had.   

Read Meaghan’s full comments here 

Thank you for your continued generosity, involvement and passion!
The 100WWCG Team
Sharon, Tannis, Lisa, Peggy, Dianne, Melodie, and Denise

Packed House! Thank you to Crista Renner for our great meeting photos!

Meeting Kick Off and Updates

Our first meeting of 2025 brought out several members!  We had a packed room.

Sharon shared quick updates. Our thermometer total is $526,167 with 191 current members.  There were several pin recipients – (5) for 3 years, (4) for 5 years and (10) for 10 years!

The Three Nominated Charities

Here is a quick overview of the charities that were nominated for the meeting and the presentations:

1) Up and Running Guelph – Nominated by Suzanne Conquer, Presented by Suzanne Conquer and Kate Webster
Started in 2016, this is a 2x per week peer led nature walking or running group.  The group supports those struggling with mental health, including depression.  Their focus is to help women stay active and reduce barriers to being active.  There are 400 members registered.  They meet in groups and walk the trail at Royal City Park.  There is a 3-1 ratio between volunteers and participants.  The group runs fundraising events and receives grants. Suzanne and Kate shared many examples of the impact of the program:

• Women facing social isolation found community
• Women deep in grief met others to support and share their experience
• Women have been able to reduce or eliminate medications for depression and diabetes
• Women who have considered suicide were supported and through connection saw a way forward to life

Donation funds would go towards paying for a Part Time Administrator to oversee 40 volunteers, run the program and work to partner with other organizations.

2) Guelph Public Library Rosa Rattray Early Literacy Fund – Nominated by Wendy Fletcher, Presented by Kirsten Bester and Euan Rattray
The fund was established by the Rattray family when Rosa passed away.  They wanted to continue to support what she loved.  The Fund supports members of our community who may not have access to the tools and resources that support children’s literacy.  Needs are identified by the librarians and staff of the City of Guelph Libraries.  Resources provided to date include:

• Early Learning stations
• Launch pads/tablets specifically designed for young children
• Born to Read packages provided to newborns at the Guelph Hospital
• Light table at Westminster Library
• Educational toys

Many of these resources can be borrowed.  The program seeks to create equality of access and inclusivity.  The goal is to ensure that all children can have what they need to learn, despite potential barriers. Donation funds would go towards improving the Born to Read packages, Discovery Walls and more light tables.

3) Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario –Nominated by Kayleigh Kennedy, Presented by Kayleigh Kennedy and Meaghan Moore
There are 16 houses in Canada.  The focus for the presentation was Hamilton House.  For Guelph residents, McMaster Children’s Hospital is the local option and many families require the support of RMHC.  Last year the cost of the program for Guelph families was $300,000 (1392 nights and 6900 meals).  Only 30% of the operating costs are covered by McDonald’s.  There are 40 bedrooms in the location across from McMaster, as well as two family rooms located at the hospital.  Families receive shelter, meals and support such as laundry services. There are 15 staff and 200 volunteers.  Kayleigh shared her extremely scary journey with their 2-year-old son, Ethan, who spent 25 months in treatment at McMaster.  The family was able to utilize the support of the organization for Ethan, herself and her family.  Kayleigh shared that Ethan finished his treatments on Sept. 1^st and rang the bell on Sept. 9^th of this year!! Several members of the group shared that they also had relied on the organization.  Donation funds would go towards funding Guelph families requiring the support and services.

Our Chosen Charity

Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario
https://www.rmhcsco.ca/site/home

If you haven’t sent in your $100 donation yet, please do so by Jan 23rd.  Remember there are two ways to make your donation:

1) Online at our 100WWCG Fundraising Page (please add $4 for processing fee)
OR
2) Send a cheque to Liz Brant (made out to RMHC South Central Ontario) at 10 Wood Duck Court Guelph ON N1C 1B1. Please be sure to add “100 Women Who Care Guelph” to the memo line.

Thank you from Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington (Our October Charity)

Sandra Cocco, ED of Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington returned to share the impact of the donation they received in October as our chosen charity.  Their original plan for the funds was to secure a farm house for temporary housing of asylum seekers requiring shelter.  While this did not come to fruition, an even better opportunity presented itself! They were able to find two other dwellings.  Sandra shared the impact to two families who were very grateful for the difference these resources made to their lives:

• A family of 8 was able to leave one room at a shelter and move into a 2-bedroom location with 5 beds.  They moved in on December 23^rd and have housing until March 31^st.  In addition, several other areas of support were provided including jobs for the parents, language assessment, food, the children registered in school and a Welcome Package.
• A couple expecting a child moved into a 2-bedroom basement apartment.  The father is now working and arranging with the landlord to take over rent payments.

