$38K raised for THRIVE Child Development Foundation

The Soo Mill Rotary Charity Golf Classic presented a cheque for $38,000 to the THRIVE Child Development Foundation, which was raised in a charity golf tournament that took place on Aug. 25. 

More than 100 golfers, dozens of volunteers, and over 40 local businesses participated in the fundraiser.

The funds will support purchasing material and equipment for foundation's Assistive Communication and Writing Aids Clinic.

For more information, read the news release below: 

This afternoon, the Soo Mill Rotary Charity Golf Classic presented a cheque for $38,000 to the THRIVE Child Development Foundation. The fundraiser, which took place on Aug. 25, was supported by over 100 golfers, dozens of volunteers, and more than 40 local businesses.

“The funds will support purchasing material and equipment for our Assistive Communication and Writing Aids Clinic, provide funds for the Family Assistance Funds program, enhancements to specialty clinics and potential outdoor therapy space in the spring,” shared THRIVE CEO Lisa Henderson. “Although it rained all day, all the golfers and volunteers had so much fun. I enjoyed being able to meet most of the golfers, and I really enjoyed having the opportunity to interact with everyone. Their generosity and support for the children and families who receive services at THRIVE was extraordinary.”

THRIVE families were represented at the cheque presentation by Nashton Boivin and his parents, Jolin Boivin and Cierra Luxton. “Nashton is involved with pretty much every service at THRIVE,” explained Nashton’s mother, Cierra. “They all work as a team; I’ve had nothing but great experiences with THRIVE.” Cierra became involved with the centre through self-referral when her son was nine months old. “I like to encourage people to be proactive, and if you’re noticing red flags as a parent, definitely get involved as soon as possible. THRIVE is an amazing support here in Sault Ste. Marie, and we’re lucky to have them. They’re well-rounded and inclusive. Ultimately if they weren’t here, we would be very lacking in the services that we need for the development of our children.”

THRIVE Child Development Centre opened its doors in 1952 as a project of the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie, the Sault Ste. Marie Public Board of Education and a local group of physicians with the goal of providing therapy services to children with physical disabilities who were attending school. Today, Rotary continues to support the centre through its annual fundraisers, such as the Soo Mill Rotary Charity Golf Classic.

“Charity golf events cannot survive on entry fees alone. Our success depends on the contribution of time and resources from members of the community,” explained Dr. Daniel Sharp, Rotarian and chair of the Golf Classic committee. “I would like to thank Joel Rowswell and Soo Mill not only for their major financial support but also for playing in and participating on the golf course. Carquest Auto Parts - Atlas Auto Parts and Swiss Chalet were also major contributors to the success of the golf tournament. We look forward to next year’s event on Aug. 24, 2023.”

For over 100 years, the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie has fostered service, leadership, and good work in our community. Founded in 1918, the club’s mandate to support children with physical disabilities has been the heart behind the hard work of hundreds of Rotarians spanning generations. Rotary invests in the Sault’s youth through Rotary Youth Exchange, Algoma Rotary Science Fair, Rotary Sports Awards, scholarships, local projects such as the Rotary Adventure Playground, and partnerships with THRIVE Child Development Centre and Easter Seals Ontario.