For Sandra’s full comments, please see here.

You can also read the Press Release here – Press Release.

Thank you for your continued generosity, involvement and passion!
The 100WWCG Team
Sharon, Tannis, Lisa, Peggy, Dianne, Melodie, and Denise

Meeting Kick Off and Updates
Our last meeting of 2024 began with a heartfelt thank you to our fabulous sponsors, Delta Hotels and Sandra Lastovic from Skip the Bank.
 
Ten years ago, when 100WWCG began, the fundraising goal was set at $500,000. This milestone was surpassed at our June meeting with a total reaching $509,667! We now have a new target of $1,000,000!  (The thermometer on the website has been updated accordingly).
 
There were six new members attending, which brings our membership total to 184. We had two recipients of the 3-year pins.  Starting in 2025, the 10-year pins make their debut!  The first pins will be given out at the January meeting.

The Three Nominated Charities

Here is a quick overview of the charities that were nominated for the meeting and the presentations:
 
1) Royal City Mission
Nominated by Sherri McIntyre & Presentation by Kevin Coghill, ED
 
Kevin began by sharing that the Royal City Mission had recently served its 50,000^th meal. He highlighted that the biggest need faced, however, is creating a feeling of belonging and welcome for people, which the Mission strives to provide. In addition to meals, other services include storage facilities to provide safe, dry places to keep belongings, group memorials to remember those who have passed, and outreach programs to offer support. There are many volunteers (400 in total, with a core of 70) and paid staff who deal with more complex needs like overdose.
 
At one point the Mission was open 7 days a week for 12 hours per day. It is currently open 5 days a week for 5 hours per day. While funding is received, it fluctuates. Funds from 100WWCG would be used to increase the number of days and hours the Mission is open.
 
2) North End Harvest Market
Nominated by Peggy Brightwell & Presentation by Barb McPhee, Market Manager
 
The North End Harvest Market was started 10 years ago to serve the North End of the city. They provide fresh produce to low income individuals and families. Every week they serve 284 people on a rotating schedule of 2 weeks (there is a Blue group and a Yellow group).Throughout the pandemic, they expanded their reach to serve other parts of the city. Recently North End Harvest Market has worked with other organizations to transition away from these areas and refocus their efforts on the North End.
 
A series of events have placed the group in a challenging position – fundraising suffered tremendously while Barb was hospitalized for a time, the group was forced to move from Waverly School to Trinity United Church, and demand continues to grow. Government funding has helped in the past, but the group is short on funds now. Money received from 100WWCG would be used to cover food purchases for the remainder of the year. Product is sourced through Seed Warehouse at a reduced cost and nothing is wasted.
 
3. Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington
Nominated & Presentation by Sandra Cocco, CEO
 
Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington is the only group that serves newcomers in our area. Started in 1978, they currently serve 4800 clients. While the mandate of Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington is to serve as a bridge to connect this community with services, they increasingly need to find short term shelter for people, especially asylum seekers.
 
Asylum seekers face a unique challenge when coming to Canada. They cannot work initially which limits their access to government programs and makes it exceedingly difficult to secure housing upon arrival. Currently 61% of asylum seekers are in a shelter. Many of the shelters are at capacity and families in particular find it difficult to find a place to live. Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington has an emergency fund that is used to house people for a short time in hotels. This fund has been significantly depleted based on increasing demand. A local non-profit has offered a house on its property for rent. The funds from 100WWCG would go towards securing this facility for the winter months.

Our Chosen Charity
Our chosen charity was Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington!

If you haven’t sent in your $100 donation yet, please do so by October 30th.  Remember there are two ways to make your donation:

1) Online at our 100WWCG Fundraising Page (please add $4 for processing fee)
OR
2) Send a cheque to Liz Brant (made out to Immigrant Services Guelph-Wellington) at 10 Wood Duck Court Guelph ON N1C 1B1

Thank you from Hope House Guelph  
(our June charity)

Hope House Guelph was the chosen charity from our June meeting. Jaya James, Executive Director of Hope House Guelph, joined us to provide an update on how the funds were used. You can read her full presentation on our website at this Link.
 
Here are some highlights:

• Eggs and milk were provided to 3042 individuals
• 150 eggs and 360 litres of milk were provided over 13 weeks
• Hope House measured the impact of the program to those they served:
  • 98% accessed healthy food
  • 89% said that their eating habits had improved
  • 79% reported improved mental health

 Jaya reminded us that there are two important aspects to non-profit work: front line support AND working to change the system to move beyond crisis mode.

Thank you for your continued generosity, involvement and passion!
The 100WWCG Team
Sharon, Tannis, Lisa, Peggy, Dianne and Denise

Photo Courtesy of Crista Renner

June 24^th marked the end of the 10^th year of meetings for 100 Women Who Care Guelph!  Once again, we had a full room of attendees.  The meeting kicked off with a thank you to our generous meeting space sponsors – Sandra Lastovic at Skip the Bank and Delta Hotels.

We celebrated our 3 year and 5 year pin recipients (22 members for 3 years and 25 members for 5 years) and one of our recipients was in attendance and recognized.   Currently membership is at 176, with 170 pledging donations.  Our “thermometer” update reflected $496,516 donated to date, and with donations pouring in at the close of the meeting, we crossed the $500,000 threshold.

Our three nominated charities were:

• Hope House Guelph (www.hopehouseguelph.ca)
• Guelph Community Health Centre  – Pathways to Remembering (www.wgdrugstrategy.ca/donate)
• Chalmers Community Service Centre (www.chalmerscentre.ca)

Hope House Guelph: Nominated by Terrie Jarvis, Presentation by Jaya James

Jaya spoke about the impact that lack of affordable housing is having on our community.  Guelph is one of the most expensive cities in Canada in which to live, and many people are having to choose between shelter and food.  Hope House Guelph helps to address this food insecurity through their 9 food markets.  Jaya shared that many of the donations received through other charitable organizations are carbohydrates.  Hope House Guelph augments these donations by providing milk and eggs.  Their supplier is Equality Foods where they receive wholesale pricing and a 22% discount. In the last year alone there has been a 34% increase in demand and over the last 4 years expenses have increased from $50,000 to $300,000. If selected, the donation would go towards supplying these essential foods for 4-5 months (approximately 3000 people).

Guelph Community Health Centre – Pathways to Remembering: Nominated by Dianne Dance, Presentation by Jean Hopkins and Karen Lomax

This was the second time this year that Guelph Community Health Centre – Pathways to Remembering was presented. Jean and Karen reminded us of the terrible toll from drug poisoning death.  Last year 27 people in Guelph lost their lives in the last year, an increase of 17% over the previous year.  Their loved ones deal not only with tremendous loss, but also face the stigma often associated with drug poisoning death.  Karen shared her personal story of how community support can make an incredible difference.  Pathways to Remembering is a memorial meant to give a sanctuary to remember and grieve loved ones, and also provide a signal to the community that we stand together in support.  To date $17,000 of the required $50,000 has been raised to build the memorial.  If selected, the donation would be used towards completing the memorial in time for Overdose Awareness Day in August 2025.

Chalmers Community Service Centre: Nominated by Ali Jukes, Presentation by Janet Wood

Janet shared that Chalmers Community Service Centre began 27 years ago supporting single men in the downtown area.  In 2014 this grew to supporting families, and now 60% of the guests at Chalmers Community Service Centre are children.  Their services include nutritional food, hygiene products, Christmas bags, and clothes mending and tailoring.  Janet spoke to the growing food insecurity in our community and the need for fresh produce. Demand has grown by 30%. If selected, the donation would be used to provide groceries to their guests as they are currently having to turn people away.

Our Chosen Charity

Hope House Guelph
https://www.hopehouseguelph.ca

If you haven’t sent in your $100 donation yet, please do so by July 8th.  Remember there are two ways to make your donation:

1) Online at our 100WWCG Fundraising Page (please add $4 for processing fee)

OR

2) Send a cheque to Liz Brant (made out to Hope House Guelph) at 10 Wood Duck Court Guelph ON N1C 1B1

Thank you from Guelph Wish Fund for Children (our April charity)

Jessica Hill from Guelph Wish Fund for Children, our selected charity in April, updated the group. The charity was also featured in the Globe and Mail.  Jessica shared the impact the $15,500 donation made:

• Aria suffers from a rare form of epilepsy.  Her family was able to purchase a monitor that would alert her family and doctor of seizures.  Previously one of her parents had to sleep with her.
• Macy loves camping.  Through the donations, her family was able to purchase a camper trailer.
• Weston, who is a wheelchair, can navigate his home more easily based on changes his family was able to make.
• Owen received a rock-climbing wall and water table in his home.
• Liam fulfilled his dream by taking the movie site tour of his favourite films in Hawaii.

She thanked 100WWCG for the gift of love, hope and joy that comes with precious memories.  For Jessica’s full comments, please click here. 

Photo Courtesy of Crista Renner

Thank you for your continued generosity, involvement and passion!
The 100WWCG Team
Sharon, Tannis, Lisa, Peggy, Dianne and Denise

Meeting Kick Off and Updates

The meeting began with a thank you to the sponsorship and generosity of Delta Hotels and Sandra Lastovic from Skip the Bank for covering the costs of the meeting room. This allows us to come together as a group, which is such an important part of 100WWCG.
 
Joining us for the meeting were 6 new members (WOW!) and some women considering involvement.   We had 24 members receiving their 3 year pin and 26 members receiving their 5 year pin (Congratulations ladies!  We’ve included a picture of some of the recipients in attendance below).  To date we have 179 members and 173 pledged nominations and total funds donated have reached $477,516.  The goal of 100WWCG is $500,000 so we are thisclose!

The Three Nominated Charities

Here is a quick overview of the charities that were nominated for the meeting and the presentations:
 
Guelph Chamber Choir – Nominated by Megan Hodge & Presented by Sya VanGeest
Sya began by reminding us that music and harmony can draw us together. The Guelph Chamber Choir seeks to do this through two main streams – through their programming and performances and through their community outreach program, Sing Out.
 
Sya explained that the donated funds would be used to support a concert within the Sing Out outreach program called “Can Your Hear Me”.  This concert would feature the work of diverse and marginalized composers, and funds would go towards covering the costs of three key components: Clinic workshops between the composers and the performers, purchasing the rights to perform the musical scores already planned (which also benefits the composers), and commissioning two additional original works for the concert.
  
Guelph Wish Fund for Children – Nominated by Margo Conlon & Presented by Jessica Hill
Started in 1984, the mandate of Guelph Wish Fund for Children is to fulfill wishes and provide support to children under the age of 19, residing in Guelph or Wellington County, who are living with a significant illness, life-altering injury or a rare and debilitating syndrome.
 
Jessica outlined that each child accepted into the program receives $10,000 and that the funds are used for a variety of needs (each vetted and approved by the Executive Director): travel, a wish or experience, purchasing medical equipment, and lost income to name a few.  Jessica shared the stories of children currently in the program and her own heartbreaking experience of losing her 14 year old daughter.  The donation funds from 100WWCG would be used to support the children and their families and 100% of the money would be used here.
 
Guelph Community Health Centre- Nominated & Presented by Barb Tremblay (she was joined by Jean Hopkins for Q&A)
Barb began her presentation with the staggering statistics of drug poisoning in our community.  In addition to their grief, she shared the impact of stigma and judgement families and loved ones left behind face.
 
A project to build a memorial called Pathways to Remembering was initiated.  The purpose of this memorial is to provide a peaceful place to remember loved ones that offers dignity and respect.  It is also a reminder to the community that we all know either an individual or their loved ones who have been touched by this tragedy.  The memorial has been designed and will cost $50,000.  A total of $16,000 has been raised to date. It is the hope that the memorial will be completed by August in time for Drug Poisoning Awareness Day.  Donated funds from 100WWCG would go towards funding the rest of the memorial costs.

Our Chosen Charity

Guelph Wish Fund for Children
https://www.guelphwishfund.com/

If you haven’t sent in your $100 donation yet, please do so by April 23rd.  Remember there are two ways to make your donation:

1) Online at our 100WWCG Fundraising Page (please add $4 for processing fee)

OR

2) Send a cheque to Liz Brant (made out to Guelph Wish Fund for Children) at 10 Wood Duck Court Guelph ON N1C 1B1

Thank you from Master Gardeners of Ontario (our January charity)

Danielle Gignac joined us to provide an update on the progress of the Master Gardeners, which was chosen by our members at the January meeting.

Our donation was used to create a program for Grade 3 students which educates them about the opportunities of growing food gardens with their families.  The program encourages kids to learn life skills which will be beneficial in the long term and funds were used to build kits for approximately 20 classrooms, including educational information for starting and maintaining vegetable gardens – along with a raised planter, full spectrum grow lights, soil, trays, seeds, and necessary tools. Danielle shared that this program will now be ready to launch on April 15th!  You can read Danielle’s full comments here.

Thank you for your continued generosity, involvement and passion!
The 100WWCG Team
Sharon, Tannis, Lisa, Peggy, Dianne and Denise